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Sat navs, GPS or satellite navigation
systems have come a long way since they were first
invented. Even better, they have really dropped in
price to bring them into the availability of most
budgets. First the satellites were only used by the US
military but these expensive items were then made
available to the general public and they have become so
popular that many car manufacturers fit them as
standard to their top of the range models.
The American system is the only really useable
system, but the Russians, Chinese and Europeans are
all working on their own systems but they are still
a few years away from becoming a serious rival to
the GPS system.
Although GPS devices can now be found in a
number of devices like mobile phones or wrist
watches, it is in the car or truck that these
really come into their own. Now drivers never need
to ask directions again (should appeal to the men
at least) if they are in a strange town or even
having to find an address in your own area. No more
trying to read a map and keeping the car on the
road, just listen to the friendly female voice who
will guide you almost to the door.
Today's satnavs also come with a variety of
different services such as speed camera indicators,
the nearest car parks, places of interest, live
traffic updates and even multiple destinations for
truck drivers. Some now offer a range of different
voices, even celebrity ones to help you on your
way.
When buying your satnav, it is best to find out
how up to date the maps and other information that
comes with it as upgrades can often be quite
expensive.
As when buying any electrical equipment, try to
handle them to see how each works, also ask friends
which one they use and how easy they find to use
it, that way you will get the one that is right for
you.
Your Sat Nav by Ian Richards
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