WANT a sat nav that offers more besides? Garmin may have the answer.
The nuviCam is a portable navigation system, that also features a built-in dashboard camera, as well as an alerts system, similar to what you might find in the spec of a decently priced motor.
Around 18cms in length and a little over 9cm in height, it’s a smart system with clear mapping and – in the main - precise response to instructions.
A strong magnet attaches the device to the mounting unit, which in turn is affixed to the windscreen with a traditional sucker.
With a battery life of around 30 minutes, it is easier to rely on your vehicle’s power supply via the cable that fits into the relevant socket.
The nuviCam has a 6ins, pinch to zoom, display with crystal clear graphics.
Want to change your destination on the go? Then you can use the voice command system which reacts best to slow and deliberate delivery. Most times it found the address within seconds, but on one or two occasions my acquired Teesside drawl led to some confusion.
The built-in dash cam constantly records journeys on a microSD card and – should you be unfortunate enough to have one – the Incident Detection system automatically saves files on impact. GPS coordinates are stored and drivers can play back the video on the device or on a computer.
Other features include Active Lane Guidance and Up Ahead – which provides information on services, petrol stations etc.
Perhaps my favourite, though, is Garmin’s great Real Directions programme, which dispenses with comments like ‘turn left in 100 yards’ for more common sense suggestions like ‘turn right at the McDonalds’.
If like me you have trouble gauging just what is 100 yards or miscalculate just which exit was the third one then you’ll welcome this innovation.
Overall, I was impressed with the nuviCam and with the addition of free lifetime maps and digital traffic, it’s should be a serious consideration for those, like me, who put in serious miles in some challenging areas and value getting to the right place with the minimum of fuss.
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