What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?
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What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

No driver, being in an unfamiliar area, would like to get lost. In addition to the added stress, trying to get on the desired route often results in excessive fuel consumption. Regardless of whether it is a vacation or a business trip, such waste is undesirable for the wallet of any motorist.

A road, especially an unfamiliar one, can prepare unpleasant surprises for drivers in the form of large holes, sharp turns, difficult junctions and traffic jams. To feel confident on any track, motorists are encouraged to purchase a gps navigator.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Let's consider what kind of device it is, how to choose and configure it correctly. We will also discuss whether his work depends on the country in which the car is located.

What is a GPS navigator?

Many motorists do not see the need for a navigator, since any modern smartphone can replace it - just install one of the routing and navigation programs. In fact, a car navigator has some advantages over a navigation program installed on an electronic mobile device.

This device is designed as a small touch screen monitor. A road map of a specific area is installed in the device's memory. The driver only needs to indicate the starting and ending point, and the navigation system will independently create several routes. The main one will be the shortest, and the alternatives may contain areas where a traffic jam has formed or repair work is underway.

This device makes it easier to navigate in an unfamiliar city, especially on difficult road junctions. Some models may provide additional route information. For example, it can be gas stations, cafes or other objects important for the driver.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

The main advantage of navigators over smartphones is that they work only in one mode - they track the location of the car and provide the necessary information that is important for the trip. The smartphone performs many additional functions in the background. For example, when someone makes a call, navigation will be disabled, since telephone communication is the main function of this device. But even if no one calls during the trip, the phone battery will be discharged much faster or, due to many running programs, it will become very hot.

The device and the principle of operation

The car navigator consists of the following elements:

  • The main board on which the memory module and microprocessor are installed. This is the most important part of the device. The quality of the device depends on its technical component - what software can be installed on it, whether it will have an additional function, etc.
  • Monitor. This is usually a touchscreen displaying the map and setting positions. When choosing a device, you need to pay attention to the quality of the screen. It must be created using IPS technology. The picture on such a monitor will be clearly visible, even in direct sunlight. The analogue created using TFT technology is much inferior in this regard, despite the fact that most modern models have a protective coating. This part is connected to the motherboard using wires assembled into a single line (ribbon cable).
  • Source of power. Battery capacity varies by device model. Thanks to this element, the device is able to work with the ignition off (in some cars, the cigarette lighter is also powered through the contact group). When deciding on the model of the navigator, you should also pay attention to the battery capacity, since it consumes a lot of energy during autonomous operation (for this reason, the smartphone will be quickly discharged).
  • A comfortable and high-quality case is an important part of any navigator. When buying a navigation system, you should pay attention to the strength of the case. Older models were made entirely of plastic. During fast driving, especially on uneven roads, shaking may cause the navigator to detach from the mount (or simply the suction cup will lag behind the glass to which it is attached) and fall. So that in such cases the body does not fly apart into small pieces, modern models have stiffening ribs and rubberized. The more expensive type is dust and moisture resistant. If the driver is engaged in extreme types of motorsport (for example, overcoming rough terrain or rallying), then it is better to opt for these options.
What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Outwardly, the navigator resembles a small tablet or even an e-book. More expensive models have additional options.

The device works according to the following principle. In order for the listed elements to help the motorist on the road, it is necessary not only to connect them together, but also to configure them correctly. First, an electronic program is stitched into the processor, which works together with the memory module. The software synchronizes the operation of the gps module, the monitor, the processor itself and the memory unit (in many modifications there is also a slot for expanding memory, for example, for an SD card).

After flashing the BIOS, the OS is installed (the system that will perform the corresponding operations). The most commonly used system is Android, but there are also modifications on the Windows platform or another OS. Despite the high reliability, the second is supplanted by the first, since it works much faster and is more flexible in how often an update or an additional interface is installed, which makes working with the device more pleasant. In addition to these two main ones, there are also lesser known platforms, which have their own design and configuration scheme.

This is only basic firmware, but it does not allow the device to work like a navigator. In order for him to choose a route and orient himself on the map, a work program and terrain maps are installed. Today, there are at least a dozen stable programs that work well in different countries. The most common ones are Navitel or those that run on a search platform from Yandex or Google.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Next - a little about how the cards work on the device. All navigators are guided by a coordinate system (longitude and latitude). Specific coordinates are plotted on maps for navigators. When the gps module fixes the location of the car in real terrain, it looks for the corresponding position on the downloaded map. To make it easier for the driver to navigate, the monitor displays not numbers, but visual elements, for example, the road turns left or right.

