SAT NAV

Sony Nav-U NV-U50T satellite navigation

2006-08-22T18:22:00.000+01:00

The Sony Nav-U NV-U50T isn't the best Sat Nav unit on the market. It may have a good design and a clear display but the fact that it only has partial post code support is a serious let down and may cause problems for finding locations in built up areas.

The upside is the price. You can't really argue with a price of around £273.99 and to think you get FREE LIFETIME traffic navigation which is worth a few pennies if you ask me. It's well worth considering!

Sat Nav Rating: 6/10

Buy the Sony Nav-U NV-U50T sat nav from:
Amazon - £236.61
Comet - £273.99

LG LN710 Sat Nav

2006-08-03T23:04:00.000+01:00

LG have entered into the GPS market place with the new LG LN710 Sat Nav unit.

It's not going to set the world alight with functionality, but if you're after a sat nav that most other people won't have then you should try this one.

Stay tuned for details.

TOMTOM 910

2006-08-03T13:38:00.000+01:00

TOMTOM GO 910 (GPS) - Detailed UK, Europe, USA & Canada

Easy to use
Detailed maps of Great Britain + door-to-door navigation across Europe, USA and Canada.
Clear spoken instructions
Hands-free calling
Smart extras

Buy from:
Comet - £434.93
Amazon - £445.00
Sat Nav 2 U - £463.99

TomTom 910 Routes:

The latest and most complete maps: Detailed maps of the whole of Europe, the USA and Canada, all pre-installed on a 20 Gb hard disk. Allowing you seamless door-to-door navigation throughout these regions without having to switch maps.
Route choice: Plan your route to fit your requirements, such as: quickest, shortest, avoiding toll roads and congestion charge areas, by required arrival time, etc.
View routes: Preview and test your TomTom’s proposed route before you set off.
Itinerary planning: Programme in the schedule of places you want to visit before you leave the house.
Fast re-routing: Miss a turn or instruction and your TomTom instantly recalculates your route from your current location.
Easy location search and selection: Choose how you want to define your destination: street & house number, postcode (UK & NL only), city center or intersection.
Points of Interest: Café, car park, cinema or petrol station. 1000’s of POI’s pre-installed. Search by proximity to current location, on your route, near a specific city, etc.

TomTom Go 710

2006-08-03T13:26:00.000+01:00

TOMTOM GO 710 (GPS) - Detailed UK & Europe
Has 2 Year Warranty
Easy to use
Detailed maps of Great Britain + door to door navigation across Europe.
Clear spoken instructions
Hands-free calling
Smart extras
Perfect for: UK and regular travels to Europe where you need to know exactly where you're going.

Buy From:
Comet - £385.95
Amazon - £399.99
Sat Nav 2 U - £399.99

TomTom GO 710 has the same easy-to-use navigation software, best routes, 3D map view and spoken instructions as the TomTom GO 910. Additionally it has hands-free functionality via Bluetooth-enabled phones and comes pre-installed with the most up-to-date door to door map of Western Europe stored on the memory card.

TomTom 710 Features:

Easy to use: Extra wide 4” LCD touchscreen gives you smart design and easy to use navigation literally at your fingertips.

Map of Europe on SD card: Navigate Western Europe door-to-door without changing maps.

Clear spoken instructions: Speaks some 36 languages in over 50 different voices.

Hands-free calling: Doubles as a hands-free car kit using Bluetooth technology. So you can make & receive calls as you drive with just a touch of the screen.

Smart extras: iPod control, home dock and much more besides.

