Tips on Selecting a Car GPS Navigation System
February 3, 2010 9:13 am TechnologyWith the advent of car GPS navigation system, getting to where you want to go has never been easier. Global Positioning System technology in cars involves the use of satellites to pin point your exact location while driving such that you know how to get to your destination without getting lost. Today, there are many manufacturers offering a range of GPS products and it has therefore become important to be able to determine which one is right for you. Below is a look at some of the things to consider when selecting the right car GPS navigation system.Frequency of use – When choosing the right car GPS navigation system, you will need to take into account how often you will be using it. If you don’t intend to use it often, you can settle for the cheaper systems which you can plug into the cigarette lighter of your car to use, and then toss into the glove compartment when not in use. However, these smaller GPS systems are normally limited in terms of features and capabilities.Monitor – Another thing to take into consideration is the space available in your car for the GPS system monitor. This is because many GPS systems come with a monitor used for displaying maps, and which is normally installed on the dashboard or on a pedestal connected to the dashboard. You will therefore need to ensure that the installation of your system monitor does not interfere with your car’s ventilation system by blocking the air vents. Also be sure to select a system whose monitor installation will not hinder the comfortable entry, exit and seating of your passengers.Multiple destination displays – You may also want to go for a GPS navigation system which offers you a range of options when it comes to destination direction displays. An ideal system will show you how to get to where you need to go either by giving you the address, the intersection, the personal address book or the exact location of your destination on the map.Vocal directions – Another great feature to look out for in a GPS system are the verbal and graphical directions. Some systems which provide a map on the monitor normally use arrows to indicate where to turn, as well as the exact location of your car on the map in relation to your intended destination. There are also systems which come with a headset or radio to verbally inform you of the name of the street on which you are driving or where you will need to turn.Point of interest data (POI) – Most GPS navigation systems also provide point of interest data – POI which includes additional useful information such as the locations of restaurants, gas stations, parks, ATMs, hotels, banks, airports and other transportation service points. A good system will also provide constant real-time updates for such point of interest data.Installation – The installation of your system will factor into your decision making process mainly because navigation systems which have monitors tend to require a more complex and lengthy installation process. So if you are in a hurry to get on the road, you may want to go for a simpler plug-in system without a monitor.Joan One is a freelance journalist and creative writer who immensely enjoys writing and researching into any topic under the Sun.cheap gps systems