GLONASS or GPS which is better?

When choosing a navigator, the user may be faced with a difficult choice: Glonass or gps? In short, today these are almost identical concepts. The GPS system is an American development of the Global Positioning System. The navigator module sends a signal that catches a satellite in Earth orbit. The near-Earth object processes the request and sends a response in the form of coordinates of where the emitter is on the ground. This is how the device determines its location.

For the GPS navigator to work as accurately as possible, it synchronizes with at least four satellites. Some models won't fire until they have received data from all of them. Clouds, tunnels and other obstructions drown out these signals, which may cause the device to become out of sync with satellites.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

The GLONASS system is already a Russian development, which focuses on its own group of satellites. Previously, it worked with less stability than its American counterpart, but today new, more powerful devices are increasingly being put into Earth's orbit, thanks to which the navigation of this system works more stable.

On the market of car accessories, you can also find universal devices that are capable of working both with GPS and GLONASS (automatically detects the type of satellite and switches to the appropriate mode). No system uses cellular data, so no internet is needed for positioning. It does not depend on telephone towers or WI-FI coverage area. The first navigators, which were based on search engines, for example, Google, worked in this mode. Such mobile devices did not have a gps sensor, but communicated with nearby telephone repeaters.

The location was determined in accordance with the distance that the signal travels from the tower. Such navigators are of little use because they have a very large error. By the way, if the mobile phone does not have this module, it will determine the position of the device according to this principle. That is why, in some cases, the smartphone can warn about the necessary maneuver either too early or too late.

Types of GPS navigators for cars

At the moment, a huge variety of navigators have been created. These are models for cyclists, and wrist versions, and modifications for aviation. We are interested in a car analog, but in this case there are several varieties. The very first thing you need to figure out is what is the difference between modifications for trucks and cars. Also navigators differ from each other in the way of fastening.

For trucks

At first glance, it seems that there should be no difference between such devices, because a truck is the same car, only larger. In fact, this is exactly what navigators differ.

In any country, there are roads that a truck driver cannot drive. Such sites are necessarily displayed on such navigators. Narrow road sections, low tunnels, bridges and power lines, too small turning points - these are all very important parameters for large transport. In addition to the fact that for violating some restrictions, the driver faces a fine, the transport simply may not pass somewhere or create an emergency.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Such positions will definitely be noted in the navigation systems for trucks. Also, some models notify about the permissible axle load for a specific bridge or about prohibitory signs for a truck. A motorist driving a light vehicle simply does not need these functions.

For passenger cars

Models for all other vehicles are devoid of any specific options. They contain complete information that will help the driver navigate in unfamiliar terrain.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Modern devices warn of traffic jams and other problem areas. They can be paired with a video recorder and other equipment. In expensive car models, such devices are part of the on-board transport system, which makes the use of the device even more convenient.

Types by mounting method

This parameter is also important, especially if the car owner pays a lot of attention to the interior. There are built-in modifications and a portable analog. The first category includes models that can be used instead of a rear-view mirror, a radio tape recorder, or they are installed in an empty console cell.

Some built-in devices are combined with other equipment, for example, a radar detector (what it is and how to choose it, it tells here) or a DVR. Such modifications are connected to the car's electrical system on an ongoing basis.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

The portable GPS-navigator can be installed anywhere in the passenger compartment, so that the driver can be less distracted by viewing the map away from the steering wheel. In order for the devices to be recharged during long-term operation, they are connected to the cigarette lighter. Unlike the standard analogue, the portable navigator can be quickly turned off and taken with you.

The device is mounted using suction cups or adhesive tape. Some even use self-tapping screws for greater reliability, but in this case, one should expect that the dismantled fasteners will leave noticeable marks behind.

Selection of navigation software and maps: Ukraine, CIS, Europe

The next question that should be considered is whether it is possible to use the navigator in different countries or whether you need to buy new equipment if you plan to travel abroad. While different software can be used on devices as we've covered, each has its own subtleties.

In one case, it may be sufficient that the navigator is adapted only for trips within the same country, but there are models in which you need to upload only individual maps so that they do not conflict with each other.

Each brand uses its own algorithms, which is why they will not allow other software to work adequately. Although this rarely happens, when installing multiple navigation systems, the device may run a little slower (it depends on how powerful the processor and RAM of the motherboard are).

Let's consider the most popular brands and their software features.

