Portability is the main feature of some of Garmin's current models of GPS receivers. These portables include the GPSMap series which is suited for aircraft as well as other uses, and has seven models to choose from. There is a monochromatic GPSMap 96 and its color version, GPSMAP 96C, combining an operating system which is pilot-friendly and with powerful navigation tools, enabling the user to always keep on track.

Aircraft situational awareness is enhanced by these models through its Jeppesen built-in database and a database of US obstacles overlaid on a map. From these Garmin maps, alerts are raised when potential obstacles ahead are determined. GPSMap 96 is operated through a simple keypad; its design is streamlined to enable users to literally have GPS capability within the palm of their hands.

Bright, four-level gray scale display readable in sunlight makes reading the receiver's Garmin maps easy. These Garmin receivers also enable pilots to automate their logbooks to track flying hours and to record locations of departure and arrival automatically. A navigator for air, land and sea rolled into one, GPSMap 96 has these three navigation modes and an autorouting built-in basemap.

This feature allows the user to switch either from plane to boat or to car or to on-foot use. It has a memory of 23 megabytes and a port for a mini-USB wherein GPS maps data can be stored from a wide array of optional MapSource products. For road navigation, for instance, MapSource detailed street maps may be accessed and uploaded. On the water, the Garmin maps could be switched to marine cartography. Two AA batteries can serve as the GPSMap 96's power source, and hence, this device can likewise be a great companion on hiking trips.

Garmin, indeed, has come a long way since it introduced its first product which is solely designed for the marine market. This was a GPS 100, a panel-mounted GPS receiver which was launched in the 1990 International Marine Technology Exposition held in Chicago, Illinois. Priced at $2,500 the product became an instant sensation, leading to the introduction of other Garmin products with the now de rigueur GPS maps.

One of Garmin's early portables was a handheld GPS receiver that GIs carried in their 1991 Gulf War campaign. Another popular device was launched in the early 2000s, and was designed specifically for recreational runners (and hence its brand Forerunner). These wrist-worn GPS devices offered waypoint projection and two-dimensional tracking, features that were also adapted to another model, the Garmin Foretrex that gained popularity among mountain bikers, hikers and sailboat racing enthusiasts. Another popular GPS product, an in-car navigation system, was developed later in the StreetPilot, one model of which features 16-color Garmin maps.

Even at the start of the product's surfacing in the market, there have been GPS maps for pilots as they travel by air, sea and land like the GPSMAP 196. Those were simply grayscale models so Garmin took a huge step in creating navigation maps that are in full color and portable such as the GPSMAP 496. The devices also have advantageous features, including comprehensive airport maps for three thousand of the most popular locations in the world, as well as traffic information, voice prompts, pre-loaded maps and satellite weather and radio services. These major developments allowed Garmin maps to become the most trusted system for navigation.

One of the most popular series is the 60 Series, especially for those persons who want to own a handheld Garmin map for their hiking and exploring. The Garmin 60cx is like having all the details you need in the palm of your own hand. These devices are known for their high sensitivity, which provides good reception for satellites no matter where you may be. The screen is quite versatile and can be viewed during daytime or nighttime. When enclosed in the IPX7, it can survive even if you put it in water.

The Nuvi 255WT is another popular device from Garmin GPS maps. This is a very unique yet powerful unit because it is not only a system for navigation but also a guide for travelers. Along with that, it also provides digital entertainment for the owner. This is one of the most impressive GPS systems as it offers a detailed map for the streets in particular countries, regions and towns. With its 4.3 inches of widescreen monitor and touch-screen, you will find directions clearly because of the colorful 3-D and 2-D display of maps. It also has very interesting features such as giving users the ability to add and customize their own points of interests like schools, parks and zoos. Most tourists will find this useful as there is in depth information about hotels, restaurants, ATMs as well as gas stations in the area.

If you want a sleek, lightweight and complete GPS gadget, the Garmin maps are the most suitable for your needs. There are various formats with different great features that will help you wherever your destination may be.