What is the Difference Between Hard Drive Navagation & DVD Based?

GPS (Global Positioning System) devices in vehicles are available in many forms such as built-in, portable and via a cell phone. Built-in navigation systems come with two options in retrieving the stored maps and locations. This can be done through a build-in hard drive or by inserting a disc into the CD/DVD slot.

DVD

Systems that use a DVD to access the maps require the DVD to be in the player to access them. Maps may be on more than one disc so the user will have to switch discs to access different regions. A DVD-based map system takes longer to load than a hard drive navigation system.

Hard Drive

Navigation systems that have the maps stored on a hard drive have many benefits. These maps load faster and do not lose coverage when an individual travels outside the map region. In addition, it allows use of the CD/DVD slot to play music CDs and movies, while still using the navigation system.

Cost

Navigation systems that use discs are less expensive in cost than those with a built-in hard drive.

Updates

To upgrade the maps on a DVD system, new discs must be purchased from the manufacturer. To upgrade the hard drive model, a USB cable with a computer or a serial port is required.

Tip

Purchasing a navigation system that includes street level maps and a map of the entire United States will help avoid extra costs to add more maps later.

References

• CNET: GPS Mapping