Global positioning system (GPS) trackers are portable devices that allow fleet managers, parents, and vehicle owners of all kinds to monitor and track their cars and trucks. Real-time GPS trackers for cars are capable of providing instantaneous speed and location data, while less expensive options record this type of information for later use. With some GPS vehicle trackers, it's even possible to set up real-time alerts to go off whenever a driver speeds or deviates from a specific area.

How Does GPS Tracking Work?

GPS tracking uses a network of satellites to determine the location of a device that was specifically designed for that purpose. The basic idea is that a GPS tracker uses a process called trilateration to determine its physical location based on its distance from three GPS satellites. This is the exact same technology used by your portable or in-car navigation system.

The difference between a GPS tracker and a car navigation system is that the navigation system provides you with your location and driving directions, while a tracker either keeps a record of your driving habits or broadcasts its location in real time.

When a GPS tracker for a car is capable of broadcasting its location, it typically uses the exact same technology that your cell phone does to make calls or connect to the internet. This is why some GPS car trackers require a monthly subscription fee.

What Are Car Tracking Devices Used For?

The main purpose of a GPS car tracking device is to let you know where your vehicle is at all times, and there are a lot of different scenarios where that can be helpful. For instance, if your car was stolen, but you had a tracker installed, you could provide the police with its exact location.

GPS trackers for cars also fall directly in the rift between free-range parenting and authoritative parenting. With the right tracker installed in your teen’s car, you can pull up their location in real-time, or view a record of where they’ve been, when they were there, and even whether or not they broke the speed limit.

Vehicle tracking devices are also tremendously useful for owners of large fleets of cars or trucks. Some use the technology to keep tabs on where their vehicles are at any given time to better coordinate daily operations, while others are more interested in tracking mileage for bookkeeping or reimbursement.

Of course, there is the dark side of automobile GPS trackers, too. Some might use them without the vehicle owner's knowledge to keep track of where the vehicle goes and when. If you suspect that's the case, you can always try to locate GPS tracker that's been hidden on your vehicle.

If you can think of any situation where you might want to know where your car is, or where it has been, then you might need a GPS car tracker. The only caveat is that most of these trackers require cell service to provide you real-time location data.

How Do You Use a GPS Car Tracker?

Using a GPS tracker in your car is usually pretty easy, but the process is a little different from one device to the next. The main difference is the power source, but there is enough variation that it’s still a good idea to check the manual first.

Some GPS trackers are designed to plug into the onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) connector that is usually located under the dash near the driver’s legs. The benefit here is that these trackers get power directly from the diagnostic connector, so they’re extremely easy to use. If you’ve ever used a code reader or scan tool, then using this type of tracker is a breeze.

Other car trackers are designed to plug into a cigarette lighter or accessory socket, which also limits where you can install them. These trackers are very easy to install and use, but some of them will continue to draw power from your battery when you aren't driving. In that case, you need to unplug the tracker to prevent your battery from going dead.

The most discreet car GPS trackers are powered by battery, which means they can be installed virtually anywhere. Since there is no external power source, this type of tracker has to be removed and charged periodically, or it will stop working.

Once you have a GPS tracker installed in your vehicle, you can use software on your computer, phone or tablet to view its location in real-time.

Are GPS Trackers for Cars Legal?

While all of the usages outlined above are legal in most jurisdictions, it’s important to understand that there are some circumstances where using a car tracking device could land you in hot water. When in doubt, contact a lawyer for legal advice on the matter.

The general rule of thumb is that if it’s your car, you can track it. This is true for both privately owned vehicles and vehicles that are owned by a company. So if you want to keep track of your minor child, or keep tabs on your employees during work hours, you’re generally in the clear.

If you don’t own a car, then it’s usually illegal to install a tracker in it. There are exceptions for police, provided that they obtain a warrant first, and private investigators working under the instructions of the owner of a vehicle. It’s illegal in most other circumstances, and some jurisdictions even have cyberstalking laws that specifically address GPS car trackers.

While GPS trackers for cars can be used to spy on people, legal uses fall well short of that mark. If you have any concerns, of course, you should seek a professional's legal advice. Even in the case of tracking a teen driver or an employee, the main goals are safety, accountability, and efficiency, rather than spying.

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

The advent of navigation apps may make a dedicated GPS system feel like overkill. But that’s only because you don’t know today’s GPS systems. Modern devices can do a lot more than simply offer turn-by-turn directions. They utilize real-time traffic data to help define the most direct route, locate gas stations and repair shops, take actual dash cam video to help you gather evidence in case of an accident, and let you roam the rugged off-road environs that live just beyond the pavement—and then let you share your journey via your preferred social media. Now GPS’s can be voice-commanded, allowing you to add something to your Amazon list when you remember you’re out of paper towels, warn you of speed traps and upcoming exit speeds, or download reliable maps to cities throughout the world. Here, our favorite GPS systems on the market now.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Garmin DriveSmart 61

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If you’re looking for the absolute best GPS system that combines ease of use and reliable results, you won’t do any better than the Garmin DriveSmart 61. The unit immediately stands out with a 6.95-inch capacitive touch display. Larger than most smartphone displays, the edge-to-edge display is clear and delivers navigation information at a glance. With custom waypoints such as home or office, Garmin also adds millions of points of interest. Finding the nearest gas station, Starbucks, or airport is as easy as a few button presses.