The TomTom 710 is Easy to use:

Plug & GO: Works straight out of the box.
Portable: Easy to take from car to car.
Touchscreen: Easy to operate. And no awkward buttons!
Extra wide LCD screen: 4 inch high quality LCD screen with crystal-clear 3D graphics, 480x272 pixels and 64,000 colours. For optimal visibility.
Intuitive user interface: Combined with the large touchscreen, it gives you the perfect navigation experience.
Anti-glare screen: Always gives an optimal view, even in direct sunlight.
High quality Li-Ion battery: Long lasting; 4 hour battery life.
High quality speaker: Get voice instructions and enjoy songs and hands-free phone calls with remarkable sound quality at the volume you want.
High sensitive SiRF Star 3 GPS receiver: Ensures a quick GPS fix and optimal and accurate reception.
Car speed linked volume: Built-in microphone notes the noise level in the car and adjusts the volume of voice instructions accordingly.
Customizable status bar: Improve readability by customizing your status bar to show only the information you need.
Tip feature: Discover everything your GO has to offer with useful on-screen tips.
Extensive guided tour: Pick up features quickly and get the most out of your TomTom GO from the start.
Start-up configuration: Customize how and where your GO opens up when you turn it on; last location or your preferred chosen menu.
Extensive preferences: From temperature (C/F) to air pressure (Pascal or Mbar), and more.

Best routes:

The latest and most complete maps: Detailed maps of your region and the major roads of Europe, pre-installed on a SD card. For door-to-door navigation across your region and cross border navigation to any town in Europe.
Route choice: Plan your route to fit your requirements, such as: quickest, shortest, avoiding toll roads and congestion charge areas, by required arrival time, etc.
View routes: Preview and test your TomTom’s proposed route before you set off.
Itinerary planning: Programme in the schedule of places you want to visit before you leave the house.
Fast re-routing: Miss a turn or instruction and your TomTom instantly recalculates your route from your current location.
Real-time traffic & road condition information: Up-to-the-minute traffic information, jam alerts and road condition warnings.
Easy location search and selection: Choose how you want to define your destination: street & house number, postcode (UK & NL only), city centre or intersection.
Points of Interest: Café, car park, cinema or petrol station. 1000’s of POI’s pre-installed. Search by proximity to current location, on your route, near a specific city, etc.

Clear instructions:

Huge choice: TomTom GO 710 speaks some 36 languages in over 50 different voices.
Realistic visual instructions: Visuals on your GO replicate road signs, making them easier to follow.
TMC support: Access free TMC* traffic information via your GO.

*Optional TomTom RDS/TMC traffic receiver required.

Compass: Displays compass on screen, for even better orientation.

Hands-Free Calling and Hi-Fi audio:

High quality connection: Echo cancellation and noise reduction give you excellent sound quality.
External microphone: To optimize the quality of your voice when you use your TomTom GO for hands-free calling.
Automatic pick-up: Can automatically answer your phone calls, for improved safety and comfort.
Bluetooth® connectivity: Connect your GO to your mobile phone, headset, car speakers or headphones hassle-free with Bluetooth® technology.

Smart extras:

I-pod control: Connect your I-pod to your GO* to operate it via your GO 710 touchscreen and enjoy mp3’s or Podcasts through the high quality speaker or via your car stereo. TomTom GO 710 supports the I-pod 3rd and higher generation (except the I-pod Shuffle).
Speaker options: TomTom GO 710’s speaker is perfect for listening to music or voice instructions. But you can also connect your GO to the car stereo using the audio cable we provide. Or use Bluetooth® technology to connect your GO wirelessly to your car stereo, headphones or external speakers.
Home dock: Our easy-to-use home dock is the smart way to download from your pc or Mac, upgrade your GO and manage your files, all while automatically charging your device.
TomTom HOME: Use TomTom HOME software in combination with the home dock to manage the files on your device (songs, photos, maps, etc), get new updates, plan and schedule journeys on your pc or Mac in advance, and much more.
Buddies: Find, invite and add friends to your GO. And even send each other text messages while you’re on the road.
Fleet management: Professional users can also use their GO 710 for business or fleet management purposes..
Quick GPS fix: If you use your TomTom GO in combination with TomTom HOME, your GO will download information about where the GPS satellites are going to be for the next 24 hours. With this information, your GO will be able to find your current position very quickly when it is first switched on.

