What make handheld GPS and car GPS different?

In general, GPS units consist of car GPS, handheld GPS, and other GPS applications with navigation function such as GPS tracker. Nowadays, many of us are quite familiar with cell phones and PDA coming with GPS function. However, maybe not many people know much about what make handheld GPS and car GPS different. Here, I want to simply discuss their differences.

First of all, here come their different design ideas. The handheld GPS is used in many fields such as agriculture, military, mapping, mining and outdoor activities including biking, hiking, water sports, paragliding, etc. A handheld GPS is of great importance in outdoor mapping. As for the car GPS, also known as PND, it is especially designed for the drivers. The unit is useful for the urban network. When you have to drive in an unfamiliar place or find some information for some places around, the car GPS is a perfect option.

Furthermore, the hardware configuration is also varied. On one hand, handheld GPS and car GPS differ in appearance. A handheld GPS is like a cell phone available for handhold, while a car GPS looks like a MP4 player which has a big screen and square shape. Personally, I think a car GPS looks more fashionable than a handheld GPS. Besides, the portability of handheld GPS makes it more suitable for outdoor activities while the car GPS looks more favorable in design. On the other hand, because of the external environment of the handheld GPS, it needs to be waterproof, dust-resistant and shock resistant. At this point, the design of car GPS doesn't require so much.

In addition, even the navigation functions can be different to some extent. As a matter of fact, the chips of both the units are similar, and the major difference comes from the maps. Handheld GPS usually have the contour map, and a detailed map is often for assistance, while is contrary to that of car GPS. The portable GPS is used to show a straight line to your destination as well as the information of distance and direction. The height and temperature can be measured as well. As for car GPS, it is able to display an electronic map with a shortest route to the destination and detailed information of current street, city and state. Current speed and expected time of arrival are also available.

All in all, handheld GPS and car GPS have not only similarities but also differences. Both of them are essential members of the GPS navigation family, and they have their own advantages. If you plan to have a better option, you can make a suitable decision according to your actual needs.

Source by www.xtrons.com/blog