To this point, this book has largely treated AWSs as a single unit category. Of course, that is not the case and there are enormous differences in functionality and capability between basic and advanced models. The general rule that ‘you get what you pay for’ holds true for AWSs as well as for most other products, but in any price category some systems are better than others and it pays to check available products carefully against the requirements outlined in the previous chapter to ensure the best fit.

The number, range and rate at which new models are introduced make it impossible for any printed work to provide up-to-date details or reviews of every AWS currently available on the market. This chapter outlines typical system specifications within various budget categories. When used with the prioritized assessments of functionality from the previous chapter, it should provide pointers to the main brands, products and suppliers.

What products are available?

The five product and budget categories shown in Table 3.1 were introduced in the previous chapter. Most systems fit comfortably within one of these price /performance bands: note that prices quoted are indicative only (at 2012 levels) and exclude local sales taxes, value added tax, delivery costs and optional fittings.