Getting the most out of your GPS navigation system is often a matter of knowing the GPS software. You can gain access to more maps, more features and better functionality if you know how. Here are some tips on how to enjoy everything your GPS navigation system have to offer. Of course, there is still no substitute for reading the owner's manual!

One thing you can do with the software on your GPS is speed up the satellite lock. You'll want to do this when you first get your device or when you've moved to a new location. When you first turn on your GPS navigation device, your unit will need to read the positioning of the other satellites in the sky in relation to your current position.

GPS devices
The most efficient way to receive this information is to leave GPS navigation systems on under an open sky for 20 minutes, without moving them around. Additionally, when you've traveled over 100 miles and you turn your car on, you may want to hit the "new location" button on the satellite screen menu to speed up the satellite acquisition.

Every once in a while you'll want to check for firmware updates. "Firmware" refers to the GPS software in your GPS. Sometimes manufacturers find that there are common system glitches, so they'll release updates to improve the functionality of your GPS system. For instance, the Garmin GPSMAP 60 CSx had an early altimeter bug that has since been fixed with firmware version 2.7.

Other times firmware updates can actually add new features that your device didn't have before! For instance, the Garmin i3 replacement, namely the StreetPilot 7500, has an upgrade that adds more languages, shows on-route traffic delays and allows you to customize points of interest. Another useful upgrade is the capability to update your maps once a year.

GPS
While your GPS devices comes with perfectly fine navigator maps, some people find they aren't satisfied. Free and legal Garmin-compatible maps are posted online, which include highway and high-quality topographical maps.

At Google Maps, plot your route, then click the "Send" link with the email icon beside it. Then choose to send it to a Garmin or a TomTom GPS.