Customizing a TomTom GPS

© 2012 by Aurelio Locsin.

The TomTom portable car navigation device tells you how to get somewhere with spoken and visual directions. However, you may find its functional and sturdy black case a bit dull. You can customize the exterior of several models with something more exciting by ordering your device from the TomTom website.

1. Browse the My Custom TomTom GPS page of the TomTom website. Click the TomTom model that you want to customize and buy. The Customize page appears.
2. Click “Browse Our Gallery of Designs” to select from licensed artistic designs that are professionally created.
3. View the available options by clicking a category from the list on the left. Click the magnifying glass under a design that you want to view in detail. Click your browser’s “Back” button return to the design display, if you want to look at more designs. Otherwise, click the “Buy Now” button to order the custom TomTom model. It is added to your shopping cart, which is also displayed.
4. Click “Proceed to Checkout” to display the Checkout page. Enter your shipping details and credit card information. Then click “Submit My Order” to complete your order.

1. Browse the My Custom TomTom GPS page of the TomTom website. Click the TomTom model that you want to customize and buy. The Customize page appears.
2. Click “Design Your Own from Scratch” to display the Designer page, where you can create your own images.
3. Choose one of the optional backgrounds if it appeals to you. You can view its appearance on the TomTom by clicking the Front or Back tabs. You may also leave the case black for now.
4. Click “Upload Images and Add Text” to add your own image and/or text. The Upload Images and Add Text page appears.
5. Click “Upload Images” to display a File Open dialog box. Navigate to the location of the image you want to upload. Double-click the image name to upload it. It appears on the TomTom picture. You can click the Front or Back tabs for a more complete view. The Edit Image dialog also appears, allowing you to move, rotate or scale the image on your device. When you are finished with the modifications, click “Done’ to close the Edit Image dialog.
6. Click “Add Text” to display the Edit Text dialog box. Enter the text you want to put on your device. By default, it appears in the center of the frame above the screen. You can specify the appearance of the text by choosing an option from the Select Font and Color drop-downs. You can also move, size or rotate the text. Click “Done” to save your changes and close the Edit Text dialog.
7. Click “Review Your TomTom” to generate a final image of your device. Click “I Need to Edit My Design” if you want to make more changes. Otherwise, click “Buy Now.” Your order is added to the shopping cart, which is also displayed.
8. Click “Proceed to Checkout” to display the Checkout page. Enter your shipping details and credit card information. Then click “Submit My Order” to complete your order.