The Best in Navigational Tools--the MioDigiWalker C250 Portable GPS System

Since most people use their GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) system as a
navigational assistant, the maps they use are of major consequence. Today, when
people use the term GPS they are usually talking about the receiver that is either
attached to the dashboard or held in one's hand. Your GPS receiver gets its
signal from four out of the 24 satellites that are continuously circling the
Earth. Using a mathematical principle known as trilateration, the receiver
overlays the distances from each of the satellites to itself and uses that
information to deduce its exact location on the globe.

When you purchase a GPS unit for use as a navigational aid, your device will come
pre-loaded with a GPS map. The drawback to these pre-loaded maps is the simple
fact that they are often lacking in the detail you need to help you during your
travels. Pre-loaded maps also fail to include points of interest that may make
your trip more pleasant. Locations like hotels, restaurantss, gas stations and
local attractions that you may want to visit are examples of points of interest
that can be found on the more sophisticated GPS software. That is why you will
definitely need to add additional maps by downloading from the web or purchasing
map software on CDs.

With the rapidly growing market for GPS systems it was obvious that the world's
largest software company--Microsoft--would become involved in this expanding
technology. The GPS programs from Microsoft are varied, dependable, and up-dated
regularly. Microsoft software will also allow you to transfer the GPS receiver
signal to either your cell phone, your PDA, or your personal computer.

Stylish, compact, and affordable devices like the MioDigiWalker C250 Portable
System, have improved technology which is 10 times more sensitive than previous
models, finds your location much more quickly, and holds the signal longer--even
indoors.

Microsoft's newest GPS software product currently on the market is called Streets
and Trips 2007. The Streets and Trips software, combined with the GPS receiver
provides you with a tour guide who is ready to go virtually anywhere you want to
travel in North America. Another Microsoft program you can purchase is Map Point.
Microsoft Map Point comes with a GPS receiver and a new technology that was
created with the assistance of the National Marine Electronics Association. Map
Point displays your current location, speed, and the direction you are traveling.
It can also provide voice-prompted driving instructions and directions.

There are a vast number of sites on the Internet that allow you to download free
maps from those websites. However, the old adage, "there ain't no such thing as a
free lunch" is still true. Often, the free maps are like shareware
products--"watered down" versions of full products which the producers wants you
to buy.

The primary thing to keep in mind is the simple fact that no matter how much money
you spend on a GPS system it is still only a