GPS navigators were once exclusively military equipment. Today they are used by many car and other vehicle drivers. There are many models, each with its own characteristics. How to make the right choice?

How does a car navigator work

The principle of operation of navigators is simple: they determine the location using communication with a satellite. Many models also analyze the route through the Internet. The error is usually no more than 10 m. Modern options are able to lay routes to the destination and change them in real time when you deviate from the path. Registration of movement parameters is possible: speed (current and average), driving time. Modern navigators are full-fledged media devices. They can be used to play audio and video files, launch games, and more.

Classic navigator: green arrow is a car, blue is a route. On the left you can see the distance to the turn, travel time, speed and current time

Navigation software for cars

The technique works under software control. In our country, the most common options are I-Go, Navitel and Garmin:

• I-Go. Works on equipment that is controlled by the Windows CE operating system. It is often installed on the products of the brands Asus, GoClever, Tenex, Ergo, EasyGo, MIO, LG and some others. The cards of this manufacturer are distinguished by a high degree of elaboration. Navigators with I-Go are recommended to be used by drivers of commercial vehicles who often travel outside the territory of the Russian Federation.

I-Go navigator interface: minimalistic, simple and straightforward

• Navitel. The best option for those who mainly travel through the territory of the CIS countries. Navitel is famous for the most detailed maps of Russia, Ukraine and the Republic of Belarus... It is used in the technique of the same brands as the I-Go, since it also runs under Windows CE.

This is how your path looks like in the navigator with Navitel software. Traffic accidents are marked with special icons

• Garmin. Specific American-made product. Works under Linux OS and only in navigators from Garmin - one of the world's largest manufacturers of such equipment. The main advantages are reliability and ease of control. Navigation is convenient, but the cost can be quite high. Garmin is the best choice for international shipping... Most of the models of this brand cannot play music and video - this is a highly specialized equipment for professionals, with powerful processors and fast receivers.

Garmin is a tool for those who want to always find the right path. The high price pays off

Cars and trucks

When choosing a navigator for a passenger car, everything depends only on your preferences. Trucks are a little more complicated. Pay attention to navigators with additional functions for commercial vehicles. For example, they can indicate the weight and dimensions of the vehicle - this will be taken into account when laying the route. The technique will guide you along the most suitable roads, avoiding low bridges.

Reviews of popular models

Garmin Dakota 20. Advantages: compact, lightweight, easily fixed in the hand and durable, unbreakable, user-friendly interface and display, perfectly holds the charge, catches satellites instantly and does not lose them !! the ability to download maps and update them, you can buy an additional memory card, ideal for mushroom pickers, hunters, fishermen and cyclists, suitable for a car, high accuracy of the route and location, the ability to use as a flash drive, raster maps, compact. Disadvantages: high price

Tatiana Kulikova

http://torg.mail.ru/gps/garmin-dakota-20-id260058/

iBOX Pro-7900 HD. The navigator is easy to use. But it is not entirely clear that the update has been downloaded on the Navitel website ... as a result, after installing the updater, the program sees the navigator, but does not offer any action, except to “buy”. Advantages: The navigator itself is excellent, there are no complaints about the work, but the technical support is lower…. Disadvantages: A very terrible site "Navitel", the instructions for installing updates are one thing, in fact, everything is different. It is still not clear now whether to update (s) or how. For example, in my city recently, the roads in new places in the center were CRADINALLY rebuilt, the navigator does not see the restructuring, writes that I am on the lawn right by the eternal flame.

Nikolay Smirnov

http://torg.mail.ru/gps/ibox-pro-7900-hd-id14219887/

Garmin nuvi 50. I have a nuvi 2597, bought in Europe with a map of Europe. I traveled across Europe in the spring, just super, turned on and led out of the most confusing streets of Prague and Paris. But then I came home and decided to download a map of Russia and specifically Moscow and M.O. In the store at the officials, in T.Ts. Gagarinsky, for almost two thousand, inserted an SD card with a map of Russia program. I have been traveling for two months in Moscow and the region and am terrified. Firstly, the menu does not contain many of the settings that were in the European menu (such as entering the address index), and secondly, it is impossible to enter elementary settlements such as Krekshino or Molokovo and ..., they are not in the keyboard layout by default. And the worst thing is that the maps have been uploaded at least a year ago, for example, he warns me about the left arrow, and there is already a year since there is no traffic light at all (for example, when leaving Admiral Kornilov on Kaluzhskoe highway) and there are a lot of such jambs. I am very sorry that I did not add a little more and did not take some unpretentious Navitel, which is loaded with a detailed modern map and which can be updated, unlike of course, from an SD card. I just wanted to use Garmin, because I dumped a lot of money for it with Eurocard and Russian menu. Conclusion, I do not advise taking extra in Garmine. options and cards on SD, everything is uploaded there poorly and poorly, thrown away money.

