Buying Tips for Satellite Navigation Systems

Sat Nav systems units allow you to plan a journey ahead of time and then be guided to your destination by a combination of spoken instructions and an on-screen map that shows you where you are and the direction you should be heading. These systems can be invaluable for motorists, especially those who are driving on their own. Units may be permanently installed in the car to prevent theft, or they may be portable, which allows them to be transferred from vehicle-to-vehicle or so that they can be used on foot. There are models available for cars and motorcycles, and SatNav systems may also be used with compatible mobile phones and PDAs. Here are just some of the features to look out for:

Maps

All models come with maps, either pre-loaded onto a hard drive or on a memory card. The more advanced the model, the more extensive the mapping systems. For example, basic units will have all UK routes and street maps, whilst more expensive units may also include European street mapping. If you're thinking of buying a basic model, find out if additional maps are available. It's also worth asking how you will be able to update your map in the future - will you have to buy a new one or are upgrades available? You should also look to see how the map will be displayed; some units will only show a 2D flat map view, whilst other will also be capable of showing a 3D view, which most people find easier to read.

Postcode Address Finder

The fastest, most accurate way of entering a location; this comes as standard on most models. However, it is important to check that you can enter the full postcode; some models only allow the first 5 characters to be entered (for example, AB12 5 rather than AB12 5PQ). This means that the system can only plan your route to the general area, rather than to a specific address.

Screen Size

The larger the screen, the clearer your maps will be. A 3.5-inch screen is a good size.

Touch Screen

Touch screens are far easier to use than buttons on a console. They should come as standard on most intermediate models.

Spoken Instructions

Voice instructions explain each step of the route as you travel, which means that you'll know where you have to go without taking your eyes off the road. Spoken instructions should come as standard, and there may even be a choice of voices (male or female for example). Some systems even allow you to download celebrity voices, such as John Cleese, Austin Powers, Ozzy Osborne or even the Queen!

Route Update

If you miss your turning or have to deviate from the planned route, this option will recalculate your journey for you. The majority of basic units will include this as standard.

Points of Interest

The majority of units now have POIs (Points of Interest) incorporated into them to show features such as airports, ferries, petrol stations, historic sites and restaurants. You may also be able to add your own POIs of your favourite places.

Traffic Updates

Some systems may offer free real-time traffic updates or the ability to subscribe to a service providing them. This option usually requires a Bluetooth mobile phone to receive the updates. Good systems will recalculate a new best route for you, automatically taking into account incidents and their severity.

Safety Cameras Location

In much the same way as traffic updates, some models offer a subscription service to inform you where every safety camera in the UK is located.

Weather

Many models will allow you to subscribe to a service that will give you the current weather at any location.

Hands-Free Capability

Many intermediate and high end units may offer hands-free calling via Bluetooth, which will allow you to accept incoming calls, read the contents of SMS messages on the display screen and dial out, using contact details retrieved from your phone's SIM card.

Internal Battery

A good size internal battery is a useful option. Not only will it mean that you won't have to recalculate your route when turn your engine off if you stop for a break, but you will also be able to use it outside the car.

Internal Hard Drive

This stores all the data you use, so you can save favourite addresses and routes and return to them whenever needed. It is available on most intermediate models.