How to Get Better Accuracy With a Handheld GPS

Knowing how to get the most accurate location reading from your handheld GPS unit is important when you ventured out of your known surroundings. A handheld GPS unit lets you know exactly where you are in the world within a few meters, give or take. Having that information can keep you out of geographic and political danger, and gets you home safely.

Instructions

1. Give your GPS receiver as clear a line of sight to the satellites as you can. The GPS, or global positioning satellite system, available for civilian use is made up of 24 satellites that function by line of sight, which means they can talk to your handheld GPS receiver through weather of any kind, glass or plastic. But the satellite signals can't pass through solid objects, including your own body. Get clear of buildings and heavy foliage. Hike up-mountain if you have to.

2. Make sure you are receiving signals from at least four of the 24 satellites to triangulate your location as closely as possible. If you can't get four signals, wait a few minutes for the satellites to shift orbit. Another option is to relocate to an area with fewer obstructions and try again.

3. Buy a GPS unit that is equipped with the Wide-Area Augmentation System. WAAS significantly improves GPS accuracy in North America, but you have to have a clear view of the southern horizon. If you receive signals from satellites with an ID of 31 or higher, then you know you are receiving the WAAS signal.