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Using your GPS
All GPS (Global Positioning Satellites) units work
exactly the same. They obtain a fix on 3 or more
satellites that are orbiting the Earth. Once the GPS
has determined its location it will display the
information using Latitude and Longitude numbers.
A chart plotter unit will overlay a Chart on top of
the Latitude and Longitude information. This
wonderful as long as it is working and the screen is
large enough and bright enough to be seen in all
conditions.
The Professional Captain will never rely on one data
source. Most carry a simple handheld GPS will all
their waypoints entered. Then it becomes a simple
matter to create a route using these waypoints.
Routes employ the “goto” command. A highway or large
arrow will then direct you to your next waypoint.
These screens are much easier to read and don’t
require any interpretation by the helmsman.
The mechanics are basically the same as above. Draw
each leg of your course. Enter the latitude and
longitude of each end point of your leg. Finally,
you can combine these waypoints into a route. It’s a
very simple procedure and one that can have a big
payoff in safety once conditions deteriorate.
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