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Garmin Sat Nav

Do you ever end up driving through a place you’ve never been before and becoming completely and utterly lost? Yeah, me too, until I bought my first a car GPS system. Choosing which one to buy can be confusing though, but that’s why I have written this article.

Main Car Sat Nav Unit Features

There are a bunch of feature which are standard in virtually all GPS units these days, and without which, the unit would be nearly useless. These include:

Touchscreen: When driving, ease of use is essential when operating your GPS unit. A touch screen is a must.
Route Maps Built In: If your new Sat nav system doesn’t know the area where you live, it would be pretty useless
Audio Instructions: You don’t have time to stop and look at where the Sat nav unit says you should go, you need to be told out loud, “turn left”, “turn right”, etc.

Additional Vehicle Satellite Navigation Unit Features

In addition to the standard Sat nav features talked about above, there are a number of additional features you might want to keep an eye out for, for instance:

POI (Points of Interest): Sometimes you don’t just want to be told what directions to take; you also want to know where the important landmarks and features are. For example, let’s say you’re on vaction somewhere for the first time, and you want to know where the theater is, or a particular park, or maybe where a certain historical monument is.
Hands-free Phonecalls: Using a phone while driving is dangerous. Many GPS unit now come with the ability to be connected to your phone, letting you talk without having to touch your phone.
Lane Guidance: Several Sat nav systems these days have the ability to give you detailed help with navigating the lanes of busy roads. This way, you’ll never take the wrong exit.

The Main Car GPS Manufacturers and their Products

The other factor you need to consider when buying a new car Sat nav unit is the company. Here are the main car Sat nav makes, along with a quick note on the range of GPS units they make:

Garmin: -,000. Main Sat nav make. More than 200 gps units available. Very wide range.
TomTom: -,000. Main Sat nav make. Over 100 gps systems on the market. Large price range.
Kenwood: 0-,200. Quite a good range of gps units. The majority of them are fairly high end Sat nav units.
Pioneer: 0-0. Again, a similar range of products to Kenwood. Decent range of high quality sat navs.
JVC: 0-,000. Few gps systems, but covers a large price range.
Sony: 0-0. Similar to JVC. Not many gps units, large price range.
Boss Audio: 5-5. Only a few models available, but they do have very big screens which also function as full-on in-car multimedia devices, e.g. for watching DVDs.
Audiovox: -0. Not many products on the market.
Escort: 0. Only 1 product on the market, in the style of a replacement rear-view mirror.

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Garmin Sat Nav

Garmin (the in car satellite navigation manfacturer) announced today that they shall be releasing their latest product – The Garmin Nuvi 550 in September 2008.

It will be their first ever release of an “all in one” satellite navigation unit. With a single touch of a button the Garmin Nuvi 550 can be used for a variety of outdoor and in car activities such as walking, cycling, driving, scootering and boating.

The Garmin Nuvi 550 unit will be made to last with a tough exterior ensuring it can adapt to each of its environments whilst also being waterproof- handy for those boating trips!

The Garmin Nuvi 550 has the ability to store huge amounts of information and accepts a variety of software to cover each of the different activities. Not only that but it also stores millions of “points of interest” locations so no matter where you are or what you are doing you will generally always be able to find what you are looking for.

The Garmin Nuvi 550 also comes with Garmins very popular “where am I?” safety feature, which has had good reviews previously. This pin points your exact locations and gives you directions to the nearest landmark – a must for all outdoor enthusiasts or ”want to be” captains of a ship ensuring no matter where you are you will find yor way back – well hopefully, time will see!

For a closer look at the Garmin Nuvi 500 “all in one” unit, Garmin will be displaying it at the upcoming british motor show exhibition at the London Excel Centre, London

Sat Nav

In-car navigation systems are becoming increasingly popular, with more motorists turning to them for help in navigating and taking out the anxiety of driving down unknown roads. GPS technology has been in place since the 70s, however in the new millennium the technology has taken off to unprecedented levels and has became readily available for wider use. The market has grown rapidly, with a wide range of models now on offer. Customers can choose from a variety of systems that can cost in excess of £1000, to more modestly priced models of just over £50. To help you sort through this huge range, here are some of the best budget models, all of which have one thing in common; they help get you from A to B with the least amount of stress.

The Navman F20 Europe Sat Nav is a great model that offers a lot for a modest price; available for £125.73 (inc. VAT). The device provides not only full 8 digit postcode navigation and full European street maps, but also the convenience of ‘nearest parking’ and ‘petrol’ buttons, instantly showing the nearest place for a convenient pit stop, all of which is displayed on a bright 3.5″ colour touch screen.