Even with all of its dedicated GPS features, the DriveSmart is much more than just a GPS unit. Bluetooth compatibility allows it to connect directly to your smartphone. From there, the Garmin can facilitate hands-free calls and text notifications as well as calendar reminders for your next appointment. It also has a voice-activated navigation feature so you can tell it your next destination without having to type in any addresses.

Best Budget: TomTom VIA 1425M

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A 4.3-inch touchscreen makes it easy to follow directions on the TomTom VIA 1425M—or to tell the system where you want to go by simply tapping the desired destination. TomTom uses advanced lane guidance to help you maneuver into the right position for exits and intersections by highlighting the optimal route, with an easy-to-assemble reversible dashboard mount. It runs for one hour per charge, with both USB and car charger options, as well as a micro SD card slot if you want to supplement the onboard 8MB internal memory. Out of the box, you get maps for the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with free updates for the life of the navigation device, and the spoken instructions can be configured to more than 30 different languages

Best Hands-Free:Garmin Speak Pl

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The Speak Plus is what you’d get if you married your favorite GPS with one of the industry’s best digital personal assistants. This device uses Amazon Alexa as its core AI, allowing you to play music from Amazon Music, Pandora, IHeartRadio, and other apps—and you can also control your smart devices at home, ask about the weather, or order up just about anything. Garmin’s stellar legacy with GPS tech handles the navigation, including turn-by-turn audible directions (with screen prompts) that you can trigger just by pinging Alexa to ask Garmin to get you home, to work, or to the Empire State Building.

A built-in dash cam adds a layer of comfort in the unlikely event that you’re in an accident, along with driver assist features to fight off those chances, including forward collision and lane departure warnings. The GPS also works with Bluetooth-enable devices for hands-free calls and integrates with your car stereo wirelessly or via a standard AUX cable.

Best for Off-Road Adventures: Magellan TR5 Trail and Street GPS

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If sticking to main roads isn’t your thing, then you need the Magellan TR5 trail and street GPS on your next off-road adventure. With over 115,000 preloaded trail routes, there’s something here for four-wheel driving, ATVs, and snowmobiles. Magellan also adds more than 6.6 million points of interest. Finding a POI or setting up is easy using the TR5’s five-inch touchscreen display. The unit itself is ideal for off-road vehicles because it is shock, dust, and water resistant.

It won’t come as any surprise to previous GPS users that the TR5 is packed with audio and visual navigation assistance. If you’re busy keeping your eyes on the trail, the audio will keep you safely on track. In the event that you need to make a quick return home, hit the Backtrack button and it returns you to the initial starting point. Beyond navigation, the unit can also sync to a smartphone via Bluetooth for incoming call notifications as well as text and calendar alerts.

Best for International Travel: TomTom Go 520

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Most GPS units come with pre-loaded maps of North America, but the TomTom Go 520 has a more global point of view and comes with maps of the entire world pre-loaded. Best of all, with built-in W-iFi connectivity, the device will notify you whenever new updates are available, so you can update without a computer. The device also communicates with your smartphone; it can read out text messages upon request, or find contacts and dial for hands-free calling. You can also trigger Siri and Google Now with the tap of a button on the device.

Maps update for the lifetime of the device, and it uses real-time traffic data to plot out your optimal route. When back from exploring the world, the Go 520 can also learn your driving habits to predict when and where you most drive to help carve out your ideal route. The only (potential) drawback: the five-inch screen isn’t as massive as some of the others on this list, but it’s still plenty big, especially if you’re driving a Euro mini sports car.

Best for Motorcycles: Garmin zumo 396 LMT-S

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GPS devices geared toward helping motorcyclists face a mountain of considerations that car-friendly devices don’t, and the zumo 396 LMT-S has all those variables covered. The rugged, glove-friendly 4.3-inch device resists damage from fuel vapors, UV rays, and harsh weather, and remains easy to read in bright sunlight. As with most devices, you also get real-time traffic notification and hands-free calling via Bluetooth, and you can control your music and playlists from the GPS screen.

