TomTom GPS systems are made by the company TomTom NV in Holland. In the 1970s most major technologies required for automobile navigation were already established but they underwent wide-reaching refinement before before becoming available to the mass markets.

TomTom is the primary manufacturer of navigation systems in Europe and fast gaining ground in America. They offer two types of products for their Tom Tom GPS systems: navigation devices and navigation software for installation on mobile devices. These devices offer a direct overhead map view, and they also provide a birds-eye-view of the road. The GPS receiver provides visual and spoken directions on how to reach your chosen destination and also shows your precise location.

An Array of Features to Choose From

Although some offer Bluetooth, hands free calling, FM transmission and enhanced positioning technology, the hardware on Tom Tom GPS systems is generally the same in all their units. The major difference between the models is the software. Their array of models offer some or all of the following: maps (some offer only the United States; some offer maps of Europe, Canada and Mexico depending on the model you choose), navigation package, voice control, traffic data, text-to-speech, a fold and go easy port mount and a USB car charger.

An all-in-one device is the TomTom GPS system Go. It has a touch screen, speaker, USB port and an internal lithium ion battery. It comes with TomTom Home software which is a PC application that allows synchronization and updates to be sent to the mobile device. All the new models have Bluetooth transceivers that allow connection to a smartphone (a mobile phone offering advanced capabilities).

The chief difference between the TomTom One and the XL series is the size of the touch screen. The One and XL do not have all the features of the Go but if you are looking for a good navigation system at a good price, any of these models will fit your needs. TomTom also offers the Rider, which is a portable model for motorcycles and motor scooters, and the TomTom Navigator that is used for PDAs, palm devices, pocket PCs and some smartphones.

For anyone who likes travelling or that has to travel for their job, Tom Tom GPS systems are perfect. They are useful if you live in or near a large city or if your job requires you to go to various locations like a salesman, an insurance agent or a real estate agent. They make a great gift whether that gift is for a friend, boss, employee, family member or for yourself.

You can do an online comparison of all the features of all the models and then decide which one is suitable for you. Take some time to check around as some sites offer free shipping. The warranty needs to be carefully checked out, too. Tom Tom GPS systems can make a big difference in your time spent on the road.

Tags: global positioning system, GPS Systems, Tom Tom GPS, Tom Tom navigation system, Tom Tom XL-330