Car GPS Systems: Making a Choice
The high-tech and colorful world of car GPS devices has become a popular trend in several countries. These devices make traveling simpler and more enjoyable. However, with several brands vying for your money, making a selection is a daunting task. You need to understand the basics of the technology as well as individual needs to hit the best buy deal.
Sat Nav Systems: Understanding the Basics
Sat-nav devices work on GPS (Global Positioning System) technology. This technology works very similar to an ATM machine, uplinking and downlinking data from orbiting satellites based on a user’s preferences. While an ATM machine is stationed at place, car GPS systems move around and, hence, are more dynamic in nature. In a car GPS device, the satellite transmits time and position specifications. The GPS receiver in the car works as a ground station to calculate the current location based on the data made available from the satellite.
GPS was initially a crucial part of defense technology. Later, it was opened for public use. With the development of microchips, it became possible to introduce portable GPS devices. Now, car sat-nav systems are one of the most commonly used GPS-technology devices.
Market forces have resulted in speedy growth of car GPS technology. Manufacturing companies are aiming at providing a comprehensive car utility solution to their users, rather than just a GPS receiver. But, technology comes at a cost. So, you need to determine your budget and preferences before you set out to buy a car GPS device.
Budget Buyers: Stick to the Minimum
Budget buyers or entry-level buyers have several product options from all the leading car GPS manufacturing brands. However, it’s best to stick to the minimum to remain in the affordable range. A budget buyer should look for these most essential features in a car GPS system:
- Map coverage: Car GPS systems are all about perfect mapping. Look for a device that offers clear and precise maps in bright colors. The maps should be detailed with the names of the roads and junctions and the most popular destination. Most of the devices provide maps of the region from where you buy the product, such as Europe map for European consumers. Look for detailed maps of even the most remote locations in your region.
- GPS response time: Check the time a GPS device takes to update the map continually as the car moves on. A good quality device would take not more than 3 seconds on a clear sky day.
- 3D view: Always opt for a sat-nav system with a 3D map view. A 2D view is not only boring; it also lacks essential detailing and is hard to follow. The 2D view is just like discovering your route on a paper map; whereas the 3D view offers a high-quality viewing experience similar to car racing games.
- Touch screen menu: Although touch screen technology costs a little more, it is worth paying for. While driving, it is hard to search for various buttons to perform a function. The touch screen menu allows user-friendly navigation and also reduces possible risk of an accident.
- Points-of-interest (POIs): For easy navigation, POIs are extremely helpful. These are preloaded destinations such as fuel stations, shopping centers, ATM machines and major tourist places. The POIs are automatically displayed on the map to define location and for quick selection. Some devices allow user-defined POIs such as favorite places, home or office locations and the most visited destinations.
- Turn-by-turn direction: Buy a car GPS system that provides turn-by-turn direction inputs for perfect navigation.
High-end users: Additional Benefits Will Cost Extra
With an increase in the price tag, a buyer can get access to a whole range of advanced features that spice up the driving experience. One can look for the following features in a high-end car GPS system:
- Bluetooth: It has become an essential feature of car GPS devices as it allows hands free calling. Even some of the low-end versions offer Bluetooth connectivity. However, not all GPS devices are compatible with every Bluetooth-enabled phone. So, it’s best to check the compatibility of your phone device before buying the unit.
- Screen size: For people who believe in ‘bigger is better,’ large screen car GPS devices are available. They offer a widescreen view of the map which is more comprehensible and detailed.
- Text-to-speech: GPS devices enabled with text-to-speech technology offers voice instructions for the route. This prevents the user from having to look at the device again and again to trace the next turn. Look for a device with clear and audible voice instructions.
- Multimedia: GPS devices with multimedia functionality are available for individuals who enjoy music or image playback while driving. However, auto experts prefer to have separate unit installed for entertainment purposes.
- Traffic Message Channel (TMC): This is a highly recommended technology that provides live traffic updates on your route. It displays warnings about traffic jams or accidents and suggests alternate routes to the destination.
One can also look for features such as media card slots for expanding memory, FM receiver, internet connectivity or in-built camera in a high-end device.
Essential Features to Look For
Apart from the costing point of view, you should analyze a car GPS device for the following features:
- Look for easy to operate user interface.
- Prefer matt cover on GPS screen that allows effective viewing even when the sun’s reflection falls on the screen.
- Buy a device with an effective mounting support.
- Check out the battery life of the device.
- Remain skeptical about the accuracy of a GPS device. Consult an existing user for a first hand report.
If you are looking for a cost-efficient product, it is best to stick to the most trusted brands in the market. However, techno buffs can experiment with new brands and latest upgrades. For an informed buying decision read online news and reviews on car GPS products.
