Things you won't be told about Auto Navigation Systems
Auto navigation systems have come such a long way since
their inception. It's hard for many to see the product that exists now and
realize exactly how far these devices have come since their origins in the U.
S. Armed Forces. The thing to keep in mind and remember is that they still have
a long way to go. These devices are far from infallible and still have some
serious faults that prohibit us from canning the compass and maps all together.
One thing to keep in mind is that there are almost always
problems of some sort with electronic equipment. This is especially true when
it comes to equipment that is run by software. If anyone doubts the validity of
this statement, check out a computer that is run by Windows? We often find
ourselves at the mercy of the limitations of the software we are using. The
same holds true when it comes to software driven auto navigation systems and
GPS devices. This fact alone makes them a little unreliable. For those times when
reliability isn't at its best keep in mind that for the most part the system
works well. It's just difficult when the times you need it to work well are the
times when it is malfunctioning. The good news is that the units themselves are
often quite resilient and even able to withstand the manhandling a typical
rough and tumble two year old can dish out.
It is also important to keep in mind that GPS technologyisn't meant to replace the use of maps or of common sense when driving. You can
only store so much information on a GPS device and roads are constantly being
built, changes, constructed, improved, and moved. For that reason alone it is
nearly impossible to guarantee that any device will have 100% accurate
information at all times. You should however, choose a device or auto
navigation systems that allows frequent and simple upgrades to the maps
provided. Updating regularly and immediately prior to any large trips will go a
long way towards saving some serious hair pulling while you travel.
Another thing to keep in mind with your auto navigation
device is that it isn't all that reliable whenever you don't have a clear view
of the sky. For that reason there may be times when you aren't able to get a
clear signal. Tunnels are a great example of one of those times. It's not just
about one signal, the device must be able to lock onto three satellites at the
very least in order to be 'seen'. A fourth satellite is usually required for
verification of the data. This means that in some situations where you have a
clear view of the sky, you may not be in a position where all four satellites
have a clear view of you and more importantly your device.
GPS and auto navigation systems are still a far cry better
than trying to read dusty old maps for most of us. Despite that, it is always a
good idea to go into a buying situation with all the facts in hand rather than
thinking you've discovered the next best thing to sliced bread only to find out
that the crust is a little hard and crumbly at times. This technology is
wonderful and affords many benefits to those who are willing and able to make
use of it. It will never sacrifice common sense or map reading skills however
and that is important to understand.
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