GPS buying guide Getting started If you often travel to new places for work or pleasure,have trouble reading maps,or simply hate to ask for directions Autel VAG505,you might consider a global positioning system (GPS) based navigator for your car. Once you put in a destination,the system will plot a route,give spoken turn-by-turn directions,and show your progress along the route. Most personal navigation devices (PNDs) let you choose your routing preferences,including the shortest distance,the fastest time,or even routes with no toll roads. Some portable units offer special routing options for bicyclists to help them avoid highways and for pedestrians,appropriate routes are provided that ignore one-way traffic restrictions. Some devices even offer a choice for the most fuel-efficient route. You can also use a GPS device to quickly find a variety of points of interest (POI),including gas stations,ATMs,hotels,tourist attractions,and more. Typically,you can search for a specific point of interest,browse ones that are near your current location,or look up ones in a different area. You can even choose a nearby restaurant by the type of food you wish to eat. Once you've located what you want,the system can calculate a route to get you there and often provide contact information,should you wish to call ahead. In today's competitive market,GPS prices have come down to the point where even budget units include features previously available only on more expensive models,such as the ability to speak street names,issue speed warnings,and provide reality view,graphically representing major intersections. Higher-priced models can include such features as an FM receiver for traffic information,a wireless FM transmitter to integrate with the car's audio system,and Bluetooth connectivity autel ms609,which can be handy for hands-free phone operation. Services such as traffic,weather reports,and Internet searches are widely available,although they can require a subscription or use a smart-phone data plan. Free traffic information is also increasingly common,though it is sometimes supported by small,onscreen advertising. Some models are also packaged with a traditional AC plug for in-home use and recharging. Most also charge through a computer's USB port. Size matters If you choose a portable unit,size is important,especially if you frequently pack it in a suitcase. Some models are no bigger than a wallet,while others are as large as a paperback book. Look for a screen that's large enough to read easily without blocking your view. We've found a 3.5-inch diagonal screen is an acceptable compromise for travelers,but for regular use,a 4.3-inch wide screen allows more information to be displayed,thereby making it easier to enter addresses,due to larger touch-screen buttons. Several models use 4.7- to 7-inch screens,which can be easier to see in a larger vehicle with the windshield further away from the driver. For commercial trucks,vans,and RVs,it is best to purchase a special device for those applications,as they will provide guidance that factors low-bridge clearance and parkway restrictions. In addition,they typically provide detailed travel information,such as truck-stop services.
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