Sony NV-U 93T GPS System
July 29, 2008
Sony flaunts their new introduction, Sony NV-U 93T Car GPS System as a slim line device for personal navigation. Sony has fortified this model with 21 European maps with a good option of UK and Ireland coverage. Another attraction of this product is its Bluetooth feature that enables hands free calling as well as call receiving. The screen of this device is quite wide referring to its 4.8” diagonal length. This screen is also of the touchscreen type that even in the brightest of conditions renders a composed view due to its anti-glare aspect. The driver can run his fingers on the screen with peace of mind that the screen with its smart finger print coating, endures the hassle remarkably. Further, the driver can simply trace an on screen figure to access common destinations
A built in microphone in this device forms the best part of the voice guidance rendered by it. Voice guidance, in this GPS system is delivered in as much as seventeen pre-installed languages where two versions of English; UK and US, are also available. Repeat function of voice guidance is a possibility in this device as well as a volume control realised by steps.
GPS receiver of this device is of the SIRF III type and the signals are received through a built-in GPS antenna. This stands the platform for the exceptional navigation capabilities of this GPS system. Here, the TMC service is optional in the UK that comes for an extra charge. However, TMC service in this device capacitates dynamic re-routing. The driver can select his/her destination through address input, alphabetical list search, points of interest, waypoint access, memory of the previous destination or postcode search. The device here, offers a full postcode search of the UK. In addition to all these, the map display that is offered in 2D or 3D modes play the perfect foil for the navigational properties of this device.
Sony NV-U 93T GPS Sat Nav System for its connectivity aspects heavily depends on its USB interface that is highlighted by a USB 2.0 high-speed connector apart from the handsfree calls enabling Bluetooth technology.
Kenwood DNX 5220BT GPS System
July 26, 2008
The prime attraction of the Kenwood DNX 5220BT In-Board GPS System is its extra large Double Din DVD Touchscreen monitor. The screen of the device further offers a wide colour gamut on its TFT Active Matrix display that is effectively supported by a whopping 336,960-pixel resolution. This satellite navigation device facilitates complete navigation of the Western European countries including full coverage of the UK and Ireland . This GPS system allows not only instant Bluetooth features but also iPod control realised by USB-direct concept. The inclusion of a TMC Receiver gives it the status of a technological gizmo.
General Features of the device
The background of the screen is customisable here and the touch panel offered here is exactly of the interactive type and GUI controllable. The faceplate of this device is fixed and of the double din size. USB direct control is also facilitated here as well as a multifunction key operation. The user has the option of augmenting the system to wired steering wheel remote controllable with the help of optional interfaces. A digital clock also appears on the device.
DVD and Audio Capabilities
This GPS system allows an explicit DVD video playback along with VCD realisation. An enhanced option here is the playback of DivX files and the player promptly allows scan, random and repeat. This multimedia player also offers smart CD-R and CD-RW compatibility. The audio capabilities include the playing of MP3 and WMA files. A picture viewer is also an additional feature here materialised by JPEG playback. An FM stereo or Mono selector is also accommodated in this device.
Navigation
Navigation is at its best with the Kenwood DNX 5220BT Car GPS System , smartly realised by the inclusion of an array of remarkable features like TMC and a simple user interface. The integrated map data this system is strengthened with the inclusion of numerous points of interest and the graphical interface that offers ease of use is actively supported by an ABC or QWERTY layout selectable keyboard. The map displays can be presented here in 2D or 3D versions, day/night mode and auto zoom. The voice prompt of the device that gives turn by turn instructions is second to a text to speech facility that is given in 7 different languages. Re-routing through smart detour is another striking option here that optimises navigation along with a pre-programmable option of three best route variations as the faster, shorter and the most convenient. Finally, the user is also kept informed here with a trip computer that shows stopped, moving, current and average time displays.
| General Information | |
|---|---|
|
Brand |
Kenwood |
|
Model |
Kenwood DNX 5220BT GPS System |
|
Maps included |
Built in maps of Western European countries |
|
Mapping display |
2D and 3D |
|
Screen size |
6.1” Touch screen |
|
Weight |
1900 g |
|
Dimensions (L x H x D) cm |
182 x 112 x 158 mm |
|
Portable or fixed |
Fixed |
|
Warranty |
1 Year |
| Additional Features | |
|
Touch screen |
Yes |
|
TMC Decoder |
Yes |
|
Spoken audio directions |
Yes |
|
Dynamic routing |
Yes |
|
Points of interest (POI) |
Yes |
|
Bluetooth calling |
Yes |
|
SiRFStar III GPS Chipset facility |
Yes |
| Multimedia Features | |
|
Music |
Yes |
|
Photos |
Yes |
|
Video |
Yes |
|
FM Transmitter |
Yes |
|
iPOD |
Yes |
| Accessories | |
|
Release Keys |
Yes |
|
GPS antenna with cable |
Yes |
|
DC cord |
Yes |
|
Escutcheon |
Yes |
Garmin Nuvi 5000 GPS System
July 22, 2008
Garmin Nuvi 5000 GPS Sat Nav System though is a portable GPS satellite navigation unit, is designed mainly for the RV and truck drivers’ use. The large screen of this device is 5.2″ in measurement and of the TFT type with a backlight that dims automatically.
