Buying Guide: Freezer & Portable Ice Makers at The Home Depot

Always have plenty of ice on hand with the help of an ice maker

When you’re entertaining cmpany or having the whole family over for a big Thanksgiving dinner, make sure you have enough ice on hand to keep the drinks cold and the party hot. Installing an automatic ice maker, whether in your freezer or as a freestanding unit, will ensure that you never lack for ice, even on steamy summer days. While installing an ice maker into your refrigerator/freezer is probably the most convenient option for many people, there are other choices available. Consider the following questions to find out what type of ice maker is right for your needs:

• Will side-by-side and top-mount refrigerators both accommodate ice makers?
• What advantages do freestanding ice makers offer?
• What advantages do portable dispensers offer?
• What features are important to you?

Types, Configurations and Installation Considerations

While installing an automatic ice maker in the refrigerator in your kitchen will provide ample ice for most of your needs, there are times and situations that may call for a different solution. Freestanding ice makers are ideal if you have a large family or small business that requires a constant flow of large quantities of ice. Portable units enable you to keep punch and soft drinks cold even when you’re outside picnicking on a beautiful, sunny summer day. In most cases, installing an automatic ice maker is fairly easy for a motivated or experienced do-it-yourselfer.

Freezer Ice Makers: It’s not uncommon for new refrigerators to come equipped with an automatic ice maker as a standard feature these days, an option that saves you the time of installing one yourself. If a new unit doesn’t have one, the odds are good that it’s at least configured to allow you to install one easily. Ice makers that are installed into side-by-side refrigerators are often accessible through a dispenser located on the freezer door. In many cases, the dispenser not only provides ice cubes, but crushed ice and chilled water as well.

• Automatic ice makers can be installed into most top-mount and side-by-side refrigerators
• Most ice makers produce around 5-8 trays of ice per day
• A simple trip-lever mechanism activates the ice maker and spurs production
• Crushed ice cools beverages more quickly because it has more exposed surface area
• Check with the dealer or manufacturer to make sure you’re getting the right model for your particular refrigerator

Freestanding: Freestanding units can be an ideal solution for larger families where a standard refrigerator ice maker can’t keep up with demand. These devices can be installed underneath a counter and can even be used for light commercial applications. Some freestanding units provide storage space for beverages and other items you’d like to keep cold. If you have a small business that requires large amounts of ice on a daily basis, a freestanding commercial ice maker will generate all that you need. These units can often produce multiple types of ice cubes, ranging from standard cubes to flake ice, crushed ice and ice nuggets.

• Under-counter units are capable of producing and storing up to 25 lbs. of ice per day
• Look for under-counter units that don’t require a drain for greater convenience
• Larger home units can generate up to 50 lbs. of ice per day
• Some units allow you to choose between installing them as built-in or freestanding models
• Commercial ice makers are usually air-cooled, water-cooled or remote air-cooled
• Commercial units may be somewhat noisy

Portable: If you’re headed for a picnic in the park or perhaps a party on the patio, a portable ice maker may come in handy. Rather than stocking coolers with ice and hoping it doesn’t melt on those hot summer days, a portable ice maker allows you to generate ice on the spot. Add water, plug it in and ice will be ready to go in a short period of time. Some portable units can generate up to 29 lbs. of ice in a day.

• Some models offer the ability to create different sizes of ice cubes
• An insulated storage compartment will help keep ice cold
• Look for an easy-to-remove basket to make getting ice out easier
  
  

Design	Description	Points to Consider
Refrigerator	May be installed into either top-mount or side-by-side refrigerators.	Easy to install Clean out ice bin periodically to remove old, stale ice
Freestanding	May stand alone or be installed underneath a counter.	Under-counter units with storage space provide extra versatility
Portable	May be used anywhere within reach of a plug.	Ideal for backyard barbecues or parties

Installation Considerations: Automatic ice makers can be installed into a refrigerator in a matter of hours without too much hassle or expense. If there’s a supply line installed behind your refrigerator, your task becomes much easier. If there’s not, you may need to cut a hole and run piping up through your basement or crawl space or connect to the line underneath the sink. Make sure to leave enough extra tubing coiled up so you can pull your refrigerator away from the wall without causing the pipe to kink. A saddle valve can come in handy for making the connection between your existing supply line and your new ice maker, but be sure to consult local building codes to make sure using these valves is allowed.

