| Portable GPS devices have become very popular | | | | option of a World Map although it offers less |
| in recent years. These handy devices assist | | | | detail. |
| drivers in not only being able to view maps and | | | | For US consumers using their GPS device for |
| directions on screen but to listen to instructions | | | | outdoor activities, the US TOPO 24K is a handy |
| allowing them to keep their eyes on the road. | | | | tool which offers detailed topographical |
| They are great assistants which can help in | | | | information, points of interest such as public |
| avoiding traffic tie ups and quickly finding alternate | | | | facilities and fuel locations among many others, as |
| routes when needed. Locating businesses and | | | | well as detailed coverage of trail information within |
| other services when in unfamiliar surroundings is | | | | parks and designated forests. |
| simple with these geographical geniuses. However, | | | | The level of detail offered by the different maps |
| like any good human navigator, a GPS device | | | | varies and should be matched to the tasks it will |
| must have the right maps to perform the job | | | | be asked to perform. For instance, Garmin Roads |
| expected. | | | | and Recreation Maps provide maps detailing |
| Garmin GPS devices come with current maps | | | | highways, local, county and residential roads for all |
| preloaded. Buyers simply need to be aware of | | | | 50 states as well as exit information that lets |
| how they wish to use the device in order to | | | | users know what businesses and services are |
| select the device with the maps that will be most | | | | present at a given interstate exit. The City |
| useful. Some maps are designed for automobiles | | | | Navigator maps however have a greater focus |
| and thus focus on road maps, others have trail | | | | on highway and primary road maps as well as |
| maps geared toward hikers, snowmobilers, and | | | | detail for urban and residential areas. |
| other outdoor enthusiasts, while others are | | | | With new construction, changes in points of |
| designed for marine use. | | | | interest, services, and businesses, even GPS |
| The Garmin GPS devices that are used most | | | | maps must be updated to remain accurate. |
| commonly make use of road maps. Obviously, for | | | | Updated maps are published periodically and can |
| consumers in the US, road maps of the 50 states | | | | be purchased through the Garmin website or |
| are the focus, but for those who travel it is | | | | selected retailers. Installing updates is simple as |
| simple enough to purchase maps to assist them | | | | long as you have an hour or two of time and a |
| during their trip. Maps for Asia, Europe, Australia, | | | | good computer. Finding the maps that suit your |
| the Middle East, Brazil, Mexico, and many other | | | | needs and keeping them updated is key to having |
| countries are available and, in fact, there is the | | | | a GPS device that meets your expectations. |