Embracing the fun nature of motorcycling, the device includes a choose-your-own-adventure-style Adventurous Routing navigation feature that lets you modify the route by preferring curves and hills, and avoiding the dull drone of major highways. For group rides, you can dial your preferred route and share it via GPX files with fellow riders, and when you sync the device to a smartphone, you can share your whereabouts in real time. Alerts include traffic and weather updates as well as speed and red-light camera notification as well as when sharp turns are approaching. The device utilizes a built-in trip computer that tracks every important stat on your bike, including gas, air filters, brake pads, and fluids—and will tell you when to stop for fuel by providing options for nearby gas stations. The only thing the zumo 396 doesn’t do is drive your bike — but you’ve got that part covered.

Best for RVs: Magellan Roadmate RV9365T-LMB

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The open road carries a whole host of hazards when you’re driving a big rig of an RV or dragging your camper or rec vehicle behind you on a trailer. No tight turns, please, and definitely no cobblestones. But other factors are equally important to avoid, including streets that restrict U-turns or are dodgy and unpaved. The Roadmate RV9365T-LMB lets you program your vehicle’s dimensions into the device, along with other driver preferences, and then plots a route that caters to those considerations.

The Magellan Roadmate also comes pre-loaded with a Good Sam RV Travel Guide and Campground Directory (including info on each site like whether they have Wi-Fi or are pet-friendly), along with a list of RV Sani-Dump Station Locations. The 7-inch touchscreen adjusts for day or night viewing, and works with real-time traffic updates to dodge delays, and includes other navigation tips like nearby gas stations, traffic cam alerts, lane-assist guidance, and a personalized favorites menu. Map updates are good for the life of the device, and it also tracks your speed as well as the speed limit.

Best Dash Cam GPS: Garmin Dash Cam 65W

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Get into one controversial accident and you’ll understand the implicit value of reliable evidence to help support your side of the story. While the Dash Cam 65W is GPS-enabled, it’s not focused on navigation. Instead, this device lets you capture 1080p-resolution video footage with 180-degree coverage via voice command. It’ll also automatically save footage on impact thanks to GPS-enabled Incident Detection, which captures both the when and the where of what happened to supplement the video.

The Garmin Dash cam also delivers useful navigation alerts like forward-collision and lane-departure warnings and notifications on red-light and speed cameras. It's not all about bad news, though; the device offers fun ways to capture the highlights of a stellar road trip. Simply command the device to take a photo, record video or audio, or activate the Travelapse feature, which condenses hours of driving into a minutes-long stream of the road trip highlights. Naturally, it syncs with your smartphone thanks to built-in Wi-Fi, so you can wirelessly add videos to your device after downloading the VIRB Mobile app, making it easy to share footage with friends, family, insurance companies, and legal authorities.

Our Process

Our writers spent 5 hours researching the most popular GPS systems on the market. Before making their final recommendations, they considered 12 different GPS systems, screened options from 5 different brands and manufacturers, read more than 10 user reviews (both positive and negative), and tested 1 of the GPS systems themselves. All of this research adds up to recommendations you can trust.

effort. Programs in lots of ways. GPS programs have a reputation for depleting telephone batteries, therefore energy savings anywhere in the system assist the iPhone go the distance with GPS triggered. Many programs want to use your place to pinpoint where You're, but no The iPhone 6 utilizes a fast and efficient A8 processor, which rewards GPSAccelerometer to discover movementCompass used by navigation, outside and hiking programsBarometer to establish elevation and identify comparative elevation changesGyroscopeM8 movement coprocessorSpinning GPS Settings Away and OnSwitch off all Location Services in the peak of the screen or flip Location Services on or off to every program recorded at the bottom of the display. Be aware that Location Services involves the usage of GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspots and mobile towers to pinpoint where you are.Around GPS and PrivacyAdhering to the well-publicized shortcomings of the organization's first Maps The iPhone 6 using its 4.7-inch screen as well as also the iPhone 6 Plus using its 5.5-inch screen provide enhanced GPS attributes to users. The huge screen size is an important plus for iPhone GPS navigation programs because utilizing maps and subsequent camera instructions can be squint-inducing on smaller displays. On the iPhone 6 depends heavily on GPS to operate correctly. Every iOS Place that prevents apparent entry to signals from three or more satellites--for example if it's in a construction, heavily wooded region, or canyon or one of skyscrapers--it depends on local cell towers and Wi-Fi signs to set up place. This is really where assisted GPS provides the user an edge over standalone GPS devices. Companies to provide far better support. The GPS chip utilizes a procedure called trilateration, where it finds at least three of the potential satellite signals to set a location. Though other nations are operating on satellites of their own, only Russia has a similar system, known as GLONASS. The iPhone GPS chip may get GLONASS satellites when required. Creation offers further developments in Apple's map surroundings, Program may use your info when you have not given it your consent from the Privacy settings. If you let sites or third party programs to utilize where you are, read their privacy policies, provisions, and techniques to comprehend how they intend to utilize where you are.Improvements from the Maps AppThe iPhone can not consistently get a GPS signal. If the telephone is in a Have to prepare the GPS chip onto your telephone, however you can turn it off or on. It utilizes the GPS chip together with Wi-Fi networks and local phone towers to figure the phone's position. This procedure for using numerous technologies to set up place is known as assisted GPS. The iPhone 6 includes a built-in GPS chip for example its predecessors. You do not The iPhone 6 comprises additional detectors that operate alone or together with GPS. These include: The Apple Maps program GPS on the iPhone could be turned off and on from the Preferences program.

