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Smartphone Versus Built-in Navigation – Which Is Best?

09/19/2021 By BestCarAudio.com

Smartphone Navigation

There’s no denying the convenience of having a navigation system in your vehicle, whether it’s smartphone-based or built into your radio. With the nearly instant popularity of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, smartphone-connected radios are quickly replacing built-in navigation solutions as the upgrade of choice. The question is, which is the better navigation solution? Let’s look at some of the benefits and drawbacks of each technology.

What Is Built-In Navigation?

If you are purchasing a new media receiver for your car or truck, there are options from Kenwood, Pioneer or Alpine for units with built-in GPS-based navigation systems. When we talk about built-in nav, we’re referring to a solution where the navigation software and mapping are built right into the radio.

What Is Smartphone Navigation?

Smartphone NavigationWhen we discuss smartphone navigation, we aren’t talking about sticking your phone on a mounting bracket on the dash. While that is functional, it lacks the true integration features that make systems like CarPlay and Android Auto so desirable. For iPhone users, Apple CarPlay allows you to use Apple Maps, Google Maps or Waze to navigate to the destination of your choice. Most Android Auto users use Google Maps or Waze for directions. Motion X GPS and iGo Navigation are some additional alternative navigation software solutions. Media receivers with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available from Sony, Kenwood, Pioneer, JVC and Alpine.

What Does Smartphone-Integrated Navigation Offer?

Smartphone NavigationThere are three significant benefits to using your phone with Android Auto or CarPlay for navigation. First and foremost, the map data is always as fresh as possible. As long as you’re connected to the internet, you have instant access to the latest map information used by Apple Maps, Google Maps or Waze and you never have to purchase an update. In-dash systems require updates that typically involve purchasing new mapping.

The second benefit is the voice recognition interface. If you want to go to a specific address, you can tell the system where you want to go using conversational English commands. The programmers at Apple and Google call this technology natural language processing, and it’s based on rudimentary forms of artificial intelligence. Don’t worry, Skynet isn’t active, yet.

Smartphone NavigationWhile some built-in nav systems will accept voice commands, what you say and how you say it needs to be very specific. You might be able to say, “Navigate to 100 Main Street in Anytown USA,” whereas your smartphone will understand “get me directions to,” “help me find,” “take me to” or “plan a route” and then the address.

The third benefit is access to real-time destination information. You can search by address, by a company name or even a category. Ask for a Korean BBQ restaurant, a gas station or a hospital – whatever you need, whenever you need it. Best of all, the information is stored in the cloud (which we all know is just someone else’s computer) and never needs to be updated. Built-in navigation systems rely on destination (called Point-of-Interest or POI) databases that are stored alongside the map data. Just like the maps, these need to be updated frequently to remain accurate and useful.

Drawbacks of Smartphone Navigation?

Well, one potential drawback of using your smartphone for navigation is that it will consume some amount of data. Depending on whom you ask, Google can use between 0.6MB and 2.2 MB of data per hour. That’s pretty low. Waze, thanks to its simple interface, is even lower and Apple Maps is a little higher. If your cellular plan has limited data access, it’s something to keep in mind, but not obsess over. If you travel over the border between Canada and the US or into Mexico, be sure to take potential data roaming charges into account.

Smartphone Navigation
A journey to the other side of the Niagara River to visit Canada or the US when using cellular data could cost you more than you expect.

One option for overcoming this limitation is to download the map data you need directly to your phone while you’re connected to the internet at home or work. Within Google Maps, you can choose how much map area you want to download. Something worth noting: You have to download enough map information to cover your entire route. For example, if you download downtown Buffalo and downtown Detroit in separate files, the system can’t plan a route between the two without internet access. Nevertheless, it’s better than nothing.

Smartphone Navigation
Downloading map data to your phone while at home or work can reduce cellular data charges.

