CAA-Quebec has tested for you
GPS receivers
What to look for in a GPS receiver
GPS receivers are becoming increasingly popular, and many CAA-Quebec members are turning to our Automotive Advisory Services experts for help when purchasing one of these devices. To better meet this demand, the Advisory Services team tested a number of different GPS receivers manufactured by several major companies.
Based on our team’s findings, we have prepared a list of features to consider along with some general comments. To help you with your choice, we have also put together a comparative table for you to fill out.
However, some specialists believe that the death knell has more or less sounded for these devices, due to the proliferation of GPS systems built into cellphones, laptop computers and other mobile devices. As well, more and more vehicle manufacturers are incorporating navigation systems into cars and trucks as either standard equipment or an option.
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GPS (for Global Positioning System) refers to a satellite locating system designed and managed by the United States Defence Department. The technology enables the determination of the precise position of an object in real time. When combined with various software applications and cartographic databases, it creates a navigation system. |
General features to look for:
- Wide anti-glare screen (ideally at least 4.3 inches wide)
- Pocket-sized (can be carried in purses, handbags, etc.)
- Pre-loaded maps for North America, both 2D and 3D
- Audible directions
- Anti-theft system (password-blocked)
- Slot for SD memory card
- Updates available (ideally free of charge)
- Optional FM traffic alerts receiver
- SiRF: intelligent location awareness chipset
- WAAS: improves pointer accuracy for U.S. locations
- Voice guide powerful enough to be heard over traffic
- Voice recognition: for example, the user can ask out loud where the nearest restaurant is
- Database containing multiple points of interest and tourist information
| WAAS |
 WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) uses a network of 25 ground-based reference stations in North America and Hawaii. The ground-based system picks up and processes GPS satellites’ signals, determines if there are errors, and transmits correction signals. |
| SiRF |
 SiRF does not improve signal reception quality, but it maintains positioning by using acceleration sensors and gyroscopes that take over if the satellite signals are lost. |
Secondary functions that may be useful:
- Calculator
- MP3 player
- Photo viewer
- Currency converter
- Measurement converter
- World clock
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Real-time traffic information
Main observations:
- Overall, the GPS receivers are easy to use
- The information provided during route execution is not always accurate
- The characters on certain models are too small
- Satellite signal loss inside homes and indoor parking garages can occur frequently, depending on the model
- A small pointer for use with touchscreens is offered with certain models, making it easier to select routes
- Some manufacturers provide updates free of charge (for example, Magellan offers free updates to CAA-Quebec members), but others may charge from $39 to $99
In conclusion…
We invite you to print and fill out our table below to help you make your choice.
If you need more information, speak to a salesperson at a specialty store where a wide range of makes and models are sold.
Comparative table
Think safety before you buy. Consult our tips and tricks. >>
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