• Most Useful for Luggage: Amcrest AM-GL300 in Amazon, "Accessible remotely Using a smartphone or Tablet computer Supplying a Real Time location with Upgrades as Fast as every 60 Minutes"

• Greatest for Elderly: Yepzon Freedom in Amazon, "The Yepzon Freedom GPS tracker can be really a really miniature pendant-shaped wearable together with superior tracking accuracy and also a integral SOS alert"

• Greatest for kids: Whistle 3 GPS Pet Tracker in Amazon, "Software cellular technologies to pin point the furry friend's position anytime and monitors their moves in the previous 2-4 hours"

• Most Useful for Cars: MOTOsafety OBD GPS Tracker in Amazon, "Connects straight to Google Maps for intense precision on location, rate traffic requirements."

Our Top Picks

Best for Hiking: Spot Gen3

 

The Position Gen-3 is a hiker's fantasy GPS tracker and it Features a rocky Outer shell that is a lot more than capable of resisting harsh surroundings. The rubberized border wraps across the plastic outside protecting against impacts and shocks and also seals your human anatomy for water proofing. As the quality is noteworthy, it is the the aid of a satellite mobile system which makes the location stick out. Unlike many GPS trackers which rely upon a cell sign, the Position works in a satellite telephone that enables it to broadcast position data in regions which a lot of cellular GPS trackers can't reach.

Maintaining battery lifetime while Onthego from the Great Outdoors is not Only a great The location strikes this particular with tracking motion that sends upgrades even though you are on the movement along with ceases sending upgrades when you are maybe not. Preparing the Position is a cinch and GPS upgrades can head out every 5, 10, 30 or even 60 minutes. If you should be in extreme states, you may even place correct the update frequency to as low as every 2.5 moments to remain connected with the surface world. Battery lifetime changes by usage frequency, but can extend anywhere from a week over four AAA batteries as long as 156 days when utilized on 60-minute spans with a 100 per cent clear view of the skies. For your adventurer who would rather take into the paths, the location gen-3 is really a must-own.

Have a look at our other testimonials of the top trekking GPS​ trackers on the marketplace now.

Best for Kids: Wonbo Kid Smart Watch

 

 Providing ample reassurance to parents, your Wonbo children' Smart-watch Along with GPS tracker can be really a superb option. Simply down load the Wonbo program for your phone or other mobile device and you're able to track the watch location from anywhere utilizing a GSM phone link. Parents may even utilize text messaging along with Wonbo's internet site to track the youngster's location whenever they do not possess the program available on hand.

Being an additional layer of safety, children can utilize the Wonbo to phone Their parents directly out of their own wrist. A youngster holds down the"SOS" button to dial up the very first booked phone or press on the number"two" to telephone an extra rate dial number. When a kid leaves this area, an alarm is automatically delivered to your parent's telephone number.

And, unlike a Number of Other GPS trackers created for Kids, the Wonbo is Actually one they are going to definitely want to work with. It looks Exactly like a trendy, Hightech See and will come in three different colors: cherry, green, and Turquoise-blue. 

Best for Luggage: Amcrest AM-GL300

 

 There exists a fantastic opportunity that you or some one you know has got a misplaced a purse when vacationing. It occurs for the very best folks also manufactures for the following reasons GPS trackers are valuable. Even the Amcrest AM-GL300 is not a passionate bag tote, however its own water-resistant matchbox-sized circumstance readily fits in to any sort of luggage. Insert two weeks of battery life life plus also you're turning the wave by simply finding your misplaced bag without even awaiting the air line to telephone. Even the Amcrest runs off a quadband 2 g GSM system driven by both equally AT&T along with t mobile that offer GPS place where cellular sign can be found.

You can not place a value on reassurance, making the month-to-month services plan significantly more compared to fee taking into consideration it may double as being a GPS tracker to get a vehicle or inside of an adolescent's backpack if not monitoring bag. Getting your GPS spot can be obtained remotely with a smartphone or tablet computer providing real-time place with upgrades as fast as each and every 60 minutes. Adding Geo Fencing alarms may assist you to immediately identify whether a sheet of bag has never caused it to be into the essential destination immediately through text or e-mail .