TomTom PLUS:

TomTom GO 710 comes ready for a wide range of TomTom PLUS services and downloads, including:
Real-time traffic & road condition information: Traffic jam alerts with the best alternative route and road condition warnings that help you put safety first.
Real-time weather reports: A real-time overview of the weather before you leave, including 5-day forecasts for the place you’re going.
Safety cameras: Receive and report alerts when there are safety cameras coming up, fixed or mobile.
Maps: City, national and regional maps. Just download the areas you need.
Voices: Download funny and famous voices to bring variety and fun to your journey.
POI’s: 1000’s of extra POI’s are downloadable.
Buddies: Locate your friends. Instant messaging and navigation merge together.

Safety

TomTom navigation systems encourage you to get from A to B as safely as possible:
Light sensor: Screen adjusts itself to different light circumstances, ensuring maximum visibility, day or night.
Clear & accurate spoken and visual instructions: Easy to follow, calm instructions given with plenty of notice mean that you can focus on your driving.
Speeding alert: Alerts you that you’re speeding, even if you're not in navigation mode.
Hands-Free car kit: TomTom GO 710 doubles as a hands-free car kit using Bluetooth technology. So you can make & receive calls as you drive via your touchscreen.
Safety cameras: Receive and report alerts when there are safety cameras coming up, fixed or mobile.

TomTom Go 510

2006-08-03T13:21:00.000+01:00

TOMTOM GO 510 (GPS) - UK and Major Europe Roads
The smartest portable car navigator
2 Year Warranty
Easy to use
Detailed maps of Great Britain + the major roads of Europe on SD card
Clear spoken instructions
Hands-free calling
Smart extras

Perfect for: UK and the odd bit of driving in Europe on the marjor roads.

Buy From:
Comet - £314.99
Amazon - £314.99
Sat Nav 2 U - £318.95

TomTom 510 Features:

Completing the new TomTom GO range, the TomTom GO 510 features award-winning software, hands-free calling via Bluetooth-enabled phones, as well as the latest pre-installed map of your country and cross border navigation to any town in Western Europe on the memory card.

Easy to Use: Extra wide 4" LCD touchscreen gives you smart design and easy to use navigation literally at your fingertips.

Detailed maps of your region + the major roads of Europe on SD card: Door-to-door navigation in your region and cross border navigation to any town in Europe.

Clear spoken instructions: Speaks some 36 languages in over 50 different voices.
Hands-free calling: Doubles as a hands-free car kit using Bluetooth technology. So you can make & receive calls as you drive with just a touch of the screen.

Smart extras: iPod control, home dock and much more besides.

Easy to use:

Plug & GO: Works straight out of the box.
Portable: Easy to take from car to car.
Touchscreen: Easy to operate. And no awkward buttons!
Extra wide LCD screen: 4 inch high quality LCD screen with crystal-clear 3D graphics, 480x272 pixels and 64,000 colours. For optimal visibility.
Intuitive user interface: Combined with the large touchscreen, it gives you the perfect navigation experience.
Anti-glare screen: Always gives an optimal view, even in direct sunlight.
High quality Li-Ion battery: Long lasting; 4 hour battery life.
High quality speaker: Get voice instructions and enjoy songs and hands-free phone calls with remarkable sound quality at the volume you want.
High sensitive SiRF Star 3 GPS receiver: Ensures a quick GPS fix and optimal and accurate reception.
Car speed linked volume: Built-in microphone notes the noise level in the car and adjusts the volume of voice instructions accordingly.
Customizable status bar: Improve readability by customizing your status bar to show only the information you need.
Tip feature: Discover everything your GO has to offer with useful on-screen tips.
Extensive guided tour: Pick up features quickly and get the most out of your TomTom GO from the start.
Start-up configuration: Customize how and where your GO opens up when you turn it on; last location or your preferred chosen menu.
Extensive preferences: From temperature (C/F) to air pressure (Pascal or Mbar), and more.

