Navigation systems are a perfect accessory for family road trips, on-the-road jobs, or even just around town to get you to that new restaurant everyone's been raving about. And they're easier than ever to program and control. Simply use the touch screen or voice recognition to input where you want to go and the system will do the rest - displaying the directions on the screen or even speaking them to you as you drive. So no matter where you are, you'll always find your way... and make it there on time.

How it Works

Basic navigation systems consist of a navigation unit (about the size and shape of your in-dash CD receiver),display monitors, internal gyroscope, and Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) antenna.

The system first sends a GPS ("Global Positioning Satellite") signal to a satellite orbiting the Earth. The satellite takes that signal and triangulates it with other fixed positions on the ground to determine your location. It then transmits your location back to the unit. From there, the system consults the mapping data on the CD/DVD-ROM you inserted and calculates the distance and directions from where you currently are to the destination you desire - either by shortest route, fastest route, avoiding major/secondary roads, toll-roads, etc.

In addition, most systems also contain a self-regulating gyroscope (to monitor your vehicle's turns) and a speed sensor (to monitor your vehicle's speed and mileage traveled) so it always knows exactly where you are on the road and, through visual displays and voice prompts, can precisely alert you to what turns to make, what street you're on, the distance remaining to your destination, and even the configuration of an upcoming intersection.

In fact, it's so precise (usually +/- 40 feet) that should you make a wrong turn along your journey, the system will automatically realize it and adjust your route accordingly to get you back on track.

Note: Due to safety regulations, most navigation units will only let you program the system while the emergency break is engaged to ensure your concentration remains on the road.

Features to Consider

• DVD-ROM Compatibility: Maps that might normally take up to 10 CD's can be easily fit onto one DVD, saving you storage space and the hassle of constantly switching discs. Plus, DVD-ROMs have lightning-fast access to data - nearly ten times faster than CD-ROM's - helping you find your way in an instant.
  
  
• Retractable Monitor: A great space-saving, theft-deterrent feature that allows easier access to any dashboard controls that might otherwise be blocked by the monitor. An additional, slim slot is usually installed right above the navigation unit where the flat-screen monitor retracts into when not in use.
  
  
• Multiple viewing modes: Some models not only let you view a conventional overview map (much like a typical gas-station road map), but also offer a 3-D "driver' view" as if looking through your windshield (if reading and processing maps aren't your forte) as well as spoken instructions (such as "turn right at the next intersection"). And be sure to look for models that offer the most information possible - current location, route/miles traveled, destination, street names, and upcoming turns.
  
  
• Points of Interest (POI): Look for CD/DVD-ROM databases that also include up-to-date points of interest - from little-known, must-see tourist attractions to the nearest gas station and 4-star restaurant. Most POI's allow you to search the database by name, address, and phone number or browse by city and category, such as gas stations, airports, hotels, stores, etc.
  
  
• CD/DVD Player: A great space-saving feature that allows the same unit you use for navigation to also be used to play audio CD's and even DVD movies - that is, as long as you have video monitor's installed in the back (due to safety regulations, DVD movies cannot be played on the in-dash navigation screen unless the emergency break is engaged). To ensure maximum functionality, look for a unit that can read and playback CD-R/RW and MP3-encoded discs. And you'll most likely want a great speaker system to deliver that pure six-channel sound to really make your entertainment truly come alive.

That's why getting the help of one of Car Toys' MECP-certified installers can be crucial for an efficient and accurate navigation system. Why not schedule an appointment today at one of our over 50 nearby Car Toys locations in WA, OR, CO, or TX to see what our professional installers can do for you?