What Is a Heads up Display in a Car?
Many people find themselves asking “what is a heads up display in a car?” Recently, heads up displays (HUDs) have started to make waves. These somewhat futuristic add-ons for your car make it possible to see valuable information while you’re driving.
People who are familiar with video games may think that these HUDs are similar to what they’d see in a game.
If you make use of these convenient HUDs, then you’ll be able to keep your eyes on the road while still receiving the necessary information. It’s a solution that goes a step beyond simply using your phone’s GPS.
Take a look at what these HUDs are and everything that they can do. It’ll allow you to determine if you’d like to purchase one or if it’s a feature that you don’t think you truly need.
What Is a HUD?
A HUD is a visual display of information that is projected on your car’s windshield. Modern HUDs are going to display the information that is normally positioned on your dashboard.
You’ll be able to see how fast you’re going, temperature gauges, and so much more. Even your GPS information and text messages can be displayed on these HUDs.
The basic idea behind the HUDs is that they will keep your eyes on the road instead of veering downward to check your phone.
It’s a safer way for you to drive while still being able to do necessary things. You can respond to a work email while still focusing on driving.
It’s also possible to enjoy detailed GPS information without having to take your eyes off the road for a second so it’s a very practical tool.
How Does This Technology Work?
Most people have no clue how this technology actually works. It’s actually simpler than you might think. Certain HUD systems make use of transparent phosphors that are placed on the car’s windshield. These phosphors react when a laser is used, allowing the images to be projected on your windshield.
Use of mirrors to project images
There are some other variations of this technology as well. For instance, certain HUD systems make use of mirrors to project the necessary images.
No matter what type of technology is being used to get this to work, you’re going to wind up having a similar experience. You’ll be receiving all sorts of data in order to make your driving experience that much smoother.
Smartphone Apps That Turn Your Phone Into a HUD-in-Car
Most HUDs are available as add-ons from vehicle manufacturers. You might assume that these HUDs are only going to be available for high-end cars and that they’ll be outside of the price range that an average driver can afford.
This is not necessarily the case. There are certain smartphone apps that can turn your phone into a HUD-in-car.
Apps such as Hudly and Waze have become a popular way for consumers to get the HUD experience without having to pay a lot of money.
These can give you important information in a similar fashion to normal HUDs. They may not be a complete replication of the high-end HUDs but they’re a great option for cost-conscious consumers.
Third-Party HUDs for Use in Car
You can also buy third-party HUDs and have them placed in your car. Some people also refer to these as aftermarket HUDs.
Most of these are going to be very easy to install in most vehicles. They just mount to your dashboard, plug into a power source in your car, and then provide you with the necessary information.
These third-party HUDs are becoming increasingly more prevalent. If you’re looking for a HUD that will fit within your budget restrictions, then you’ll be able to find one. Most major online retailers will carry these third-party HUDs and they’re designed to be as user-friendly as possible.
In Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned more about what HUDs are and what they can do, you’ll be able to make a decision. It shouldn’t be all that hard to see that these HUDs are useful to own.
They can keep you safer on the road by giving you access to the right data. You won’t be looking down at your phone and you’ll be more focused.
Consider trying out a HUD today. They’re really very useful and you’ll be able to install a third-party one easily.
You could also go the route of downloading an app to turn your phone into a HUD. Whatever route you want to take should work out nicely and you’ll feel safer right away.
