Pointers To Remember When Shopping For A GPS Road Navigation Device

| Wednesday, November 2, 2011
By Gregory Adamonoff


Buying a GPS device for your car can be challenging. There are in-dash and portable variants and between the two of them there are literally hundreds of models to choose from, with each coming with its own set of neat features. Then again, between the two, portable auto GPS now enjoy increasing popularity probably because they offer their users more flexibility as well as cost-effectiveness since they eliminate the need to buy separate in-dash units for two or more vehicles. GPS units can cost around $150, and you can expect more features as you move up the price scale. Since you will be spending a considerable amount of cash to purchase these implements, you ought to evaluate your needs and which features you'd be willing to spend a bit more on.

When looking for the best auto GPS you have to take into account several things. The turn-by-turn instructions provided by a GPS device would be useless if it is inaccurate. For a GPS device to be accurate it should have a multi-channel design. The accuracy of your GPS navi unit is influenced to a certain extent by the speed at which it can lock-in on GPS satellites and calculate your location. The best auto GPS can lock onto a satellite and give you the traffic and map information you need shortly after you turn on the unit and are accurate up to 18 meters.

Text-to-speech turn-by-turn instruction is a must have feature for any car GPS unit. By providing voice navigation, the car owner's focus does not shift between the unfamiliar thoroughfare ahead of him and the GPS unit on his dashboard or windshield. The size of the display is likewise an important consideration when shopping for GPS navigators. Experts suggest going for 4.3-5 inch models and bigger for larger vehicles to ensure good visibility and ease of use of touch screen controls. The best auto GPS devices also have point of interest and traffic detection features.

Some portable auto GPS devices are also multipurpose since they can be used when going on a nature trail and boating. If you intend to use your GPS device for such activities you ought to purchase one that has a robust construction, and is shock, water, and dirt proof. In-car GPS units do not need a very long battery life because they are just connected to your vehicle's cigarette lighter receptacle. But for crossover GPS, you need to find one that has at least 16-hour charge.

It would also be a good idea to buy units that have the capability to accept AA batteries as well. Also, go for ones that have a digital compass which gives your heading even when you are standing still. This feature enables you to get around the nature park without much difficulty.




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