What to Look for in Navigation Devices

To some people, the idea of purchasing a self-contained navigation device does not make much economic sense. After all, GPS navigation is available on smartphones. However, dedicated navigation devices do make a lot of sense. For example, when lost it is frustrating to exit the GPS app to call a friend for directions. In addition, a navigation device brings you superior quality compare to some phone apps on the market in terms of map quality, particularly if you find your self in an area with no Wi-Fi or 4G signal. 

What are Navigation Devices?

A navigation device is a small, portable unit that gives you specific, accurate direction, even in areas not covered by cell service. The device attaches to a your vehicle’s dashboard or windshield through a suction cup, while drawing power from the cigarette lighter port, making it easier for you to move it from one car to the next. Other navigation GPS devices are permanently attached to a car.

How Does a Navigation Device Work?

The device receives signals from satellites – they offer better coverage than cell services – and identifies your position and direction through a combination of information from various in-built sensors. All you have to do is type in or, in some models, speak your destination and your device indicates turn-by-turn directions. Some models even indicate further information like time and distance remaining to get to your destination, and current speed.

Features

Navigation devices are preloaded with United States Maps. Micro-SD card slots are also included for insertion of additional map cards, meaning that you can purchase maps for certain countries if traveling abroad. 

A device should have lifetime map updates that are downloadable from the manufacturer‘s website on an annual basis. An essential feature is an automatic reroute. This means if you take a wrong turn, your device will recalculate the route based on your current position.