• Supply tubing, compression fittings and wrenches will be needed for installation
• Ice maker kits may or may not include supply tubing and compression fittings
• Plastic supply lines are somewhat easier to install than copper lines
• Use a standard T-fitting and shutoff valve if you’re not able to use a saddle valve
• Freestanding ice makers may take up a lot of room and can be noisy

Features

Filter: Ice cubes that taste or smell funny can have an adverse effect on whatever you’re using them in, so consider installing a filter to ensure that pure, clean water is used to make ice cubes. Some refrigerators have built-in filters.

Self-Cleaning: If you decide that you need a commercial ice maker, look for one that has a self-cleaning feature. This feature automates the process of emptying the ice bin and cycling a cleaning solution through the unit so you don’t have to.

Stainless Steel Construction: Freestanding units made from stainless steel provide long-lasting dependability.

Furniture

Furniture is an essential component in any home. It turns bedrooms, family rooms, dining rooms and other areas into comfortable, enjoyable and functional living spaces. Good furniture is designed to incorporate elements that are both useful and stylish. With such a wide variety of types, styles, colors and finishes to choose from, navigating through the sea of available choices can be a little intimidating. Taking a few minutes to consider the rooms you will be furnishing, the intended purpose of each item and the type of atmosphere you wish to create will go a long way toward helping you find the ideal furnishings for your home. Before you start looking at your options, consider the following questions and keep your answers in mind as you shop: 

• Which room or rooms are you furnishing?
• Are there specific items of furniture you want to add?
• What materials and finishes will look best?
• What size is the room and how should that affect your choices?
• How can you most effectively furnish different rooms? 
  

Type, Style, Placement and Features 

Furniture varies greatly from room to room, but its basic function remains the same. Whether a piece of furniture is placed in your living room, dining room, bedroom or home office, it should provide comfort, enhance utility and add style. Each room you furnish presents a unique set of considerations, so decide which room you are going to be tackling and determine its particular dimensions, color scheme and main purpose before purchasing any items. Most furniture is designed to match a certain type or style of room, so choose pieces whose looks and features best suit the room where they will be placed.

Living/Family Room: If your family tends to spend most of its time gathered together in your living room, make sure you have plenty of comfortable furniture that will hold up to the rigors of daily use. Decide how much seating you need and populate the space with enough armchairs, recliners, rocking chairs and couches for you, your family members and a few guests. For smaller rooms or to free up space, look for an L-shaped couch that can fit in a corner. Sectional couches can be configured to fit nearly any room and some even feature built-in cup holders or tables for added convenience. Consider both the style and type of material. Leather provides sophisticated style and durability while chenille and velvet provide soft cushioning and an elegant feel. Ottomans can be used to enhance comfort and complete a room's look. 

• Reclining chairs provide an ultra-comfortable way to relax in front of the TV
• Choose a comfortable arm height that's neither too low nor too high
• Select armless couches and chairs with simple lines for a more modern feel
• Some items feature hollow spaces to provide extra storage room
• Special theater-style seating can turn a family room into a movie theater 
  

Bedroom: If there's one item in your house that absolutely, positively must be comfortable, it's your bed. With so many options to choose from, it's easy to find the ideal combination of luxury, size and style. Traditional mattresses and box springs come in twin, full, queen and king sizes. Consider the size of the room and the amount of space you need to sleep comfortably to help determine the best size. New visco-elastic "memory" foam mattresses contour to your body for added comfort while adjustable beds allow you to customize positions for your head and feet. Dressers, chests and armoires all provide storage in the bedroom while adding an element of style. Choose one that provides enough space while enhancing the room's appearance. 