The tiny Garmin Nuvi 300 is slightly more expensive. Prices start at £135 but it comes highly recommended by many online reviewers. The model features a stylish and simple interface, ideal for users who do not want to be wasting time with various menus, and has a wide range of specifications. Further convenience is provided by many “must have” entertainment and travel tools, including an MP3 player, audio book player and a Jpeg viewer making the Garmin an indispensable travel tool.

For serious travellers, the Becker Z101 is an excellent choice, with prices starting at £130. The model combines leading-edge navigational capabilities with an exceptionally user-friendly menu. It also comes equipped with maps for 40 European countries, including points of interest, and is an ideal choice for all holidays on the continent. This data is displayed on a large 4.3″ colour touch screen, rarely found on the lower price models.

Lastly, there is the Binatone X430, the cheapest of all the models, with prices typically under £100, leaving you with more money for essentials such as a windscreen chip repair. The X430 is also a widescreen model and features maps for 22 West European countries, whilst those remaining in the UK can find addresses easily with its UK postcode search function. A fun feature on the X430 is the choice of a 2D (flat view) or 3D (angled view) navigation modes whilst driving.

No matter the model you choose, a Sat Nav is only a driving aid, but it’s one which will hopefully make your journey more pleasant.

Garmin Sat Nav

The Garmin nüvi 5000 Europe is first class, if it is exactly to plan your route. It was quickly re-charged when you take a wrong path and tells you clearly that he does so, with audio and visual instructions.

This sat nav is very easy to set up and use. It is easy to mount to the screen, and it is also dash-mountable for those who do not, the view through the windshield dark.

The screen is very large and clear to read, with a good contrast of colours and shapes. The keyboard is nice and large, it is easy to program and the menu is intuitive.

The nüvi 5000 Europe has clear and timely audio directions, and it tells you when it re-routes for some reason. As you approach your goal is also regulated, which side of the road, it’s on.

The camera alerts work well, so that advanced warnings also a good visual impression of the speed limit and an audible warning. Camera info is already loaded, but to update, you must pay an annual get.

This SA nav, the big size makes it quite bulky, and it might be difficult to save when you carry it round with you when you leave the car.

With nüvi 5000 large, clear display, you will not miss. View map, driving directions, photos, play games and much more in bright, brilliant colours. The sunlight readable 5.2-inch display is easy to read and gives you a wider view of your surroundings. The nüvi 5000 also a composite video input so you can make it a link, a rear-view camera for backing up safely.

The nüvi 5000 comes with preloaded City Navigator ® NT street maps and millions of points of interest (POIs) such as hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs and more. Touch the colour screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you with 2-D or 3-D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions. There is also the name of exits and streets so you never take your eyes off the road, and their 3-D digital elevation map gives you fair warning of the changed class. The nüvi 5000 also accepts custom POIs, such as a school zones and safety cameras and lets you get close to warning of POIs.
In the case of an emergency, nüvi “Where am I?” Function to the nearest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations, nearest address and intersection. See also the exact latitude and longitude coordinates.

The nüvi 5000 includes advanced navigational features to take the worry out of travelling. With route planning you can save 10 routes, specify via points and preview simulated turns on the 5000′s wide screen. In addition, nüvi 5000 automatically sorts multiple destinations to be an efficient route for errands or deliveries. It also shows speed limits for highways and Interstates. A trip LOG provides an electronic breadcrumb trail of up to 10,000 points, so you can see where you’ve been on the map.

The clear and current audio and visual instructions, good path accuracy and the ability to pin-point specific target are an asset to this gps unit. In fact, the only disadvantage is that it is a bit bulky to store .

Garmin Sat Nav

A navigator should never look back while going on a journey; he should look forward to is destination. With sat navigation GPS devices by Garmin a navigator will never look back and he would be guided to the desired destination with ease. A Garmin GPS navigator will never fail to deliver and will provide the right guidance using state of the art technology. Garmin GPS is A device which has all the features of a mobile phone like hands free calling and wide display. The device is preloaded with data and information regarding the places which it can potentially navigate. The screen is a good 4.3 inches wide which makes viewing more convenient than ny other GPS device in its league.

The GPS navigators by Garmin are preloaded and preprogrammed and therefore they are functional from the moment they are brought out from the box. A startling feature of this GPA device is that this device points out important places on the map. They are the points of interest and the navigator is informed about the coming point of interest by the sat navigator. Hotels, restaurants, pubs and hospitals are marked on the preloaded GPS map and are pointed out on the GPS screen of the Garmin GPS set. This is a feature which is highly helpful for any tourist or adventure enthusiast on the go.

