GPS - 7 things to consider before you buy
First and foremost, it’s crucial to determine what you want out of your GPS unit. If you tend to drive to the same places or rarely use an automobile as a means of transport, a low-cost entry-level model is probably for you. For those that like to travel, domestically or internationally, there are some great travel-friendly features that can help to guide you or make your trip all the more enjoyable. And then there are those that are regularly driving to new places and want the most full-featured GPS units available. Thankfully, there are options for all of these tastes. Shop now for GPS and Navigation >
1. GPS roaming
Generally speaking, most GPS units will only come bundled with an Australian or New Zealand map preinstalled. At best, you might be able to find one that includes maps for New Zealand as well. If you want to use your GPS unit overseas you’ll have to purchase additional mapping software. This is usually achieved by way of your satnav’s web-portal software or through their website. Check your user manual for more information.
2. GPS types
It’s worth noting that there are a few core categories of satellite navigation system (or ‘satnav’ for short). While all provide navigation assistance via satellite tracking, there are some interesting distinctions. The most common is the regular variety that is at home on the windscreen or dashboard of an automobile that is capable of guiding on known roads and highways. There are variations of this GPS type that are designed for heavy vehicles, which take into account factors such as height, weight and length offering routing options accordingly; while other types offer on- and off-road navigation possibilities (such as four-wheel drive tracks).
Handheld satnav units are perfect for straying off the beaten track thanks to their increased mobility and extended battery life. There are also options for marine navigation and even GPS guidance for those piloting the skies! Hybrid model satnav units share traits across these different varieties.
3. Battery life
While most in-car GPS units can double as handheld navigation tools, they are not usually useful for extended walking sessions. In-car satnavs are designed around the logic of being connected to a power source and may last less than a couple of hours without one. If you intend on using a GPS unit for in-car and on-foot navigation, be sure to check the battery life before purchasing.
The ultimate satnav experience
4. Handsfree functionality
Certain model GPS units will let you control basic navigation functionality by simply talking to your satnav. This is a fantastic addition to the GPS evolution, as it allows drivers to interact with their satnav without taking their eyes off the road and, more importantly, without having to stop their vehicle to punch in data.
Furthermore, with higher-end models, you’ll be able to access handsfree call capabilities by way of Bluetooth connectivity. This lets you wirelessly connect a compatible mobile phone to your GPS, allowing you to make and receive calls through the satnav’s microphone/speaker combination.
5. FM transmitter
Any satnav that sports the FM transmitter feature is well worth considering. This feature allows you to wirelessly connect to your vehicle’s stereo by way of configurable FM stations. Bear in mind that the best connection is achieved by selecting an FM channel that is only broadcasting static and has the same static broadcast on the frequency above and below it.
Once connected, you’ll be able to control the volume of the spoken directions by adjusting the volume of your in-car stereo: handy! This is great for louder cars and for ensuring you can always hear spoken directions clearly, but is also useful for controlling the volume of handsfree calls (requires Bluetooth compatibility) and even playing music from your GPS.
6. Multimedia playback
While basic navigation is the cornerstone of every GPS unit, many satnavs are now capable of providing some fantastic multimedia functionality. With generous storage space options and media playback features, you can store music and even videos on your GPS that can make driving all the more enjoyable.
Copy across a personalised selection of driving tunes via your satnav’s sister software and have it playing while you get from A to B; your GPS will intuitively fade out/in the music to offer spoken directions. For a great travel option, copy videos on to your compatible satnav and watch them in between driving legs; alternatively, let your kids watch them when you’re driving to a place that doesn’t require GPS navigation.
7. Storage space
While all satnavs will make use of some manner of internal storage space, a large amount of available space may be an attractive purchasing feature. This is useful for any additional functionality that you may make use of on your GPS unit: installing additional maps, tracking your trips or storing a variety of multimedia content. Certain model satnav units also offer support for expandable storage space by way of memory card slots.
Source: TechLiving Magazine: Issue 7 – Autumn 2011
