subject: Sat Nav Buyers Guide [print this page] A Beginners Guide to Choosing a Sat Nav
If you"re not the best at figuring out directions with your brain, a satellite navigation system can be a huge help. Not only do they map out your route for you, they also call every turn out loud to you as you drive along.
If you are new to Sat Navs, picking out a system to buy won"t be easy. For non-technophobes, attempting to understand all the different features included in navigation systems can be quite overwhelming. To help clear the confusion, here is a handy guide outlining the key factors you should consider when buying a sat nav.
Types of Sat Navs
The first step is to decide which kind of sat nav will be best for you. There are 2 major types of satellite navigation systems "" in-dash systems and portable devices.
In-Dash Sat Navs
An in-dash sat nav is hard-wired into the car and features either a built-in or pop out screen. In-built models are generally the most powerful kinds of sat navs, and are less vulnerable to loss and theft than portable models. In addition, the voice instructions are co-ordinated with the sound coming from an in-built radio or CD player, meaning the music from your radio will pause briefly whilst the voice directions are announced.
In-built models are more expensive than portable models and need to be installed by specialist fitters. Many are now installed by car manufacturers when the vehicle is constructed. An in-dash model is only recommended if you will be using your sat nav very often.
Portable Sat Nav
Portable sat navs can be carried from vehicle to vehicle and fixed to the windscreen using a mounting bracket. They can be powered via the cigarette lighter or can be charged at home on a separate charging unit. For motorcyclists, there are specially designed devices which are waterproof and more durable.
Portable navigation systems are fairly compact devices, with screen sizes usually ranging from 3.5 - 4.3 inches. The price of a device will vary depending on its size and the features it contains.
Key Features to Look Out For
When purchasing a sat nav, you need to decide what capabilities you want your device to have. Here are some of the key features you should look out for:
Point of Interest (POIs)
Satellite navigation systems are usually preloaded with various points of interest such as restaurants, banks, railway stations, garages, hotels etc. If you would like to have points of interest on your system, remember to check which POIs are pre-installed, and also find out if you can download further POIs to add to the database.
Live Traffic Updates
If you are constantly driving along busy road routes that are jammed with congestion, roadworks and accidents, live traffic updates can be a godsend. With live updates, you will kept up to date with the conditions of your route, and you will be given alternate routes to help avoid the delays. If you want live traffic updates, expect to shell out a little more cash. Traffic alerts are usually available as part of a monthly subscription package.
Coverage
Ensure that the map coverage supplied with the unit is sufficient enough for your needs. If you are uncertain about where you"ll be travelling in future, check whether you can download additional coverage (e.g. European maps, US maps). Some manufacturers might charge you to download extra maps, so make sure you know where you stand. In-dash models usually use integrated DVD players, meaning you"ll have to update the disks every now and then.
Bells and Whistles
Many sat navs are much more than just sat navs nowadays. Some also function as an MP3 player, DVD player and SMS text reader. If you want a hi-tech multifunction device, check out what extra features are included in the device.
by: Mark Pitt
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