Best routes:

The latest and most complete maps: Detailed maps of your region and the major roads of Europe, pre-installed on a SD card. For door-to-door navigation across your region and cross border navigation to any town in Europe.
Route choice: Plan your route to fit your requirements, such as: quickest, shortest, avoiding toll roads and congestion charge areas, by required arrival time, etc.
View routes: Preview and test your TomTom’s proposed route before you set off.
Itinerary planning: Programme in the schedule of places you want to visit before you leave the house.
Fast re-routing: Miss a turn or instruction and your TomTom instantly recalculates your route from your current location.
Real-time traffic & road condition information: Traffic jam alerts with the best alternative route and road condition warnings that help you put safety first.
Easy location search and selection: Choose how you want to define your destination: street & house number, postcode (UK & NL only), city center or intersection.
Points of Interest: Café, car park, cinema or petrol station. 1000’s of POI’s pre-installed. Search by proximity to current location, on your route, near a specific city, etc.

Clear instructions:

Huge choice: TomTom GO 510 speaks some 36 languages in over 50 different voices.
Realistic visual instructions: Visuals on your GO replicate road signs, making them easier to follow.
TMC support: Access free TMC* traffic information via your GO.

*Optional TomTom RDS/TMC traffic receiver required.
Compass: Displays compass on screen, for even better orientation.

Hands-Free Calling and Hi-Fi audio:

High quality connection: Echo cancellation and noise reduction give you excellent sound quality.
External microphone: To optimize the quality of your voice when you use your TomTom GO for hands-free calling.
Automatic pick-up: Can automatically answer your phone calls, for improved safety and comfort.
Bluetooth® connectivity: Connect your GO to your mobile phone, headset, car speakers or headphones hassle-free with Bluetooth® technology.

Smart extras:

I-pod control: Connect your I-pod to your GO* to operate it via your GO 510 touchscreen and enjoy mp3’s or Podcasts through the high quality speaker or via your car stereo. TomTom GO 510 supports the I-pod 3rd and higher generation (except the I-pod Shuffle).
Speaker options: TomTom GO 510’s speaker is perfect for listening to music or voice instructions. But you can also connect your GO to the car stereo using the audio cable we provide. Or use Bluetooth® technology to connect your GO wirelessly to your car stereo, headphones or external speakers. For more information and options, check here.
Home dock: Our easy-to-use home dock is the smart way to download from your pc or Mac, upgrade your GO and manage your files, all while automatically charging your device.
TomTom HOME: Use TomTom HOME software in combination with the home dock to manage the files on your device (songs, photos, maps, etc), get new updates, plan and schedule journeys on your pc or Mac in advance, and much more.
Buddies: Find, invite and add friends to your GO. And even send each other text messages while you’re on the road.
Pre-installed Safety Cameras database: The most up-to-date available list of safety cameras is pre-installed on your GO.
Quick GPS fix: If you use your TomTom GO in combination with TomTom HOME, your GO will download information about where the GPS satellites are going to be for the next 24 hours. With this information, your GO will be able to find your current position very quickly when it is first switched on.

TomTom One GPS Sat Nav

2006-08-03T13:10:00.000+01:00

TOMTOM ONE (GPS)
Comes with a 2 Year Warranty
Crystal-clear 3-D and 2-D graphics
Simple touch-screen operation
Turn-by-turn voice instructions
TomTom One is all-you-need car navigation in ONE smart product. Including full 7 digit postcode search and the latest in GPS high performance technology.

Perfect for: Someone who does more than the occasional driving in the UK.

Sat Nav Rating: 6/10

Buy from:
Comet - £214.00
Amazon - £214.00
Sat Nav 2U - £235.00

TomTom One Features:

Your first step in car navigation? TomTom ONE combines ease of use, portability, TomTom’s touchscreen technology and a sleek new design.

Drivers can enjoy the benefits of a TomTom ONE immediately, thanks to TomTom’s award-winning plug and drive navigation software pre-installed on a memory card (UK and Northern Ireland).

This means there is no need to download complicated software, just plug in and start using. TomTom ONE comes with the latest regional maps of your region. With TomTom ONE, everyONE can find their way from A to B!

TomTom One uses the very latest high performance chipset currently available (SiRFStar III) giving you the quickest and most accurate satellite fix, and also aiding reception in built up areas.