Manlyuk Oleg

https://market.yandex.by/product-garmin-nuvi-50/7764831/reviews?canonical=garmin-nuvi-50&productId=7764831&lr=0&rtr=157

Screen

• Screen size (diagonal) is measured in inches. The wider, the more information can be seen. In modern navigators, the screen size ranges from 3.5 to 7 inches. The best option for a passenger car is about 5 “... It will not take up much space and will give you the opportunity to see everything you need.
• The display sensor is either resistive or capacitive. The resistive version is more accurate, but if the device is equipped with a large screen, the lack of accuracy of the capacitive version ceases to matter.
• Resolution is the number of pixels per unit area. The quality of the picture on the screen depends on this parameter. Resolution is expressed in letters or numbers (VGA, 640x480). The choice depends on the screen size. For a small device (up to 5-6 inches) 480x282 is enough. For large (6-7) - 800x480.
• Viewing angle. The wide viewing angle makes it possible to see the image on the screen from the side, without losing contrast. In most modern models, the indicator is 140 degrees. In general, the more the better.

Specifications

CPU

The most important characteristic is the clock frequency. The higher it is, the faster the main functions are loaded and the routes are calculated. Most drivers will be satisfied with a frequency of 500 MHz, but in commercial vehicles, you can use more powerful models - from 700 MHz.

RAM

Directly affects the speed of task execution. The minimum acceptable option is 128 MB, but it is better to take from 256 MB. In this case, you do not have to spend a lot of time switching between applications and working in 3D.

Built-in storage

Many modern navigators use a solid state drive (SSD). The larger its capacity, the better. The device plays the role of a computer hard drive - it stores maps, your files and much more. In the best options, the capacity reaches 64 GB, but in most cases a much smaller amount is enough - about 4 GB.

Support for memory cards is possible. CompactFlash is the cheapest and slowest option. SD cards are much faster and more reliable. MicroSD - The same as SD, but smaller in size.

GPS module

Responsible for receiving signals from the satellite. Consists of antenna and chipset. Most navigators have a built-in antenna, but there are also remote ones. A chipset is a set of chips that processes a signal. The best options are made by Mediatek and SiRF... A good chipset will make it possible to obtain accurate coordinates in dense buildings.

Number of channels

The more channels, the more accurate the location will be. The minimum option for today is 32. It is recommended to pay attention to equipment with 64-66 channels. This will make it possible to receive not only direct, but also reflected signals, avoiding interference.

Information update rate

The more often the navigator processes the information received from the satellite, the more accurate the determination of coordinates will be. But this also has a negative side - a high rate quickly discharges the battery. More frequency is needed for drivers who constantly move through large cities with heavy traffic.

GSM / GPRS module

The navigator can also be used to access the Internet. This is necessary not only for entertainment, but also for expanding functionality - for example, downloading new maps or more accurate orientation on the ground. However, to connect, you will need to insert a SIM card into the equipment.

Installing navigators

Where to put

Standard portable models are equipped with a standard suction cup mount. They are designed to be mounted on glass. You can fix the fixture in almost any part of the glass, but make sure that it does not obstruct your view. Remember - the metallized film on the glass can shield the antenna (especially the built-in one), which will reduce the signal accuracy.

The most common mounting option for the navigator is on the glass, to the right of the steering wheel

It is possible to use additional fastening systems. With their help, the equipment is generally attached to any place in the cabin - on the panel, body, roof ... If necessary, the device can be quickly removed. There are pocket navigators. They are secured in a phone holder or cup holder. It is not very convenient to use such a model - it is desirable that a passenger sit next to him, who would suggest the route.