Benefits of Built-In Navigation Solutions

No matter where you are, your navigation system is ready and willing to help you reach your destination. You never have to worry about internet connectivity or additional cost to use the solution you already own. There are never problems plugging things in because of damaged or low-quality cables or connectivity issues because of software updates from Google or Apple. In fact, you don’t need to remember to plug in your phone, or even take your phone with you to get where you want to go.

Drawbacks of Built-In GPS

Navigation solutions built into your radio rely on map data stored on an SD or microSD card. Companies like TomTom and Google (which create and own the map data) see the dissemination of this information as a profit center. The company that developed the navigation software in your car radio (Garmin or NavNGo, the maker of iGO) needs to include a license for the map data contained in the system. If the map information isn’t accurate, then you’ll need to purchase an update from your supplier. You’ll need a computer and likely a memory card and reader to complete the update. Quite simply, if your maps aren’t up to date, then the route the system plans man not be accurate, or even possible.

Smartphone Navigation
Map updates from companies like Naviextras and Garmin can cost $100 per year and are typically six to 12 months behind actual road conditions.

Choose the Navigation Solution that Meets Your Needs

Where you drive and how often you need directions will determine whether or not you choose a multimedia receiver with built-in navigation, with CarPlay and Android Auto or both. Your local specialist mobile enhancement retailer can help you choose one that works perfectly for your needs and fits nicely into your vehicle. Drop by and check one out today!

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Car Audio, Navigation, RESOURCE LIBRARY

GPS Vehicle Tracking Systems

09/06/2020 By BestCarAudio.com

GPS Vehicle TrackingDo you wish you could keep an eye on your kids when they borrow the family car or know where your fleet of work trucks are at any time? A GPS-based tracking system is an easy way to keep tabs on your vehicle. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the options for vehicle locating and tracking systems and, of course, explain how they work.

How Does GPS Vehicle Tracking Work?

GPS Vehicle Tracking
This image shows the location of a car in a small shopping plaza.
GPS Vehicle Tracking
A Google Satellite view of the same vehicle.

A tracking module contains three primary components. First and foremost, a CPU controls the system. The CPU runs software that communicates with the rest of the hardware on the device. The next important component is a GPS receiver and antenna. The GPS receiver provides the CPU with the location, velocity and altitude of the vehicle. Third is a cellular radio. The cellular radio communicates with a server to store information about the vehicle’s location and operation.

GPS tracking systems communicate with the server at predetermined intervals based on the service package you have chosen. These intervals could be one, three, five or 20 minutes, or on-demand as required. More frequent updates use more cellular data and are typically associated with more expensive tracking service packages.

Tracking Hardware Options

GPS Vehicle TrackingSome tracking systems include additional features such as inputs for seat belts and doors, accelerometers to log sudden acceleration and braking, RFID fob readers to identify drivers and A/V inputs so you can see and hear what’s going on in the vehicle. Some premium hardware solutions include a lithium ion backup battery so the system will continue to function even if the vehicle battery is disconnected or completely dead. Other systems with integrated solar panels are available for trailers or infrequently used equipment. If you need a solution that can handle getting wet or dirty, tracking hardware is available in an IP65-rated water- and dust-resistant enclosure.

Custom solutions are available for specific applications. If you operate a fleet of waste removal vehicles, you can log each time they lift a bin. The same logic applies to tow trucks, snow plows and, of course, delivery vehicles. Custom sensors and switches can interact with the logging system to store and log almost any conceivable function. Perhaps you have an armored car service and need a panic button – that’s an easy solution.

Tracking Interface Options

GPS Vehicle Tracking
The locating system pinpointed the vehicle to the first spot in the row.
GPS Vehicle Tracking
The actual location of the car in that plaza.

Two interface options are available, depending on your needs. For most consumers, an app on your smartphone is available to let you see the location of your vehicle. In most cases, the location is overlaid on Google or Apple maps so you can understand the vehicle location graphically. In most cases, the location is accurate to within about 25 feet of where the vehicle actually is. If the GPS receiver receives signals from enough satellites, the accuracy can be even better.