The TomTom One is EASY

ONE click to plug in and switch on and go

Slim, portable design; easy to take from car to car

Simple touch-screen operation

Clear and accurate; turn-by-turn voice instructions

Crystal-clear 3-D and 2-D graphics

Door-to-door planning; in your region

View route; review and test the calculated route before you actually start driving

The TomTom One is SMART

A choice of routes; quickest, shortest or avoiding toll roads

Itinerary planning; plan your trip by defining multiple waypoints and destinations

Integrated GPS antenna

Multi lingual; speaks more than 30 languages in over 50 voices

User interface now including 18 languages

Full 7 digit postcode navigation; for simple and accurate selection of your destination (UK & NL only)

Thousands of points of interest available

Make it your own; Save personal favorite addresses for quick route planning

Compass mode available; displays compass on screen to have even more orientation while driving

Tip feature; discover everything ONE has to offer through useful onscreen tips

Extensive guided tour; pick up the features even quicker and get the maximum out of your TomTom ONE

Car speed linked volume; volume of voice instructions will increase/decrease depending on speed of car

Anti-glare screen; always an optimal view, even in direct sunlight

The Tom Tom One can be CONNECTED

Built-in connection - ready for TomTom PLUS services; real time information on traffic congestions, weather conditions and extra downloads such as detailed city maps, additional voices, points of interest and much more

TomTom One Technical Specifications

32 MB RAM - CPU: 380 MHz

3.5 inch, 320 x 240 full TFT colour LCD touchscreen

110 x 89 x 34 mm, 260 grams

Operating temperature: -10 to +55 °C

USB port and cable for PC connection

Internal rechargeable Li-Ion battery

Integrated GPS receiver based on SiRF Star III with 20 Channel All-in-view tracking and support for (not in the box) active external antenna.

Also Called: Tom Tom One

We don't have any hacks or cracks for the TomTom One or even voices to download.

TomTom Sat Nav GPS

2006-08-03T11:38:00.000+01:00

Perfect for: UK and the odd bit of driving in Europe on the marjor roads.

Buy From:
Comet - £314.99
Amazon - £314.99
Sat Nav 2 U - £318.95

TOMTOM GO 710 (GPS) - Detailed UK & Europe
Has 2 Year Warranty
Easy to use
Detailed maps of Great Britain + door to door navigation across Europe.
Clear spoken instructions
Hands-free calling
Smart extras
Perfect for: UK and regular travels to Europe where you need to know exactly where you're going.

Buy From:
Comet - £385.95
Amazon - £399.99
Sat Nav 2 U - £399.99

TOMTOM GO 910 (GPS) - Detailed UK, Europe, USA & Canada
Easy to use: Extra wide 4” LCD touchscreen gives you smart design and easy to use navigation literally at your fingertips.

Maps of the whole of Europe, the USA and Canada on hard disk: Door-to-door navigation across Europe, the USA and Canada.

Clear spoken instructions, including street and place names: TomTom GO 910 speaks some 36 languages in over 50 different voices and can even announce street and place names.

Hands-free calling: Doubles as a hands-free car kit using Bluetooth technology. So you can make & receive calls as you drive with just a touch of the screen.

Smart extras: Built-in Mp3 player; 20 Gb (12 Gb free) of hard disk, enough for 1000’s of songs and pictures; remote control; and much more

Buy from:
Comet - £434.93
Amazon - £445.00
Sat Nav 2 U - £463.99

Personal Navigation System - TomTom Mobile 5

2006-07-20T14:18:00.000+01:00

Tomtom will later this year launch the first ever personal navigation system - The TomTom Mobile 5.

