DIY Network

Enhancing Safety with GPS Technology From "Auto Primer" episode DAPR-104

A GPS system allows you to pay closer attention to driving rather than struggling with maps or directions.

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This episode of DIY's Auto Primer, focuses on driver safety. In this final segment of episode 104, host Leilani munter talks about GPS (global positioning system) units and the proper use of GPS technology to aid your travels and enhance driver safety.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Trying to read or decipher directions -- and especially reading a map -- while driving can be a source of driver distraction (figure A). If you're looking for a place you've never been to before, scanning storefronts and street-signs on the side of the road as you drive takes your attention away from safe driving. And resulting "last-minute turns" can be very dangerous. A portable GPS system can aid you with finding your destination while cutting down on driving distractions.

Most units mount to the windshield or dash using a suction cup and special locking feature. The unit plugs into your 12-volt power outlet (cigarette lighter).

Simply power up the unit, turn it on. Then enter an address or select points of interest which often come pre-loaded into the unit (figure B). Typical pre-loaded destinations include airports, restaurants, gas stations and even ATM's. Or you can type in an exact address manually. The unit will "talk you through" your driving directions with an audible voice. The navigation system will signal or tell you when there is a turn ahead, and how far away it is.

If you should miss a turn, the unit will automatically re-calculate your route (figure C) and get you back on track.

Using this technology takes away some of the stress and worry over getting lost, and allows you to keep your eyes where they should be -- on the road.

Important: To be safe, you should enter your destination before you begin driving, or pull over to a safe stopping place when entering new data. Entering data while driving is, of course, distracting and dangerous.

Price recap for items seen in this episode:

Organizers $10 - 40
MP3/CD player $200
GPS system $1200

Note: This is a summary of steps and tips shown in this episode of Auto Primer. These are general guidelines and applicable to most contemporary vehicles. There may be variations in procedures depending on vehicle manufacturer, model, age or condition of vehicle and in the applicable parts, products or kit. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or product that you select. Also, familiarize yourself with your owner's manual before doing any work on your vehicle.

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