Buying a GPS device for your car? Here are things to look out for:

Detailed maps

A GPS device is only as good as the maps it contains. Most GPS devices come installed with maps of Singapore and Malaysia.

Also check how frequently vendors update the maps. You don't want to arrive at an address only to find that the building has been demolished or relocated. Good maps clearly indicate block numbers, one-way streets and the flow of traffic.

Ease of use

A good GPS device starts up and gets a fix on your location quickly. It should also let you search for a desired address in seconds. Good GPS devices allow you to search by building names and postal codes.

Changeable settings

Some systems allow you to create a list of favourite addresses and points of interest (POIs) like your favourite cafe, park or private spot on Changi Beach.

Others allow you to install warning POIs - ERP toll gantries, fixed speed camera locations or accident-prone areas.

Ease of installation

Most vendors offer docking stations that mount the unit on the front windscreen or on the dashboard.

A good device should have a simple latch or button that lets you remove the unit from the docking station for safekeeping.

Extras

It sounds like an oxymoron, but a battery charger that plugs into the vehicle's cigarette lighter is an optional must-have - just in case your device runs out of juice.

Other extras are just the icing on the cake. Some GPS widgets can double as a portable entertainment device, photo viewer and contacts list manager.

This article was first published in Digital Life, The Straits Times on Apr 15, 2008.