GPS Buy: Do it right

Choosing a GPS may seem daunting to a shopper. Here are three important tips on making your first purchase.

I just bought a portable GPS, used for in-car, land navigation over the weekend.

I scoured the Web for review pages, checked out several manufacturer home pages, and finally, when I thought I had settled on a model, searched various online portals for more reviews and cheaper prices. Visiting review web sites is essential when considering options. I found the TomTom XL 330S to suit my needs best.

First, decide what it will be used for ...

There are several types on the market, with an ever increasing list of uses. If you drive, primarily, you may want an unit that remains with the vehicle. If you hike, you may want a handheld. If you have a boat, a marine GPS may be best.

Since I usually travel from point A to B, I needed the unit to speak the instructions aloud. This is especially useful in heavy traffic, when navigating with a map isn't practical. Two models may be identical in all features, but one will not have audibles. In TomTom's case, this is easily identified by the letter "S", following the model name and number.

Second, consider and pick out the features you must have BEFORE checking out prices. Then you'll know exactly what you want, and can shop for discounts on different sites. Remember, though, that bargain shoppers, in general, like to shop cheap. While an advantage when shopping for a wristwatch or slices of cheese, a GPS with an underpriced sticker should be looked at with suspicion. Bottom line: In the electronics world, you usually get what you pay for.

Third, and finally, it's very important do your homework, continue to refine your requirements, and research, research, research, as if the brand you're looking at will, one day, be called upon to save your life.

Some of the basic things I looked for were: a large, clear, and bright viewing area; the model I selected is a widescreen, 4.3-inch display with an auto-dimming feature based on time of day. Clear, understandable audio. And I needed it to locate my position in a hurry. Some GPS models may take longer than others to start functions, re-calculate a route after a signal loss, etc. If you choose to have bluetooth built in to the unit, it doubles as a hands-free cellphone receiver. And, of course, there are brands that control your iPod, play music, and read audio books during a trip.

I recommend becoming familiar, or at least understanding how GPS works in the first place. This may help when you select a device, and avoid having the salesman "sell" it to you, which I experienced almost every time I stepped into a store to check them out. You should know what you're looking to buy before you buy it.

Online web sites that offer opinions of various brands is a good place to start.

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Angel Sierra is the Digital Production Coordinator at Sauk Valley Newspapers. Find something interesting in the world of science and technology? You can to write to him at asierra@svnmail.com. Your topic may be discussed in an upcoming blog!