This latest GPS system comes with a good base map and pre-loaded maps that cover a number of European countries. The user has the option of adding his/her favourite maps into the system. Maps can be viewed either in the 2D or in the 3D display modes. Apart from these, the user can configure vehicle icons for more effective map navigation.
Navigation
This GPS system opens up a new concept to locate the nearest hospitals, gas and police stations, closest intersection and address called Where Am I? feature. Auto sorting of multiple destination helps in the determination of the best direct route as auto re-routing helps the user in the quickest off-route as well as re-route computation. The user also holds the discretion of choosing the ideal route in terms of distance, time or off road apart from effectuating smart avoidance of motorways, tolls, etc. This GPS system also provides a couple of voice guidance for better navigation like voice prompts and text-to-speech. However, this device does not feature either a speech recognition program or a Bluetooth feature for hands-free calling.
Entertainment and Other Significant Features
This Garmin Nuvi 5000 Portable GPS Navigator proudly accommodates a multimedia player that realises MP3 files. An audio book player is also an ingredient of this device. A remarkable picture viewer enables the user to view pictures and photographs in JPEG formats. The user is also blessed with an option of choosing either of a QWERTY or an ABC keyboard using the keyboard layout device of the system. This GPS system also features an FM transmitter and a reliable anti-theft lock in the form of Garmin Lock.
Checkout the specifications below and compare Garmin Nuvi 5000 Sat Nav System prices to save more.
| General Information | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Garmin |
| Model | Garmin Nuvi 5000 GPS System |
| Maps | Base Map covering European Countries |
| Mapping display | 2D and 3D |
| Screen size in diagonal inches | 5.2″ |
| Memory Memory Expansion Type |
Internal Solid State Memory SD card |
| Battery life | External Power |
| Weight | 263 g |
| Dimensions | 14.35 x 9.42 x 2.03 cm |
| Portable or fixed | Portable |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Additional Features | |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Spoken audio directions | Yes |
| Dynamic routing | Yes |
| Points of interest (POI) | Yes |
| Live traffic information | Yes |
| High Sensitivity Receiver | Yes |
| Multimedia Features | |
| Music | Yes |
| Photos | Yes |
| Accessories | |
| Mounts | Yes |
| Carry Case | Yes |
| Vehicle Power Cable | Yes |
| AC Adaptor | Yes |
| USB Cable | Yes |
Blaupunkt Travel Pilot Lucca 3.5 GPS System
July 18, 2008
Blaupunkt is known mainly for their exceptional car audio systems. However, after their self-introduction into the world GPS market, they have managed to reach a covetous position recently, after going through a rough patch in the earlier stages. The Blaupunkt Travel Pilot Lucca 3.5 GPS Satellite Navigation System is all about remarkable navigational service, though a smart multimedia player built in the system gives it the form of an entertainer too.
Interface
The interface of this Multimedia Navigation system is a 4.3″ TFT touch screen of 16:9 aspect ratio. The resolution of the display here is 480 x 272 pixels and it possesses anti-glare properties too. Visual route guidance is presented here in map mode or arrow mode. 2D and 3D map views are more than enabled in the gadget’s screen. The mapping factor of this GPS system is satisfactory with the availability of street level mapping for Ireland and UK . Further, you have the major road coverage of Europe as well as street level coverage for another twenty-one Western EU countries. Day and night modes are automatically switched on in the system. You can also use the off-map navigation as a digital compass. A large number of Points of Interest are availed in this navigation system and you have the option of including more in the long run. Apart from all these, a smart display of the destination time, distance and arrival time is also facilitated in this GPS system.
Destination Input and Voice Route Guidance
You can program your destination by giving the address, house number, street name or number and district details into the system. Postal code entry is also a possibility here and you can also chart your destination through the map. However, you have a return home option from almost anywhere. Voice guidance is given in an array of European languages of which you have the discretion of choosing your own. This latest GPS system promptly announces the street as well as the highway number for your convenience. TMC warnings predicting traffic congestions can be availed even minus active route guidance. Another striking aspect here is the provision of acoustic as well as visual speed limit warnings.