• California king-sized beds are slightly longer and narrower than conventional kings
• Airbeds, futons, bunk beds and loft beds provide space-saving sleep alternatives
• Ensure waterbeds are made from high-quality materials to avoid leaks
• Nightstands frame a bed while providing handy storage and surface space
• Add mirrors to smaller rooms to create a sense of depth and openness 
  

Dining Room/Kitchen: Size is one of the most important considerations when placing furniture in your kitchen or dining room. You'll need to ensure that there's enough room to comfortably sit at a table without crowding. Try to allow 24" to 30" for each person. You'll also want to be sure there is room for people to slide chairs in and out. Round tables work best in smaller dining rooms and kitchen nooks as they maximize the amount of useable space. Rectangular tables are better for larger rooms and formal dining areas. Dining chairs are available in a wide array of styles to suit your décor. Look for chairs that fit well when pushed up close to the table. 

• Tables that are too small make rooms seem large and less intimate
• Tables that are too large make a dining room feel crowded
• Dining tables are typically available in 29" or 30" heights
• Expandable tables can grow to accommodate more guests 
  

Home Office: A comfortable chair and a desk with plenty of storage space are the hallmarks of a useful home office. If you spend a lot of time typing, e-mailing and working through spreadsheets, be sure you have a chair that provides enough support to keep you feeling comfortable over long periods of time. Look for one that allows you to make multiple adjustments, particularly if more than one person uses it. The more you can customize a chair, the greater your comfort level will be. Cloth and mesh materials provide ventilation to keep the chair cool while leather and vinyl offer a stylish look that's easy to clean. A good desk should provide plenty of space for your computer, speakers, discs, mouse and keyboard. If you use your desk for more than computer work, look for a larger surface and extra drawers. In small rooms, consider desks that provide vertical storage or include spaces for other peripherals such as a printer. 

• Ergonomic features eliminate unnecessary strain on your back, neck, shoulders and more
• Height, armrest and tilt adjustment allow customization for long-term, comfortable use
• Chairs with five-point bases provide stability while casters provide improved mobility
• L-shaped desks can be placed in a corner for better use of space in small areas 
  

Wood Finish: Many pieces of furniture feature wood finishes that provide lasting beauty in any room of your house. When it comes to determining which one best suits your style and preferences, the chart below provides a handy reference.

Finish	Appearance	Points to Consider
Bleach	Lightens color May turn wood almost white	A durable, clear coating preserves the finish
Enamel	Hides grain and color Applied over paint	Creates tough, scratch-resistant surface
Lacquer	Clear lacquer shows the wood grain Colored lacquer hides or masks the grain	Brushed or sprayed on in multiple layers for different effects
Oil	Natural look Enhances color	Several coats must be rubbed into surface Delicate finish
Paint	Variety of color choices Hides imperfections	May be glossy or semiglossy Can chip or scratch
Shellac	Clear coating Serves as a sealer to protect against damage	Easily marred Shows water spots
Stain	Adds and/or alters color	Can be used to simulate the look of different wood types
Varnish	Adds a rich, brown color	Finishes include matte, satin and glossy
Wax	Retains natural appearance	Protects wood

Features 

Table Leaves: Expandable tables with drop-in leaves allow you to have a cozy table that can grow to accommodate guests.

Loft Beds: For small bedrooms, consider using a loft bed to maximize available space. Loft beds are raised up off the floor and have an open space beneath, much like a top bunk bed with no bottom bunk below. The room beneath the bed gives you space for items such as a computer desk, dresser or couch.

Themed Furniture: When furnishing your child's room, consider choosing furniture with a special theme that reflects his or her interests. With everything from race cars and fire trucks to cartoon and movie characters, you can find a bed, desk, table or other item, that is bound to make your child feel more at home.

Pillows: Decorative pillows provide stylish accents for couches, loveseats and chairs. They are available in a variety of sizes, materials and aesthetic styles. For sleeping, choose a pillow that matches the way you sleep. If you sleep on your back, select pillows of medium firmness. Use softer pillows if you sleep on your stomach. Firmer pillows will provide greater support for side sleepers.

