Preparation
Review the vehicle owner's manual.
Starting Out: General GPS Navigation Features
Is the screen large enough to read easily? Even in bright sunlight?
Does the interface include:
A touchscreen?
Knobs and buttons?
A combination of both?
Is the interface easy and intuitive to use?
Does the system respond quickly to inputs?
Does the system provide:
Voice activation?
Geo fencing?
Weather reports?
Restaurant ratings?
Topographical maps?
Traffic info?
Notification of traffic incidents
Fuel finder
"Breadcrumbing"?
Off-road routing?
Mapping Software and Graphics:
Where does mapping software reside?
DVD
Hard disk
SD card
Mapping software can be updated. Cost to update $ _____
Are map graphics realistic and detailed?
Does the map provide a:
3-D view?
Aerial view? If so, is the angle adjustable?
Does the system have color-coded maps showing parks, shopping malls, etc.?
Destination and POI Input
Can you input destinations by:
Address?
Intersection?
POI?
Phone number?
Point on map?
Other?
Does the system include an address book?
Does the system have a "Home" button for quick routing?
Does the system provide info and routing to emergency services?
Does the system allow inputting multiple destinations and waypoints for stops along a route?
Number of Points of Interest (POIs) ____
Routing
Do you have a choice of routes to a destination?
Quickest?
Shortest?
Can you avoid freeways/toll roads/ferries/etc.?
Is it easy to cancel a route?
Does the system quickly and easily reroute you if you miss a turn?
Can you preview a chosen route? If so, in what level of detail?
Are the turn-by-turn directions clear via:
Map graphics on the display?
Voice guidance through the audio system?
Does the system provide:
A split screen at turns showing your upcoming maneuver on one side and a routing screen on other side?
Lane guidance for negotiating complex freeway exits?
See the related articles in the Car Technology 101 series.
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