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Thread ID: 102494 2009-08-21 03:14:00 Car GPS Strommer (42) PC World Chat
Post ID Timestamp Content User
803024 2009-08-21 03:14:00 When using a GPS unit in a car, does it need to be mounted on the dash next to the windscreen so that it can get a signal, or will it work mounted lower (below the dash)? Strommer (42)
803025 2009-08-21 03:20:00 Methinks you answered your own question :)

Try reading en.wikipedia.org
Zippity (58)
803026 2009-08-21 03:22:00 When using a GPS unit in a car, does it need to be mounted on the dash next to the windscreen so that it can get a signal, or will it work mounted lower (below the dash)?

:lol:
GameJunkie (72)
803027 2009-08-21 03:33:00 "For use in a vehicle, the receiver is placed near the windscreen, or mounted on a specialized purpose made windscreen fitted mount. This is usually the best location to get the strongest satellite signals while in an automobile." www.gpstrackingdevice.net Zippity (58)
803028 2009-08-21 03:55:00 :lol:

Now now guys, no need to play funny buggers.

Theory is one thing (needs to be next to windscreen to get a signal), but practice can be another - that is why I asked the question as I have never used any kind of GPS and do not know how sensitive the units are. Think of FM radios - they of course work best out in the open or near a window but usually you can get a decent signal anywhere in a house or building - and yes I know GPS is satellite. You with me GameJunkie?

Thanks for your second post Zippity, even if it is not from practical experience - or have you tried a GPS unit below the dash?
Strommer (42)
803029 2009-08-21 04:49:00 just a bit of fun steve :D GameJunkie (72)
803030 2009-08-21 05:20:00 No, not from personal experience :(

Something just told me that to get a good signal, the device needs to be placed near the windscreen. Maybe you can rig up an external aerial and thus keep the expensive toy out of sight :)
Zippity (58)
803031 2009-08-21 06:28:00 I have had passengers handhold them at the back seat and they were fine ..... Nomad (952)
803032 2009-08-21 07:10:00 A GPS can work surprisingly well even down near the floor of a car - IF you are in a very good signal area, and if you are unusually patient while the GPS starts up from a long pause.
The results are not so great in weak signal areas, like in a city center, or driving down a tree lined road.
In short, the better the signal, the better the results you will get - and it can be hard to relocate a GPS when you are driving. If you want good results with the unit in a non - optimal spot, consider an external antenna.
R2x1 (4628)
803033 2009-08-21 10:43:00 A lot of the newer cars have ultra violet reflective coatings on the windscreen that may or may not afftect it. On the Aussie toll roads I know the toll beepers don't work if placed in the wrong place on these windscreens Phil B (648)
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