|
Diagonal Screen Size
The length of the display, measured from the lower left corner to the upper right corner.
Loaded Maps: Canada, AK, HI, PR
Most of our systems have detailed street maps for the lower 48 United States, Hawaii and Puerto Rico pre-programmed on the unit's internal memory, meaning the system is good-to-go out of the box and you won't need to hook it up to your computer. Some models add pre-loaded maps of Canada and Alaska as well, so that you may drive north of the border without worry.
Loaded Maps: Europe Maps
Some GPS models have pre-loaded maps for Europe in addition to the maps for the United States and Canada. These are a great choice when you're heading across the pond!
Loaded Maps: Mexico Maps
Some GPS models have pre-loaded maps for Mexico in addition to the maps for the United States. These are a great choice when you're heading south of the border!
Traffic: Traffic Enabled
Many units allow you to purchase an optional FM-TMC receiver to get live traffic reports on-screen. Most traffic receivers are plug-and-play, as either a wire antenna that sits on the dashboard or an antenna that's built in to the cigarette lighter adapter. FM-TMC receivers come with a free trial period and thereafter charge a small monthly fee.
Traffic: Traffic Included
Some units already come with the traffic receiver, saving you money, as the traffic receivers typically cost $100-$200 as accessories. These units will provide three free months of service from the date you activate it, and then you'll have to pay a small monthly fee, typically about $5/month when the trial period ends.
Traffic: Lifetime Traffic
Some newer models come with a free lifetime traffic receiver - no subscription to buy, ever! In addition, models with this feature also have geo-targeted coupons and other promotions.
Traffic: MSN Traffic
Some Garmin models are compatible with MSN Direct, an enhanced traffic service that also provides weather reports, gas prices, movie times, news ticker, stock ticker, MSN Live PC routing, and more. Service typically costs $50/year after the trial period.
Features: Text-To-Speech
Text-to-speech not only tells you when to turn, it tells you where - by saying the name of the street! For example, instead of saying "Turn right in 200 feet," the unit will say "Turn right on Broadway in 200 feet," eliminating any possible confusion as to where to go and letting drivers keep their eyes on the road while navigating through busy traffic and convoluted roadways.
Features: Bluetooth Capable
Bluetooth-enabled GPS units let you wirelessly connect to your Bluetooth-enabled cell phone for hands-free phone calls and dial-a-POI features. Some units also allow you to subscribe to traffic services through a Bluetooth GMRS frequency.
Features: Voice Recognition
Some new units truly understand you, allowing you to speak menu commands and/or addresses to the GPS navigator for the ultimate in ease-of-use and safety!
Features: Multiple Point Routing
In addition to point-to-point navigation, some units can calculate the most efficient route between multiple destinations - a real timesaver for realtors, sales forces, and errand-runners. Otherwise, you're limited to "Point A to B" only navigation, meaning you'd have to re-program your GPS at each stop.
Features: Topo/Marine Capable
Some units have the ability to load topographical maps or marine charts, for use on the trail, in the park, or on the water. Units that have this functionality are typically portable and waterproof as well.
Features: Battery Powered
Some units have an internal rechargeable battery, so that they don't have to be plugged in for AC (wall outlet) or DC (cigarette lighter) power sources all the time.
Features: Lane Assist
Some new GPS units show forks in the road and highway interchanges on screen, so you'll know which way you're going. This is especially helpful on the Van Wyck Expressway.
Features: Google Local Search
The newest high-end units feature advanced connected services, including Google Local Search, traffic, weather and more. The Google connection makes it even easier to look up addresses on the map and find additional points of interest. After a trial period, subscription fees may apply.
Refurbished
Tiger GPS sometimes offers newly-overhauled units at substantially discounted prices. All refurbishing is done by the original manufacturer, so the units are certified and have an official manufacturer's warranty.
| 
