Commuters braving rush hour know all too well how traffic jams can quickly tack on extra drive time. In an instant, a long string of red brake lights raises frustration levels that can pile extra stress onto an already hectic week. That’s why real time customized traffic data streaming to your on-board GPS only makes sense.
Like having a traffic reporter seated in the car next to you, on-board GPS units offer detailed traffic data and freeway speed information. As alternative routes are proposed, many devices automatically calculate the estimated driving time and any additional mileage a driver must take to avoid bottle neck situations. When merged with Bluetooth technology, drivers can call home to give the family their estimated arrival time.
Higher end models such as Garmin’s StreetPilot 2730 GPS Receiver offer larger screens that are easier to read, even in bright sunlight, and include convenient voice recognition.
Text to speech capabilities permit the unit to decode and pronounce street names, meaning that as the vehicle approaches a designated turn, the unit prompts drivers to turn left onto Bay Street, for example, instead of simply ordering them to turn left (without naming the street) as most basic models do.
While all GPS Units have the capability to constantly seek out alternative routs and subsequently avoid traffic jams, higher end models double as satellite FM radio broadcasters. These models allow you to listen to your favorite commercial-free music as well as real time traffic reports and weather forecasts while commuting home or to work. Other models are even capable of playing the MP3 format giving you the added freedom to listen to your music collection or favorite audio book.
Commuters who travel with their laptops may opt to transform their computers into GPS units byway of special navigational software. Just remember than since you can’t mount your laptop to the dashboard, frequent glances to a screen in the passenger’s seat could prove dangerous in heavy traffic situations. However a laptop screen is much larger than those on most GPS devices and most software includes voice recognition, still only available on higher end GPS units.
Given the many options, the best advise is to shop around and decide which model suits your needs. Then you’re halfway on the road towards less wearisome commutes.
Writer and commuter, James W. Coates knows the frustration the daily drive adds to his life. He loves how
GPS devices can assist drivers in getting home faster and in one piece. Share your
GPS driving story on his Blog at
Nomadik.com.
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Posted on March 02, 2007 03:03 |
Technology
