Portable GPS Mysteries: What Is Mini/Micro USB?

There are several differences between older "mini" USB connectors and the new "micro" USB connectors. The mini was introduced first, and was used mainly by cellular phone companies, to allow users to transfer data and recharge their batteries.

The micro USB is a more durable, smaller design that is used in many GPS and cell phone devices today.

In the future, it is anticipated that even companies who use mini USB connectors now will go to micro USB. The slimmer size and durability make the micro a better choice than the mini.

Portable GPS navigators are devices that allow you to choose the best route to your destination.

They can offer you stops to make while you’re on your way, and you can customize the feature that shows points of interest.

GPS units work by using signals sent out from Global Positioning Satellites and preloaded maps to show you where you are in your local area, and the best way to get where you’re going.

If it seems like every car that goes by has a GPS unit mounted on the windshield, you’re not seeing things.

GPS units are helpful and handy, and their prices are coming down, so that nearly everyone can afford one.

Portable GPS units are small enough that you can comfortably carry them in your hand, if you’re taking buses or subways, or when you’re hiking. They work in your automobile too, of course, and even on boats.

Your GPS user guide will tell you what type of port your GPS needs. Older units may use a serial port, but newer units use USB ports. Regardless of the size of port you need, you can buy connectors that will allow your GPS unit to connect to nearly any PC or laptop.

A mini USB port was originally used for smaller gadgets like cameras, cell phones and GPS devices. If you are attaching your device to another that has a different type of port, you can find an adapter online.

The micro USB port is rather like a smaller and more improved USB port, over the mini. It’s smaller in size, of course, and it works better with the newer, thinner GPS units and cell phones. Many manufacturers are now using micro USB ports, to make their devices smaller, sleeker and more durable.

Either a mini or micro USB port and connector is readily available at many places online, so as long as there are connectors and conversion pieces to adapt one or the other to your existing system, customers should not be reticent to choose micro over mini.

There may be a slight price difference in mini and micro USB ports and connectors, but at the time it appears that the price difference is negligible, so people should feel free to buy their favorite GPS unit, regardless of which type of connector it has.

Once you have researched the brands and sizes of GPS units, you can find the portable GPS navigator that will work the best for you.