Where can I find a GPS for my car? If you are like a lot of people these days, you’ve been asking yourself that question. You want a GPS for your car, but don’t know where to start. You have spent hours checking all the online GPS websites but are more confused than ever. So let’s go over some of the GPS basics.

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It is a technology that lets you quickly figure out where you are, anytime and anywhere. GPS consists of a number of dedicated satellites that were placed into space and allow anyone who has a GPS receiver to determine their position anywhere on the globe within just a few feet. The system was originally developed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a guidance and navigational tool, but is now being used in commercial and civil markets for transportation, mapping, surveying and rescue operations, and numerous other uses.

The use of GPS for navigation and mapping is a natural. With a GPS receiver on board, you’re never lost. And you even know how fast you’re going, what altitude you’re at, and how long it’s going to take to get to your destination. Many new cars come with GPS systems, and rental cars have had them for years to keep people from getting lost. While factory-integrated GPS systems in cars are still fairly expensive, you can pick up a standalone system from online GPS stores for amazingly little money.

But before you buy a GPS you first need to decide what type you need. For example, if you plan on using GPS both in your car and with a computer, you may want to buy a GPS receiver that wirelessly connects to a laptop or handheld computer via Bluetooth. The advantage of these small GPS “pucks” is that you can use them with more than one computer.

If you want flexibility, you may be interested in a handheld computer that comes with an integrated GPS receiver and works both as a Pocket PC and a GPS. Such systems often come bundled with a suction cup windshield mount. The advantage of a PDA/GPS combo is that you can also use it to listen to music, watch video, or even do email or browse the web if it has wireless communications capabilities.

If you’re only interested in mapping, you want a dedicated GPS, one of those handy little gadgets that quickly and easily mount in any car and locate satellites within seconds. The advantage of dedicated GPS units is that their displays are landscape oriented, just like those of integrated units. Landscape makes it easier to see what’s going on.

Once you have decided what type of GPS you want, you must make sure it is easy to use and operate. This is where it gets tricky, as even the best GPS websites do not always have full reviews of automotive GPS. Trust me, even though everyone uses the same maps, the difference between a good GPS and a mediocre one is huge. Fortunately, there are some GPS websites that do have fairly detailed reviews.

So how do you find a GPS online? And where do you find a GPS at the best price? Or even a used or refurbished one if cost is a priority? There are many ways, but personally, I’ve had good luck with auction sites. There are even some that specialize just on GPS!

By: Chris Robertson