Prior to the invention of automotive GPS units, it was necessary to travel to unfamiliar areas by reading a map and / or asking for directions. Both methods had problems. For example, how can someone effectively read a map while driving? Map reading is only better if there is another passenger in the car, which is not always possible. Asking for directions can also be annoying, at least if the person giving the instructions does so in a way that is not so clear.
Fortunately, with the advent of automotive GPS units, the process of reading maps and obtaining directions has never been easier, as each can be done by voice activation, tapping the screen, pressing buttons or a combination. Maps indicating the exact location appear on the screen, while instructions can be given through a computer generated voice. Nothing could be easier or better. The only problem is deciding which automotive GPS unit to buy. This article will serve as a guide telling consumers what to look for when choosing automotive GPS units.
The first area to consider when buying automotive GPS units is to see the accuracy of the device. One way to determine this is by how many channels the GPS unit has. This is because more channels mean the unit can communicate with a larger number of satellites, resulting in more coverage. Another way to determine the accuracy of most automotive GPS units is through how the antenna is designed. Make sure the antenna is placed in an area of the unit where it can stand freely.
The next thing to think about when looking at automotive GPS units is the size. There are some automotive GPS units that will not be portable. The Onstar, which should be installed in the car, is an example of an automotive GPS unit that cannot be moved from car to car. Many other automotive GPS units vary in portability.
Third, prospective buyers of automotive GPS units should look at the interface of a unit. The most expensive automotive GPS units will contain voice activation and / or touch screens, while the cheaper ones can only be used with a series of buttons. If someone else is in the car, using the buttons is not so bad, but if only the driver can use the unit, it is important to be as hands free as possible. It is also important to try to get an automotive GPS unit capable of providing instructions through a computer generated voice. Doing this is another way to ensure that the car driver keeps an eye on the road and nowhere else.
The software used by the automotive automotive GPS unit is also critical. Most high-end drives have very good mapping software included with the drive. However, over time, the mapping software becomes outdated. You should be sure that the software for automotive GPS units is updated at least once every 6 months. There are often costs for this service, but if you live in a rapidly growing urban environment, it’s a good investment. Your automotive GPS unit is as good as its mapping and operating software.
When analyzing automotive GPS units, you should consider: ease of use, accuracy, size and interface. Keeping these elements in mind ensures that a buyer will get a reliable GPS unit that will help them better when they are on the road.