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GPS were originally used in military and other government applications. Today, it is also used in other areas like navigation and sports. Though GPS is composed of electronic devices, some handhelds can be used in water.

This is all possible because GPS is already made waterproof for practical navigation and sports. Though they were originally intended for land use in military and government applications, technology enabled GPS to be functional in water despite its electronic components.

Though they used to be expensive, waterproof units are now available at an affordable price. For sea kayakers, it provides accurate data about their path in the middle of the sea. Bikers can also benefit from waterproof units because they encounter varying weather conditions aside from moist and humidity. It is also portable and easy to use, making it an indispensable navigational tool for sportsmen.

In buying waterproof GPS handhelds, some characteristics should be understood because they often appear in specifications sheet and are good measures when comparing units. The following terms are also applicable for non-waterproof GPS.

POI or Points of Interest: Aside from maps, GPS features setting of POIs or waypoints along the course taken by the user. Such waypoints can be a public restroom, campsite, or coordinates where they changed directions. It helps travelers and sportsmen to remember important spots and make their way back. Some models allow log tracking and sharing of waypoints between handhelds.

Topographical Maps: Most GPS can electronically display 2D or 3D maps, but older models do not. For such models, plotters will be required to have a printout of the map. Advanced models can go beyond normal topographic information by implementing Digital Elevation Model technology, commonly called as DEM. It is a feature to have better visualization of contours at different zoom levels. Moreover, handhelds can store new maps by accessing data cards and compact discs.

Some advanced features of waterproof GPS handhelds are touch screen displays, switching from driving and sports activities, and memory slots. Some also features displaying of marine information like sea depth, ports, and tidal information as well as digital compasses. The package is floatable in case it is dropped in water. Two-way radio is sometimes included in the unit, but using it might require FCC license to ensure that it will not cause interference with other device.

Touch screen and switching between urban driving, hiking, and water sports are some advanced features of waterproof GPS handhelds. It can also have memory slots and digital compass. Since its main feature is usability in water, new models also show sea depth, docks, and other related information. Its package was designed to float to get it easier when dropped in water. Some units have built-in radios to provide communication within 5 miles, as long as there will be corresponding FCC license.