How to Use a GPS Unit

Initialize the GPS. The first step in using any GPS unit is to turn it on and allow it to communicate with satellites to provide a location or fix. Take the device outside and hold it in front of you. Turn the unit on and wait. This could take several minutes. Once the GPS has acquired signals, it will calculate and display your location.

Enter in a waypoint. A waypoint is a GPS destination that allows your GPS to provide you with a point-to-point distance and bearing. Use a recognizable landmark such as a park, trail merge or stream crossing. Enter in the coordinates of the waypoint and label it something specific that you'll remember such as "Sunrise Park." Save the waypoint so that you can access it in the future.

Navigate to the waypoint. Hit the "Go To" or appropriate command on your GPS and allow the GPS to display the point-to-point distance and bearing so that you can navigate to it. Remember that this will be a direct route, and the route you actually travel will be less direct since trails don't usually lie in a straight line. However, you can always see how far away you are and the direction that you need to get to.

Create a route using a series of waypoints. Enter in a variety of waypoints that you'll cross along your intended journey to get a more detailed, accurate route.

Use your GPS to travel from point to point. Your GPS will give you a bearing and distance that you need to travel to reach your next waypoint. Use a map to determine the specific course that you need to travel on. Ensure that the distance to the waypoint, provided by the GPS, is decreasing, indicating that you are getting closer.

Compare the coordinates on your GPS with your topographic map to ensure that you are traveling in the right direction. Mapping GPS units include software maps that allow you to overlay your location on an on-screen map, but you could also use a paper map to plot your location based on the coordinates provided by your GPS.

Use GPS tracking to find your way home. GPS units can automatically record a series of track points (places you've traveled through) so that you can easily retrace your steps. Use the tracking feature when you stray off course or take a hike that you haven't designated using waypoints. The GPS will enter track points at specified intervals so that you can find your bearing and get back to your starting point. Set the GPS to track at a specified time or distance interval when you first decide to go "off the grid."