They have become the must-have automotive accessory of the 2000s. Helping motorists get to their destinations without the need for a bulky map and even guiding them past traffic snarls with ease, GPS systems are now almost as indispensible as car radios. But just how do these devices work and what makes them so valuable are questions that make those who have not taken the plunge wonder if they are worth the price of admission.

The very most basic function of a GPS system is to be able to pinpoint a persons exact location, and to help direct a motorist to another location that the GPS has marked for them. What many people are not aware of is that a GPS is actually a receiver and not an actual system. What you should know is that GPS systems are in reality a set of around two dozen satellites that were installed by the military into orbit. All of these well placed satellites will orbit around the earth two times each and every day. If you happen to own a GPS receiver, you will be able to have contact with a minimum of four of these satellites -- which means you will have no problems in determining your exact location.

GPS systems are able to operate in a variety of different situations; however, they are not completely perfect. As an example, a GPS is very accurate no matter what time of day or during any kind of weather situation. Signals to the GPS, however, can be blocked by things like going through thick forests, large buildings, and similar obstacles. GPS systems are quite accurate within about 15 meters, and many of the newer GPS systems have an even slimmer margin of error.

GPS signals are technically free to receive, but it is through paid services that motorists get the information they need the most to navigate travel. Thanks to the computerized backing services provide, GPS receivers can do more than pinpoint global position using the system of longitude, latitude and height. Extras that can come along with a GPS receiver device and a paid service include:

Road map functioning " A GPS receiver can be used in conjunction with downloadable road maps to walk a motorist through a trip. Some devices will even determine the best route to take a driver from Point A to Point B and give turn-by-turn verbal directions along the way.

There are many GPS systems that can assist with your trip planning. They will help you to plot the distance and travel time that it will take to get to each destination you plan to visit on your vacation. You just cant beat that kind of help when you are planning a vacation.

Trip planning " When the GPS system is backed by a computerized service, motorists can receive invaluable information for trip planning. Not only will a GPS system in a car determine the best route for a motorist to take, but it can also calculate travel time, distance and other important factors.

So now you know that a good GPS system is going to be able to assist you in knowing exactly where you are -- at all times -- while you are driving.

If you make the choice to supercharge your GPS, you are going to making traveling from place to place a piece of cake.