GPS Navigation Systems for Cars

GPS stands for global positioning system. GPS device looks like a tiny television screen. The system consists of a small unit with a screen that displays the shortest rout to reach the desired destination and guides you throughout the journey by telling you in advance where to turn, which lane to follow, whether you are exceeding the speed limit, etc. Navigation with GPS helps save fuel, energy and time. Let us first take a look at the working system of GPS devices.

How Do GPS Devices Work

Twenty four satellites positioned in the earth's orbit send signals and the receiver, in the GPS unit, guides you accordingly. With the help of these signals, the unit determines the direction and speed. If you take a wrong turn, it simply recalculates and again tells you where to turn. GPS units come with detailed maps of the U.S. and Canada (some contain maps of Mexico) or maps of Europe. You can select the voice (male/female) and the language. Names of roads, approaching turns, etc. are spoken loudly while guiding you through a known as well as unknown area. You are supposed to update the maps yearly. Some brands offer free updates. Some brands accept your suggestions (as traffic signs change often) and modify the maps accordingly, after checking the changes suggested. Some of the latest GPS models provide live traffic information and in case of traffic jams, suggest an alternative shortest route. Some brands use Tele Atlas data while some use NAVTEQ mapping data, so the accuracy of the information may vary slightly according to the brands. Some high-end models provide information regarding mileage and expenses. GPS works as your personal assistant and informs you about the local police station, nearest fuel station, fire services, restaurants, and hospitals in case of emergency.

GPS devices for cars are easy to install and use. Installation of GPS unit ensures stress free driving. You are less disturbed and hence more in control. Sometimes, signals of the satellites are not received due to obstructions. In that case, you may lose your position. You are expected to check all these aspects before buying a new GPS unit.

Buying a New GPS

History of GPS informs us that GPS was originally designed for military use. During 1980s common people also started using GPS for navigation. New GPS units are way different from the old ones. You get a 2D position if you receive signals from at least three satellites and a 3D position if you get signals from four or more satellites. TomTom, Garmin and Magellan are the three leading players in GPS market. Garmin Nuvi models are popular in the U.S. while TomTom models are popular in Europe. Mio, Nextar, Papago, Navman are also some of the leading brands. If you want to buy 'best GPS for the money', then you should first decide for what you require the GPS and which features you really need. Here is a small list of features that latest GPS units come with: wider screen, anti-glare screens, 2D and 3D views, touchscreen displays, travel alarms, mounting options (dashboard or windshield), currency converters, bluetooth, MP3 player, audio book player, picture album, lane assistance, spoken street names, real-time traffic reports, POI (point of interest), reversing camera, USB ports, information essential for tourists, maps of various countries, etc. Choosing the best GPS devices for cars is really a tough job.

According to the reviews, almost all Garmin, TomTom or Magellan models are good. Which model to buy mainly depends upon your own requirements and the price of the model. Some of the cheap navigation systems for cars are also good, only thing is that they come with fewer features. If you are really looking for new GPS device for your car, then it would be better if you follow 'wait and watch' strategy. Various companies are launching new mobile phone handsets and new cars with built-in GPS units. If you are planning to buy a new car, you don't need to buy a new GPS unit. I hope this article provided satisfactory answers to the questions lurking in your mind and you found the above information helpful.