Corner Chairs: Just as there are L-shaped couches that fit into corners, there are V-shaped chairs for the same purpose. These chairs are designed to maximize space and allow you to face either direction when sitting.

Modular or Sectional Construction: Items that can be easily taken apart and reassembled make moving a breeze. Whether the door is too small or the piece is too heavy, furniture that can be reduced to small, easy-to-manage sections are extremely helpful.

China urges more cooperation between ASEAN

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday asked for efforts to make cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China, Japan, South Korea the main cooperation channel in East Asia.

The ASEAN +3 (10+3) framework has served as a solid pillar of economic integration in East Asia, said Wang, who was attending an ASEAN +3 ministerial meeting here.

Cooperation between the 13 countries should be taken as a means to protect regional peace and prosperity and to better serve the purpose of regional development, he added.

Wang asked for efforts to take full advantage of the 10+3 framework as the main cooperationchannel in East Asia. Further cooperation should be promoted to enhance the leadership ofthe 10+3 framework in regional cooperation, he said.

He also asked for faster pace of East Asian integration. All sides should work toward the direction of East Asian integration and the establishment of an East Asian economic community.

Wang said efforts are needed to coordinate the 10+3 cooperation framework and cooperation between China, Japan and South Korea.

China, Japan and South Korea should attach more importance to their cooperation with ASEANcountries and to the 10+3 cooperation framework, said Wang. At the same time, ASEANcountries should also pay more attention to 10+3 cooperation.

Wang urged efforts to chart a future for the 10+3 framework. The 13 countries should promotecooperation in fiscal and monetary areas and in food security, he said. At the moment,coordination of macroeconomic policies should be taken as a priority to help the region fend offfinancial risks, said Wang.

On specific policy areas, he asked to promote the effectiveness of the Chiang Mai InitiativeMultilateralization, the construction of the 10+3 Emergency Rice Reserve, the overall planingfor regional interconnectivity, and the establishment of a regional financing platform.

China has played an active role in 10+3 cooperation, said Wang. China is willing to work with itspartners to push 10+3 cooperation to a higher level so as to make more contributions toregional peace, stability and development. At present, the 10+3 framework is at its crucial stageof development, he noted.

Foreign ministers from other countries of the 10+3 framework also spoke highly of the rapiddevelopment of 10+3 cooperation. They said 10+3 cooperation is full of vitality and potential,and serves as the main cooperation channel in East Asia.

The Changing World Order and China

Over the past three or four years, several prominent commentators have made some astonishing claims, and with the help of the media, many people now believe that the global order has dramatically changed because of China. One famous U.S. scholar of international politics started the idea of G2, saying that only the U.S. and China have the final say on world affairs. A well-known Chinese scholar of international politics has alleged that the world order is shifting from one of one hegemon and many powers to two hegemons and many powers, in other words promoting China to a superpower status.

The key turning point came when China’s GDP overtook Japan’s, hoisting China to global second place in 2010. China’s total trade volume in goods also leaped to second place. This coupled with the lingering financial crisis in the West (which begun in 2008), caused some Chinese people to think the U.S.’number is up. They advocated the idea that China was replacing the U.S., and it was time for China to take over from the West in maintaining world order and supervising international affairs. They argued that it was only a matter of time that China went from second place to first place, booting out the U.S.. Whether these opinions come from an error in assessing the global order or from Chinese wishful thinking or excessive praise from overseas, it is a terrible betrayal of reality. Anyone with common sense knows that the balance of national power is decided by comprehensive national strength and it does not make sense to evaluate a country’s economic strength solely by its GDP. Apart from the discrepancy between China’s GDP and GNP, the hard fact is that China’s global ranking of GDP per capita is still more than 100th, and the total number of people living in extreme poverty is still 150 million. China is also far from being a superpower if you look at a host of factors such as—sustainable development, industrial technology, innovation, economic efficiency, energy consumption, environmental pollution, and soft power. When Chinese leaders make overseas trips, they repeatedly remind the world that China is still a developing country. The former foreign minister, State Councilor Yang Jiechi, said there is a belief in the international society that the world power center is moving fromWest to East. But I disagree.

