How GPS Systems Can Get You There

I've always wondered how accurate auto navigation systems like GPS really are. They've always seemed a little extravagant to me, and the thought of driving around with a computerized voice telling me how to get somewhere seemed a little too futuristic to be true. But that changed when I was on vacation recently and had the opportunity to use a rental car equipped with one of the new auto navigation systems.

I kept my eyes on the auto navigation system the entire time we were on the road. My friend eagerly explained how the thing worked. Apparently, he had purchased a top-of-the-line GPS auto navigation system that tracked the car's position via satellite. I watched the map closely, and sure enough, it was as accurate as could be. I mean, we would pass a landmark out on the side of the road while the on-screen map was showing the exact same thing! I next asked my friend how easy it was to find new locations using these auto navigation systems. He said all he had to do was type in an address or phone number using the touch-screen menu, and the shortest route would appear within seconds. I decided there and then that I had to check out some auto navigation systems for my own car.

Another feature to keep in mind when comparing GPS devices is the precision of the directions they offer. Roads change all the time, new roads are built, and construction is a huge issue. You want a system that will keep up with changes on a regular basis, and can do so with little work on your part. Updates may come regularly, or you may have to request one before you start your trip. You can find car navigation systems online, and at specialty stores. Shop around for the best price and ask a lot of questions before you buy. Find out if there is a monthly or yearly fee for service, and what extras a particular model may offer you. Find out if the directions are easy to access, if the model offers voice directions, or if you have to read the screen. If the screen is too bright, or if it is affected by sunlight, you aren't going to find it easy to use in most cases.

Regardless, auto navigation systems will make the journey much more enjoyable. You basically just program your destination in the device, and it takes over. Once it has your address, it will use its antenna to pinpoint your current location. Then it will begin routing. Simply mount the auto navigation system in your vehicle and take off. It literally tells you where to go every step of the way. How awesome is that! You will never get lost again. So far my wife and I have used auto navigation systems on a number of occasions. They're not just for traveling a long distance you know. Take advantage of GPS devices whenever possible. It will save you oodles of time, effort and frustration.

Mark Green tries to divide time between two hobbies: gadget reviews and communication studies. Handheld GPS are a wave of technology that is definitely here to stay, and which keep getting more and more sophisticated and more widespread. Get to know more about your favorite handheld GPS.

- Mark Green