GPS800 Frequently Asked Questions

The following list provides answers to some commonly asked questions about the GPS800 and GPS navigation in general.  If you can’t find the answers you’re looking for, please feel free to contact customer support on 1300 366 380 or support@voxson.com.au.


How does GPS Work?

Why are the maps not up to date?

How do I update my maps or load overseas maps?

Can the GPS800 warn me about school zones?

Do the maps have truck routes for high or heavy vehicles?

Can I connect my GPS800 to my PC?

If I’m having trouble using my fingers on the touch screen, what else can I use?

What is the difference between “Quick“ and “Short“ route options?

Where is the best place to mount my GPS800 in the car?

Where can I get accessories from?

 

GPS is a technology that utilises a system of satellites orbiting the earth to accurately locate your exact position.  A GPS receiver will interpret signals sent from these satellites to calculate the device’s current distance from the satellites themselves.  By knowing the exact locations of the satellites, as well as your current distance from at least 4 satellites, the GPS receiver uses a mathematical principle known as Trilateration to determine your current location.

The navigation software component takes the position calculated from the GPS receiver and represents that on an image of the map data.  The software then uses complex algorithms to calculate the best way to get from your current location, to your destination, within the bounds of the map data (i.e. staying on the roads rather than a straight line).

 

The GPS800 comes loaded with the latest release of the Australian mapping data from WhereIS®.  This does not always necessarily mean that every road or intersection is accurate as of the release date.  In some cases you may notice that changes which occurred several years ago are not yet reflected in the maps.  This unfortunately is a limitation of the map data and indeed applies to all GPS navigation solutions.  WhereIS® have a system for reporting anomalies in the map data so that they may be rectified in future releases.  For more information regarding the WhereIS map data and coverage, please refer to their website www.whereis.com.au.

 

International and updated Australian maps will be available for purchase as they are released.  They will come in a package (usually on CD or preloaded SD card) which will include instructions on how to install and use them on your GPS800 device.  For most maps it is simply a case of swapping the SD card in the device.  Contact customer support on 1300 366 380 or support@voxson.com.au for more information.

 

Currently school zones are not supported by the GPS800 as a warning.  Most schools are included in the Points of Interest and can be made visible on the map, however there is currently no option for an audible alert when approaching a school zone.

 

No.  Bridge heights and heavy vehicle road restrictions are not currently supported in the maps or navigation software.  These features may be included in future releases.

 

No.  The USB port on the GPS800 is for charging purposes only.  Any software and map upgrades will be released on preloaded SD cards so there is no need to connect to the PC.  It is possible to charge the unit from a USB cable connected to the PC; however your computer will probably prompt you that new hardware has been installed and search for a device driver.  It’s best to simply stick with the supplied chargers.

 

The software interface is designed with large buttons that can be used with a finger however if you are finding that the unit is not responding to where you are pressing (e.g. you’re getting the next letter over when using the keyboard) you can recalibrate the touch screen by accessing the System from the main Settings Menu.  If you are still having difficulties using your fingers after recalibration you can use a stylus on the touch screen.  A stylus is a pen shaped device with a rounded plastic tip specifically designed for use with touch screen devices.

NOTE: Do not use a sharp object on the touch screen as this will cause permanent damage.  Also using a ball point pen is not advised as it will mark the surface and is often difficult to erase.

 

Quick refers to the route that will take you the least amount of time to reach your destination.  The GPS800 will calculate your route to keep you on more major roads where you would typically be traveling at higher speeds even though your actual distance covered may be greater.  Conversely the Short option will calculate the route based on the shortest distance between you and your destination.  This route will typically involve more turns and traveling through lower grade suburban roads and hence will often take longer with respect to time.

For most users, Quick is the preferred option.

 

The GPS800 requires a clear view of the sky in order to accurately receive the GPS signals.  The ideal position for mounting the GPS800 is in the centre at the bottom of the front windscreen.  As every vehicle is different, your ideal mounting location may vary however the important points to remember when mounting the GPS are:

    1. Never mount the device in a location that impedes the driver’s ability to view the road or operate the vehicle’s controls.
    2. Never mount the device in an area of air bag deployment.

Some accessories such as metal sun visors on the exterior of the car may affect the GPS signal reception.  In such cases it may be necessary to use the optional external antenna with your GPS800. 

 

Contact customer support on 1300 366 380 or support@voxson.com.au for information on available accessories and pricing.