Garmin Ltd. is the parent corporation of the various Garmin subsidiaries that manufacture and distribute a wide range of aviation and consumer devices such as global positioning systems (GPS). Founded in 1989, Garmin made a name for itself years later with its personal GPS line that would be adopted by many of the largest auto manufacturers in the world. The Garmin c330 StreetPilot is an aftermarket GPS that mounts to the dashboard or windshield of your car.
Features
The c330 StreetPilot comes equipped with City Navigator street maps as well as a large database of points of interest (POI) such as motels, gas stations, movie theaters and more. The c330 features a touch screen as well as multiple voice recordings to choose from. You also have the option of setting alarms with custom POIs, such as for traffic cameras, speed traps or construction areas. The c330 also has an access port for a standard SD memory card. This card is used for updating maps, which require either a subscription or annual update that costs approximately $60 a year. Unfortunately, if you do not buy timely updates, you will get multiple warnings that your maps are out of date every session you use it.
Updates
Although the c330 requires regular updates, there are options to paying the $60 a year from Garmin for their official maps. When you first buy a Garmin product, if you register it immediately, you will get a free update if within 3 months of a new update or a discount coupon (50 percent off) if within 6 months. You also have the option of purchasing a lifetime map update for approximately $200. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, you can export Google or Yahoo maps into the proper text format and then use the SD card to load them. This only works with firmware updates 4.0 or higher.
Programming Tips
Take the time to familiarize yourself with the many options on the c330 that will make your trips more pleasant. The first thing you should do is to ignore the "live traffic" option because it will prevent you from using freeways. Also disable toll roads unless you prefer to use them, as the StreetPilot will default to the nearest toll road.
When selecting between speed and travel time choose the "balanced" option--this will typically result in the smoothest, fastest route while avoiding major obstructions. Finally, input your home as well as other common locations you travel to, such as work or to relatives' and friends' homes. Custom POIs will greatly reduce the time required to calculate return trips.
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