Sat Nav System Buying Guide

Sat Nav systems are ideal and convenient tools to help you get from A to B. To help you make a decision, we've included some useful hints and tips for things to consider when choosing a Sat Nav system.

How to Buy a Sat Nav System: Introduction

Sat Nav means Satellite Navigation, and Sat Nav systems use a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) receiver to work out their position on the Earth's surface, thanks to a network of satellites orbiting the planet.

The information collected by the GPS receiver on a Sat Nav system is then presented in the form of a local road map, which is displayed and continually updated on the Sat Nav system's screen. The local road map clearly shows where you are and your direction of travel.

The Sat Nav system uses integrated software to work out the most appropriate route between two given points, so you can enter in your departure location and your destination, then let the Sat Nav system guide you.

Sat Nav systems will commonly give directions using a computer generated voice, while the screen will correspondingly show an image of the road ahead, as part of a map of the area you are travelling through.

You can set the Sat Nav system to give different types of routes that are tailored to your needs. These route options usually include the fastest route, the shortest route, routes via a particular location, or routes avoiding certain toll roads and locations.

Some companies are currently developing Sat Nav systems that will even work out the most fuel-efficient routes - saving you money and helping the environment.

Sat Nav System Installation

Sat Nav systems are easy to install in almost any type of vehicle, and come in a 'works out of the box' design, so it's easy to get the system working - you simply turn it on and go!

You don't need specialist fittings either -just fix the Sat Nav system holder to the windscreen or dashboard using the cigarette lighter as a power source.

Sat Nav systems designed for use with motorcycles and other vehicles are also available, while Sat Nav system software and hardware is available for installation with mobile telephones and PDAs.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Sat Nav System

A good way to find the right Sat Nav system for you is to consider the features available on various models:

Traffic and Weather Information - Usually in 'real-time' - information is updated continuously - traffic jam alerts, road condition warnings, weather reports and other useful information is provided. There is sometimes a charge for these features.
Portable design - Most models of Sat Nav system are designed to be portable, so you can take them out of your car for safekeeping or to use them in another vehicle.
Touch-screen - A touch sensitive screen is very useful, and makes the Sat Nav system even easier to use.
Points/Places of Interest - A great feature for holidays, or if you're just on a day out. With this facility points or places of interest are given by the Sat Nav system, together with easy to follow directions, and the system will help you to find cinemas, petrol stations, car parks and plenty of other useful locations!

Set a Budget Before You Buy a Sat Nav System

Keep to a budget when buying a Sat Nav system, don't pay more for a model with features - or subscriptions to features - that you aren't likely to need. By shopping around online, comparing prices of Sat Nav systems between different online retailers and taking advantage of special offers and discounts, you could find a better model of Sat Nav for your money!

A warranty is essential when buying electrical products. This will ensure repairs to or the replacement of your new Sat Nav system under certain conditions. When choosing a Sat Nav system you should compare the warranties available from different retailers and manufacturers.