Best for Elderly: Yepzon Freedom

 

Keeping an Eye on your older loved ones is equally extremely significant, and also the Yepzon liberty GPS tracker can be really a exact miniature pendant-shaped wearable using remarkable monitoring accuracy plus also a integral SOS alarm clock. It works by using GPS, 3G mobile networks (using a builtin sim-card ), and also wi fi to automatically separate the family's spot, which makes that it monitors a lot more accurately indoors and outside. Even the works-anywhere strategy is paired by way of a protracted battery lifetime which may be tracked with a downloadable program so that it runs out suddenly. The program  also enables multiple professionals to adhere to almost any Yepzon one particular GPS device.

Yepzon trackers do not need an improvement contract or subscription You simply pick up the bill for that service since you utilize cancel and it once you desire. (This support Also Has the Price of this 3G information your tracker utilizes Which means that you never need to pay for to this ) The flexibility of That the Yepzon leaves it well suited for elderly adults that is able to put it on all over the Neck and possess immediate accessibility to this SOS work, enabling them to mail An tuned in to loved-ones' mobiles any time they desire assistance. The watertight Casing causes it to be both ideal if it truly is worn at a shower or pool (drops from the shower are common with older ). Easy and Simple To work with, the Yepzon is fantastic for people that would like to check after their Grandparents and parents without any sense nostalgic. 

Best for Pets: Whistle 3 GPS Pet Tracker & Activity Monitor

 

In case your furry friend buddies are inclined to ramble -- maybe Somewhat further than the usual Needs to -- then you definitely are in need of an idea B keep them more safe. The Whistle 3 GPS Pet Tracker has substantial praisefrom numerous puppy reviewers and owners. The system utilizes cellular technologies to pin point your own pet position anytime and monitors their moves in the previous 2 4 hoursper day. You may even put automatic alarms in your own mobile, which means you're going to be advised if a dog leaves their specified"protected zone" This may provide you a much-needed lead-time to grab up prior to they operate a lot off.The Whistle 3 is really a Light Weight tracker That Suits comfortably in your own Dog's collar (advocated excess weight: at 8 kilos ). It's a Seven-day battery lifetime and also can be both watertight and thoroughly resilient. Even the Apparatus it self is not inexpensive, however, also the subscription program is $6.95 each Month, and also the company program can be used with all the hottest i-phone along with Android applications. The Only Drawback Is the Fact That It's just harmonious with AT&T's mobile system.

Best for Cars: MOTOsafety  OBD GPS Tracker

Whether you’re the parent of a teen driver or simply want additional security for your vehicle, the MOTOsafety GPS is an excellent choice. The device connects directly to Google Maps for extreme accuracy on location, speed, and traffic conditions. Monitor your car’s comings and goings in real time using the free mobile app, which updates your car’s location every sixty seconds. In addition, the customizable geo-fencing feature allows you to set perimeters around key locations and will send text or email alerts whenever your vehicle enters or exits that specific area.

What sets MOTOsafety apart from the competition are its unique features tailored specifically for parents of teen drivers. Daily Report Cards keep your teen in check, monitoring driving habits like speed, braking, and acceleration. The software also tracks the amount of gas in the tank, so your car will never be running on empty. For this level of reassurance for your teen and your car, the MOTOsafety tracker offers a convenient, flexible payment plan, with no activation or cancellations fees, no contracts, and just a $19.99 monthly charge.

Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best car GPS trackers.

 

Most smartphones are GPS capable now, but few personal computers or laptops are. It is relatively easy to add GPS technology to your PC with a GPS receiver. Once you do, there are certain things you can do with your computer and GPS that will make your digital life, and life in general, a bit easier.

Use Your PC to Update GPS Maps

Keep your maps and other data on your GPS up to date. Most dedicated GPS devices come with a USB connection. With this, you can download the latest roadmap and other data as needed. Many manufacturers allow you to purchase, download and install supplemental maps that go beyond the base maps that came with your device.

Plot Routes, Analyze Data, and Keep a Log

Plot routes before you depart and then download and analyze trip data when you return. GPS receivers may come with mapping software that permits you to plot a route on your personal computer before you depart, and then transfer it to your GPS device. This is especially useful for day hiking or backpacking when used in tandem with detailed supplemental topographic maps.

When you return from a trip or workout, you can transfer your trip data to your computer mapping software to analyze and graph the data. Storage and analysis of workout data and creating a digital, high-tech training diary is especially useful to athletes.

Use Your Laptop as a GPS Device

Use your laptop computer itself as a GPS navigator. Purchase a laptop-specific GPS receiver and link it to your laptop by USB or a Bluetooth wireless connection. Laptop GPS devices and software are affordable and easy to use..

Try GPS-Enhanced Online Services

Use your personal computer with GPS-enhanced online services. Most online digital photo services let you attach GPS location data to your photos. These photos are keyed to a map, creating location-based photo galleries.

