A Global Positioning System (GPS) can tell you within seconds how to drive to unfamiliar locations.
How does it work? When you request directions, your GPS will pick up signals from satellites and pinpoint your location. Then, using stored digital maps, the unit will show the best route to your destination on screen.
How much? The most expensive models are designed for cars and can cost around Rs20,000. At the other end of the scale there is software to turn a PDA into a Global Positioning System. This costs around Rs4000, but your PDA needs to be equipped with a GPS receiver. If it’s not, you can pay Rs2000-7000 for an external GPS receiver. A handheld model, slightly larger than a mobile, is also available, and priced from Rs16,000 onwards. Some can be charged when plugged into your car’s lighter socket. Others run on batteries.
Key Features: Look for a device that is as accurate as possible, with easy-to-follow directions and adjustable volume. Mapping quality—and the layout of streets—changes from time to time, so find out if digital maps for your area are available, hw often the maps are updated and what cost, if any, there will be for the new ones. Most importantly, ensure the maps stored cover the areas you want. After powering-up, modern systems should take no more than 15 seconds to fix your position.
Pros and cons: Some devices can struggle to get a signal among high buildings, trees
or through a car windscreen. But you can usually overcome this by choosing a unit with an external antenna. Many GPS devices and PDAs can also be used when you are walking. But before adapting your PDA, consider whether the screen is big enough to adequately view a map and if the sound quality is up to the demands of in-car navigation.
Bottom line: If you travel a lot, get lost easily or want detours when traffic grinds to a halt, a GPS is well worth the money. Otherwise, it’s more economical to consult a map.