How to connect

If you intend to use a modern large screen navigator, the connection process will be a little more complicated.

You will need a screwdriver and a 2A fused wire (you can solder it yourself). You may need an RCA-mini-jack adapter.

Don't be alarmed, some of these wires can be dispensed with. Usually only food is enough

1. In most modern cars, the place for the navigator is located above the radio tape recorder or below it. Remove all parts to be replaced from the panel.
2. Connect the video inputs, which will be used to connect to the radio tape recorder, rear view camera and other devices.
3. When adjusting the gyroscope, set it to a perpendicular position to the ground.
4. Connect a USB extension cable - this will make it possible to connect external media to the equipment.
5. Connect the navigator to the cigarette lighter through the fused wire. Thanks to this, the fixture will receive electricity without occupying the connector.
6. Fasten the appliances to the panel with wireframe fasteners. It is best to use double-sided tape. Some models are supplied with special fasteners - it greatly simplifies the task.

Video: connecting a GPS navigator

How to make a holder for a car with your own hands

1. The cheapest option is to buy double-sided tape or duct tape for sewing. Clean the dashboard and back cover of the navigator from dust and dirt, and then attach the device to the dashboard with tape or tape. This method is only suitable for careful drivers, as the material may not withstand strong shaking.
2. A more reliable option is to use a stationery clip ("binder clip"). Remove the staples from it and bend the side elements to fit your navigator. Wrap them with thick thread so that they do not unbend. The device can be placed in the air duct. It will firmly fix the technique. The disadvantage is that getting the navigator out of such a holder is not always easy.
3. If you are not afraid to drill a dashboard, you can hang the navigator on it with a wire (only for navigators in a case with a holder!). Drill two holes for the wire diameter. Bend the wire and insert into the holes. Attach the cover with the gadget to it.

Configuring and Updating

In most cases, you need to connect your navigator to your computer or laptop to configure and update. You will need proprietary software from the manufacturer (for Navitel, this is Navitel Navigator Updater) - the instructions usually tell you where to download it.

1. Connect your gadget to your computer via a USB port. The PC must have an Internet connection!
2. In the settings menu of your navigator, select the Mass Storage mode.
3. Run the program to update.

The rest of the steps take place automatically - you only need to click "Next" and "Finish".

Some modern navigators can be updated via Wi-Fi or mobile internet. The process does not require any intervention on your part. However, it is better to select "Request permission to update" in the settings, otherwise the technician may use up all your traffic.

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How to connect GPS?

Without exaggeration, GPS is one of the most demanded technologies. Thanks to her, each person can find out their location on the map, as well as determine the trajectory of their movement. In this article, we will look at how to install gps in a car.

Connecting a standard gps navigator

GPS navigators can be divided into two types

• connected by wires to the battery;
• connected using a USB cable or wireless.

The first type of navigator is connected to the battery. Typically, these navigators have two wires: red and black. The red wire connects to the positive terminal of the battery, and the black wire connects to any secure engine mount. It is not recommended to connect the black wire to the negative terminal, as this can cause a quick discharge of the battery. After all, the navigator consumes quite a lot of electricity, as it requires constant updating of information.

The second type of battery is connected to the car radio using a USB cable or wirelessly.

Using your phone as a gps

Modern smartphones have a function that can be used by a car owner as a gps navigator. To do this, you need to download maps that can be found on the network absolutely free, after that you will need to go to the navigation settings and select "Download maps", the device will automatically download maps that you can use when navigating.

Next, you will need to select the map command, after which the first of them will be loaded. Once downloaded, you will be able to see your location and plan your route. There is another way to use maps on your mobile phone. We are talking about special services, for example, google maps, yandex maps, 2gis. These services have long proven themselves and have received a lot of positive feedback from users across the country. If earlier they were not in demand due to the fact that they differed in their low efficiency in determining the location, now they are used by many residents of our country.

Now all you have to do is pin the phone to the dashboard. To do this, you can use a special holder that is sold in any electronics store or car dealership.

The navigator is an irreplaceable and very popular thing these days. However, it happens that for some reason the settings get lost, and it stops working correctly, or they were not initially installed. A car navigator is the most irreplaceable assistant of a motorist. Today, there is a huge selection of this type of equipment on the market, and each model differs in cost and technical parameters. What to do in this case?

