Choosing a GPS for You

By: James Bunter Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Is a Global Positioning System (GPS) on your search list? It can be difficult to choose a GPS system because there are so many different types available. Garmin, TomTom, Magellan and Navignon are the top brands to research. Be advised that GPS has a lot of functions besides just being a map. Although the features are very different, several GPS systems find restaurant or filling stations, have games to play, give you alternate travel routes to get out of traffic, and let you listen to satellite radio. Before you purchase a GPS it is critical to think about what you need it for and when you will be using it.

The military created the GPS system, a technological advancement which has been given the green light for use by civilians. In less than two decades, GPS devices have progressed to being used in cellular phones, ships, cars, and hand-held gadgets. At the outset, global positioning systems were too costly for the mass market, but today you can purchase a good device for under $200.00. There are a number of brands available, each with separate features and maps, so take care to peruse the reviews and shop around.

The Garmin Company was set up with several basic principles: service, innovation, value, convenience, and performance. These guiding words may be found on the company website. As a matter of fact, Garmin, which has existed since 1989, is currently North America's best known brand name in Global Positioning Systems. The manufacturing process takes place entirely in Kansas. Not a piece is outsourced. This is a company that designs, manufactures, markets, and sells each and every one of their products themselves. They have GPS navigation systems for various ways life, like fitness oriented systems, car GPS systems, systems for people who hike or camp, airplane technology, boat technology, and geocacher site navigation.

Garmin is not the only popular GPS system. Magellan is another leading choice. The Magellan Maestro 4250 is surely the most popular GPS model. You can get it in a price range of $90-$279 online. Dutch Manufacturer, TomTom's most well-known navigator is the TomTom ONE XL 330-S, beginning at $249. At just a dollar less, $248, the 2100 Max Portable Navigator is one of Navignon's most popular items. These brands have a lot of features like big screens, customized options, and text-to-speech abilities, among others. A lot of GPS units will help you find hospitals, pharmacies, and roadside assistance. They can also give lane assist and reality view maps. These services are in addition to the basic maps and points of interest locators.

When purchasing a GPS device to put in your car, find out how many "areas of interest" are available. Two million points or less will be disappointing; but anything over six million will be acceptable. The size of the screen is important, too. It can range from 2.1 inches to a maximum of 7 inches. If you're planning on using your GPS as you walk, you'll want something smaller, but bigger screens are ideal for use in vehicles. Pick a GPS that functions well and lets you change maps or search topics of interest by simply pushing a button. You will find options like multi-destination routing, satellite radio, audio book player, and MP3 player capacity in some of the more recent and advanced GPS systems. If you are aware of what you need to use your GPS for and you are willing to do some investigating, you will be sure to find a GPS system that will fulfill all of your requirements.

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About The Author: Being a pilot, James Bunter often needs to purchase avionic supplies. He buys only from TGH Aviation as he knows he can count on them to have any aircraft navigational instruments part he may need. James recommends them to anyone needing an aircraft altimeter, as well as any other avionic repairs.