GPS
Buying Guide
GPS systems are lifesavers for anyone taking road trips, but many don't know that GPS for cars isn't the only option for the technology. You can find handheld GPS systems and even GPS for laptops and PDAs. You can also use it for more than just directions. GPS tracking devices are being used to monitor pets and are also becoming a great personal security device for the elderly or disabled.
Still, the most common use for GPS is in automobiles and handheld devices, to help people get where they need to go. Take a look below to see how you can make use of GPS in your life.
Family Use
Traveling with a family means putting safety and convenience first, so a GPS navigation system in the car is a great choice. If you don't have the feature built in, you can buy the devices separately. Often, these models will have more features than built-in models, such as 3-D maps and more convenient updates.
Features you'll want to look for in GPS receivers include a large screen and easy-to-install mounting. While you might not need all the bells and whistles in a GPS device, a color screen and turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions are two you might want to spring for.
Business Use
Good news for the corporate world – you can now integrate GPS right into your PDA, packing the punch of two devices into one handheld. One way to do this is with a GPS "sleeve," which wraps around your PDA, and can add battery power and more memory to your device along with GPS technology. Many come with a car mount as well, so you can transfer them to your vehicle when necessary.
Bluetooth technology is another convenient GPS option, allowing you to wirelessly connect your PDA to a GPS device in a nearby location, such as in your computer bag or in your car. These options are more expensive but are incredibly versatile and can save you the hassle of dealing with cables.
Businesspeople will also be glad to hear that GPS is available for laptops, in many of the same ways it is available for PDAs (although this form will not be so easily transferred to your car).
Student Use
Students can make use of GPS systems, too. Handheld GPS systems are a perfect gift idea for graduates heading off to school in a new city. The most sophisticated handheld GPS devices have mapping GPS receivers, which display preloaded or computer-uploaded maps that you can alter or build routes with. These devices will cost you a bit more, but the extra price is worthwhile. Just be sure to choose one that allows for additional memory storage with a common medium such as SD or Compact Flash.
A GPS for high school students that parents are sure to love is the teen tracking GPS unit for cars. Not only do these devices provide convenient navigation, but they also monitor speed, acceleration and braking, so you can be sure your teen is driving responsibly.
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