For clients using their tracking system for business applications, most services provide a web-based interface that can show you the location of your entire fleet and allow you to configure warnings and reports.

Software-Based Features for Consumers

GPS Vehicle Tracking
A Geofence set up around the vehicle location. When the vehicle leaves this boundary, the owner will receive an alert.

Consumer tracking solutions typically offer five or six software-based features. These include geofencing and over-speed alert, as well as tow alerts and after-hours motion alerts. Geofencing is an alert option that will let the operator know when the vehicle enters or exits a particular geographical area. In most cases, this feature is configured by placing a pin or marker at a location and identifying a boundary radius in miles around that position. Depending on how it’s configured, a warning is displayed on the operator’s smartphone when the vehicle enters or exits this area. Over-speed alerts are easy to understand. The operator configures a maximum speed for the system and will receive a notification if that speed is exceeded.

Two advanced features are the tow and after-hours motion alerts. The after-hours alert will send a warning if the vehicle moves during a preset time. If you never drive your vehicle after midnight and are rarely up before 6 a.m., you can set an alert to let you know if your vehicle moves during that period. Tow alerts are another great feature that helps alert the operator to potential vehicle theft. You will receive a tow alert when the vehicle moves without the ignition being turned on.

Business Applications and Features

GPS Vehicle TrackingFor business owners, knowing how your vehicles are operated is as important as knowing their location. Many commercial solutions include accelerometers that log aggressive acceleration and abrupt stops. Smooth driving reduces wear on the vehicle and improves fuel economy. Many systems provide audible warnings to the operator to coach them in improving their driving habits. Commercial tracking solutions can typically generate reports that will identify idle time to reduce fuel consumption further.

Some tracking solution providers offer devices that comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Electronic Logging Device mandates. If you need to track Hours of Service or generate Record of Duty Status reports, several companies provide these services.

Benefits of Vehicle Tracking

GPS Vehicle TrackingFrom a business owner’s perspective, knowing where your vehicles are and how they are being used lets you manage your assets reliably. If your staff knows that they are being monitored, they typically drive more safely and waste less time on personal matters. Those savings alone can dramatically reduce your costs. You can generate usage logs based on distance traveled or hours of operation to schedule maintenance and streamline your operations. Research indicates that vehicles with GPS tracking where the operator knows you are logging the vehicle position are 7 percent more productive and use 8 percent less fuel. The same logic applies to letting your kids borrow your car. If they know you are keeping an eye on them, they are less likely to go places they aren’t supposed to.

Install a Vehicle Tracking System Today

Whether you want to log your mileage for your tax return, keep tabs on your son or daughter or monitor how your fleet of service vehicles is operated, your local mobile electronics retailer can help you choose a hardware solution that meets your needs.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Navigation, RESOURCE LIBRARY

7 Reasons for Hiring A Mobile Electronics Specialist to Work on Your Car

02/02/2020 By BestCarAudio.com

Hiring A Mobile Electronics SpecialistLet’s face it, not all of us are experts at everything. Maybe you’re an electrician or engineer and love to work on projects around the house. You might even be savvy when it comes to cars. You change your own oil and do your own brake jobs. Hey, if you can, why not, right? So, when do we know we need to look at hiring a mobile electronics specialist to help with a project or repair?

Cars are simple right? Switches, relays, light bulbs and wires aren’t hard to figure out, are they? If you can operate a multimeter, you can figure these things out. The problem is, most new cars don’t work that way anymore. Let’s look at how cars have changed, how audio and remote starter integration has changed and why it might be best to let a pro dive under your dash.

1. Vehicle Data Network Integration

Hiring A Mobile Electronics SpecialistA few decades ago, the electrical systems in our vehicles were completely analog. Devices were turned on, or off. The blower motor for the heater had four speeds. The engine had really simple temperature switches that would turn on the radiator fan. As time progressed, automakers started adding more and more features to new vehicles. Do you remember the first time you had a car with a keyless entry system? What about a car with a push-button start? These technologies were the beginning of the digital age for cars. Different modules around the vehicle talk to each other on a data network. This technology reduces the need to run as many wires through a car. Needing fewer wires saves weight and reduces cost.