Sat Nav Info Rating: 8/10

Other Reviews:

Evening Standard: Tech know – Hear clearly now …TomTom’s Mobile 5 navigation service could be a godsend for Londoners with no sens of direction. It is a tiny satellite navigation system that uses your mobile phone to tell you where you are, and how to get to your destionation via a map on the phone’s screen. It got me across London safe several times. It is also accurate enough to tell which side of the road you’re on and can even talk you through directions via your phone’s speaker…. this could be the perfect London gadget. [28 September, 2005]

Features:

Easy, clear and accurate navigation on your mobile phone.
Navigate by car, bike or on foot
Clear spoken instructions and 2 or 3D maps guide you from door-to-door
Simple installation & intuitive interface
Navigate while making phonecalls through on-screen instructions
Including wireless Bluetooth GPS receiver and the software and maps of your region on a memory card
Integrated Phone Call Handling: On-screen instructions remain visible while making phone calls
Small and highly sensitive wireless GPS receiver: Can be used in your car, pocket or in your bag
Ready for more? TomTom PLUS services offers you real-time Traffic and Weather information, Safety Cameras, as well as downloadable Voices, Points of Interests and much more (in selected countries only and additional charges apply).

Bargain Full Spec GPS Sat Nav

2006-07-20T14:11:00.000+01:00

Tchibo is offering a fairly decent Sat Nav system from just £169 this month.

It will have a 3.5inch touch screen with UK & Ireland Maps and a 256mb memory card.

Sat Nav Info Rating: 5/10

Sat Nav For Girls - Intempo Buddy

2006-07-20T14:00:00.000+01:00

It would be unfair to say that just because its pink that its suitable for girls, there's also an mp3 player and a photo viewer.

Sat Nav Info Rating: 6/10

Buy Now:
Advanced - £299

Intempo's Overview:
The Intempo Digital 'Buddy' is designed to be a beautiful and easy to use... never mind all that techie stuff, just stick it in the car and never get lost again! It really is that straightforward. And while the 'simple' department were making sure it was completely plug and play, the 'gorgeous' department were sprinkling it with flowers and butterflies, and adding a lovely little pouch so it doesn't get damaged in your handbag... Bought to you by the award-winning Intempo Digital, the Buddy incorporates the best and latest GPS technology to guide you to your destination with the minimum of fuss... Imagine! You may never argue with your fella again!!!

Features:
Simple to use right out of the box. Clear and simple menus with large buttons which can be activated by finger or the stylus provided. Full screen landscape format gives a clear view of upcoming and surrounding roads 2D and 3D maps with accurate voice guidance, and clear directional symbols Calculates optimal route, and even sets you back on the right track after a wrong turn! Navigate back to your home address with one touch Remote control Instant address retrieval from History, Favourites or POIs Planning and optimisation of routes including possible stopovers

Navman iCN 750 Review

2006-07-20T13:26:00.000+01:00

Navman has brought to market the first in-car navigation system that has a built in camera. The Navman iCN 750 lets you take pictures of places you've been to on your travels. Geographical coordinates are then assigned to each picture, so that you can bring up a gallery, and choose your destination by clicking on a picture.

Product Description:
The Navman iCN 750’s innovative GPS navigation lets you identify destinations as pictures, rather than just names, letting you define your world as you see it. You can take pictures using the innovative NavPix software and camera in the iCN 750, reference them so they integrate with the pre-loaded maps, and then select an image as your destination or a point en route. The iCN 750 also includes our latest GPS navigation software, ensuring reliable and accurate navigation to your chosen destination, as well as an intuitive display and high visibility widescreen.

Buy Now:
Amazon - £448.99
SatNav 2 U - £423.84
Misco - £622.73
Comet - £434.45

Navman iCN750 Features

Drive-Away
Back on Track
POI (points of interest Transport related POI's)
Nearest POI/POI import
Full postcode search facility
Voice guided instructions
Favourite and recent destinations stored
Multiple routing options e.g. shortest/fastest nearest POI
Live traffic update through optional module (subscription free)
Speed cameras/limits location of safety cameras (free databases upload from the web)
SiRF Star III Generation 2 GPS receiver
New sleek pocket size design
European base maps on unit, street level maps on 750
Park & fuel locator buttons
RoHS/WEEE compliant

Included in the box:

iCN 750
New security car mount
12V car charger power
AC adaptor
Carry case
USB cable
Mapping
Pre-installed European maps (16 countries)
SmartS™ 2006 for iCN 700 Series navigation software
SmartS™ 2006 navigation core

GARMIN STREETPILOT C310

2006-07-09T16:20:00.000+01:00

The Garmin Streetpilot C310 is one of the best-selling Sat Nav devices in the UK, and its no wonder when you consider the price and the features.

