Thursday, February 22, 2007

#17 Auto Technology

I went to the VT basketball game last night in Blacksburg (VT won!). Driving back I used two relatively new technology items for the car. I have a Garmin GPS receiver that also has XM satellite radio and an MP3 player build in.

Since purchasing the GPS receiver, both the Mrs. and I have become addicted to its features. It gives an estimate of what time you will arrive at your destination and lets you know when and where to turn. I find it extremely helpful in letting me know how far it is to the next turn. What I find interesting is that Auto manufacturers charge $3000 for the same system you can get for $500 from any store. The system you buy separately can be moved from car to car as opposed to the in dash version the car guys sell you. You would think the car people would make more money by being competitive for many sales then charge rip off pricing to just a few.

The other item I enjoy is XM radio. It just has many more options for listening then the 20 country stations offered in the Alleghany Highlands. I enjoy CNN news, ACC Basketball/football games and PGA tour golf. There is also a great clean comedy channel that brightens up a dreary afternoon. I see where XM may merge with Sirius (the other satellite radio provider). I believe it when it happens. Uncle Sam tends to not like monopolies that can charge what they want.

If you are thinking about either a GPS or Satellite radio, give me a call. You know I'm never short of an opinion!

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