Another type of online service lets you upload route and other data, such as elevation or heart rate from your GPS, and map it to share with friends, your coach, or with the world. Sites such as Garmin Connect help you manage and display route and training data.

 

When pilots are being trained, they're often told "first, you aviate, then you navigate." That's good advice for flying and for driving a car (just substitute driving for aviation in the phrase). It's a reminder worth repeating to yourself if you find you are becoming distracted at the wheel. Your first and most important job is staying aware of your environment and keeping your vehicle where it belongs.

In-car GPS is a potential distraction, and "distracted driving" as the safety experts call it, is a common cause of accidents. That said, you are a much safer driver overall if you use your in-car GPS wisely and follow some basic rules.

Reasons Why You're Safer With GPS

1. You know where you're going. Being lost and/or being distracted as you try to see street signs and get oriented is a significant and dangerous distraction. You are rarely lost with a GPS in use, and even if you miss a turn, the GPS will recalculate the route automatically and get you where you need to go with minimal stress and distraction.
2. You don't need to deal with maps. Handling and reading maps while driving is a feat we have all attempted, but it's a significant distraction. Even with a passenger doing the map reading and providing directions (this doesn't always go smoothly, does it?), you are better off with GPS.
3. GPS improves night driving safety. Not often discussed, but in our opinion, one of the best features of in-car GPS is the fact that it gives you better road awareness at night and in low-visibility conditions. At night, and especially during bad-weather night driving, a GPS will tell you about and show you an upcoming turn, ramp, etc. long before you can see it. On dark back roads, the GPS map will give you a preview of what's ahead.

1. You know which lane to be in. One of the challenges of driving unfamiliar and busy multi-lane highways is knowing which lane you'll need for an upcoming exit. A good-quality text-to-voice GPS will tell you the correct lane well in advance.
2. Safety features, such as hands-free calling, special help buttons that show you the nearest police, hospital, garage, and more.

Two Things to Avoid

1. Be extra careful to avoid being distracted by the GPS if you are a beginner. That cool new touchscreen, all of those menu options – don't let them take your eyes and attention away from the road. Beginners tend to look at the screen much more than they should. Be especially conscious of following the tips below as you learn how to use your GPS.
2. Don't program the GPS while moving. You will see this rule in all of the GPS safety manuals and start-up screen text, for good reason. Enter your destination before you depart. If you need to cancel or change a destination, pull over in a safe area and stop, or wait until you are stopped at a traffic light, and re-program. Some in-car GPS navigators have optional settings that will prevent address input while the car is in motion.

More Tips

1. Learn to rely on the voice directions. Rely primarily on the voice directions, with an occasional glance at the map (much as you would glance at the speedometer or another instrument) to confirm or preview turns.
2. Mount the GPS away from important sight lines. It's usually easy to position your GPS low and near the dashboard and out of key driving sight lines.

Just remember, first you aviate (or drive) and then you navigate as a second priority. It's up to you to use your GPS in a way that enhances, rather than detracts from safe driving.

If you just received your first in-car GPS, you're in good company. Sales are booming, and for good reason – prices have come down, and function and portability have improved dramatically over the past several years. GPS menus are so intuitive that you can just power up and go, but you'll get a lot more from your GPS, and travel more safely if you spend a little time on setup and feature previews before you hit the road.

What's in the Box

Your GPS comes with a windshield mounting bracket with a suction cup, and most likely, a "dashboard disk" as well. The dashboard disk has an adhesive backing that permits it to be secured to a flat, smooth dash surface. This will accept the suction cup as well, in case you don't want to mount the bracket on the windshield.

Take a few moments to become familiar with the bracket – some have adjustment nuts, and others have simple friction joints to adjust the GPS position. Learn how to mount and dismount the GPS from the bracket.

Your GPS will also come with a power cord that plugs into your car's power port, and may have a USB cable for connectivity to your personal computer. Pricier models with traffic tracking and avoidance features may come with a traffic receiver that picks up FM traffic signals. Many models also come with a CD that includes the full-length manual and perhaps software for interfacing your GPS with your personal computer and online services and updates.

Password/PIN Protection

The first time you power up your GPS, you will likely be asked to set your local time zone. You may also be prompted to opt in or out of password protection. Password protection is in place primarily to protect your personal information if your GPS is stolen. It's inconvenient to input a password or PIN every time you start your GPS, so factor that into your decision. Some GPS units don't require a password or PIN at startup when the unit is started a pre-selected "safe" location, such as the home address, which is a nice feature.

Explore Key Features

You'll get more from your GPS and travel more safely if you get to know the unit's menu system before you drive. Keep your quick-start guide handy as you explore. Set your home address, so that your "home" button works (the home button directs you home from wherever you are located, a nice feature). Become familiar with how to enter destinations. Learn how to increase and decrease the speaker volume. Check out how to switch between day and night modes (many models do this automatically based on a light sensor).