In the good old days, if we wanted to see if a door was open, we’d check to see if the door pin was grounded. Now, we need to ask the computer if it’s open. We can’t simply tap into wiring for information — we need to speak the same language and we need a computer to do the talking.

Here’s a simple example that gives you a good idea of how complicated new cars are becoming. Around 2005, Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep decided to remove the analog accessory wire from their radios. To turn the radio on, a message from the vehicle computer would be sent to the radio. If you wanted to change the radio, you needed to buy an interface that could intercept that signal, then produce a conventional analog accessory wire output. A radio installation in these vehicles requires a module like the PAC Audio C2R-CHYNA or the Metra CHTO-01 for a new radio to work.

Properly trained and equipped mobile electronics installation technicians have access to the training and reference material to deal with vehicles that use data networks.

2. Equipped with the Proper Tools

Hiring A Mobile Electronics SpecialistAs a car owner, did you know that the wiring for your air bag system is, in most instances, protected with yellow wire loom under the dash and in the door sills? Probing the wrong wire within those harnesses can set off an airbag, or the entire airbag system. If you were leaning on the seat when the bag went off, you could be seriously injured.

In the old days, technicians used test lights and analog multimeters to look for the presence of signals on wires. You can easily damage a modern computer using a test light. Technicians have the right tools to gather the information they need without damaging anything in the vehicle.

3. Responsible for Damage

Hiring A Mobile Electronics SpecialistLet’s say you just can’t resist the urge to install a new radio in your car. You take the dash apart, remove the radio and cut off the factory radio plug. You start testing each wire in the harness for voltage and ground, then try to figure out which of the 15 or 20 wires are for speakers. If your vehicle happens to be one with a data network and you let a wire touch the battery wire, you could damage the vehicle computer. Chances are, getting the problem fixed is going to cost you at least several hundred dollars.

By hiring a professional, you are protected from unexpected costs. If they make a mistake, they’ll pay to fix it. It’s just that simple.

4. Module Programming

Hiring A Mobile Electronics SpecialistMost remote car starter installations require some sort of vehicle data network interface. Companies like iDatalink, Fortin and Directed offer several solutions that allow specific remote starter functions to communicate directly with the car computer. Each of these modules needs to be programmed for the year, make, model and specific trim level of vehicle. They are NOT generic.

Only authorized retailers have access to the information and programming tools required to configure these modules. Consumers simply can’t perform these tasks.

5. Manufacturer Warranties

If you read the warranty card included with products like a radio or amplifier, many manufacturers require that the device be installed by an authorized dealer in order for the warranty to be valid. Different companies have different guidelines. Installing something yourself may be covered under a 90-day warranty, but the full year is only available with proof of purchase and installation.

Some companies word their warranty statements in a way that offers an extended warranty when the product is purchased from, and installed by, an authorized retailer. With the complexity of modern devices, having a warranty is important.

6. Tricks of the Trade

Hiring A Mobile Electronics SpecialistIn most cases, we hire professionals to perform a task because they can do it faster and better than we can. In the mobile electronics industry, technicians develop processes to save them time and make the work they do more reliable. With that said, they are also trained to maximize the performance of the equipment they are installing.

Let’s look at the installation of a set of component speakers. In most cases, the woofer will be installed in the factory door speaker location. When it comes to the tweeter, there are many options. The three most popular tweeter locations are up high in the door, the sail panel and in the A-pillar. Each offers different benefits and drawbacks in terms of performance. Experienced installers know this information and can work with you to determine which will yield results that match your goals.

7. Saving Time by Hiring A Mobile Electronics Specialist

One of the most common and logical reasons to hire a professional to perform a task is to save time. Most of us work Monday to Friday and want to relax on the weekend. Yes, there are many people who enjoy working on their vehicles in their spare time. By hiring an professional, you can drop your car off at the shop on the way to work, then come back after work and your new radio, subwoofer system or remote starter will be installed and ready to use. Hiring a professional can be a simple matter of convenience.

