The fact that the term ‘sat nav’ is based on the workings of a whole network of satellites which orbit the earth in fixed positions, hundreds of miles above, is not something that most of us think about when using the device.
As well as letting you know your exact position and working out a route to where you want to go, many new sat nav models now have a range of extra features that can really come in handy.
Hands-free phone
As everyone knows, not only is it dangerous to use a mobile phone to make calls or send texts whilst driving, it is also illegal.
Most modern telephone handsets have a bluetooth connection functionality which acts very much in the same way as a home Wi-Fi network. This means that you can connect to another device without having to bother with leads or physically plugging one into another.
Having a hands-free, voice operated facility, which allows you to use your phone as you drive is a great little extra that your sat nav can give you and means that you can stay fully within the law.
Added information
By using your sat nav to access a wide range of information other than simple location details, you can add a whole new level to your journey.
From finding out where on your route various different points of interest are sited, from restaurants to natural beauty attractions, you can save time searching and experience new things at the same time.
Other more specialised information functions include alerts, such as those letting you know where traffic control systems are placed along the route. This helps you to stay within safe driving parameters and also gives you the chance to avoid falling into speed traps or other safety measures that can sometimes catch out those that are unaware.
Cycle journey planner
Although the vast majority of sat nav owners use the services in cars, vans, lorries and other motorised vehicles, cyclists can also take full advantage of them as well.
Specialist services for cyclists, such as the Bike Hub Cycle Journey Planner, feature true turn-by-turn navigation routes, using dedicated cycle paths and stretches of roads with cycle-friendly features.
This is a great way to discover the quickest, quietest and safest routes for cyclists, no matter where you may be.
Voice instructions and vibrating alerts can be particularly useful for this kind of use and of course, making sure that you have a ‘weather proof’ unit, is probably a good idea as well.
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