Compass And GPS Devices
In-Depth Review of Compass and GPS Devices: Essential for Hurricane Preparedness
Introduction
Living in hurricane-prone areas requires preparation and awareness of essential tools needed during a hurricane. Compass and GPS devices are fundamental products that should be part of your hurricane survival kit. In this article, we will provide an overview of why compass and GPS devices are essential for hurricane preparedness, features to look for when purchasing one, types available, and popular options available in the market.
Why Compass and GPS Devices is Essential for Hurricane Preparedness
The Role of Compass and GPS Devices in Safety and Survival
During hurricanes, power outages are common, and it's easy to lose direction and become disoriented. Compass and GPS devices provide accurate navigation and direction even if the power goes out. This is essential for finding your way to safety during a hurricane. It's especially important if you need to evacuate from your home or shelter. With both a compass and GPS device, you can easily find out where you are currently located, where you need to go and the most efficient route to get there.
Potential Scenarios Where Compass and GPS Devices is Needed
A compass and GPS device can be useful in various hurricane scenarios. For example, if you need to evacuate, you may need to navigate through flooded roads, damaged buildings, and blocked paths. During these situations, having a reliable navigation tool is essential. If you're also involved in a search and rescue mission, a compass and GPS device can help locate the victim's location accurately.
Features to Look for in a Compass and GPS Devices
Build Quality and Durability
When purchasing a compass and GPS device, you should look for one that has excellent build quality and durability, especially in harsh weather conditions. Some compass and GPS devices are water-resistant and can withstand significant impacts, making them ideal for use in hurricanes. Furthermore, check to see if the device has a rubber coating to provide excellent grip, even when your hands are wet or covered in debris.
Functionality and Ease of Use
During an emergency situation, you want a navigation tool that is easy to use and functional. Aspects such as buttons, screen size, and durability should be taken into consideration. A user-friendly interface will help you navigate through the device's different functions quickly and accurately. You should be able to access the essential features with ease, and the device should be intuitive and straightforward to operate.
Battery Life or Alternate Power Sources
The battery life of a compass and GPS device is critical during a hurricane scenario. When there's no electricity, the device's battery can last for long periods. Therefore, it is essential to have a device with an extended battery life to ensure accurate navigation at all times. It is also important to consider alternative charging options such as solar-powered or crank-operated devices.
Understanding the Different Types of Compass and GPS Devices
Electronic Compasses
Electronic compasses are digital devices that work by using a combination of magnetic sensors and accelerometers to find your direction. Unlike traditional compasses, electronic compasses are more accurate since they display actual data instead of an estimate. The readings displayed are reliable, no matter how you hold the device. Electronic compasses are lightweight and come with additional features such as touchscreens, built-in maps, and Bluetooth connectivity.
GPS Receivers
GPS receivers are satellite devices that communicate with a network of GPS satellites in the sky. The receiver calculates your location based on information received from at least three satellites, and from there, it can show you where you are on a map. They can also provide information about your speed, distance traveled and estimated time of arrival. GPS receivers are reliable and accurate, but they rely on a clear view of the sky to work optimally.
Popular Compass and GPS Devices Options in the Market
Here are three popular compass and GPS devices:
Product Name 1: Garmin GPSMAP 64SX
The Garmin GPSMAP 64sx is a durable and reliable device that features a 2.6-inch color screen and a high-sensitivity receiver for fast and accurate location acquisition. It also has a long battery life of up to 16 hours, comes with preloaded TopoActive maps, and has a built-in 3-axis compass. Additionally, it is water-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Product Name 2: Suunto MC-2G Global Compass
The Suunto MC-2G Global Compass is a classic baseplate compass that offers precise navigation in any part of the world. It has a magnifying lens, a non-slip baseplate, and luminous markings that make it easy to use even in low light conditions. Additionally, it comes with a clinometer that measures angles of inclination or slope, which is useful for assessing avalanche hazards and other safety concerns.
The Magellan eXplorist 310 Handheld GPS navigator is a waterproof and rugged device that comes with a 2.2-inch color screen that can display topographic maps and support up to 500 waypoints. It has a 2GB internal memory and can support file formats such as GPX, LOC, and KML. Furthermore, it has a long battery life of up to 18 hours and is powered by two AA batteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it necessary to have both a compass and GPS device?
Yes, it is recommended to have both because they serve different purposes. A compass gives you a general sense of direction, while a GPS device provides accurate coordinates.
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Can a compass and GPS device work without electricity?
Yes. Battery-powered devices can work for extended periods without electricity. You can also consider purchasing solar-powered or crank-operated devices as an alternative power source.
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Do all GPS devices have built-in mapping capabilities?
No, some GPS devices rely on external software for map data. Ensure that your GPS device has built-in mapping capabilities if you require additional navigational information.
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What is the durability of a compass and GPS device?
It depends on the device's manufacturer and build quality. Therefore, it is essential to look for devices that are water-resistant, shockproof, and made of durable materials.
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How can I test the accuracy of my electronic compass?
Simple, calibrate the electronic compass before each use. This involves waving the device in a figure-eight motion several times, which helps the sensors find north accurately.
Conclusion
A compass and GPS device is a must-have for individuals living in hurricane-prone areas. It provides accurate navigation, even when the power goes out, which is essential for safety and survival. When purchasing one, focus on durability, functionality, and battery life. Furthermore, understand the different types of compasses and GPS devices available and choose one that best suits your needs. Remember to test the accuracy of your device before each use, and finally, consider purchasing from reputable manufacturers.
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