Global positioning system – GPS – is a huge advance in navigation. Highly accurate map capable units can be purchased at reasonable prices and are readily available just about everywhere.

The Global Positioning System is a network of satellites in different orbital paths. A GPS unit establishes contact with at least three of these satellites and uses the information received to determine altitude, longitude, and latitude. The unit takes measurements constantly and plots your path on a map (for mapping enabled GPS units), and also provides a digital display of relevant information. In order to calculate altitude, the unit must have access to at least four satellites. There are no fees or setup charges to use GPS.

GPS receivers are extremely accurate due to their parallel multi-channel operation. This type of unit is quick to lock onto satellites and will hold the lock in dense foliage or city streets with tall buildings and other obstructions. Most portable GPS receivers are accurate to within 10 feet.

Twelve channel GPS devices are fairly standard. These receivers can lock onto more than one satellite at the same time. They hold the lock and are very accurate. This is important if you plan to use the unit while hiking or camping.

Most handheld receivers weigh about 10 ounces. This is an important consideration if you want to carry the GPS device in your pocket. If you plan to use your GPS device outdoors or in a boat, you must get a waterproof model. Salt water can ruin an ordinary GPS receiver, so look for a marine rated unit if it will be operated in a boat.

Battery life is almost always shorter than the manufacturer’s advertised time. You might want to purchase a spare set of batteries and use the power adapter in your RV or boat whenever possible.

Make sure the GPS map can be updated with a simple download procedure. Roads and highways change all the time and the installed map will eventually become obsolete. Check the price of the download. It can be surprisingly expensive in some models.

You should keep paper maps and navigation guides such as a compass to backup your GPS. Batteries can run down, or the unit might lose contact with the satellites. Having paper maps available (and knowing your current location on them) will give you peace of mind when traveling or hiking.

RV portable generators are very dependable as long as routine maintenance is followed. People have problems when the generator is stored for a period of time without use. This can cause the unit to be difficult to start. In some cases, it will not start at all until serviced. Depending on weather and storage conditions, starting and surging problems can develop in as little as one month.

Running the generator occasionally will keep it in good working order. You need to check the oil and change it at the correct intervals. It’s a bad idea to leave fuel in the tank during storage. Instead, pour a very small amount into the tank and run the generator until it is completely out of fuel.

 Always keep in mind that a fuel powered portable generator will produce carbon monoxide. The exhaust system should be inspected for any cracks or other leaks before use. Portable generators can be positioned so exhaust is blown away from the camping area. Install a good carbon monoxide detector in your RV and test it regularly.

Generators will either have an automatic transfer switch to sense if you are using line voltage, or you will have to plug the RV power cord into a receptacle to use it. Be careful and observe all safety precautions that come with the unit. Don’t handle cords or anything else that’s electrical while standing on a wet surface or when barefoot.

A gasoline generator should be operated with a 50% load for at least two hours every month. It is extremely important that you run your generator with this load. Running it with nothing attached can cause overheating of the windings and damage to the unit. Check your generator owner’s manual for load ratings.

Other maintenance intervals for generators are based on usage and are usually expressed in operating hours. Some units have an hour meter so you can monitor the time. Keep an eye on this and plan for required maintenance before taking off on a trip.

Following a basic preventative maintenance plan will keep your portable generator operating efficiently for many years.