GPS systems sit in a very delicate place in
our gadget budgets.
For one, we already have Smartphones that
come with built in GPS apps and can do everything they can do; on the
otherhand, Our Smartphones don't have the battery life to constantly tell us
where to go.
Garmin
NUVI 50LM
- Blackbox
Like every other modern gadget, this CPS
system is another black box with a screen at the front. As usual it has a
resistive touchscreen (due to certain government requirements) and comes with
it's own dashboard mount. The charging port is on the back, which is a little
awkward.
This
CPS system is another black box with a screen at the front.
- Interface
Using the Nuvi 50LM is quite intuitive.
When you start it up, there are two big icons; one to enter a location for
directions and one to display the map. Either way, there's not much else to do.
Something this simple is great for the technological luddites who are
constantly getting lost anyway. Might make a good birthday present for those
sorts of people. Sadly, messing with the settings isn’t quite as streamlined
and can get quite confusing for those not well versed in technology, or GPS
systems.
- Directions
Now, the main problem with most GPS systems
is that you’re never quite sure if they have the latest maps; or worst still,
if their sources have the latest maps (especially in this part of the world).
Updating the database is definitely a must. Once that's done you can be on your
way. The Nuvi 50LM works fine for getting you to places, the directions are
reasonable and the picture-in-picture view of which exit to take is great for
visually telling you where to turn off.
The
main problem with most GPS systems is that you’re never quite sure if they have
the latest maps
- Voices
On the other hand, the audio directions
still haven't gotten used to Malaysian street names. The pronunciation is
hilariously bad and there are street names that cannot be understood no matter
what language you speak. An update with some local language speakers will be
very welcome.