Navitel

This is one of the most famous brands. Almost every second navigator in the factory firmware will have this system. Here are some of the features of this software:

  1. Can work in multiple languages;
  2. Compatible with nine operating systems;
  3. There is high quality technical support;
  4. When licensed software is purchased, the user receives a two-year license;
  5. The program supports more than 50 maps of different countries.
What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Before choosing this program, you should take into account that it is very demanding on the performance of the hardware - weak equipment hangs badly when Navitel is turned on. Also, not all available maps are updated in a timely manner, which is why the driver can get confused in the changed roads (this applies to those countries that are rarely visited by the driver). For some users, the program interface is not completely clear.

City Guide

This is a relatively young program that is compatible with the 8th OS. When constructing a route, this shell also uses data on traffic jams and other problem areas of the road in its algorithm.

According to the reviews of those who have been using the program for a long time, it has the following advantages:

  • 3-D picture and good graphics;
  • It is possible to automatically update the traffic situation in accordance with real data received from the satellite;
  • As he approaches the problematic section of the road, the driver is warned in advance about the object, which in some cases makes it possible to change the route;
  • As soon as the driver has left the main route, the program builds an alternative path, and does not lead to the main direction that was originally set;
  • Works fast enough.
What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Among the shortcomings, users note the inability to independently rotate the map in navigation mode.

Label map

The program was developed by the E-TECH company, which develops and configures navigation systems. Those who used this software note the following advantages:

  • Objects on the road are located quickly enough, and navigation through the settings is as clear as possible;
  • Objects are displayed clearly, and map update times are very fast thanks to improved algorithms for working with data from satellites;
  • The driver can create his own card;
  • The interface is intuitive and simplified as much as possible;
  • After specifying the end point, the program leads not only with the highest quality route, but also offers reduced options.
What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

One of the drawbacks that Ukrainian users noticed is that not all maps are fully worked out for a Russian-speaking driver.

Garmin

The peculiarity of this software is that it is only compatible with equipment from the same manufacturer. In addition to this disadvantage, the program is quite expensive for ordinary motorists.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Despite these nuances, those who are ready to fork out get:

  • Excellent signal from satellites, thanks to which the coverage area is much wider than that of conventional navigators;
  • The map displays very high quality images (not drawings, but small photographs) of objects located along the route of transport;
  • During the search, the driver can independently edit the route, taking into account the details of a particular area;
  • The interface is built logically and very user-friendly;
  • Additional service in the form of information about traffic jams in real time.

Anyone who buys a navigator of this brand receives a set of free maps by default. They do not need to be additionally downloaded and downloaded.

iGO

The country where the software was developed is Hungary. Despite the fact that the shell is compatible with only four operating systems, it has literally raised the bar for modern car navigators. One of the advantages was appreciated by lovers of frequent travel abroad. The program contains maps of more than seventy different countries.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

In addition to these advantages, the program has several more advantages:

  • When the driver deviates from the original route, the program quickly rebuilds;
  • Supports 40 languages;
  • Any user will understand the interface;
  • In addition to the objects located along the route, the map contains details of the infrastructure of the area along which the transport travels;
  • When the lighting changes, the picture becomes brighter, regardless of the device's screen settings, and depending on the speed of the car, the map scale changes so that the driver can know in advance about the situation on the road.

True, the program does not receive updates so often, which is why the route may be inadequately built on an outdated map. The program is also focused on large settlements, which is why it may not work correctly in small settlements.

This is a list of programs that will work properly both in Ukraine and in other post-Soviet countries. In Europe, the mentioned software also showed sufficient stability and efficiency. However, before going abroad, you should double-check if there are updates for the corresponding maps.

Selection by important parameters

For the navigator to be practical, quality software alone is not enough. Here are some other parameters you need to pay attention to in order to follow the indicated route as easy as possible.

Data Accuracy

The more accurate the data transmitted and received by the gps module, the more adequate the information will be displayed on the map. This parameter will determine how correctly the driver will be warned about the situation on the road.

In some devices, the card is made only schematically, which makes the task difficult for those who are poorly versed in circuits. More expensive devices with efficient skins installed show clearer and more relevant maps.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

Also, the convenience for the driver is the speed of updating the position of the car on the road. It so happens that the transport has gone astray, and the program reacts too late. It is best to choose a modification that warns about objects in advance. This makes it easier to choose a different route.