Visit Your Local Mobile Electronics Specialist

You’d never go to your dentist to have your eyes checked, and you wouldn’t go to the convenience store to buy a new computer. Companies exist to offer their expertise to those that require it. When it comes to upgrading the electronics and convenience systems in your car, truck or SUV – take it to an expert. You’ll save time, get the results you wanted and have someone who can provide training and ongoing support for your purchase.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Car Audio, Driver Safety, Navigation

Google’s Waze offers the Best in Navigation

12/22/2019 By BestCarAudio.com

Google WazeIt’s not often that a piece of software creates a significant impact on our daily lives. Milestone social media apps like Facebook and Twitter most certainly remain in the limelight, but when it comes to actually being productive, Waze is a major step forward in navigation apps for our smartphones. In the summer of 2017, Waze announced that it would include compatibility with Android Auto to make it, quite possibly, the best navigation solution for Android phone users to date.

What is Waze?

WazeWhen Waze launched in 2006 it was called FreeMap Israel. It was a turn-by-turn navigation application for smartphone users. Fast forward to 2013: Waze won the prestigious Best Overall App award at the Mobile World Congress conference. In the same year, Waze was purchased by Google for an impressive $1 billion. Google knows the value of information better than almost any other company in the world, so its choice to invest in Waze makes sense.

Waze Map Updates

Waze differs from other navigation solutions in two very important ways. Users of Waze have the ability to update map information. If there is new construction in your neighborhood or a reconfiguration of a freeway onramp, you can update the map information in real time on your smartphone. That information will be integrated into the map database, and all other Waze users can continue to enjoy the latest mapping and navigation information without the need to wait for updates or downloads.

Historically, changes to map information could take anywhere from months to years to become available. While map companies like TomTom (formerly TeleAtlas) and HERE (formerly Navteq) do update their databases quite frequently, that new information takes time to trickle through the update process for portable and vehicle navigation systems. Waze is up-to-date within hours.

Real-time Traffic Information

WazeThe second key feature of Waze is its ability to share traffic flow information with fellow users. Waze is often referred to as a crowdsourced navigation solution, as users can report traffic jams, accidents, road closures and the presence of police. Within seconds of reporting an accident or a traffic jam, all your fellow Waze users receive that information.

Waze will consider traffic jams as it creates new routing plans. If you live in a major urban area that is prone to congestion, this information can prevent significant delays and help get you to your destination much faster.

Using Waze with Android Auto

As voice control is the key benefit of Android Auto, using Waze to plan your drive is easy. Initiate the voice recognition command, then simply ask for the destination or address you want, and include the word Waze at the end of the address. Android Auto will launch Waze and calculate your route.

The Waze interface on Android Auto is very similar to what you would see while using it on your smartphone. The fonts on the screen are nice and large, and accessing route-planning options like avoiding toll roads or picking a different route are easy to get to. Many users report that Waze is, in fact, easier to configure than Google Maps.

Reporting Information

WazeAs we mentioned, a key feature of Waze is the ability to report information to other users. Tapping the Listen button will let you report traffic jams, accidents, bad weather, road closures, and more by talking to the system. You can say, “Report a traffic jam,” and Waze will ask you how bad it is. You can share the location of hidden or visible police or let your fellow Wazers know there is a pothole or ice on the road.

As users approach the location where you have provided information, they will see an alert on their screen. In the case of obstacles and police, your fellow users can also report that the obstacle has been cleared. It’s all simple, quick and easy – just like Android Auto itself.

The Navigation Experience

WazeOf course, Waze includes full turn-by-turn navigation prompting and will read out street and freeway names. You get lots of warning to let you know what maneuver is coming up next to reduce the need for sudden lane changes that can endanger you and your fellow drivers.

