Best GPS Features
The auto GPS is one of the latest technology advances for modern drivers who are looking for better and more exciting ways to get around. A GPS, which stands for Global Positioning System, is a receiver that uses signals from satellites orbiting the earth to calculate its position at any given point in time, anywhere in the world, and display it on a map. Simply put, an automotive GPS will tell you where you are, and how to get where you want to go.
The Best Features for Auto GPS Systems
There are many different brands and models of car GPS units available on the market. Therefore, you can find a wide range of different features and choose the automotive GPS that best suits you, your vehicle, and your traveling needs. In general, auto GPS features fall into three categories: screen size and resolution, integration, and extras.
Of course, screen size and resolution are fairly self-explanatory. Like computers, cell phones and PDAs, auto GPS units come in different screen sizes with varying picture quality. Naturally, the larger the screen size, the easier you will be able to read and operate the GPS – and the more expensive the unit will be. Most popular automotive GPS systems include a high screen resolution. In fact, it would be more difficult to find a GPS with poor or pixilated images than one with clear, crisp images.
The integration of an auto GPS refers to the manner in which you input and receive information. In other words, it is the way you control the system. Some car GPS units feature a touch screen, while others may use click and scroll buttons or even respond to voice commands. Most GPS units offer both a map image and voice directions, which are usually turn-by-turn instructions. However, there are differences in the voice direction that may help you determine which system will work for you. For example, some car GPS units give the distance to a turn, while others give specific road names (“turn right in 100 feet” as opposed to “turn right on Buckley Road”). The type of driver you are determines which direction indicators will be more useful for you.
Integration can also refer to other devices that are either built in or can be programmed to work with your automotive GPS system. This may include cell phones, Blackberries, iPods, or even car stereo systems. Some systems include these interfaces as features, and some are factory installed to work with the other electronic systems in your vehicle.
Finally, there are the many extra features available with different automotive GPS systems. Most are entertainment options, such as built-in MP3 players, audio book playbacks; Bluetooth-enabled cell calls, voice activated phone books, and even limited Internet access. Weather and traffic conditions are common extra features for many GPS systems. Some auto GPS units feature POI (Points of Interest) information that will list restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions around a given area and some high-end models will even place orders or book reservations via the Internet for you.
Automotive GPS Pricing and Installation
Like most other automotive features, there are two options available for car GPS installation: factory installed and aftermarket. Many newer vehicles, particularly vans, mini-vans and SUVs, come equipped with built-in (factory installed) GPS units. You can also purchase aftermarket GPS units for nearly any vehicle make and model. Aftermarket GPS systems are generally easy to install with plug-and-play interfaces that require little to no programming on the part of the user.
Prices for auto GPS units range widely. Factory installed units are, of course, included in the purchase price, and there are no outside fees involved with the exception of subscription services for enhanced systems like OnStar. The costs of aftermarket GPS systems vary from under $200 to several thousand, depending on the quality and the included features. In general, automotive GPS systems are far more affordable than when they were first introduced.
Popular Car GPS Brands
OnStar
The most commonly factory installed system for newer vehicles; OnStar is a combination GPS and roadside assistance solution. In addition to the GPS features, which include turn-by-turn voice directions and a virtual advisor for weather and traffic information, the OnStar system features remote horn and light controls, roadside assistance for lock-outs and mechanical problems, and enhanced tracking to help in the event your vehicle is stolen. OnStar is enabled to alert authorities in the case of an accident or emergency situation.
TomTom
With a large, backlit screen for easy viewing, the TomTom GPS unit includes onscreen and voice driving directions, maps, detours, and many extra programmable features. It also includes weather and traffic updates, and is enabled with Bluetooth technology for fast, reliable condition reporting. One interesting feature of the TomTom GPS system is its wide selection of available navigation voices and languages, with 36 different voices to choose from that incorporate 22 languages.
Nuvi
In addition to the standard and extra features found with the TomTom, the Garmin Nuvi brings dozens of additional options. It is a portable unit which can double as a hand-held GPS receiver for outdoor excursions, and features international time sync, currency converters, a USB port for PC connections, and proximity alerts for safer driving.
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