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Step 1 - PDA
Handheld GPS
Price Range: £150
to £500
PDA computers are ideal to upgrade
to a satellite navigation system as they
have plenty of processing power and use
operating systems that are compatible
with the majority of navigation software.
PDA computers are sold as complete navigation
units or you can buy upgrade packages
that include the software, maps, GPS receiver
and car mounting kit.
Key Benefits:
1. A powerful
multi-functional device for computing
and navigation
2. Provides a
relatively low cost of entry into the
world of Sat Nav
The key features
to look out for in PDA handheld computers
are their build quality, the choice of
navigation software that they can run,
how the GPS receiver is attached, how
the unit can be mounted in a car and battery
life.
Build
Quality
The build quality of most PDA's is very
good as the leading manufacturers have
ensured that their units remain very durable
for day to day use.
Choice
of Navigation Software
There is a broad range of navigation software
available within the UK. The most popular
brands featured on PDA's are currently
Tom Tom and Via Michelin. Their usability
and navigation features are very similar
as stand alone car mounted units in terms
of getting a user to the destination of
their choice.
For further
information on the features of navigation
software then please Click
Here.
Maps Provided
These are supplied on a memory card that
is inserted into the PDA via a memory
slot. Basic packages come with just the
UK maps, more advanced packages include
Europe. Map upgrades can be purchased
seperately.
GPS Receiver
Attatchment
A GPS
Receiver is required to send your actual
geograghical position to the navigation
software. These can be attached by following
methods depending on how you intend to
use the PDA device.
- PDA car mounting units are usually supplied
with a GPS receiver that is attached via
a wire cable.
- Bluetooth receivers (wireless) can now
be purchased as a separate accessory but
PDA model compatability and set up issues
can make this a problematic area. They
are powered by their own rechargeable
batteries.
- Via a small card with an built-in ariel
that is inserted into a PDA card slot.
Car Mounting
Kits
A mounting kit fixes the PDA unit via
a cradle and suction pad to the windscreen.
The cradle fixes the PDA into position
during a journey and features a quick
release mechanism for later removal. Some
cradles also feature a built-in speaker
so that you can clearly hear road directions.
Battery
Life
Typically 5 to 7 hours on a fully charged
PDA rechargeable battery. Some car mounting
units require the cradle to be plugged
into a car cigarette lighter before the
navigation system can fully operate. Use
of a bluetooth GPS Receiver can reduce
battery life by half.
Positives:
A multi-functional
device and very affordable.
Negatives:
They require
add-ons to enable them to operate as a
Sat nav unit which can cause some inconvenience.
Our Verdict:
Ideal as a
low cost entry into the world of Sat Nav
as long as you don't mind having to plug
in cards and other accessories to make
the PDA operate.
You can also
check the latest product reviews using
the links on our product
review page in order to shortlist
your preferred handheld GPS unit.
Now check our
Specification Guide
against your intended Sat Nav usage:
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