The c-series range provides premium in-car navigation capability with automatic route calculation to any destination, turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions along the way and a three-dimensional navigation view. The c-series offers all of the functions of a premium in-dash system at a fraction of the cost.

Product Features

WAAS-enabled; 12 parallel channel GPS
Built-in patch antenna; MCX-type connector for optional external GPS antenna connection
Removable pre-programmed 256 MD card for UK and Ireland,
New NT mapping format
Audible and visual navigation instructions and warnings
Display: 2.8” W x 2.1” H (3.5” diag.), 320 x 240 pixels; bright, automotive-grade 16-bit colour LCD, with white backlight and touch screen
Unit dimensions: 4.4” W x 3.2” H x 2.8” D
Weight: 269 g
Built-in lithium ion battery for trip planning
Integrated dash mounting system provides easy adjustment and quick release
USB interface

Sat Nav Info Rating: 9/10

Buy from:
Sat Nav 2 U - £188.72
Amazon - £194.27
Savastore - £194.98

Garmin iQue 3000

2006-07-09T16:08:00.000+01:00

The Garmin iQue 3000 Sat Nav device isn't the best that's ever been released. Despite it's great design and the ability to use an SD card and that it runs Palm OS 5; it doesn't have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capababilities, it's slow to use and the battery isn't all that great.

It's a great concept having a device that also acts as a PDA, but it really doesn't do the job well, especially when you know its going to be around the £330 mark.

The address book and calendar is good as well as the detailed maps, the routing is pretty spot-on too, but if you just want something fairly stand-alone then it's a reasonable choice.

Sat Nav Info Rating: 5/10

Cheap Satellite Navigation Systems (GPS)

2006-05-19T20:52:00.000+01:00

Bluemedia BM6380 4 in 1 Sat Nav GPS System 64MB +256MB SD card with UK maps +MP3 +photo viewer +remote control (2 year warranty)
The BM-6380 is the perfect 2 in 1 satellite navigation system not only will it direct you safely from A to B but it will get you there legally as well by warning you of any speed cameras on your journey. The user interface of the Destinator software makes using the product very easy. It features clear and simple menu screens with large on screen buttons which can be activated using the... from Micro Direct

GlobalSat GV-101 GPS Satellite Navagation System
This stunning new GlobalSat GV-101 is a GPS Navigation System which includes UK and European maps plus lots more. With the additional SD CF Memory Card and USB slots, this deivice can be used as an MP3, Movie player and Photo Viewer. from XLShop

Etrex Vista
The Vista is the flagship in Garmin's recently expanded eTrex product range. As with the other products in the range, its appeal lies in the combination of high-tech features in a user friendly, light-weight and rugged package. The Vista takes the best features from each of the other eTrex models, providing not only a full range of navigational information, but also detailed basemapping... from Simply Scuba Ltd

HP iPAQ Navigator, RX1950
Free 2 year guarantee. The versatile HP RX1950 Navigator works as both pocket PC and satellite navigation system. ViaMichelin's experience, up-to-date maps, quality GPS information and hardware mean you ll always be in control of your journey. Simply plug in the power supply, insert the navigation SD card and go. A user-friendly interface design allows quick access to all key functions via the... from John Lewis

Navman GPS System and Pocket PC, PiN 570
The Navman PiN 570 satellite navigation (satnav)system comes in a stylish tungsten and graphite casing. Its compact form has the GPS receiver discreetly tucked away at the rear - just flip the module skywards and let the PiN 570 guide you, with voice direction and accuracy within 5 metres. And, when you ve arrived at your destination, the compact PiN 570 stows easily into your pocket. The PiN 570... from John Lewis

