So I've been really, really, really, wanting an iphone, but having a hard time justifying the cost of the new service, changing carriers, etc.Instead, I decided to keep my old phone and get a different toy.... the Garmin nuvi 360. Since I am going to be on the road for the next 7-8 weeks with biography projects I thought this would be a good little investment as I'm driving through Shamrock, Texas and trying to find the closest Starbucks!
It arrived yesterday, and today was the inaugural use for a drive half way across town. It really shouldn't have been too hard to use. I had already typed in the address and was pressing the "Go!" button, when suddenly my phone rings. I'm trying to answer the phone, listen to the GPS lady's voice, and swerve around a bus...all at the same time! Then a little screen pops up that tells me I cannot press screen buttons and drive at the same time, since that is not safe! Grreeeeeaaaat!
I finally get off the phone only to realize that in my haste I have now told the GPS to drive me back home and I'm headed in the total opposite direction! Many minutes and stops later I finally get the Garmin up and running again and I am feeling okay...Left here, right there, 200 feet and turn right. Okay, I can see how this might be helpful...pause...look up... Why am I suddenly in front of a big military ground entrance?
I still roll down my window (because my GPS unit has told me that we have arrived), and the guard asks me what my business is. I respond "To see Evelyn!" He looks curiously at me and I start to realize that I must not really be at Evelyn's apartment complex. No, this definitely looks like a high military security entrance and not that of a retirement community!
Apparently the Garmin wanted me to take a short cut through a military base - not sure that is really legal unless I have credentials! =)
Needless to say I'd give the unit a F for today's performance but I'll let you know if I get to explore any new restricted areas thanks to my new little friend!
1 comment:
We got my parents a GPS for Christmas and we tried it out on base just out of curiosity. It turns out that as soon as you drive on, it just suddenly shows empty space - no roads or anything. You can see your little car making the turns, but it's driving into white space. Very strange. Just thought it was interesting...
Jenn. (Hersey)
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