Garmin Nuvi 550 GPS - 3.5" Touch Screen Display, Waterproof, MicroSD, North American Maps

Click Here for all of our Garmin GPS units »

IMPORTANT: Each GPS Manufacturer has its own terms, conditions, and availability, for map updates, beyond our control.  This may or may not include a fee for map updates - please visit the manufacturer's website, or review your product manual for more information about downloading and updating your pre-loaded maps.

GPS - Global Positioning System (Device) - Is a device that works with the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) developed by the US Dept. of Defense. It is the only fully functional GNSS in the world, and uses a constellation of between 24 and 32 Medium Earth Orbit satellites that transmit precise signals allowing GPS receivers to determine their current location, the exact time, and their velocity.  Also known as a Personal Navigation Device, Navigational System, GPS Receiver, or GPS Navigator.

System - The GPS Device itself.

Navigation - Is the process of locating your current position, establishing your destination, and controlling the direction and movement of a vehicle from one place to another.

Compass - A device or feature of a GPS receiver that shows your current direction.

Map - A map (or chart)  is a visual representation of an area, showing different objects or landmarks; such as: streets, buildings, locations, and points of interest.

Trip - A trip is the travel from point A to point B.

Point of Interest - A POI is a recorded location within the GPS Device, either pre-defined, or that can be end-user entered.  Usually these are accessed to speed setting a destination, or a detour.

Trilateration - This is how a GPS device knows its location.  It uses three GPS satellites to trilaterate its position.  GPS units operate on a common clocking system to use the variation in radio-frequency signal arrival time to calculate their position.

Automotive GPS - A GPS Receiver typically used in a car or truck.  Depending on the design, can also be used on motorcycles, boats, or as a hand-held GPS, but is not designed specifically for these uses.

Mounting - Dash or dashboard mounting usually involves a suction mount holder, that can easily be removed for storage when not needed.

Traffic - Traffic can be: the display or information provide about real-time traffic conditions; about historic traffic conditions at different times of day; or the ability to route around typical congestion points on your Trip or route.

Voice - Voice features can be: spoken information that the GPS provides, including spoken directions, street names, or alerts; or can be voice commands that the GPS owner gives to the GPS device.

Touch Screen - A covering over the GPS display allowing control of the features or map of the GPS Device.

Bluetooth - This is a wireless technology allowing different devices to communicate.  In GPS systems, Bluetooth usually allows the GPS device to act as a hands-free speaker phone.

Geotagging - This is the saving of a GPS coordinate to other information, such as a photo, point of interest or other location.  Using a GPS you can usually obtain exact coordinates that may be used with other devices, or other devices, such as a Digital Camera may have GOS built in for that purpose.

 State law prohibits drivers in California and Minnesota from using suction mounts on their windshields while operating motor vehicles. But you can easily use other GPS dashboard or friction mounting options.  Consult your GPS manual for more information.

GPS units are designed to provide you with route suggestions. Unless a GPS unit contains a traffic receiver, they do not reflect road closures or road conditions, traffic congestion, weather conditions, or other factors that may affect safety or timing while driving.  Use the unit only as a navigational aid. Do not attempt to use the unit for any purpose requiring precise measurement of direction, distance, location, or topography. This product should not be used to determine ground proximity for aircraft navigation.  The Global Positioning System (GPS) is operated by the United States government, which is solely responsible for its accuracy and maintenance. The government’s system is subject to changes which could affect the accuracy and performance of all GPS equipment, including the unit. Although the unit is a precision navigation device, any navigation device can be misused or misinterpreted and, therefore, become unsafe.