A small GPS-based unit that is designed for handheld operation or use in a vehicle. Handheld units have very small screens, typically up to 2.5". Devices for vehicle use offer many of the navigation features of in-dash units, but do not have the many A/V functions such as CD, DVD and MP3 playback. They can run for several hours on their rechargeable batteries and plug into the car's power outlet when required. Portable in-vehicle devices have screens in the 3" to 5" range, whereas in-dash screens often reach 7".
The major disadvantage of portable GPS units is their inability to track the satellites when there is limited line of sight such as in deep valleys, on streets with tall buildings or lower levels of bridges (see in-dash navigation for more details). See GPS.
A Portable GPS
This amazing unit from Magellan can be used in a car or handheld when walking or hiking. It offers almost all of the navigation features of in-dash units, including text-to-speech playback of street names.
The major disadvantage of portable GPS units is their inability to track the satellites when there is limited line of sight such as in deep valleys, on streets with tall buildings or lower levels of bridges (see in-dash navigation for more details). See GPS.
A Portable GPS
This amazing unit from Magellan can be used in a car or handheld when walking or hiking. It offers almost all of the navigation features of in-dash units, including text-to-speech playback of street names.
 | Reproduced with permission from Computer Desktop Encyclopedia. Copyright (c) 1981-2008 The Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved. |
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