Waypoints

• Name (6-14 characters dependent on type)
• A symbol or icon

Choose type by highlighting the symbol area, press 'enter' and choose from the list:

• Elevation data
• A grid reference of your choice
• A brief note to be stored. Some models only

When set up for use in the UK, your position will be expressed as a ten figure OS grid reference e.g. NY34214 76408. If you wish you can insert zeros at the end of say a 6 figure grid reference and then save it. For example: NY39400 48600. To create a waypoint for a specific location, simply use the Mark function and then edit the features, especially the grid reference, to create the waypoint location you want to save.

All waypoints are listed in strict alphabetical order (numbers first then A to Z). Use the text grid to text in the name you are looking for.

Press OK or use the 'Quit' key to remove the text grid. OR 'Nearest'

This will show a list of the nearest waypoints (maximum 50) to your current position. It will not show all waypoints - only the first so many. The first one in the list will be the nearest. If the waypoint you are looking for is close to your position, this will probably be the best search option to use. Highlight the waypoint you are looking for, then press 'OK' to use.

• Name and save a waypoint to the user database Edit waypoint data
• Find a waypoint in the user database
• Delete a waypoint
• Navigate (GoTo) to any waypoint in your user database
• Add waypoints together to form a route
• View waypoints on the Map or Plot screen
• See how far away a waypoint is from your current position and the bearing to it

• Give you a direct line bearing or direction arrow (on the compass page) to your destination. This bearing will be dynamic as it updated every second. This means it is self-correcting according to your current location
• Countdown the current distance to the destination
• Show your current position and the destination position on the plot or map screen. You will also see the breadcrumb trail (your track so far)

Remember a GPS will happily navigate straight over a cliff! It has no idea what hazards are between A and B so you will have to think for it. Refer to your map and either contour (find the easiest route given the terrain) or follow the nearest footpath to your destination. Making the best use of the GoTo function:

• Find your approximate destination on your paper map Look at the ground between your present position and your destination
• Make life easy for yourself and contour around obstacles
• As you contour, your GPS will update your direction pointer
• When you think you have arrived, allow your GPS time to settle and your estimated position error will improve
• This will make your position information more accurate
• Look around you to find a feature that will confirm your position
• Try to get out of the shadow of trees or buildings if you can to ensure the clearest view of the sky

	Dave Mycroft is OM's very own routes editor and a self-confessed GPS nerd. He's an outdoors and technology writer with impressive navigation credentials earned on some proper hills and trails.
	Garmin is a world leader in GPS and has an excellent range of products suited to British hill walkers. Not only that, we love the way it's approachable and supportive of projects like this one or Geocaching. How refreshing!
	GPS Training is the acknowledged leader in GPS training and advice. This small, family-run company runs accessible training courses and will give you the best possible advice on kit. You won't go wrong talking to these guys before you buy - they know their stuff and will tell you the truth.