Portable GPS

Home > Learning Center > Portable GPS

Portable GPS

Any small GPS could be referred to as portable—a handheld GPS, for example. However, the term usually refers to units which give driving directions and are meant to go in cars. Those other GPS units, which are often intended for outdoor activities, are usually designated as handheld GPS devices.

Portable GPS devices are designed for the car but do not come integrated into the face of the vehicle. Instead, they are removable, usually mounted in the surface of the dashboard and powered by the cigarette lighter in the car.

These units are especially popular for people who travel often, sometimes in rental cars. There is not much difference between cars as far as installation is concerned, and no professional assistance is required.

Portable GPS systems receive a signal from an orbiting satellite which determines where on the planet they are. That signal is then digitally grafted onto preloaded road maps. After a destination is entered in, the system is able to provide directions.

The advantages of the portable GPS are numerous. Especially for drivers in an unfamiliar city looking to reach their hotel, a restaurant, or other destination, the turn-by-turn directions can be very helpful. Typically (though not always) these machines offer “talking” technology, which allows the driver to focus on the driving task at hand without constantly looking down at the screen or at a map.

Portable GPS systems often come with various additional features. It is pretty standard that these will come with map views, but the best GPS can offer make recommendations and offer contact information about local businesses.
Some of the higher-end portable models are capable of providing up-to-date information regarding traffic delays and road construction updates. This allows the system, if the user so desires, to quickly re-map the route so that the traffic delays can be avoided as much as possible.

Furthermore, while many of these portable systems used to be too expensive for most people, portable GPS units have become increasingly affordable. To determine which unit is best for you, consider your needs. If you just need to get from point A to point B, the most basic portable GPS may be enough. If you need additional technology, such as GPS consoles compatible with Bluetooth technology, a more advanced model might be preferable. If you still aren’t sure, it is never a bad idea to ask someone at your local electronics store for advice or information.

Portable GPS

Navigation

Bluetooth

Systems

Receiver

Car

Accessories

PDA

Mobile

Best

Handheld

Cases

Talking

Product

Contact Us

Site Map

Portable GPS | GPS Navigation | Learning Center | Site Map | Links | Contact | Home

Copyright © 2009

Any small GPS could be referred to as portable—a handheld GPS, for example. However, the term usually refers to units which give driving directions and are meant to go in cars. Those other GPS units, which are often intended for outdoor activities, are usually designated as handheld GPS devices.

Portable GPS devices are designed for the car but do not come integrated into the face of the vehicle. Instead, they are removable, usually mounted in the surface of the dashboard and powered by the cigarette lighter in the car.

These units are especially popular for people who travel often, sometimes in rental cars. There is not much difference between cars as far as installation is concerned, and no professional assistance is required.

Portable GPS systems receive a signal from an orbiting satellite which determines where on the planet they are. That signal is then digitally grafted onto preloaded road maps. After a destination is entered in, the system is able to provide directions.

The advantages of the portable GPS are numerous. Especially for drivers in an unfamiliar city looking to reach their hotel, a restaurant, or other destination, the turn-by-turn directions can be very helpful. Typically (though not always) these machines offer “talking” technology, which allows the driver to focus on the driving task at hand without constantly looking down at the screen or at a map.

Portable GPS systems often come with various additional features. It is pretty standard that these will come with map views, but the best GPS can offer make recommendations and offer contact information about local businesses.
Some of the higher-end portable models are capable of providing up-to-date information regarding traffic delays and road construction updates. This allows the system, if the user so desires, to quickly re-map the route so that the traffic delays can be avoided as much as possible.

Furthermore, while many of these portable systems used to be too expensive for most people, portable GPS units have become increasingly affordable. To determine which unit is best for you, consider your needs. If you just need to get from point A to point B, the most basic portable GPS may be enough. If you need additional technology, such as GPS consoles compatible with Bluetooth technology, a more advanced model might be preferable. If you still aren’t sure, it is never a bad idea to ask someone at your local electronics store for advice or information.