A GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite navigation system that is used for many applications like map-making, land surveying, tracking, and surveillance. It is even used in relief and rescue operations during natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes.
Most GPS units can be classified into one of four categories: portable handhelds, marine systems, PDA/GPS hybrids, and car navigation systems. A handheld GPS is convenient for certain activities, such as hiking, and marine systems are especially helpful on the water. However, when you are on the road, a vehicle navigation system is the best. If you have decided to get a vehicle navigation system, here are some tips to help you select the right one for your needs.
Dash-mount GPS devices can be fixed on top of the dashboard with the help of a friction mount. Good units are easy to install and easy to remove. The screen of a dash-mount GPS typically ranges from 2.5 to 5 inches. Units with large screens may cost more, but they are worth it. It is much easier to access information on a big and colorful touchscreen while driving. A 4.3-inch anti-glare widescreen display is an ideal choice. You should also take into account the clarity of the display. It should be easy to read even in bright daylight.
The location of the antenna is equally important. Dash-mount GPS devices come with either a built-in antenna or an external antenna. The external antenna provides stronger satellite signals when driving under heavy tree cover or when surrounded by tall buildings. If you work or live in a downtown area of a big city, it is wise to get a unit with an external antenna.
All dash-mount GPS units come with a points of interest (POIs) database. However, the number of POIs varies in each unit from less than 1 million to as many as 6 million. If you travel to new places often and want to quickly find tourist destinations, restaurants, gas stations, and hotels, stick to a vehicle navigation system with a minimum of 3 million POIs. A GPS which allows you to set custom POIs is also very convenient to own.
The beauty of having a dash-mount GPS is you never need to take your eyes off the road in order to figure out if you are right on track to your destination. Their voice prompt feature provides turn-by-turn directions and tells you the exact distance you need to cover to get where you want to go. Some manufacturers, like Garmin and TomTom, have taken voice prompts to the next level by offering text-to-speech and voice recognition. Dash-mount GPS units with these capabilities announce specific street names and respond to voice commands. Other useful features to look for in a dash-mount vehicle navigation system include FM traffic receivers and automatic detour recalculation. Anti-theft features should not be overlooked either while buying a GPS car mount unit.
Many GPS car mount devices come with extra features. From Bluetooth compatibility, MP3 players, image viewers, and address books to world travel clocks, currency convertors, and SD card slots, these GPS car mount units have truly evolved from navigational systems into entertainment devices. If you live in California, Connecticut, D. C., New Jersey, New York, or Washington, it is best to get a Bluetooth compatible GPS, as cell phone use while driving is banned in these areas.
