Traffic jams can't always be prevented. But with Garmin's GTM 20 portable traffic receiver, you can often avoid them.The GTM 20 is an integrated FM TMC (Traffic Message Channel) traffic receiver, antenna and cigarette lighter adapter. Designed exclusively for the American version of compatible Garmin products, it receives digital information (where available) on traffic and road construction tie-ups that your compatible Garmin unit uses to offer an alternate route. TMC data, available in a fast-growing number of cities throughout North America, gives prompt, accurate notification of accidents, road construction, police, or emergency action, etc. - so you can visually monitor traffic flow and, if necessary, avoid traffic tie-ups.The GTM 20 is a simple plug-and-play solution that combines a self-contained antenna, traffic link and 12-volt cigarette lighter adapter to provide real-time traffic alerts. No professional installation required. Just plug the GTM 20 into your compatible Garmin device, and you're ready to receive data.In most areas, depending on the service provider, TMC traffic broadcasts are continuous - there's no waiting for scheduled traffic news updates or random alerts. With the GTM 20, you see traffic developments in real-time, as they happen, so you can make the right decision sooner. Because traffic broadcasts are received via a "silent" FM data channel, you can still listen to music or news programming on your car radio without interference from incoming FM traffic data transmissions. adapter.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 2.5 / 5.0
Same Problem- it breaks easily:
Garmin GTM 20 FM-Band Traffic Receiver Ironically I am on Amazon to purchase a replacement power adaptor for my Nuvi.(Amazon is the best by the way). Came to the options and realized that my unit is the FM Band Traffic receiver. I really only used it once for its intended purpose and that was by accident. I have Sirius radio so I never listen to FM. Anyway the time I used it I was going from Long Island to Connecticut and traffic was a beast. The traffic receiver was awesome. It bypassed jams on roads... more info
Lots of Capability...At a Price:
The original item this replaced broke after about a year when I removed it from the 12V plug in my car. The male end snapped off rendering it useless. The replacement (an identical unit) powered up immediately and, after loading up the most recent software from my Garmin nuvi 760, was up and running providing traffic info after about 5 minutes. The service subscription process is not user-friendly (I had time remaining on my current subscription but the new unit came with 18 months...about a $90 value...so... more info
I Agree with the Software Advocate:
I had exactly the same experience as the software advocate described above. Unfortunately, since this is also the power adapter, it temporarily (until you purchase a new power cord) renders the GPS unit useless.
nice accessory:
the first time i plugged it into my garmin 450 it instantly started a software update. thats what i call plug and play. haven't been able to use it yet in an area thats covered but i have lots of confidence due to the recognition of the plug by the unit.