These kinds of claims and exaggerations not only create a negative influence on China’s diplomatic relations but they have also led to serious consequences for its strategic position. Firstly, it is well-known that the strategic objective of the two U.S. parties is to prevent any other big powers from rising to become a challenge to the U.S. and threatening U.S. hegemony. By recklessly overstating China’s national strength and creating this false idea that China is the world number two power, Washington has been able to label China as its key target. It has pursued a twin policy of engagement and containment. On the one hand it has encouraged China to be a“responsible big power”, while on the other it has pursued a policy of strategic encirclement to contain it. It has moved further from engagement and closer to containment. Its decision to refocus on the Asia Pacific, to make a number of diplomatic and military moves with Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar and Australia and to adopt strict measures to limit the trade and investment of Chinese enterprises are evidence of this strategic shift.

Secondly, these exaggerations of China’s national strength along with national celebrations of an aircraft carrier in formation greatly increased neighboring countries’fears over China. This celebration coincided with a number of serious disputes over sovereignty in territorial waters between China and several neighboring countries. This highlighted the exaggerated China threat theory and isolated China still further.

Thirdly, China has felt a lot of pressure over the fact that its foreign exchange reserves now top 3 trillion. Much of the world now regards China as a rich country and this carries with it many demands. For example: taking responsibility for the costs of environmental protection and international organizations. Developing countries expect China to provide generous aid and write off debts, even though poverty is an even bigger problem in China.

Being number two is difficult both in international politics or court politics. The second-biggest power faces extreme pressure but it does have the same authority or influence as the top power. China feels this situation is unjust because it has been elevated to the number two position even though it does not have the national strength for this role. This should remind us to hide our capabilities and bide our time. Some 30 years ago and earlier, China had nothing to conceal because it was a poor and weak country. It was necessary for fearless Chinese to fight their rivals under Mao Zedong’courageous sacrifice. China should conceal its abilities and bide its time, according to the theory of Sun Zi’s Art of War.

We will never intentionally conceal our ability since it is impossible for a country to conceal its strength in such a highly information-based era. Rather China needs to show the real China to the world. China also needs to handle relations between a strong country and the welfare society. Over  the past 30 years, China’s tax revenues and other governmental income has grown much faster than people’s income, which has meant that China has managed to launch spaceships and build high-speed railways while many people do not have enough money to send their children to school, see a doctor or have their own home. China should learn from advanced countries and adopt a people-oriented economy. For example, although the U.S. government has a lot of debt, it still maintains a welfare society and even made tax payouts several years ago (a practice copied by HongKong). Boasting the world’s biggest foreign exchange reserves, China should move to reduce taxes, boost consumption, put more money into education and controlling pollution rather than contributing to the U.S. economy.

This world number two label has only brought China concerns, envy and hate from other countries.

Buying Guide: Utility Knives & Blades

No toolbox is complete without the presence of a utility knife. Whether it features a retractable, fixed or breakaway blade, a utility knife will undoubtedly prove to be one of your most indispensable tools. Trimming wallpaper, cutting carpeting and roofing materials and opening boxes are just a few of the tasks utility knives can be used for. Each type of knife offers a different set of advantages, and many are available with a wide array of features. Though incredibly handy, utility knives are also very sharp and need to be handled with care to prevent accidents. Keep the following questions in mind as you search for the best utility knife to meet your needs:

• What different designs are available?
• What types of blades are available and what applications are they used for?
• How can you ensure safe use of a utility knife?
• What different blade-change mechanisms do knives have?
• What features are important to you?

