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The task of the navigator is really simple: to determine where you are and where you are going. To do this, there is used a device that receives signals from the satellites of the Global Positioning System (this is what the abbreviation GPS stands for). There are more than twenty such satellites, so they give a very accurate and clear picture.

The main working unit of the navigator is a GPS receiver. This is an antenna, a motherboard, and a storage device. A display is connected to it. The information is displayed in a user-friendly form. Additionally, you can connect other peripherals. Not the last role is played by the software you use. New to the Navigator market is the Garmin DriveSmart 55, which is one of the most popular navigators in 2020 in the United States.

Why you need the GPS navigator?

On average the GPS navigator has got such functions:

• Shows the best route. By the same principle, cards are arranged in smartphones. Modern programs provide different routes based on your transport, distance, or time.
• Memorizes the distance traveled. You will be able to see how and when you drove and repeat this route or just calculate the desired location and time.
• Defines motion parameters. The navigator estimates time, distance, current and average speed, and other peculiarities.
• Prompts direction. The new applications are equipped with a voice module that tells you the direction of movement on the go. You do not have to be constantly distracted by the display. This is especially good while driving.
• Collects background information. You can display up-to-date warnings, speed limit information, information about nearby cafes, attractions, etc.

The main criteria for choosing a GPS-navigator

All GPS-navigators are removable or built-in – depending on the method of installation. In new premium cars, they are already installed by default. Removable are usually purchased separately.

• Display. It depends on how comfortable the navigator is. There used to be simple screens with basic information, but now it’s a full-fledged touch gadget. While choosing it is recommended to consider the diagonal, extension, viewing angle. The larger the display, the easier it is to follow the route, and the larger the segment of the map can be studied at the same time. Pay attention to the presence of an anti-reflective layer, which allows you to see the same picture in any lighting.
• Processor. This is the “heart” of the GPS-navigator, on which depends its performance and speed. The higher the clock speed of the model – the faster it is. Navigators with a performance of 500 MHz perform best. The second key feature that affects the performance of the device is RAM. However, it never happens a lot.
• Charging. The power supply of the navigator can be autonomous or from the network. Its battery is rather efficient but its working time is limited. They are connected via a special connector or a cigarette lighter connector. There are combined options.
• Data storage. It stores preloaded maps and saved routes. The larger the volume, the more convenient it is. You can use third-party SD or MicroSD media. You can even connect a flash drive, but the speed will be much lower.
• Card support. Branded GPS navigators usually work by default with their own branded maps or certain programs. They can be paid or free. It should be checked in advance.
• GSM / GPRS module. This is an optional but very practical module that provides stable data updates from the mobile network, not from WI-FI.