When you plan a route with Waze, you have the option of choosing from three different routes. Waze displays obstacle icons along a bar and the associated travel time and distance for each route. Choosing the best path is quick, easy and efficient.

If Waze is alerted to a traffic jam along your route, it will provide you with a prompt that suggests a new route and the new travel time and estimated time of arrival. You can, of course, choose to ignore that advice, but we recommend you don’t.

Another cool feature of Waze is that it will notify you of obstacles, even without a route planned. If you are driving along and someone has reported a pothole or hidden police officer, the notification appears just the same.

Is There a Downside to Waze?

Do silver linings always have a dark cloud? Maybe, maybe not. There is one limitation to Waze that is a bit of an annoyance. You can only plan routes that are less than 1,000 miles. If you are in San Francisco and want to go to Niagara Falls, you can’t plan a single route. You need to choose a destination within 1,000 miles, then plan another 1,000 miles from that point. What’s more frustrating, Google Maps CAN plot that route. Waze provides a message that they are “working to increase that distance,” but that’s been a limitation for a long time.

The other thing about Waze is advertisements. We all know that Google loves to sell advertising. Companies like McDonald’s, Whole Foods and Taco Bell all pay for pop-up ads that are displayed when you are using Waze on your smartphone. Good news, though: These advertisements aren’t currently displayed when you are using Waze with Android Auto. That would be contradictory to the philosophy of reducing driver distractions.

Check out Android Auto and Waze Today

If your car, truck or SUV came with Android Auto, then check out Waze next time you are in the car. If you don’t have an Android Auto-equipped radio, drop into your local mobile enhancement retailer and ask if there is a solution for your vehicle. Android Auto and CarPlay are amazing products, and can not only make your time behind the wheel much safer but also more productive.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Car Audio, Navigation, RESOURCE LIBRARY

GPS Tracking Devices for Personal Use

02/24/2017 By John Schwartz

GPS TrackingGPS systems are quite popular nowadays to help drivers navigate from one destination to another. Did you know that the same technology can be used to keep track of your vehicle? Perfectionist Auto Sound and Security can install a GPS tracking device in your vehicle that allows you to know your vehicle’s location at all times. Our team of experts has been installing these systems for years.

How Do GPS Tracking Devices Work?

You’ve probably heard the term GPS many times, but do you know what it means or how this technology works?

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. The system is made up of a group of orbiting satellites that send accurate details about their locations in space back to earth. Once the GPS receiver, such as the DroneMobile system, receives these signals, they are used to decipher the location of the device. This allows you, as a consumer, to know where your vehicle is at all times. If your vehicle is in a place where you have cellphone reception, you’ll always be able to keep tabs on it. There is a small monthly service charge to use the DroneMobile system, but we believe it is well worth it.

What is the Benefit of a GPS Tracking Device?

GPS TrackingWhether you have a teen driver in your home whom you want to monitor on the road or an elderly family member who needs to be kept track of, a GPS tracking device will be of great benefit beyond knowing where your vehicle is for your own use. With the basic plan, the DroneMobile also will allow you to check your vehicle’s status to see if the engine is running and if the doors are locked/unlocked.

You will also gain the ability to remote start your vehicle and have keyless entry. The premium plan will give you all of that plus the capability of locating your vehicle on a map. You’ll even be able to receive speeding alerts and curfew alerts if the vehicle is operated outside a predetermined timeframe.

As the owner of the vehicle, you could be liable for others’ mistakes if they are driving your car. Now you’ll never have to wonder again whether the people driving your vehicle are doing so in a safe manner.

Stop by Our Store Today

If you’re interested in having more control over your vehicle or you desire more peace of mind when others are behind your wheel, Perfectionist Auto Sound and Security can help. Our team would love to meet with you to hear what your needs are and design a system that will be of great benefit to you. Stop by our store in Anchorage, Alaska, today or contact us here for more information.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Keyless Entry, Navigation, Remote Car Starters Tagged With: DroneMobile

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