Knives, Blades and Uses

In addition to the uses mentioned above, utility knives can sharpen pencils, cut rope and string, score wallboard or acoustic ceiling tiles and a host of other activities. Regardless of what you’re using your knife for, there are steps you can take to ensure safe and proper use. Wear eye protection and make sure the blade is properly seated and locked into place prior to cutting. Be patient when cutting through thick materials, and make more than one pass if needed. Make sure blades are sharp, as dull blades can slip. Keep retractable blades safely sheathed when not in use, and be extra cautious when handling fixed-blade knives. Look for blades with rubber nonslip handles to provide a better grip.

Retractable Knives: Utility knives with retractable blades feature a button that allows you to slide the blade in and out. The two primary advantages of this style are increased safety and greater ability to control the depth of your cut. Simple knives let the blade slide all the way out and then lock into place while more advanced knives allow you to lock the blade into multiple positions, usually three to five, giving you precise control over how deeply you cut. Retractable knives may not be able to accept all types of specialty blades.

• A thumb-operated slider moves the blade in and out of the housing
• Always confirm that the blade is securely locked into place prior to cutting
• Knife bodies may be straight or ergonomically curved to fit your hand
• Retractable-blade keychain knives fit in your pocket and are always close at hand

Fixed-Blade Knives: Fixed-blade knives have blades that are securely locked into place, making them ideal for heavy-duty cutting jobs. Unlike retractable knives, fixed-blade knives don’t experience any blade “slop,” the term used to describe the wobbly side-to-side movement that can sometimes occur. Handle sizes and widths vary, so look for one that fits comfortably in your hand. Be extra careful when storing fixed-blade knives, and make sure they are in a safe place when not in use.

• Fixed-blade knives offer greater stability for tough jobs
• Accept a wider variety of different blades for more versatile use
• Hobby knives are often constructed from strong, lightweight aluminum and have a round, slender body for more precise control

Breakaway-Blade Knives: These knives are usually housed in a brightly colored plastic casing and feature segmented blades that can be broken off in sections to provide a fresh, sharp edge whenever you need it. They eliminate the hassle of having to stop what you’re doing to open up the knife and replace the blade. Their design makes them ideal for tasks that constantly dull or otherwise affect blades, such as cutting through packing tape and other adhesive material.

• Ideal for light- and medium-duty cutting tasks
• Blades usually have between 8 and 13 segments
• Do not accept different blades for specialized tasks
• Break off blade tips as soon as they become dull to reduce the risk of slipping

Blades: In addition to standard utility blades, there are a number of other specialized blades available for more specific tasks. Consult the chart below to learn more about the range of blades available and what types of jobs they are best suited for.

Blade Type	Applications and Points to Consider
Carpet	Double-edged blades used for cutting carpeting
Hobby and Craft	Used for cutting, carving, whittling, modeling, trimming and scoring a wide range of materials Blade designs include low-angle and curved
Hook	Used for cutting and trimming roofing, carpet and flooring materials as well as cartons Won’t cause damage below the cutting surface Oversized blades are available for thicker materials
Linoleum	Used for making clean cuts in vinyl or linoleum floor covering and similar materials
Round-Point Utility	Designed for general cutting tasks Blunt ends help prevent stab injuries while aiding in penetrating the cutting surface
Scoring	Used for scoring deep grooves to make clean breaks in acrylics, laminates and other sheet materials
Utility	Used for cutting sheet materials of varying thicknesses Used for general cutting tasks

Features

Folding Fixed-Blade: One of the dangers of using a fixed-blade knife is that the blade is always exposed. Fixed-blade knives that fold in a manner similar to a pocket knife eliminate this problem, and they’re easier to fit in your pocket or tool pouch as well.

Self-Retraction: Self-retracting blades require you to keep a button depressed while you are cutting. Once you release the button, the blade automatically retracts, helping to prevent accidents that can occur if you forget to retract the blade manually.

Blade Changes: Changing the blade doesn’t need to be difficult. Many knives allow for tool-free changes. The body simply rotates open, allowing you to slide the old blade out and slide in a new one with ease. Some knives let you release the current blade with the touch of a button so you can turn it around and make use of the unused, still-sharp end. Other knives have the ability to change blades automatically, saving you time and effort.

