Garmin StreetPilot 2620 - 3.7 in. Car GPS Receiver
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- Form Factor: Fixed, Plug-in
- Map capabilities: Internal
- Receiver Type: 12 Channels
- Enhanced accuracy: WAAS enabled
- Screen Size: 3.7 in.
- GPS Type: Automobile
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A great way to safely locate your U.S. destination, near or far
Pros
Excellent clear direction, audio won't take your eyes off of road, color graphics, large type
Cons
Can be a distraction, must be removed from car while parked (people steal these), expensive
Recommended it?
Yes
The Bottom Line:
I would recommend this item to anyone who is driving to, through or has moved to a new area/state, the "direction-impaired", solo drivers or anyone who prefers travel by car.
My husband and I recently moved to a new state from California...the roads are old and confusing. I found it challenging and thus, daunting to find a location outside of my home area.
Printing out driving directions wasn't much help, especially when I would go off course and was also dangerous (reading while driving -never a good idea). Not to mention asking for directions..."Go left at the light, which is about 2 blocks away, no -wait...I think that's a right, no...I mean, LEFT and it's only a block or so away, then take a right at the intersection where Hope Valley hospital is, go east on North Tenth Street, pass the old oak tree, take another left, then go southwest for five miles, etc..."
-You get my point: it's confusing AND frustrating! -And if you get lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood it can be downright terrifying!!!
We recently bought an auto with a navigation system in it and I found it extremely easy to use. It also made me feel a lot more confident driving-wise. However, we didn't have one for our older existing car (the one I drive the most) so my husband suggested that we try this portable Garmin navigation system.
I was a little nervous using this item at first...after all, I was relying on what is basically a tiny talking computer to take me from Point A to Point B...and the first trip was 45 min. from my house!!! However, I'm happy to report that at the time of this writing I've been using it for a week and have driven longer distances without any problem. I've driven off-course a few times (the first time was on purpose to "test" it) and was able to get back on track without missing a beat (by the way, the unit will verbally tell you when you're off course and will "recalculate" the destination directions within a very short period of time). The unit mounts onto either a sand-weighted stand that isn't permanently mounted or a stand that can be stuck to the car's dash, which makes it easier to transfer it between autos. The unit can be turned or tilted up or down while in the stand...after it is moved, it "locks" into place and can be easily taken out via a "quick release" button. The unit is powered by a cigarette lighter adapter that has a speaker on it.
The speaker is a great safety feature...the actual speaker part is in the included cigarette lighter adapter. The voice volume can be adjusted to loud or soft levels or can be shut off completely, as directions are also shown on the display in large, easy to read letters. The audio is a woman's voice, which I find is very pleasant by the way...her tone is very calm and directions (both verbal and type) are clear and to the point. There's also a safe-mode that won't let anyone program or change course...it locks the touch screen/remote commands. This locking feature can be turned off should you need to use it when in transit.
The map is small but clear and color helps when viewing details (some of the older units have black and white maps). Your destination's programmed path (an aerial view map) is highlighted and an arrow (represents your car) on the highlighted path "moves" as you're driving so you can see where you're headed. The road that you're taking or soon to turn off on is numbered for easy reference. The display is also lit up/back-lit and there's a light sensor on the unit that will adjust the lighting level for daytime or nighttime levels. Also on the display are current speed, distance (in miles) to the next turn, time until the next turn and estimated time of arrival...truly amazing. In a way, this item does everything but actually DRIVE the car for you...I really don't mean to sound old-fashioned, but I'm seriously astounded by this "futuristic" thing -it's something I can't help but look at in wonder!
The screen and menus can be accessed by touch command or a small battery-powered remote can be used to give commands. Of course, while driving it's a really bad idea to program in directions or mess around with the unit...this should only be done while parked and with the engine off...the remote does come in handy, however when verbal instructions need to be repeated. The unit is easily shut off by flipping the toggle switch off (switch is located on the side of the unit).