Voice directions are available at every nook and corner and apart from the conventional 2 dimensional maps one can also get to see the 3 dimensional maps. This feature is a rare one and is available with the Garmin – Sat Nav – GPS satellite navigators.

The Garmin GPS device is a highly flexible device which can be interfaced with a Bluetooth enabled mobile handset. A navigator who is on the move can connect his mobile phone with the GPS device using a Bluetooth connection. This pairing enables the user to talk through the GPS device which is generally mounted in front of the user. It gives a hand free like feel to the user and dialing is also enabled though the touch pad of the GPS set. Apart from basic navigation and voice support this GPS device has many features like a currency converter and an image viewer along with a FM receiver cum transmitter.

A feature which makes it more analogous to a mobile phone is the memory card slot; Garmin GPS devices have externally extendable memory. Automatic rerouting and route avoidance guidance helps any navigator while treading through unknown territories. This device is not compatible with other operating systems like Windows, Mac and Windows Me. This feature is not unusual for GPS devices in this league but Garmin GPS navigators lack this feature of compatibility with windows based operating systems.

It is an extremely light weight device and weighs close to 190 grams. The device comes along with an USB cable and charger. Dashboard fixers are included in the kit itself. A full coverage of European cities is provided through a preloaded set of maps.

Garmin Sat Nav

When we think of Sat Nav we expect it to be used in the car to get us from A to B. But there are far more uses for Garmin Satellite Navigation.

With Garmin Connect features on your hand held device, you can take your sat nav with you when you are cycling, hiking or camping. Not only will your hand held sat nav show you how to get from A to B but it has lots of added features that mean you can see the terrain you will be travelling on, you can time yourself and see detailed analysis of your journey. This can be very useful if you are doing an off road sport such as mountain biking. You can also share your activities via Facebook or Twitter. You can explore other routes from Garmin users, making it a really clever tool for outdoor activities.

Another innovative move from Garmin is the ecoRoute fuel-saver software. This system is a tool that can evaluate a drivers driving habits, giving them information that will allow them to make informed decisions about their driving. They can choose more fuel efficient routes which saves the driver fuel and money and reduces your carbon footprint.

There are lots of extras that you can add to your Garmin Sat Nav. You can add travel guides with guides for Restaurants, B&Bs and the Good Pub Guide. CityXplorer will add maps on your sat nav for the car, pedestrians or public transport. You can customize your sat nav with points of interest, vehicle icons or even celebrity voices. You can add entertainment to your sat nav, downloading music or games or even audio books.

With a Garmin sat nav you can subscribe, free, to Garmin Live Traffic. This will give you real time alerts as you drive, allowing you to change your route and keep journey time to a minimum.

So, whatever your journey is and however you take it, there is a Garmin Sat Nav to suit you.

Garmin Sat Nav

Satellite navigation systems are becoming very popular as travelers realize how easy it is to reach their destination quickly and easily. Garmin makes a few different models of navigation system and the Garmin Nuvi 205 is one model many travelers use for their navigation needs. It is a good choice whether you travel around the city or around the country and will make reaching your destination easier.

The Garmin Nuvi 205 enables you to navigate without breaking your budget. It comes with preloaded street level maps for the UK and Ireland and gives you the ability to download more maps from the internet via a USB connection. It has an easy to use touch screen interface, slim design, and plenty of features that makes it the perfect choice for all kinds of travelers.

With smooth map updates, the choice between two dimensional and three dimensional map display, a streamlined design, and full color display it is perfect for any traveler. It compact design makes it easy to fit on any dash and easy to take with you into any vehicle.

The Gamin Nuvi 205 has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts for up to 5 hours on a charge. When it is not in use it has an anti theft feature as well. For international travelers it automatically updates for the time zone and displays points of interest along your trip.

Satellite navigation systems are becoming very popular as travelers realize how easy it is to reach their destination quickly and easily. Garmin makes a few different models of navigation system and the Garmin Nuvi 205 is one model many travelers use for their navigation needs. It is a good choice whether you travel around the city or around the country and will make reaching your destination easier.

Sat Nav

Benefits of satellite navigation systems

Satellite navigation systems have become more popular in recent years and the technology and features available has improved greatly. When looking to buy a new sat nav system it is important to keep the below features in mind. Having additional features will make using the sat nav easier and also make it a more worthwhile investment.

Some of the best features available include:

A good traffic and routing function- This allows the sat nav to reprogram and reroute your journey should a traffic incident occur.