Blade Storage: Knives that store blades internally make it easy to change blades quickly and efficiently. Look for knives that use a guide or magnet to keep blades in place rather than letting them rattle around loose inside. Loose blades can dull over time.

Hang Hole: A hole at the end of a utility knife makes it easy to hang on a nail or to run a lanyard through for easy access.

String-Cutting Feature: Some knives have a small slit in the body located just behind the head of the blade that is ideal for sliding strings and twine through for quick, easy cuts.

Safety Shield: A safety shield keeps your hand safe from abrasive surfaces and hazardous materials while you work, making it ideal for use when cutting insulation and other difficult tasks.

Buying Guide: GPS Receivers

Whether you are on a crowded street in a major metropolitan area or backpacking in the remote wilderness, a GPS receiver is bound to come in handy. Utilizing a collection of satellites to pinpoint your position, these compact systems can help you find your way to a variety of locations. GPS receivers can be used for a wide range of navigational activities, including aerial or marine applications, finding the best route for a road trip or marking a favorite fishing spot when you’re hiking through the woods. You can choose from different design configurations, including handheld and dash-mounted models, and you can select features, such as Bluetooth compatibility, MP3 playback and water resistance. With so many options, you’re sure to find one that best suits the activities you plan to use it for. Consider the following questions to learn more about how a GPS receiver can make your life easier: 

• What applications can a GPS device be used for?
• Do you need a system that’s easily portable?
• Will a basic system suffice, or do you need a GPS with mapping capabilities?
• Are there any special features you’d like to have? 
  

Types, Navigation, Operation and Usage Tips 

Global Positioning Systems, or GPS, utilize satellites that are in constant orbit around the earth to pinpoint locations. Originally designed and placed into orbit by the Department of Defense as a means for improving tactical positioning and navigation, the government ultimately allowed the public to utilize the satellite technology in the 1980s. From that point on, GPS devices have been used for a wide range of applications. By linking themselves with three or sometimes four different satellites, receivers use triangulation to verify locations and provide directions with impressive accuracy. While there are around two dozen satellites in orbit, most GPS devices track twelve of them. In order to function properly, receivers must have a clear path to the satellite, meaning that dense foliage and tall buildings can cause interference. Once you’ve purchased a GPS receiver, you’ll have free and unfettered access to the satellites — there are no subscription fees or costs associated with use.

Types: There are several different types of GPS devices available. Basic systems can store the locations of waypoints, or locations, guide you to them and record the path you take to get there. These devices are well suited for helping you find your way on woodland hikes or marking the location of a favorite camping spot. Mapping devices offer a little more functionality by allowing you to utilize software to download detailed maps of different cities and regions. More advanced mapping units provide 3D maps that make it easy to see where you are, where you’re going and how to get there. The more advanced the device and the more features it contains, the more you’ll end up paying. Basic units can be found for around $100 while sophisticated systems can cost in excess of $1,000. 

• Auto-mapping devices automatically create a return route as you travel
• Handheld systems are ideal for outdoor use when hiking, hunting or exploring
• Personal fitness devices also monitor heart rate, pace and calorie consumption
• Dash-mounted devices offer hands-free operation in cars and boats for easier, safer use
• Two-way radio/GPS devices combine communication and direction-finding capabilities
• Many devices can connect to a PC or laptop to download new maps, Points of Interest (POIs) and more 
  

Navigation: When it comes to getting you where you need to go or helping you find your way back home, GPS devices offer a number of helpful features. One of the best ways to ensure even greater accuracy is by purchasing a device that’s WAAS-enabled. WAAS, or Wide Area Augmentation System, is a means by which a GPS device can utilize a system of satellites and ground stations to enhance precision, generally making the system accurate to within 3 to 7 meters. When utilizing your GPS device in the car, voice prompts, which verbally instruct you when to turn, and turn-by-turn directions allow you to keep your eyes on the road as you drive and find your destination with ease. Like a computer, the amount of information a GPS device can store depends on how much memory is available, so make sure you purchase a unit with plenty of memory if you plan to store a lot of maps and other information. 

