GPS Systems and Reviews

Choosing Personal GPS Systems Is Easier Than You Think

Are you scratching your head at the tough decision you have to make regarding a GPS purchase? If you have never been introduced to the world of global positioning systems, then it may be a bit perplexing at first. But don’t worry! Companies make their units very user friendly, so as long as you are open to learning the differences between types of devices, and you know what you like in optional features, then you won’t have any problems choosing personal GPS systems that suit your needs.

What Are The Differences?

The first thing you will want to do is determine whether you are looking for a system that is primarily used for mapping, navigation or tracking. While there will be many units available that combine the features, you will need know what you are mainly trying to accomplish before choosing personal GPS systems.

Mapping – If your primary goal is to have directions handed to you when traveling between destinations – and you’re good at following maps – then you will want to consider a mapping device. They are usually a little less expensive than the other types and still offer other great options like photo sharing, MP3 players, and maybe even Bluetooth capabilities. The maps may be 2D or 3D and look similar to those of online mapping services. And many even offer directories in the device so that you don’t need to know an address to a business before mapping the directions.

Navigation – Navigation devices are the slightly more advanced version of the mapping system. Whereas the mapping system will give you instructions and a map to view, navigation units actually give you turn-by-turn directions to a location, and even alert you as to whether you’re about to miss a turn or exit. Some mapping systems come with complimentary navigation services, but many do not, meaning you will have to pay more for the navigation feature. So when choosing personal GPS systems, definitely keep in mind whether you are fine with just viewing a virtual map, or whether you want to have turn-by-turn instructions. This will make a huge difference in the unit you purchase.

Tracking – Tracking devices are great for those who want to keep tabs on their cars, pets, or even family members more easily. Usually there are two parts to these units, one that goes for the ride and tracks where it is going, and the other that displays where the first device is traveling. These systems are ideal for those who have teens who drive the car and want to keep track of where they are traveling.

Determining which one of these systems meets your needs is the first step in choosing personal GPS systems. Now we will look at other uses of the units in helping you choose.

In-Dash, Portable or Handheld

Choosing personal GPS systems usually also relies on how you plan to use the device. For example, if you are primarily planning to use the device to get around town in your car, then you might want to consider getting an in-dash system that cannot be removed unless done professionally. However, if you have more than one car and you would like to utilize the services in both cars without having to buy two separate units you can take advantage of a portable device that can easily go from one car to the next.

Then there is the world of the handheld device. Handheld devices can be used in cars, or they can usually be used outside of the vehicle also. For example, if you want to go on a hiking expedition with your friends and family, you can utilize the handheld unit to get you to the area in which you plan to hike. Then, when you get out of the car, it can lead you through trails with the promise that you won’t get lost.

Usually the mapping and navigation devices are those that are either portable or in-dash, while the tracking units are typically handheld. However, there are exceptions to every rule, so don’t expect these devices to suddenly have no exceptions. 

Choosing personal GPS systems is not a difficult task if you have a basic idea of who you are and what you like in general. After you make those determinations, you can figure out the rest. There may be technical terms to get in the way that have the ability to intimidate you, or even let you allow a salesperson to sell you on a system that has way more than you actually need. But if you do your research and assert yourself during the process then chosing personal GPS systems will be a piece of cake for you.

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In-Dash and Portable Automotive GPS Systems Make Driving Safe and Fun

Are you looking for some assistance when traveling to your next destination but are tired of using paper maps? Some people have taken on websites like MapQuest or Google Maps to get directions in their area and beyond. But what do you do if the directions you print from your computer fly out of the window while driving? Stop at a convenience store and pick up a paper map, which puts you back a square one. A good way to avoid this drama is by purchasing one of the in-dash or portable automotive GPS systems available. This way, you can always get to your destination without ever having to worry about getting lost.

What Are In-Dash Units?

In-dash automotive GPS systems are those that are either purchased with a new vehicle, or are built into the dashboard of one after it is purchased. Many people prefer these units because they are secure in the vehicle and offer a lot of features that you may not find in the portable unit. For example, the Pioneer AVIC-Z2 unit offers a huge 30 GB hard drive, a size that can rival that of PCs on the market. But that’s not all it offers. You can also take advantage of a huge Tele Atlas with over 12 million points of interest (POIs) such as ATMs, hotels, restaurants, and fuel stations.

A few other features that consumers love about this system are the humungous 7-inch screen, music library, DVD playback, traffic flow lane information, and 3D landmark icons. Also, if you have an iPod, you can control it from this unit. You can also take hands-free calls by utilizing its Bluetooth-compatible functions, and of course, you can take advantage of its stellar navigation feature with turn-by-turn voice instructions and text-to-speech technology.

About Portable Units

Portable units are definitely the most popular among automotive GPS systems because they can be moved from car to car without having the extra cost of purchasing an additional unit. Even more, they don’t require that you pay to have the unit permanently installed, forcing you to potentially have to send it off when you sell your car.

There are a wide variety of portable units available for purchase. Below is a short list of those you can get your hands on today.

Garmin StreetPilot c530 – This unit is relatively inexpensive, especially compared to the in-dash unit listed about which costs around $800. The Garmin device is closer to $250 and offers a lot of features for the price; some include 2D and 3D maps, turn-by-turn voice navigation, and traffic monitoring that alerts you when your route may be driving you toward road construction or something else that may hinder your travel.

Garmin Nuvi 660 – If StreetPilot c530 doesn’t offer enough features for you, then you can up the ante some (in features and price) by picking up the Garmin Nuvi 660. It is one of the most popular navigation systems available today because of the large number of features offered, including turn-by-turn navigation, hands-free calling, traffic alerts, an FM transmitter, preloaded City Navigator color street maps, millions of points of interest, an audio book and MP3 player, text-to-speech technology, language translation SD cards and travel guides to name a few.

Magellan Maestro 3140 – Magellan, like Garmin, offers some of the best automotive GPS systems on the market today. The Maestro 3140 in particular is a great option for those who enjoy navigation features with a little bit more; that “little bit” including turn-by-turn voice audible navigation, text-to-speech technology, hands-free calling, a built-in AAA TourBook with travel information and roadside assistance, and maps of Canada and the United States.

TomTom GO 510 – Where you find Garmin and Magellan units, you will usually find TomTom units as well. This is because their reputation is also great among their competitors. This device specifically is known because it offers a larger 4-inch display screen (portable units normally offer 3.5-inch screens). Also, it comes with hands-free calling, real-time weather and traffic updates, turn-by-turn navigation, and software that allows you to store the routes you’ve traveled in the event you need to return to an exact location and don’t have time to manually retrace your route.

Looking for more about automotive GPS systems? There are tons of online and print sources that can give you a jump start on finding the information you need. Now is the time to get your hands on one of the many great automotive GPS systems. Don’t wait until your next road trip only to be forced into using one of those annoying paper maps.

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