Garmin eTrex H Handheld GPS

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The Geocaching Rules:
This growing outdoor sport has a simple set of rules, making it easy for anyone to play. The challenging part is finding the cache. Some caches have even been planted on mountainsides and underwater!

Once geocachers find a cache, they follow these basic rules:

1. fill out the logbook
2. take something out of the cache
3. put something in the cache
4. return the cache to the exact position and condition in which it was found

Caches typically consist of a waterproof container discreetly placed within the local terrain. The container will include a logbook and any number of more or less valuable items such as toys, books, money, jewelry, trinkets, etc. You never know what the founder or other visitors of the cache may have left for you to enjoy. Be sure to fill out the logbook with the date and time you visit the cache and leave something in return.

Choosing a Geocaching GPS Unit:
You will need a handheld GPS unit to help you find or mark cache locations and Internet access for finding or sharing the coordinates. 12-channel units have an accuracy of less than 15 meters (49ft), and less than 3 meters (10 ft.) on WAAS-capable models. Check out our handheld products to find out which product is best for you.

In general, features to look for when purchasing a GPS unit to geocache include:

• Lightweight and compact — makes it easier to carry (look for a wrist strap too!)
• Waterproof — caches can be hidden under or near water
• Long battery life — a must for those hard-to-find, remote caches
• Waypoint storage — will hold more cache locations
• Screen readability — should be easy to read in daylight and at night

Advanced features which make it even easier for you to find that big cache include:

• WAAS-enabled — means your GPS unit will give you better position accuracy - within 3 meters (10 feet) 95% of the time
• Built-in Compass — convenient and comes in handy when you get within 100 feet of your cache
• Altimeter — shows how high up you are for those vertically hidden caches
• Mapping Capabilities — makes it easier to navigate when you can download maps to your unit and see the terrain
• External antenna — for use under heavy tree cover or difficult terrains

Click Here for all of our Handheld GPS units »

IMPORTANT: Each GPS Manufacturer has its own terms, conditions, and availability, for map updates, beyond our control.  This may or may not include a fee for map updates - please visit the manufacturer's website, or review your product manual for more information about downloading and updating your pre-loaded maps.

GPS - Global Positioning System (Device) - Is a device that works with the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) developed by the US Dept. of Defense. It is the only fully functional GNSS in the world, and uses a constellation of between 24 and 32 Medium Earth Orbit satellites that transmit precise signals allowing GPS receivers to determine their current location, the exact time, and their velocity.  Also known as a Personal Navigation Device, Navigational System, GPS Receiver, or GPS Navigator.

System - The GPS Device itself.

Navigation - Is the process of locating your current position, establishing your destination, and controlling the direction and movement of a vehicle from one place to another.

Compass - A device or feature of a GPS receiver that shows your current direction.

Map - A map (or chart)  is a visual representation of an area, showing different objects or landmarks; such as: streets, buildings, locations, and points of interest.

Trip - A trip is the travel from point A to point B.

Point of Interest - A POI is a recorded location within the GPS Device, either pre-defined, or that can be end-user entered.  Usually these are accessed to speed setting a destination, or a detour.

Trilateration - This is how a GPS device knows its location.  It uses three GPS satellites to trilaterate its position.  GPS units operate on a common clocking system to use the variation in radio-frequency signal arrival time to calculate their position.

Automotive GPS - A GPS Receiver typically used in a car or truck.  Depending on the design, can also be used on motorcycles, boats, or as a hand-held GPS, but is not designed specifically for these uses.

Mounting - Dash or dashboard mounting usually involves a suction mount holder, that can easily be removed for storage when not needed.

Traffic - Traffic can be: the display or information provide about real-time traffic conditions; about historic traffic conditions at different times of day; or the ability to route around typical congestion points on your Trip or route.

Voice - Voice features can be: spoken information that the GPS provides, including spoken directions, street names, or alerts; or can be voice commands that the GPS owner gives to the GPS device.

Touch Screen - A covering over the GPS display allowing control of the features or map of the GPS Device.

Bluetooth - This is a wireless technology allowing different devices to communicate.  In GPS systems, Bluetooth usually allows the GPS device to act as a hands-free speaker phone.

Geotagging - This is the saving of a GPS coordinate to other information, such as a photo, point of interest or other location.  Using a GPS you can usually obtain exact coordinates that may be used with other devices, or other devices, such as a Digital Camera may have GOS built in for that purpose.