Before the global positioning system (GPS) was introduced, many people spent hours lost on the road finding their destinations. There was even danger involved when the driver would resort to reading printed maps to find places. GPS has become a very useful tool for helping people find locations as well as find the nearest amenities, such as gas stations, restaurants and banks. There are many GPS brands and models available, so it is important to find the one that suits your needs and budget.
Instructions
1. Choose between a touch screen and button or knob controls. One of the advantages of choosing a touch screen over the button-controlled GPS is the ease of operation. With touch screen keys, a person can operate the GPS with less hassle because the screen is sensitive and can auto-spell, lessening the time of typing. It takes more time to type the address using buttons or knobs.
2. Check if the GPS model needs computer downloads of software or if it is a simple plug-in and play operation. If you choose a GPS that needs a software or computer download prior to installation, then you would not be able to use it right after purchasing it. You would need to connect to the Internet to download the software or connect the GPS to your computer via USB (Universal Serial Bus) port to install the latest software. With plug-in and play, it is quicker to get started and, should there be updates needed in the future, you can synchronize via satellite. This feature is worth paying extra for because you do not have to deal with updating the software.
3. Check if the touch screen allows for pressing icons displayed on the screen to find other points of interests while on the way to your destination. For example, some GPS allow you to press on icons showing on the map, for example street icons, restaurant icons, gasoline station icons or hospital icons. This feature is useful if you need to check more information about the locations or find amenities on the way. It makes it easier to search this way rather than canceling the current route to search for these. This feature is worth paying extra for so that you can save time and gas as you search.
4. Make sure voice options are audible. GPS models that read out street names and directions are very useful, especially when you drive alone. These prevent wrong or missed turns since you anticipate when and where to turn. This feature lessens the risk of accidents because you don't have to look at the screen, and is worth the extra cost.
5. Check models with additional perks, such as information on traffic conditions, MP3 capability, and weather and gas mileage. These extra features make a GPS a sort of all-in-one system; however, you will pay more for features that you may already have in your car or that you do not really need. For example, if you need to know the traffic or weather conditions, you do not need the GPS--for that, you can turn on your radio to get live information. You may also have your own MP3 built into your car's stereo system or you may have a portable MP3 player, and you can tell your gas mileage by looking at your gas gauge. Choosing these extra features can add to the total price of the package and may not be worth paying extra for.
6. Choose the right size screen. Some screens are as little as 2.5 inches and some as big as 6 inches. Choose the one with a clear and bright picture so you can easily see the colors, directions and characters. There are also bulky screens and some have flat or thin screens. In choosing the size, measure the area where you will install the GPS. For example, if you opt for a built-in mount, you need a system that fits into the stereo hub of your car. For mounting on the dashboard, make sure it is not too big that it will hamper your view. To save on space, choose the flat monitor instead of the bulky type.The ideal screen size for portable dashboard mount type is about 3.5 to 4 inches.
7. Decide on the mount type. Choose between a built-in GPS and a portable GPS that you can mount on your dashboard. The built-in GPS can be more expensive because you would have to pay for professional installation. The portable GPS is much cheaper than the built-in type. Another good thing about a portable GPS is that you can carry it with you or use it on any car you are driving. If you are renting a car, you can bring the GPS with you and use it while traveling. You can also carry the portable GPS while walking, mountain hiking or biking.
Tags: This feature, touch screen, paying extra, worth paying, worth paying extra, because have
