What is GPS?

The Global Positioning System is a network of 24 satellites placed into orbit by the U.S. Department of Defense. The satellites circle the earth twice a day in a very precise orbit and transmit information to earth. Garmin® GPS receivers take this information and use triangulation to calculate the user's exact location. The position can then be displayed on the GPS unit's moving electronic map, which may include nearby landmarks, streets, and other geographical detail.

A GPS receiver must be locked on to the signal of at least three satellites to calculate a position and track movement. Once the user's position has been determined, the GPS unit can calculate other information, such as speed, bearing, track, trip distance, distance to destination, sunrise and sunset time and more.

Who uses GPS?

Pilots, military troops, hikers, bikers, business travelers, vacationers, off-road adventurers, mariners, fishermen, hunters, balloonists, surveyors and mappers. In short, anyone who relies on accurate navigational measurements – or just wants to get from here to there without getting lost – can benefit from GPS technology.

Learn more about GPS