2008 Woodie Awards
Electronics: Me and my c550, together we'll be travelin'
Othello Gooden
Issue date: 6/2/08 Section: Arts and Entertainment
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Furthermore, with the rising price of gas, getting lost can definitely put a hole in your wallet! To remedy this problem, some people use sites such as Google Maps or MapQuest to find a specific location of their destination.
Yet to my surprise, many don't have reliable Internet access. However, they do have electronic alternatives. I see some people with Global Positioning Systems in their car. I imagine hikers too would use such devices if they are somewhere out in no man's land.
One in particular that has caught my interest is the Garmin StreetPilot c550.
One key feature I find interesting about this model is how the streets are shown on screen displayed in real-time. This feature reminds me of the Satellite option on Google Maps that does quite the same. Some might complain that getting a signal lock from the satellite may be slow. Realistically speaking and with an analogy, those who are watching their satellite TV at home when it rains could gripe about this issue similarly.
Technology isn't advanced to the point where satellites can be reached through electrical interference. Just wait patiently for the satellite to transmit the real-time info to the c550.
Bluetooth is another addition to this model that is somewhat standard in all communication electronics. The only other electronic device I know that has this capability is a cell phone, which according to the specifications can be used in conjunction with the latter for data transference and much more. Such a unique gadget would definitely be sought after by those with envious eyes.
I believe Garmin knew this when they programmed the c550 with an anti-theft system that is nothing more than a password lock. If you don't know the PIN number, you can't use the device! Fortunately and in the real world, humans can't read minds. Those who claim they can are phonies. Therefore, the original owner of the c550 is safe there.
I know some people are accustomed to buying from the Internet marketplace "master" Amazon for most if not all of their electronic needs. Amazon is selling the c550 for $200. The funny thing is, all electronics tend to get cheaper with age. On CNet, I read once the device was a little over $800 back when it was first released in 2006.
In conclusion, I give the c550 a 10/10. For those of you who do a lot of traveling, go and buy yourself a c550 now. No traveler should go traveling without one!
Having trouble trying to find directions to a U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, or Led Zeppelin concert? Or how about directions to the nearest IMAX theater to watch Iron Man or the new "Indiana Jones and The Kingdom of The Crystal Skull" movie that's out? The c550 will take you there!
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