Camera Alerts- With this function a sat nav will alert you in advance to any fixed speed cameras on your route. This gives you greater awareness of the actual speed limit and could stop you picking up a speeding fine. Some sat navs receive camera updates free for life; others require a monthly or annual subscription.

Points of interest- some sat navs will point out places such as petrol stations, parking areas, restaurants and hotels, this would be beneficial if you were going on holiday in your own car.

Bluetooth adaptability- this allows you to use your sat nav as a hands free set for your mobile phone. This is obviously a huge benefit as not only will driving whilst being on the phone cost you a hefty fine it will also put points on your license.

These are just some of the most common features to look out for. With the technology constantly being updated who knows what is next for sat navs.

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Sat Nav

Consumer technology has advanced in recent years allowing satellite navigation, other wise known as GPS or
automotive navigation to help us find our way through towns and cities of over the world
through the use of communitcating satellites orbting our planet.

The popularity for In car sat nav systems has increased dramatically in recent years.
There are hundreds of sat nav units to choose from, with countless features and functions.

Sat nav technology was pioneered in the 1970s but it took another decade before the real commercial value was
realised. During this period small color screens were in developement along with digital storage devices for holding
map information. The first company to create an In car GPS unit was Alpine in 1981, And the first car to be factory
equipped with a unit was the Acure Legend. I took another 10 years before the audio guidance feature was added
to a commercial device.

Features and specs to look for when buying a GPS unit.
Here is a list of available features and specifacations of todays sat nav systems and there definitions.

Map Coverage: Proberbly the most important feature, Pay attension to this one as it defines the locations you can use your
sat nav in.

Audio output: Audio dictation of directions (spoken directions).

Screen size: Between 3 and 6 inch in diagonal measurement.

Touch screen: The ability to touch the screen to control your sat nav.

Voice control: To control the functions of the unit with your voice.

Points of interest: Your sat nav will locate museums, librarys, parks etc.

Speed camera locations: Flags and warns you when approaching a speed camera.

Upgradable: Download new information such as speed camera locations, speed limit changes etc.

Auto dimming: Your sat nav will adjust itself to the correct brightness during different weather conditions.

Live traffic: Gives you minute by minute live traffic information then alters your route .

ICE: InCar entertainment, connects with your existing audio equipment and pre installed content.

Character Voices: Changes the defualt voice to a celebrity or comedy voice.

Once you have decided what you want from your new sat nav system finding one is the next step,
Prices can start as low as £59 and reach a staggering £800.
A good start to finding cheap sat nav deals is a “google search” or a “comparison site”.
Good luck in buying your new sat nav.

Sat Nav

Owning a satellite navigation system can assist you in many ways. When they were first introduced sat navs were pretty basic and cost the earth, however nowadays they are packed with technology and are very competitively priced. Due to the useful features that all models have on board, owning a sat nav system is more of an essential than a luxury item.
Firstly, it is important to point out that sat navs are a very appealing item to a thief, so it always worth removing your sat nav from your car when you leave it. The windscreen holder is also an indication that you may have one on board, so it also a good idea to remove this too along with the circle it leaves on the windscreen. The home address that inputted into your sat nav should never be your own, but somewhere nearby. This will ensure you can always be directed to your home town, but will not inform thieves of your real address.

Before you start your journey, it is best to input your destination on the sat nav, rather than trying to do it whilst driving. This way you can see the route that you will be taking and some models will also list points of interest (POI) en route. By simple inputting the post code, street name or point of interest you want to visit, you can have your route planned and ready to follow within seconds. Updates are available online for new roads and POI.
Sat nav systems provide a much safer journey in comparison to having to hold a map on your knee, or argue with your passenger about getting lost creating a stressful atmosphere. You don’t need to worry about taking wrong turnings or looking at road signs, as this is done for you. You can concentrate on the important task of driving while listening out for directions called to you by the sat nav.

The location of road safety cameras are also highlighted by your sat nav. They are shown on screen along the road in which you are travelling and you can also opt for a warning sound too. You will also be informed of the speed limit in the area in which you are travelling.

Some sat nav systems now have Live traffic information (which you can subscribe to at a monthly fee). This will inform you of useful things such as Live Traffic Updates and Live Fuel prices.

A bluetooth feature on a sat nav is common today, which enables you to make and receive hands-free calls via your mobile phone.

Sat nav systems are priced from anywhere between £60 and £300. From the more expensive models like TomTom and Garmin you can expect features such as Voice command and control, large, high quality screens, Lane Guidance, Map Updates, Google Searches, Eco Routes, Weather info, and much more. However, the cheaper models still provide a good service and can be more user friendly with less menu options to muddle through.