A navigation system in your car--with the help of global positioning satellites (GPS) sending out synchronized signals to wandering souls all over the planet--pinpoints your location with great accuracy. When your position is compared with the GPS system's embedded maps, frustrating voyages of all kinds turn into precision-guided tours.
Take your budget into account. If you're lusting after a high-end GPS system for your car, buy a built-in unit from your car dealer. If cash outlay is a concern, good-quality dash-mount and handheld systems are one-tenth to one-fifth the price of built-in ones.
Imagine where you want to use your navigation system--driving around city streets, hiking mountains or touring the Virgin Islands in your yacht? Each intended use has its unique needs, whether it's street maps and directions, topographical and altitude information or extra battery power.
Decide what kind of maps you'll need: general, what-state-am- I-in maps, or precise city-driving directions? This will determine the capabilities you'll need from your system. After you make your purchase, make sure all the appropriate maps are loaded.
Look for features such as audible alerts that warn you of upcoming intersections or turns, and scrolling maps to track your progress. Opt for units with a larger display to avoid zooming in and out repeatedly to read names and find intersections.
