Reasons Why Even A Cheap Satnav Beats A Map For Drivers

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by: georgemaxwell
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Word Count: 513
Date: Wed, 2 Feb 2011 Time: 2:17 PM
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Even a cheap satnav system is better than a widely used map for the average driver. There are many reasons for this but I will list just a few of them here. While a top end GPS system can supply much more up-to-date info than a cheap satnav, even the most basic unit adds features which make it much more user-friendly than widely used methods.
Firstly, even a cheap satnav is liable to be more-to-date or current than an established paper map. This is especially useful when driving in urban areas where redevelopment has taken place in recent years. Not only do roads crop up and dematerialize in urban areas, the rules of traffic - which roads are pedestrianised, which are one-way only, and which have other restrictions placed upon them - will change over time, often rendering a printed map obsolete and useless.
Next, a satellite navigation unit will give an accurate prompt to navigate the driver. While this is an obvious boon to the solo traveller, there are also advantages for those travelling with company. It is all very well having someone sat in the passenger seat reading directions to you, but they will be human and humans are unreliable. Not everyone is an experienced map reader, and mistakes can easily be made. It is also hard for a human to see some road signs in the dark, leading to disorientation and quite possibly arguments between the driver and his navigator. Simply for the sake of marital harmony, a cheap satnav system can be absolutely beyond price.
Thirdly, a cheap satnav system will be able to distinguish and warn of traffic speed cameras, roadworks, and any congestion on the chosen route. It will also be able to select the optimum alternative route if any problems occur during the journey. No more driving down unmarked tracks simply because they appear to be heading in the correct general direction of travel. In the event the driver does make a mistake and drive down the wrong road or street, the satnav system will guide him back to the correct route as soon as possible. None of these features could possibly be implemented with the long-established map.Lastly, a satellite navigation system will be able to compute various data on the journey as the trip takes place. Information which it can provide includes the time taken on the journey, the expected time of arrival (which may be critical), the mileage already covered and in some cases the cost of the journey in fuel. While many users may not regard any of these features are as critical as finding the correct destination, they can all be useful from time to time.
Finally, there is one area where even a cheap satnav system has the edge over the regular paper map. Not only does a satnav not unfold to the size of a bed sheet, leading to obscure vision while driving, I am not aware of any case of the satnav being blown out of the jeep when driving down a motorway!

About the Author

George Maxwell is a technology user and enthusiast, and enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with others who may be nervous of technology or struggle to see the advantages of keeping up to date.
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