Screen size

Most confident users of various electronic gadgets are sure that screen size is almost the most important parameter. But as for navigators for a car, this is not always the case. For example, the portable model is fixed to the windshield for convenience. If the monitor of the device is very large, it will interfere with driving - part of the road will be constantly in the blind zone.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

At the same time, too small a screen will force the driver to peer at the map, which also greatly distracts from the road. Optimal screen sizes are between 5 and 7 inches. This is enough to understand where the car is on the map and what awaits the motorist on the way. If the device has a voice assistant, then the size of the screen does not matter at all, because in this case the assistant will prompt in advance when and where to change lanes so as not to go astray.

Battery

The battery capacity determines how long the device will be able to operate without recharging from the car battery. Although the device can be permanently connected to the cigarette lighter, the model with the battery is easier to update (for example, a card or software) - it can be taken home and adjusted accordingly.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

However, most classic navigators are equipped with a small battery capacity. Usually the battery size is sufficient for 1-2 hours of continuous use. This will be enough time to download a new map or download an update that appears. Otherwise, the device does not need an individual power source.

Memory

But as for the amount of memory, it will not hurt in navigators. Especially if the driver decides to install more than one navigation program. For one shell, which is used within one or two regions of the country, 8GB of internal memory is enough.

When a motorist decides to install additional cards, then he should take a closer look at models with an enlarged internal memory unit and an additional memory card slot. The larger this "pocket" is, the more data it can store. This option will be especially useful in the case of models that have a DVR function.

Processor

Before cramming all the memory of the device "to the eyeballs", you should find out if the processor is able to quickly process all the available data. How quickly will the device suggest an alternative route, will it draw a map, if the car is moving fast, will it have enough time to warn you about danger or the need to rebuild?

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

It all depends on the speed of the processor. If navigation is too slow, it won't be of any use. Also, when updating software, manufacturers not only eliminate errors, but also add some additional functions. Because of this, a subsequent update will slow down the processor even more, since it has a large processing load.

You can determine the processor power by paying attention to the possibility of simultaneous operation of several applications in the background. This suggests that the "brains" of the device are working fast enough.

Chassis

Enough attention should be paid to the strength of the case. If the device falls and breaks during the trip, it will be a shame, especially if it was recently purchased. In most cases, this kind of damage is not covered by the manufacturer's warranty.

In automotive equipment stores, you can find models of navigators in plastic, metal or rubberized cases. There are also options with protection against dust and moisture, but they are more intended for motorcycles, and it makes no sense to overpay for such a case in a car.

What is a GPS navigator and how to choose?

The plastic type has one advantage - it is the lightest, so it adheres best to vertical surfaces. But when dropped, it will not withstand a blow, as is the case with a metal analogue. How to compromise is a matter of personal opinion.

Additional features of GPS navigators for cars

Additional functions of car navigators include the following options that may be useful to some motorists on the road:

  • Some devices can independently download maps when they enter the range of an Internet signal (it will be useful at gas stations that distribute free WI-FI);
  • Slot for expanding the memory of the navigator by installing a memory card;
  • Video recorder (in this case, the processor should be more powerful);
  • In some modifications there is a function of viewing photos or video clips (you can record a movie on a memory card and watch it during a long stop without being distracted from driving);
  • Office applications such as a calculator or calendar
  • The presence of a built-in speaker indicates voice guidance;
  • The radio transmitter (will be a useful option if the radio is old and does not support a USB flash drive or memory card) can broadcast the audio track on a separate radio channel, to which the receiver can be configured in the car;
  • Possibility to connect an external antenna to enhance the GPS signal;
  • Bluetooth connection;
  • The presence of tracking the dynamics of the car (in expensive modifications), for example, the current and permitted speed, warning of violation of the speed limit.

A quality car navigator can be purchased for approximately $ 110. Such a model will have a small package of additional options, but it will do its job perfectly. Additional funds are not charged for updating maps or software. The only thing you have to pay for in this case is the mobile Internet, so during long trips it is better to either turn off the Internet distribution on your phone, or update the maps manually.

In conclusion, we offer a short video review of several good navigator options:

5 BEST CAR NAVIGATORS WITH ALIEXPRESS 2020

Questions and answers:

What are the most popular car GPS navigators? Models of such manufacturers are popular: Navitel. Prestigio, Prology and Garmin. You can pay attention to the Prology iMap-7300, Garmin Nuvi 50, Garmin Drive 50.

How much does a good GPS navigator cost in a car? Not a bad option for those who need a fast navigator and easy to set up, it will cost in the range of 90-120 dollars. It all depends on the required functions.

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