Recently, a reader wrote - I'm thinking about buying a GPS to assist me while traveling. But, I'm totally ignorant about how they work and how they can help me.
I have some basic doubts like "If I'm going to 3 different places - how should I tell this to my GPS. Do I have to pre-program the GPS before I set out to the three places or do I do them one at a time?
How are the addresses loaded into the GPS? Is there a input device like keyboard or pad?
Most GPSs look so small--how can I pay attention to them while I am driving?
What brand of GPS do you recommend that I should go for as a beginner with little technical or technological skills
What experiences have you had with GPS navigation and GPS devices in general?
I know I am asking a lot of questions. But I am lost, really. Thanks for your help in advance.
I will try to answer all your questions in the following paragraphs.
GPS - Your Questions Answered
First, using a GPS is quite simple and easy. Most of the GPS receivers have been designed to be intuitive. They are easy to use and operate.
Like for example entering your destination into a GPS unit is simple and straight forward. While the exact method varies depending on the GPS device you are using. For most devices, you just have to type out the address using an on screen keyboard.
Some have touch screens and others require key presses.
If you are going to more than one place some GPS receivers allow you to enter them at the start of your trip. While others you'll need to enter your next destination after you reach your first destination.
Again, it depends on the GPS device you are using.
First I would suggest you get comfortable with GPS receivers before you buy. Check out the various devices at your local store before you decide one.
Don't be worried about the size most have screens which are quite large enough to make out the destinations, maps, streets etc.
Most important point - you "don't have to look" at your GPS screen while driving. Your focus should always on the road and your driving. The GPS devices should not be a distraction while you drive.
For this very reason, almost all GPS receivers for cars come with voice commands. They will give your voice prompts about where you are where and which direction to turn at an intersection or which exit to take. The display typically show directional indications and limited map information.
This way they can be used for navigation while you focus on the driving. Apart from this the more advanced GPS devices even have information about hotels, gas stations, restrooms, and much more.
A word of warning here don't try to program or fiddle with your GPS unit while driving. You won't type a message to a friend while driving would you? Same thing here.
Try to enter your commands before your start for your destination and perform as few as possible commands on the device while driving.
If you have to enter your commands then stop your car.
Garmin's nuvi and StreetPilot range and TomTom systems are very good. Magellan also have pretty decent GPS systems for cars - they are the makers of the NeverLost system that are used in Hertz rental cars.
From my experience I would suggest you to get a GPS unit that not only gives voice prompts for directions, but also give the names of the streets. Instead of just giving directions like "go left","go right" or straight it's more helpful when you know the street names too. You know you are doing the right thing. Knowing the name of the street helps significantly to follow the directional information provided by the unit.
The low cost models only speak the directions you need to take.
Gowri is an avid blogger and writer. She loves technology and is a GPS fan. If you are looking for more information on GPS then best GPS systems is the place to check out.
Don't know which GPS is the right choice for you. At http://www.bestgpssystemsreviews.com we provide all the help you need to make the right choice.
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