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Buying advice.

Different Unit Types

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Buying advice

Navigation systems
Product group
Navigation systems
Items analyzed
31
Date
22. 05. 2012
Data source
QualityZoom
Realtime Analytics
PDA Navigation: if you already use a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), you can also use it as a mobile navigator. You need to connect a GPS receiver wirelessly or with a cable with your PDA. It is flexible and still offers all functions of the PDA. However, the handling can be difficult and distracting for first-time PDA users, and the voice commands can be very quiet. Car Radio Navigation: if you have a DIN slot, then you can put in stereos with an integrated navigation system. This simple addition does not need any extra units on the dashboard, but it often only supports arrow-images. Portable Navigation: these are also called "Stand Alone Systems", and they have everything they need integrated: battery, display and GPS antenna to find your way. On the road you can simply charge them in the cigarette lighter slot. Normally, they are easy to use and do not need an external antenna. Their only function is navigation and it can be difficult to fix it onto the dashboard or windshield. Cell-Phone Navigation: some cell phones can be equiped with navigation software. It is slower than other systems, and you will need a GPS receiver, too. The system is relatively cheap, and you already have your cell phone on you all the time. However, you will need an external antenna, the display is very small and the voice command is quiet. Screen Navigation: a built-in unit with a big display is top of the class among navigation systems. Furthermore, it often has additional functions like playing DVDs or receiving TV. The advantages are clear with many functions, the easy-read screen and high-comfort. The relatively high price and the additional built-in costs are the disadvantages.

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Glossary

Navigation Systems for the car

Either navigation systems are built in ex factory, or you can choose from the numerous models available on the car-hi-fi market and have it permanently installed in your car later. Usually they come with the map of many western European countries either installed or on a dvd. Most car navigation systems have built in voice control, so that the driver can keep his eyes on the street. A practical touch screen simplifies the handling.

Mice

GPS Mice are known to be small, computer-mouse type locators, which can be connected to a PDA or notebook. In connection with a PDA the mouse poses an affordable alternative to a navigation system of a car manufacturer.

Nautic navigation systems

These devices are used onboard of ships and other maritime vessels, they are waterproof and often constructed so that they float. Their offers include land- and seamaps, graphical diagrams and a well readable display even under direct exposure to sunlight. Some of these maritime navigation systems calculate the tide or can recognize fish swarms.