Mobile Computing News

In today’s integrated world where being punctual is important, there is no doubt that knowing where you are going before you hit the road is absolutely imperative. That being said, having a GPS system at your disposal is vital, and if having such a system is vital, then knowing its ten main features is essential. This article will assist you in getting an understanding of the ten most important features of a navigation device.

Enter Address and Go

All systems have the ability to work out a route to the user’s preferred destination upon entering the destination address. This feature makes it easy for the system to then work out a simple route.

Touch Screen Feature

Most good devices have touch screens, which make it easier for the user to find out where they are going, where they are, or where they want to go. This feature is present in all the major brands, including Garmin.

Places of Interest Feature

Each system has a “places of interest” feature which highlights places which may be of importance to the user. In car systems, places like a petrol station or a police station may be highlighted. The amount of POI´s varies depending on the type of device you have, but this basic feature is used by all system manufacturers. This is a key feature which is also present TomTom .

Travelling Speed Monitor

Most GPS systems come with a speedometer and often record how fast you are travelling. Most systems also have the ability to track speed limits on specific roads/highways and thus inform the user when they exceed the speed limit. Some devices come with the added benefit of being able to track where traffic/speed cameras are and can inform the user when they have entered a speed-monitored road.

Voice Guidance

All devices come with a voice-over feature which guides the user along their journey. This voice-over is useful if the user is unable to keep their eye on the road and on the system screen. The voice informs the user of when to turn, keep straight or take an exit, etc. The voice-over acts as a companion on long journeys and is very useful for those without an idea of where they are going.

Recalculating Feature

Most GPS systems are equipped with the ability to recalculate the direction of the user’s journey should unforeseen deviations or detours occur along the way. This feature actively recalculates the route of the user and works out a route which is easy to follow from the point of deviation/detour and not beyond the accessibility of the user. This key feature is present in all major brands such as Navman with its product the Navman M400.

Memory Capacity

Most systems like Navigon have a large memory capacity, which makes it easy for the system to store addresses and routes which are often used. This feature is especially important for the user in terms of programming their home address so that no matter where the user is, the system will always be able to direct you home.

Bluetooth Wireless Capability

Some systems come equipped with Bluetooth wireless capability available in Garmin products, which allow the user to make and receive phone calls utilising the system’s internal speaker, microphone, and screen. While the call is in progress or being made, the system automatically mutes directions being issued. The system can display the user’s telephone book, and shows caller ID on-screen. This feature requires a Bluetooth-compatible cellular phone.

Portable Power

This feature is available with most systems and allows the user to charge the system via the cigarette lighter outlet and creates the ability to charge while travelling for the user. This is useful as the user is never low on power and always able to rely on the system.

Mounts and Mounting

Most systems come with an easily installable suction mount which allows the user to mount the system on his/her screen. This makes it easier to take note of the directions being issued by the system and to see as well as hear the directions.

These features are undoubtedly some of the most important to anyone wishing to buy a GPS system and should be taken into consideration before making a purchase.