Pair Your Phone

If your GPS has Bluetooth wireless connectivity and hands-free phone features, now is the time to pair up your phone and become familiar with your GPS's calling features.

Safety

You are a safer driver with a GPS on board, if you follow some simple guidelines and know what not to do while you drive.

Preventing Theft

One last caution before you drive: remove your GPS and its windshield suction mount from your windshield and stow it out of site every time you park in a public place. Unfortunately, GPS units are favorite theft items.

Take It With You

Consider taking the GPS itself with you if you are walking or taking public transit in an unfamiliar place. It will continue to help you find your way. Part of the beauty of the new generation of GPS devices is their portability. Also, if you are parked in a large parking lot, such as a stadium, amusement park, or mall lot, set your car's position as a waypoint and you'll never lose track of your car again.

Since active antennas can be installed much further away, they are better suited for use with larger vehicles.

Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation systems work by receiving signals from satellites, and that isn't possible without some kind of antenna. The reason you usually don't see any sign of an antenna when you look at a GPS unit is that most of them have antennas that are either hidden inside, or built right into, the case.

In addition to built-in antennas, many GPS devices also have the option to use an external antenna. While it usually isn't necessary to install an external GPS antenna, there are cases where it can help.

Who Needs a GPS Antenna?

If you’ve been using a GPS unit for a while, and you’ve never noticed any signal loss or accuracy issues, then you probably don't need any kind of external antenna. The only real exception is if you plan on driving somewhere you've never been before, in which case differing conditions in the new location could make an antenna necessary.

If, on the other hand, you have experienced issues like signal loss or poor accuracy with a GPS unit, then the chances are pretty good that an external GPS antenna could be worth the purchase price.

It really comes down to two things: the quality of the internal antenna that your GPS unit came with and the specific obstructions that you’re dealing with.

The other possible situations involve switching from a portable GPS unit to an in-dash unit or buying a brand new GPS device for the first time. In cases like these, it can pay to ask around if anyone in the area has had signal or accuracy issues with their GPS units before making an investment.

Effects of Obstructions and Interference on GPS Reception

GPS navigation devices function by receiving signals from a network of satellites that are part of the Global Positioning System. By taking the direction and signal strength of multiple satellites into account, the GPS device is able to reliably calculate its physical position with a relatively small margin of error.

When a GPS device doesn’t have a clear view of the sky due to an obstruction, it may be unable to locate enough satellite signals, which may result in either a total failure to operate or degraded accuracy. This can be caused by things like tall buildings, but the roofs (and often windows) of cars and trucks also create obstructions that can degrade GPS signal strength.

The effects of obstructions can often be mitigated by placing a GPS location in a window, but some vehicles are harder to deal with than others. For instance, metal roofs create more of an RF shield than ragtops, and tinted windows can include tiny metal particles that can also block the GPS signal.

Internal Vs. External GPS Antennas

Most GPS navigation devices come with internal antennas that work just fine when presented with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.

However, these internal antennas are inherently less capable than larger external antennas, which can be either passive or amplified. In the case of amplified external antennas, GPS signal strength can be nearly doubled versus an unpowered antenna.

If you find that your GPS unit sometimes fails to obtain a signal, or if it seems inaccurate at times, then an external antenna will usually fix the problem. It’s cheaper and easier to try moving the unit around in your car first, since that may help alleviate obstruction and interference issues, but you may find that the only viable solution is to install an amplified external antenna.

Passive Vs. Amplified GPS Antennas

External GPS antennas can be either passive or amplified. Passive antennas simply receive the GPS signal and pass it on to the GPS navigation device, while active units include a powered amplifier that boosts the power of the signal.

The latter is typically more expensive and more difficult to install, but it can also be installed further away from your GPS unit than a passive antenna can. In most cases, a passive antenna should be installed with no more than three feet of coaxial cable between it and the GPS unit.

Since active antennas can be installed much further away, they are better suited for use with larger vehicles.

 

A growing segment of the cell phone market is the 8- to 12-year-old age group. Approximately 41 percent of kids in this age group have a cell phone in the United States, according to an MSNBC article citing the Yankee Group.Though some parents might feel that kids at this age have no business owning a cell phone, one way to quell a safety concern is to add a GPS personal locator service.While various hardware devices are available for GPS tracking, the service can also come directly from your cell phone carrier without the need for additional equipment.Once you have a cell phone that already has embedded GPS technology, you just need software to go with it. You can track your kids between school and home or verify their location at the house of a friend.

