How To Choose Car GPS Navigator
With so many automotive navigation systems out there, how do you choose a car GPS Navigator that will meet your needs? The choice is not that hard if you focus on the basic need. That is: a car GPS navigator must provide the very best direction assistance to the driver. The information below describes key features that may help you to make your buying decision.
Turn-by-Turn Directions With Voice Prompt
As a driver, you are going to need a GPS unit that tells you where and when to make turns. A basic car navigator will tell you to turn right or left in 500 feet. It will also display the name of the street. However, it is also helpful to hear the name of the street to turn on so you can be watching for it. The other reason why voice is important is that you do not have to watch your device all the time. The useful navigators will always tell you the name of the street to turn to.
Points of Interest (POI)
The Points of Interest is a database of locations with ATMs, gas stations, hotels, grocery stores, restaurants and entertainment. This feature is a must. You are going to need it. Imagine driving to a place you are not familiar with and you need to buy gas or find a place to eat. The GPS navigator with this database will take you there. All you have to do is select from the unit’s display where you want to go.
Lane Assist
The lane assist is different from turn-by-turn directions feature. The device actually shows you the lane to use when you are approaching junctions and exists. This feature is very helpful when driving on highways with many lanes and junctions. The question is, if the system tells you to move right, how far right do you have to move? A sudden or unexpected highway split could create a problem for a driver if you have to quickly cross multiple car lanes to hop onto the right lane. This could be dangerous. A navigator with the lane assist feature will show you the proper lane to stay on before you approach a junction or an exit.
Traffic Receiver
Some GPS systems come with integrated FM traffic receiver that helps you steer away from roads with heavy traffic jams. You may have to pay for this service; however, some companies provide free lifetime traffic updates.
Connectivity
The navigator’s ability to connect to satellites may be important if you are in a rush. Some devices come with the technology that automatically calculates and stores satellite locations. This technique greatly reduces satellite acquisition time, allowing you to turn the device on so you can quickly hit the road.
Selecting Your GPS Device
So far this article has discussed key navigator features. There may be a need to consider other features based on individual need. I categorize these other features as bells and whistles; such as Bluetooth, MP3, Photo, etc.
With all the information at your finger tips, you are ready to select the navigator of your choice. Below are links to top products from major car GPS makers.