• Units with waypoint storage and address books allow you to keep track of your favorite locations with ease
• Basemaps display cities and airports, major interstates and roadways and large geographical features such as lakes, rivers and coastlines
• Points of Interest (POIs) such as banks, ATMs, restaurants, hotels and even marine beacons and marinas can be stored in a number of GPS devices
• Differential GPS systems can further increase directional accuracy 
  

Operation and Usage Tips: There are a few ways in which you can maximize the effectiveness of your GPS device. Making sure you have backup batteries when you know you’ll be away from a power source for an extended period of time is one of them. Though all GPS units have LCD screens, some display images in color, which can make reading topographical features or navigating 3D maps easier. Antiglare screens allow you to read directions on bright, sunny days. Bear in mind that color screens require more power, so your battery may run down a little more quickly. 

• Touch-screen controls make GPS use quick and simple
• An external antenna can enhance reception to ensure more consistent performance for devices in your car, truck, SUV, boat or backpack
• Altimeters and digital compasses are ideal features for hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts 
  

Applications: The activities you plan to use your GPS for will determine exactly which type you should purchase. Outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing and hunting, require different information and features than flying a plane or geocaching (a type of high-tech scavenger hunt that involves searching for a waterproof container filled with “treasures”). The chart below lists some of the applications GPS devices are most commonly used for as well as features that will come in handy and a few points of consideration for each.

Application	Recommended Features	Points to Consider
Geocaching	Compass Topographical maps Altimeter External antenna Waterproofing	Geocaching involves a quest to find a container at specified coordinates Once the “treasure” is claimed, you must generally leave something new in its place
Marine	Anchor alarm Ability to download nautical charts Included details on marinas, lighthouses and other POIs	Allow you to avoid grounding on unfamiliar coastlines Does not function as a fish finder Be sure to purchase a water-resistant device
Outdoor Activities	Compass Heart monitor Altimeter Stop watch Basemap MP3 playback	Wrist-mounted devices are ideal for running, hiking and other exercise activities Use devices to store locations of fishing holes, hunting areas, scenic overlooks and more
Street Navigation	External antenna Ability to track time, distance, average speed and more Auto routing Voice prompts Bluetooth compatibility	A mounting device will allow you to secure your GPS for easier use Software may be needed to provide maps of different areas Turn-by-turn directions make it easy to find your destination

Features 

Bluetooth Compatibility: For maximum convenience, look for a GPS that’s compatible with Bluetooth technology, which allows you to interact with your cell phone through your GPS receiver. This link enables safe, hands-free dialing of POIs while you’re driving as well as address syncing.

MP3 Playback: GPS devices with MP3 playback capability enable you to listen to your favorite songs while you hunt, hike or drive.

Satellite Radio Ready: Satellite radio provides a wide range of uninterrupted broadcasts of sports, music, news and more. GPS devices that are satellite-radio ready give you the option to subscribe to one of the satellite services to enjoy this programming when you’re on the go.

Accessories: There are a number of accessories that can enhance your GPS device’s effectiveness or make it easier to use. A car adapter allows you to recharge on the road to keep power levels high. A mounting device allows for hands-free use in a car, boat or plane, and look for a remote antenna to improve signal strength for car-mounted devices.

Water-Resistant or Waterproof: If you plan to use your GPS unit on a boat or somewhere else it’s likely to get wet, make sure it has an IPX7 rating, which allows it to be safely immersed in as much as 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes without incurring damage.
Multilingual Support: This feature is helpful for people who speak multiple languages, as it allows them to utilize the one with which they have the greatest comfort level.

Traffic Rerouting: For the ultimate in high-tech road-trip assistance, look for GPS units that continually adjust routes based on traffic conditions to find the fastest path.