Finding addresses in all 50 states is easy: just program in the number, street and city/state and you're all set. If you're taking a road trip, you can pre-plan and set stopping points of interest and the unit will plan the fastest trip or shortest distance, whichever you prefer. This also comes with an AC adapter, so addresses and destinations can be programmed anywhere at home, hotel, etc...all you need is a plug and a window so satellite signals come through. You can save up to 50 destinations and the receiver automatically saves recently searched places in a different area. I also have my home address saved as well.
You can also locate restaurants (food and drink), lodging, shopping, gas stations, car repair, banks, entertainment, points of interest, attractions, emergency and government, waypoints, etc., either by name or distance using the icon menu.
One problem I found with this unit is that there are times when the satellite signal doesn't reach it...these lapses have been experienced several times but generally don't last more than a minute...the unit will continue to search for a signal during these types of lapses. This unit will only work with a clear view of the sky, so it will not work in parking garages, etc. Another problem is that this unit is an extremely popular theft item and it must be removed when parking for long periods of time...I've heard these are stolen more than the actual autos they're in so it's a good idea to remove it from it's holder, unplug it and carry it with you in the included padded bag with strap (looks like a camera bag)...the unit is small and doesn't weigh very much, but some might find it a bother to remove it constantly, vs. buying an automobile with the navigator already installed in the dash. In addition, the unit does take up a small amount of dashboard space and therefore blocks a small amount of view out of the front window of the car.
On the brighter side, the safety features (speaker, safe-mode, large print, color map detail) make this a great way to get around town. Also, because all info is programmed, you won't have to upload any maps in order to drive to or through another state...it's all pre-programmed (one of the downsides to some factory-installed auto navigators and older navigators is that they require CD maps which may be outdated and cost up to $200 each to update)...also, some of the older portable navigation systems require frequent uploading, depending on travel location.
I'll admit that I'm not into reading manuals, but I enjoyed referring to the easy-to-read (and understand) 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" spiral-bound 90-page manual. It includes many black and white reference illustrations to go along with the written instructions. I found it extremely easy to understand how to program and use the navigator, and didn't find myself "glazing over" in boredom...like the navigator's driving instructions, the manual is also pretty much to-the-point.
If you are considering this purchase, shop around...I've seen quite a few deals on several websites! This unit's suggested retail is $1500.00...we bought ours for less than $1000 from a respected and well-established online dealer of navigation equipment. Also, before buying online, we visited a major electronics store in our area to compare cost and to look at a store display. We were able to try out the unit on a firsthand experience (it was factory-programmed to simulate a driving experience in the store).
Be especially wary of "unbelievable" deals or suspicious dealers...do your homework, read all details regarding your purchase carefully and you shouldn't be disappointed. Use caution when purchasing from an online auction site...should there be a problem with the unit, the warranty may not be honored.
If you do purchase on an auction site or from a private seller, it's always a good idea to see and try out the item before buying. I've found it's wise to buy locally when I'm considering electronics purchases.
UPDATE, 5/20/04: I drove to another state and back with a (lady) friend and while in transit passed through three others with absolutely NO problem whatsoever, even when we stopped to eat or use a bathroom. It's something I would NEVER have attempted using paper maps...I kid you not! While vacationing at our arrival destination, I was able to program another destination into the unit within a couple of minutes in the hotel room using the A/C adapter!!! My friend has repeatedly said that she is planning to purchase one soon and that she's looking forward to her newfound independence and more road trips (she is single and enjoys road trips, but mentioned that she's been nervous about driving long distances, much like I've felt). You really can go ANYWHERE with this thing...it'll bring out the road traveller in you!!!
I also found it EXTREMELY helpful to have a detailed, recently published atlas handy as well as maps and brochures from the hotel lobby so I could locate points of interest in nearby cities, towns, etc. and program them in.
My only advice is to make sure when traveling by car that your hotel of choice has an in-room safe or a front desk safety deposit box to store the unit in, because toting the navigator around in it's case for hours is a royal pain, especially if you're carrying other bags, a camera, or just walking around all day!
