We all know that your car GPS is a modern marvel that many people can’t get from A to B without. How do these things work? Who invented them? (I’ll bet it wasn’t Al Gore). What are the advantage of a car GPS beyond finding Grandma’s house? Relax, we have you covered.
Knowing the principles behind the car GPS and how exactly they work will help you to purchase your new GPS and maybe better understand and operate you current one. We’ve put together a small GPS snapshot to help you better appreciate and operate your GPS.
The map on a GPS is laid out in longitude and latitude. Once the GPS has determined its own location it will display this on the map for the user to see. Sending multiple signals helps keep the GPS updated second to second. This is important when you consider that if the GPS did this every few seconds you’d most likely miss your turn.
Updating your maps is not only a convenience issue it’s also a safety one as well. New roads crop up every so often (not often enough) and bridges wash out. Sometimes landmarks like railroad tracks and small lakes can be missed as well. The maps people at various GPS control centers work feverishly to update their maps constantly.
Updating your GPS online is your best bet. Often there is a website or built in software that will prompt you to update your maps. Use this. In fact use it often. New roads and new road statuses will not be updated on your car GPS maps without doing so. As soon as you get your new GPS out of the box update it.
While you’re online you can check out some of the cool novelty voices that most GPS companies have to offer. These can be cartoon characters to fake celebrity voices to just about anything else. These are often free but some of the cooler voices might have a fee attached. It is worth the freak out factor? Maybe.
Another function offered by most car GPS is the option to program in alerts form schools, bars, restaurants and rest stops. For those of us who have ever travelled with the family, the last one is very important. These options can be turned on and off. Some GPSs even come standard with software that helps you monitor your gas mileage. Handy!
Keep a back up road atlas just in case. GPS technology has come a very long way, but it’s not infallible. Being able to keep up with your location once your GPS has gotten you lost- however rare that is, is important and will help keep you safe. Travel well my friends.
Zeeman Haus enjoys writing articles online on a variety of subjects. You can check out his latest website on Garmin GPS Accessories which showcases reviews of some of the top accessories for your Garmin GPS system.