Full customization of the navigator

The peculiarities of the correct setting of the GPS navigator depend on the model and brand, but there are some general recommendations that apply to any such device.

For the basic configuration of the navigator, you need to go through a few simple steps in order for the technique to work correctly:

• Update the version of the navigation software. This will provide you with the latest maps and features.
• Update the versions of the maps you are using. Map developers are constantly improving their creations, adding new objects and addresses to them. New maps take into account all new changes, including road traffic: new signs, direction of movement along the lanes, etc. With the new map, you definitely won't be able to get lost in the big city.
• Index the atlas. This is necessary in order for the system to plot the route correctly.

If you need to install a new navigation system, then follow these steps:

• Unlock GPS Navigator: Disable the start of the software and access the operating system interface.
• Install the required program.

How to set up a route correctly on the navigator?

In order for the device to be convenient and as comfortable to use as possible, it is necessary to configure it correctly. To do this, go to the "Menu" section and click the "Settings" button. First, set the map parameters that you need. Then go to the "Maps" section and select "Top of the map". Be sure to set "Rotation to motion". This is the most important point, because after setting this parameter, your map picture will rotate according to the movement of the car.

Be sure to go to the "Navigation" section. There you will see a wide variety of types of transport (pedestrians, trucks, motorcycles, cars, etc.). Select "Car". Next, go to the "Attraction" section. Pulling is the property of the navigator to show your car on the nearest path. Here you can choose automatic mode or set your own parameters. The most optimal distance is no more than 50 meters. Now we are almost at the route setting.

Now you can customize the route itself. Go to the required menu to select route parameters. Here you need to choose one of the paths offered to you (short, fast route, etc.). If you choose a fast route, the GPS navigator will guide you along the road, choosing the fastest route. By taking a short route, you will significantly reduce the distance.

You can also define some settings for laying a route through the section "What to avoid while laying a route?". Here you will see: toll roads, U-turn, unpaved road. Thus, you yourself will be able to determine which route the vehicle will take you along.

When setting up your GPS navigator, be careful not to reset everything, otherwise you will have to configure the navigator from scratch. Remember, when you take a fast route, you are choosing the best road options.

In a car, it is a very useful and important device that will help both a young car enthusiast and even an experienced driver. It is worth noting that many modern models allow not only choosing the most convenient and shortest route, but also bypassing traffic jams and choosing the best and safest route of travel.

Connecting a navigator is not difficult at all. This process does not require specific knowledge and skills. Of course, there is a nuance in the installation of a navigation device. Installation depends on the price category and complexity of the device.

How to connect GPS navigator correctly?

So, we focus on the price. Most of the modern navigators that are sold in the automotive markets can be divided into approximately 3 categories. The first includes those models, the price of which is below $ 200. They are the easiest to use. They are equipped with a minimum of functions. Such models rarely come with software. And if it is, then everyone can figure it out. Connecting a navigator of this price category will take just 15 minutes.

The second category includes navigation devices, the cost of which ranges from $ 200-500. GPS navigators in this category are much more common than others. Most car enthusiasts are inclined towards just such models. Such devices have rich functionality, detailed maps of the area. Of course, a connection diagram is also adapted to such devices.

The third category today includes those car navigators, the price of which is more than $ 500. Such devices are premium class. They just have a huge number of opportunities. It is the installation of such models that raises a large number of questions.

Connecting a GPS navigator with your own hands will take just a few minutes. Models of the second category work only in tandem with a PDA or laptop. The device connects to them using WIFI, Bluetooth or USB cable. After the connection is made, you need to download the special software that is included in the navigation device. After that, the navigator will be able to catch signals and you can work with it in peace.

It is worth noting that navigators that belong to the second category are usually equipped with an external antenna. Naturally, immediately after switching on, the device should receive a satellite signal. If this does not happen, then you must turn off the device and turn it on again. Such GPS navigators also need to be connected to a computer using a USB cable or Bluetooth. Make sure that the antenna is not covered by other objects.

As for the models of the third category, they have complex software. The driver should carefully study it and connect exactly the functions that he needs. To do this, you must strictly follow the instructions included with the device, which will help you correctly connect the navigator to the car.