Garmin Street Pilot 2620 GPS Receiver Features:
-Built-in patch antenna; MCX-type connector for optional external GPS antenna connection
-Pre-programmed hard drive storage
-Audible and visual navigation instructions and warnings
-3.3" W x 1.7" H, 305 x 160-pixel display with bright, automotive-grade 8-bit 256-color LCD touch screen
-5.6" W x 3.2" H x 2.0" D unit dimensions
-Weighs .96 pounds
-Alphanumeric remote control
-Built-in photo sensor adjusts for light conditions automatically
-Indefinite data storage; no memory battery required
-Integrated dash mounting system provides easy adjustment and quick release
The bottom line: Although I trust this unit's abilities, I always keep a map and an atlas on board, just in case!!!
Printing out driving directions wasn't much help, especially when I would go off course and was also dangerous (reading while driving -never a good idea). Not to mention asking for directions..."Go left at the light, which is about 2 blocks away, no -wait...I think that's a right, no...I mean, LEFT and it's only a block or so away, then take a right at the intersection where Hope Valley hospital is, go east on North Tenth Street, pass the old oak tree, take another left, then go southwest for five miles, etc..."
-You get my point: it's confusing AND frustrating! -And if you get lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood it can be downright terrifying!!!
We recently bought an auto with a navigation system in it and I found it extremely easy to use. It also made me feel a lot more confident driving-wise. However, we didn't have one for our older existing car (the one I drive the most) so my husband suggested that we try this portable Garmin navigation system.
I was a little nervous using this item at first...after all, I was relying on what is basically a tiny talking computer to take me from Point A to Point B...and the first trip was 45 min. from my house!!! However, I'm happy to report that at the time of this writing I've been using it for a week and have driven longer distances without any problem. I've driven off-course a few times (the first time was on purpose to "test" it) and was able to get back on track without missing a beat (by the way, the unit will verbally tell you when you're off course and will "recalculate" the destination directions within a very short period of time). The unit mounts onto either a sand-weighted stand that isn't permanently mounted or a stand that can be stuck to the car's dash, which makes it easier to transfer it between autos. The unit can be turned or tilted up or down while in the stand...after it is moved, it "locks" into place and can be easily taken out via a "quick release" button. The unit is powered by a cigarette lighter adapter that has a speaker on it.
The speaker is a great safety feature...the actual speaker part is in the included cigarette lighter adapter. The voice volume can be adjusted to loud or soft levels or can be shut off completely, as directions are also shown on the display in large, easy to read letters. The audio is a woman's voice, which I find is very pleasant by the way...her tone is very calm and directions (both verbal and type) are clear and to the point. There's also a safe-mode that won't let anyone program or change course...it locks the touch screen/remote commands. This locking feature can be turned off should you need to use it when in transit.
The map is small but clear and color helps when viewing details (some of the older units have black and white maps). Your destination's programmed path (an aerial view map) is highlighted and an arrow (represents your car) on the highlighted path "moves" as you're driving so you can see where you're headed. The road that you're taking or soon to turn off on is numbered for easy reference. The display is also lit up/back-lit and there's a light sensor on the unit that will adjust the lighting level for daytime or nighttime levels. Also on the display are current speed, distance (in miles) to the next turn, time until the next turn and estimated time of arrival...truly amazing. In a way, this item does everything but actually DRIVE the car for you...I really don't mean to sound old-fashioned, but I'm seriously astounded by this "futuristic" thing -it's something I can't help but look at in wonder!
The screen and menus can be accessed by touch command or a small battery-powered remote can be used to give commands. Of course, while driving it's a really bad idea to program in directions or mess around with the unit...this should only be done while parked and with the engine off...the remote does come in handy, however when verbal instructions need to be repeated. The unit is easily shut off by flipping the toggle switch off (switch is located on the side of the unit).
Finding addresses in all 50 states is easy: just program in the number, street and city/state and you're all set. If you're taking a road trip, you can pre-plan and set stopping points of interest and the unit will plan the fastest trip or shortest distance, whichever you prefer. This also comes with an AC adapter, so addresses and destinations can be programmed anywhere at home, hotel, etc...all you need is a plug and a window so satellite signals come through. You can save up to 50 destinations and the receiver automatically saves recently searched places in a different area. I also have my home address saved as well.
You can also locate restaurants (food and drink), lodging, shopping, gas stations, car repair, banks, entertainment, points of interest, attractions, emergency and government, waypoints, etc., either by name or distance using the icon menu.
