Car navigations systems emerged some time during the early to mid 90?s, but then became an option in luxury cars by 2000. In-dash navigation is a GPS navigation unit that is placed into the dashboard of your vehicle, usually replacing the factory unit in a car. It usually supports features such as audio/video functions, like CD/DVD and MP3 player, as well as a hands free cellphone kit via Bluetooth. Although it may sound like it is more of a luxury than a necessity, it is still very useful, and it isn't as pricey as it sounds either. With the system becoming more popular, after market in-dash systems were made available for almost all makes and models of vehicles.

One aspect of the in-dash navigation system that consumers may find appealing is the size of the screen that shows the map, of course the bigger the better. They are usually about 6 to 7 inches, which is measured diagonally. There is one thing that you do have to check before purchasing a bigger unit. Besides, it is always best to compare one brand to another, to make sure you are getting the best deal and making the most out of the money you are spending. Remember to always ask about the resolution of the unit. Of course the higher the resolution, the sharper the images appear making it easier to see the map information.

Another useful feature that you can also ask about when doing your homework about the in-dash navigation system is the POI, or Point of Interest. POI on maps around the world are compiled and plotted by companies like NavTeq and TeleAtlas. These points of interest usually include gasoline stations, hotels, restaurants, and even ATMs. This is really helpful especially when you are travelling to an unfamiliar area. You can also program several stops on your navigation system, which are along the way to your destination. Trust me; there is nothing worse than running out of gas on a rarely driven highway with nothing or nobody around to assist you.

Another cool, yet useful feature of the in-dash navigation system is the voice output for turn-by-turn directions. The older units only tell you how far you are before the next turn. The newer models, however, actually pronounces the street names. Voice recognition is also included on some models of the in-dash navigation system. This allows you to use voice commands to control the unit, as well as set your route. So there is no longer the need to take your eyes of the road while trying to work the different functions of the navigation system. This allows you to concentrate while driving, and avoids accidents from happening all because you were too distracted programming the unit.

So if you are out in the market about to purchase one of these units, please remember to ask about all of the available features the navigation system offers before purchasing it. It is also not a bad idea to compare several brands before making your decision.

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Article Submitted By: B. Jones
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