A GPS navigator’s primary function is straightforward: to pinpoint your exact location and guide you to your destination. It achieves this by receiving signals from a network of Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites. With dozens of these satellites in orbit, the accuracy and precision of GPS navigation are unparalleled. So, how do you select the most suitable GPS navigator for your needs?
The heart of a GPS navigator is its GPS receiver. This component consists of an antenna, a motherboard, and a data storage device. Connected to it is a display that presents information in a user-friendly format. Additional peripherals can also be connected. The software you choose plays a crucial role in the overall performance.
Why do you need a GPS navigator?
The average GPS navigator offers the following features:
- Optimal route planning: Similar to smartphone maps, these devices calculate the most efficient routes based on factors like traffic, distance, or time.
- Trip tracking: You can review your past journeys, including the route taken and the time spent. This is useful for recreating trips or simply calculating distances and travel times.
- Performance metrics: Navigators provide data on elapsed time, distance traveled, current speed, average speed, and other relevant details.
- Real-time guidance: Modern navigators offer voice-guided navigation, providing verbal instructions as you drive. This eliminates the need to constantly glance at the display, especially while driving.
- Point of interest information: Access up-to-date alerts, speed limit information, nearby restaurants and attractions, and more.
Key factors to consider when choosing a GPS navigator
GPS navigators are available in both removable and built-in options. Premium vehicles often come with built-in systems, while removable ones are typically purchased separately.
- Display: The display quality significantly impacts user experience. While early models had basic screens, modern navigators feature full-color touchscreens. Consider the screen size, resolution, and viewing angle. Larger screens offer better visibility and allow you to view more of the map at once. Look for screens with anti-glare coatings for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Processor and RAM: The processor and RAM are the “brain” of the GPS navigator, determining its speed and responsiveness. A higher clock speed indicates a faster device. Aim for a processor with a clock speed of at least 500 MHz. RAM is equally important for smooth performance. The more RAM, the better.
- Power: Navigators can be powered by an internal battery or by connecting to the vehicle’s power source. A built-in battery offers more flexibility, but its battery life is limited. Models that rely on vehicle power connect via a dedicated port or the cigarette lighter. Some offer a combination of both.
- Data storage: This is where your downloaded maps and saved routes are stored. A larger storage capacity provides greater flexibility. You may also use additional SD or microSD cards. While USB flash drives can be connected, they offer slower speeds.
- Map support: Branded GPS navigators typically come with proprietary maps or specific software. These may be free or paid – be sure to check beforehand.
- GSM/GPRS module: While not essential, a GSM/GPRS module enables real-time data updates from the mobile network, rather than relying solely on Wi-Fi.