One problem I found with this unit is that there are times when the satellite signal doesn't reach it...these lapses have been experienced several times but generally don't last more than a minute...the unit will continue to search for a signal during these types of lapses. This unit will only work with a clear view of the sky, so it will not work in parking garages, etc. Another problem is that this unit is an extremely popular theft item and it must be removed when parking for long periods of time...I've heard these are stolen more than the actual autos they're in so it's a good idea to remove it from it's holder, unplug it and carry it with you in the included padded bag with strap (looks like a camera bag)...the unit is small and doesn't weigh very much, but some might find it a bother to remove it constantly, vs. buying an automobile with the navigator already installed in the dash. In addition, the unit does take up a small amount of dashboard space and therefore blocks a small amount of view out of the front window of the car.
On the brighter side, the safety features (speaker, safe-mode, large print, color map detail) make this a great way to get around town. Also, because all info is programmed, you won't have to upload any maps in order to drive to or through another state...it's all pre-programmed (one of the downsides to some factory-installed auto navigators and older navigators is that they require CD maps which may be outdated and cost up to $200 each to update)...also, some of the older portable navigation systems require frequent uploading, depending on travel location.
I'll admit that I'm not into reading manuals, but I enjoyed referring to the easy-to-read (and understand) 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" spiral-bound 90-page manual. It includes many black and white reference illustrations to go along with the written instructions. I found it extremely easy to understand how to program and use the navigator, and didn't find myself "glazing over" in boredom...like the navigator's driving instructions, the manual is also pretty much to-the-point.
If you are considering this purchase, shop around...I've seen quite a few deals on several websites! This unit's suggested retail is $1500.00...we bought ours for less than $1000 from a respected and well-established online dealer of navigation equipment. Also, before buying online, we visited a major electronics store in our area to compare cost and to look at a store display. We were able to try out the unit on a firsthand experience (it was factory-programmed to simulate a driving experience in the store).
Be especially wary of "unbelievable" deals or suspicious dealers...do your homework, read all details regarding your purchase carefully and you shouldn't be disappointed. Use caution when purchasing from an online auction site...should there be a problem with the unit, the warranty may not be honored.
If you do purchase on an auction site or from a private seller, it's always a good idea to see and try out the item before buying. I've found it's wise to buy locally when I'm considering electronics purchases.
UPDATE, 5/20/04: I drove to another state and back with a (lady) friend and while in transit passed through three others with absolutely NO problem whatsoever, even when we stopped to eat or use a bathroom. It's something I would NEVER have attempted using paper maps...I kid you not! While vacationing at our arrival destination, I was able to program another destination into the unit within a couple of minutes in the hotel room using the A/C adapter!!! My friend has repeatedly said that she is planning to purchase one soon and that she's looking forward to her newfound independence and more road trips (she is single and enjoys road trips, but mentioned that she's been nervous about driving long distances, much like I've felt). You really can go ANYWHERE with this thing...it'll bring out the road traveller in you!!!
I also found it EXTREMELY helpful to have a detailed, recently published atlas handy as well as maps and brochures from the hotel lobby so I could locate points of interest in nearby cities, towns, etc. and program them in.
My only advice is to make sure when traveling by car that your hotel of choice has an in-room safe or a front desk safety deposit box to store the unit in, because toting the navigator around in it's case for hours is a royal pain, especially if you're carrying other bags, a camera, or just walking around all day!
Garmin Street Pilot 2620 GPS Receiver Features:
-Built-in patch antenna; MCX-type connector for optional external GPS antenna connection
-Pre-programmed hard drive storage
-Audible and visual navigation instructions and warnings
-3.3" W x 1.7" H, 305 x 160-pixel display with bright, automotive-grade 8-bit 256-color LCD touch screen
-5.6" W x 3.2" H x 2.0" D unit dimensions
-Weighs .96 pounds
-Alphanumeric remote control
-Built-in photo sensor adjusts for light conditions automatically
-Indefinite data storage; no memory battery required
-Integrated dash mounting system provides easy adjustment and quick release
The bottom line: Although I trust this unit's abilities, I always keep a map and an atlas on board, just in case!!!
