Sat-nav system

While in the past drivers had to rely on passengers for directions or, if travelling alone, often ended up making a number of time consuming stops to check routes on a map or road atlas, the advent of satellite navigation means motorists now have access to detailed directions at the touch of a button.

While in the past drivers had to rely on passengers for directions or, if travelling alone, often ended up making a number of time consuming stops to check routes on a map or road atlas, the advent of satellite navigation means motorists now have access to detailed directions at the touch of a button.

Satellite navigation, or sat-nav, systems use GPS global positioning system technology to accurately pinpoint their own location anywhere in the world with the help of satellite signals.Once a location has been identified the sat-nav system can then reference this against mapping databases in order to provide a driver with clear and concise directions to their designated destination.

Sat-nav systems, such as those available from big name brands including TomTom, Garmin and Navman, offer drivers access to an unprecedented level of information while on the road, which can be given in a number of ways. Sat-navs will feature a screen display, offering motorists visual aids to guide them on their journeys, units also feature a voice feature, giving spoken instructions to allow drivers to follow the sat-nav recommended route with no need to take their eyes off the road. Sat-nav systems, including those made by manufacturers Snooper, Medion and Pioneer, also offer a wide range of additional features and functions ranging from entertainment options to communication capabilities to subscription services.

Additional entertainment options include features such as MP3 and video playback, CD and DVD functions, photo viewing and even games, to help kill time when waiting around in a vehicle. 

Drivers who like to keep in touch while on the go may wish to opt for a sat-nav unit offering Bluetooth connectivity, which will allow them to make safe and legal hands free mobile phone calls while on the road, as well as offering fast and easy file sharing and information transfers with the need for cabled computer connection.

Subscription sat nav services available on a number of the best systems include live traffic updates, helping drivers avoid congestion and interactive mapping options offering local search facilities to help motorists find services from hotels to restaurants to local attractions when visiting an unfamiliar area. 

Sat-nav systems are available to buy from all the best electrical retailers and anyone looking to buy a system can compare consumer reviews online to help determine which is the best model to suit their needs, and ensuring they get the best sat-nav deal at the cheapest possible price.