Entertainment
The Blaupunkt Travel Pilot Lucca 3.5 GPS Navigator comes with a good music player that realises the playback of MP3, WMA and OGG files through an MMC or SD card. A picture viewer is also a smart inclusion in this system with the ability to display JPEG, BMP, and GIF pictur3e files.
| General Information | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Blaupunkt |
| Model | Blaupunkt Travel Pilot Lucca 3.5 GPS System |
| Maps | Street level mapping for UK and Ireland |
| Mapping display | 2D and 3D |
| Screen size in diagonal inches | 4.3″ touch screen |
| Memory Total Capacity Internal Type Expansion Type |
1GB Yes MMC , SD , SDHC |
| Battery life | 3 hours |
| Weight | 230 g |
| Dimensions | 122 x 95 x 22 mm |
| Portable or fixed | Portable |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Additional Features | |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Searchable postcode digits | Yes |
| Spoken audio directions | Yes |
| Dynamic routing | Yes |
| Points of interest (POI) | Yes |
| Live traffic information | Yes |
| Multimedia Features | |
| Music | Yes |
| Photos | Yes |
| Accessories | |
| Suction Cup Holder | Yes |
| AC Adaptor | Yes |
| Charger Cable | Yes |
| TMC antenna | Yes |
Shinco GM 350 GPS System Review
July 14, 2008

A n award winning gizmo from Shinco , the compact Shinco GM 350 GPS system comes armed with the renowned Destinator software and NavTeq maps. It has earned credibility in a very short time by proving itself a quick route finding, value for money device.
Striking interface and design
3.5" TFT LCD touch screen formatted in widescreen mode stands the main aspect of the interface. 65,000 colours at 16 bits along with a smart backlight further fortify this aspect. It also facilitates night mode display. Consider that this is a handheld device weighing just about 185 g and designed one of the slimmest of its kind, yet sturdy.
NavTeq Maps
This Shinco GM 350 Satellite Navigation comes with an inbuilt, detailed map of the UK and Ireland along with optional maps of Western European countries. The smart map aspect is further subject to augmentation by not only an optional 2D and 3D display but also an aerial view.
Another thing worth mentioning here is a remarkable technology allowing the device to automatically detect a country change and accordingly change the map too. In most of its counterparts, this is a rarity.
Navigate to near perfection
Ponder on these navigational features to frame a concept about the Shinco GM 350 handheld GPS system .
- 2 GB internal memory enabling the fast route detecting features and effective guidance
- Door to door navigation realized by a full postcode search of 7 digits in the U.K.
- About 65,000 Points of Interest highlighted by vivid icons on the maps
- Route guidance further enhanced by a fast ARM9 400 MHz processor
- 5 meter accuracy
- Warnings rendered at on-road congestions and toll points
- SiRF Star III receiver back up sharpened by the inclusion of an integrated antenna
- Lastly but obviously not the least a powerful built in Lithium Ion battery of 3 hour life powering the entire device
Good multimedia features
The Shinco GM 350 GPS navigator comes with an integrated MP3 player and video player enabling the running a full-length feature film.
Warranty
The Shinco GM 350 satellite navigation system comes with a standard warranty of 12 months from the date of first purchase.
| General Features | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Shinco |
| Model | Shinco GM 350 |
| Maps included | Full UK and Ireland maps and optional Western European countries |
| Mapping display | 2D/3D |
| Screen size | 3.5” |
| Memory Total Capacity Free Space Internal Type Expansion Type |
2 GB - Yes SD and MMC cards |
| Battery life | 3 hrs |
| Weight | 185g |
| Dimensions (L x H x D) mm | 122 x 74 x 22.5 mm |
| Portable or fixed | Portable |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| Additional Features | |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Searchable postcode digits | Yes |
| Spoken audio directions | Yes |
| Dynamic routing | - |
| Points of interest (POI) | Yes |
| Live traffic information | - |
| SiRFStar III GPS Chipset facility | Yes |
| Multimedia Features | |
| Music | Yes |
| Photos | Yes |
| Video | Yes |
| FM Transmitter | No |
| iPOD | No |
| Accessories | |
| 12 V car adapter | Yes |
| Windscreen mount | Yes |
| Mains adapter | Yes |
| USB cable | Yes |
| Carry case | Yes |













