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In recent years the variety, availability cost, and accuracy of navigation equipment available has increased dramatically some are more useful than others but some are essential |
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In recent years the variety, availability cost, and accuracy of navigation equipment available has increased dramatically some are more useful than others but some are essential |
| The
Map
The map underlines all navigational equipment. Without it all other equipment is virtually useless. However it is also the cheapest item of navigation equipment and represents excellent value. The map should be kept dry and carried conveniently ready for use at all times. Use only modern and up to date maps. |
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The compass
For mountain use, the compass is the best and simplest direction indicating tool to use, it is a accurate tool, but protect it in a compass case so it remains accurate. For accurate navigation choose a compass with a coloured magnetic needle, an orienting arrow, a movable housing marked in degrees and a transparent base plate with scale and direction of travel arrow indicator. There are many types of compass available, get advice on the best type for your needs. Learn how to use your compass, it is only a useful tool when in competent hands. |
| GPS (Global Positioning System)
In deserts, the ocean and other featureless expanses the GPS can be a great aid to navigation. In the mountains its value is less obvious. The GPS works by getting signals from military satellites, in favourable conditions it can give a positioned accuracy down under 10 meters. A problem being the signal is subject to variation and the inaccuracy can be up to 300 meters, when it suffers from these errors is not good enough for accurate navigation. The GPS is a complex piece of navigation equipment and it takes time and practice to be able to get the full use from it.
NEVER
EVER RELY JUST ON A GPS |
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The Altimeter
An altimeter is essentially a barometer that is calibrated to give height read out. The accuracy is subject to weather conditions but can be very good. It is important to recalibrate at regular interviews to ensure this continuing accuracy. An altimeter is very useful for establishing height position when you are on a known path, ridge, glacier etc. but are unsure how far along the feature you are. It is also useful for the prediction and indication of changes in the weather.
Remember if your altimeter shows 00095 m "it does not
necessarily mean you are 95 meters above sea level" |
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Mobile telephones, Pedometers,
Roamers, Protractors, a map and compass |
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