Sprint Family Locator

One option available to parents is Sprint Family Locator. For $5 a month (with the first 15 days free), parents can see the real-time locations of four phones on interactive satellite maps from any PC or Web-enabled mobile phone.The service offers unlimited location checks as well as Safety Checks. With Sprint, a Safety Check will text you when your kids reach certain places based on pre-configured time and location settings.As for location accuracy, Sprint says: “You will always get the best possible location fix given the conditions. When locating phones, Sprint Family Locator will [generally] produce location accuracies anywhere between a few yards and a few hundred yards.”Sprint notes the following conditions that can yield inaccurate location data:

1. The phone is deep inside a building or car.
2. The phone is surrounded by tall buildings, hills, canyons or trees.
3. The phone is near large, reflective surfaces (i.e. lakes or ponds).
4. The phone is powered off. The phone must be powered on.
5. The phone’s battery has run out.
6. The phone isn’t in a Sprint network coverage area.

Sprint Family Locator supports all Sprint and Nextel phones with embedded GPS technology. A video demonstration of the service can be watched here.

Kajeet GPS Locator

While Sprint is a major cell phone carrier for all kinds of consumers, Kajeet is in business to specifically target parents who want an array of kid-friendly wireless options.The Kajeet optional GPS phone locator, though, costs twice as much as with Sprint. After your first month for free, the Kajeet feature costs $9.99 per month. Along with locating a phone for your kids, you can even set automatic check-ins with Kajeet.Kajeet allows parents to check phone locations online. You can also get automatic emails with phone locations at specific times of the day. While parents can use GPS tracking to ensure safety for their kids, they can also track elderly parents and their own siblings.

GPS Tracking at Verizon Wireless, Alltel Wireless

Verizon Wireless and Alltel Wireless offer similar GPS services for $9.99 per month. Chaperone 2.0 from Verizon Wireless works in conjunction with VZ Navigator (the carrier’s GPS service) on up to four cell phones. Alltel’s service is called the Alltel Family Finder.The GPS tracker at Verizon Wireless even allows parents to set “Child Zones” as geographical boxes around places (i.e. a friend’s house). Parents will receive a text message alert when their child enters and leaves a safe zone.In conjunction with the National Sex Offender Registry, Sprint even offers a free service called Family Watchdog. This service sends a text message to parents if a registered sex offender moves into your neighborhood.

Where to Download Different GPS Voices

 

You're not stuck with the bland and generic voice that speaks directions from your in-car GPS. So long as your car GPS device supports it, you can download new GPS voices to replace the one you're currently using.

Stock receivers usually come with multiple voice options, but if you're not satisfied, there are places online where you can download new GPS voices.

TomTom Voices

TomTom's navigation voices page is home to many voices you can purchase, download, and install on your navigation device.

On TomTom's website are free voices for your GPS but also categories where you can purchase voices. Your options include cartoons, celebrities, comedy, TV shows, and other.

For example, you can put Mt. T in charge of your personal navigation and safety. Or, purchase voice packs spoken by Roger Moore, Burt Reynolds, or John Cleese, among others.

You need to check your software version and model for compatibility before you download any of these GPS voices. Once you've confirmed compatibility, add the voice to your cart (even if it's free) and use the Place order button to get the download.

You'll need to make a TomTom user account if you don't already have one, but it's completely free and doesn't take long.

TomTom GPS voices download to your GPS device through the TomTom HOME software. Just make sure your device is plugged in so that it can sync with the software.

You can also get TomTom GPS voices through the HOME program, via the Add Traffic, Voices, Safety Cameras, etc. option in the menu.

Purchased voices can be used on one TomTom device only, so you can't expect to transfer the voice to more than one unit.

Garmin VoiceStudio

Garmin Voice Studio.

Garmin offers the VoiceStudio program for making your own navigation voice for use with your Nuvi. All you need is a microphone to record and transfer custom voices to your device.

VoiceStudio guides you through the process of recording a list of words and phrases and downloading the recordings to your device, such as "Proceed to highlighted route," and "Traffic ahead." Follow simple instructions to install the voice set into your compatible Garmin GPS. You can use your own versions of all the common GPS commands.

Check the extensive list of compatible products before you use the VoiceStudio to confirm that your device is compatible.

PIG Tones for TomTom and Garmin

PIG Tones (Politically Incorrect GPS) was a company that prided itself on developing fun, sexy, and celebrity voices for both TomTom and Garmin GPS devices.

Examples included Captain Jack, Sadera the Seductive, Sean Connery 007, Arnold— The Govenator, Christopher Walkin', Beavis & Butthead, Clint Eastwood, and Hockey Mom.

You could use these custom GPS voices by connecting your TomTom or Garmin device to a PC or Mac, downloading the tone, and dragging and dropping it to the unit.

However, the official website is no longer accessible. The only way to use PIG Tones is through a Wayback Machine cache, which you can access here.

Please proceed with Pig Tones at your own risk. Since the website is no longer active, it's possible that the purchase links don't work, meaning that you might be charged for something without being able to actually download the voice. Given that there's no longer an official website to reach for support, you could be left without a refund.