GPS Receiver

An ideal GPS receiver will have integrated maps, voice-prompted commands, and upgradeable features. Today, you can find this and much more for $500 or less. A typical aftermarket GPS device is mounted on your vehicle's dashboard by suction cup or Velcro. The best systems will offer specific, turn-by-turn directions and integrated maps of North America and/or Europe and South America as well. For those on a budget, Garmin makes a handy GPS receiver called the Garmin eTrex. This portable and budget-friendly GPS receiver will track up to 500 plottable waypoints. The seven different models of the eTrex line are tailored for outdoor use, including boating, fishing, hunting and hiking. Upgradeable via USB cable connection, you can use your laptop or home computer to add up-to-date maps and information to your eTrex GPS device. Garmin also makes the Garmin Streetpilot. Offered in several different models with varying features, the basic model is the i2. The Streetpilot i2 offers a built-in speaker for automated voice response directions. The Streetpilot 2610 and 2620 are higher-end navigators that offer additional maps for Europe. They both feature easy-to-read touch screens with advanced satellite GPS technology.The Magellan RoadMate is a great GPS receiver for travelers looking for advanced options. With a SmartDetour feature, the Magellan RoadMate will automatically route you around stopped freeway traffic. It utilizes QuickSpell technology for automated entry of addresses and can route single or multiple destinations with ease. There are nearly 10 models of the RoadMate for North America and Europe.