Overview of Automotive GPS Devices

Sales of aftermarket in-car GPS devices have more than doubled over the past two years, and automotive is the fastest-growing segment of the GPS market. Why? Better and brighter color screens, improved accuracy and usability of maps and directions, added features such as traffic alerts, the ability to wirelessly link a mobile phone to an in-car unit to get hands-free mobile speaker-phone use; all of these reasons and more.

In-car GPS units are mounted on the windshield interior via a large suction cup, or on top of the dash using a friction mount. Installation is easy and doesn’t require tools. Note that windshield suction mounts are prohibited by state law in California and Minnesota.

An included cable connects to your car's power outlet to power the unit. Once your GPS is installed, you will enjoy some of the features and services listed below, depending on the model you have chosen:

• Enter a destination and navigate to it by following a screen map or spoken instructions.
• Touch “go home” from any location, and get directions home.
• Trip information such as compass direction, speed, and arrival time.
• Hands-free mobile phone calling using a wireless link to the GPS unit’s touchscreen, speakers, and microphone.
• Traffic alerts and traffic avoidance.
• MP3 player.
• Points of interest, ATMs, movie times, and gas prices.

There are more, and some features may carry an extra subscription fee, but your in-car GPS unit is a truly useful travel assistant. In-car systems range in price from $250 to $1,000.