Snooper Indago Sat Nav
The Snooper Indago Portable Satellite Navigation system is the very latest and most advanced navigation product on the market. Not only does it guide you simply and effectively from door to door- it also has the added ability to alert you to ALL fixed speed safety cameras and accident blackspots so YOU WILL arrive at your destination SAFELY. The beauty of Snooper Indago Navigation is it s so... from Edworthys

TomTom GO ONE / GPS Satellite Navigation SystemBluetooth Functionality. Voice Guided Directions. In Car Power Connector. Simple Touchscreen Control. Car Mount Included. Estimated Time of Arrival Function. Favourite Destination Function. Teleatlas Mapping Software. Dynamic Routing.Special Order Item

TomTom GO700 / Car Navigation System
The latest and most complete maps Just plug in, switch on and GO Simple touch-screen operation Hands-free calling via Bluetooth connection with mobile phone Integrated GPS antenna Assisted Satellite Navigation allows continuous navigation, even in tunnels Phone control support, directly call a point of interest through the GO Clear, accurate turn-by-turn voice instructions Compact, portable... from 24-7 Electrical
Sony NVU50TG / Satellite Navigation System
Built-In Lithium-ion battery 4 hour stand-alone battery life 3.5 inch touch screen 2D and 3D map display mode Plug and play Voice guidance 2 way speaker Traffic message channel built in.

Sony NVU70TC / GPS Satellite Navigation System
Plug and Play. 1GB memory. 3.5in Touchscreen LCD. 2D and 3D map modes. Built-in microphone and speaker. TMC (Traffic Message Channel), for dynamic re-routing. Navteq map installed. Pan-european map installed. Over 1,000,000 points of interest. Built in rechargeable battery with up to 4 hours playback. from 24-7 Electrical
Sony NVU50G / Satellite Navigation System
Built-In Lithium-ion battery 4 hour stand-alone battery life 3.5 inch touch screen 2D and 3D map display mode Plug and play Voice guidance 2 way speaker Optional add-on TMC tuner. from 24-7 Electrical

RoadCom NUTROAD300 / Satellite Navigation System
Integrated GPS receiver, 20 parallel channel. SD expansion slot. Centrality atlas processor at 200Mhz OS Microsoft Windows CE Net 4.2. Car charger. 8 hours battery life when backlight is inactive. 3 hours to fully charge. 32Mb flash memory and 64Mb SDRAM. TFT LCD, 262K colours with 320 x 240 (QVGA) resolution. Built in microphone and speaker. USB client. DC power in. 5-way directional pad. from 24-7 Electrical

Navman iCN330 Satellite Navigation
from Tribal UK
TomTom GO700 Satellite Navigation
from Tribal UK

Garmin C310 Satellite Navigationfrom Tribal UK

Sony NVU50T Satellite Navigation
£276.84 from Tribal UK

Sony NVU50 Satellite Navigation
£224.09 from Tribal UK

Sony NVU70T Satellite Navigation
£322.39 from Tribal UK

Snooper Indago
Indago combines portable satellite navigation with Snoopers Enigma speed camera database to give a satellite navigation system with a properly maintained comprehensive database giving you voice alerts to accident blackspots, mobile speed traps and fixed speed cameras including the posted speed limits. from Trading Direct Ltd

BlueMedia BM6380 Satellite Navigation System (UK Maps only)
Never get lost! Use Evesham BlueMedia BM6380 Satellite Navigation System travel around the UK! A Global Positioning System (GPS) is the way forward for all travellers!

Silva Multinavigator
Theis not just another GPS. With the MultiNavigator we bring the skill of navigation to its leading edge. When you are 34out there34 you could well find that the difference between the MultiNavigator and an 34ordinary GPS34, will be the difference between finding your way or being lost. The MultiNavigator is built for you to rely on and works in deserts, mountains, arctic conditions, forests and... from Newitts

in-car satellite navigation system
3.5ins screen. Touch screen operation. SD Card slot. Includes full map of UK roads. Built-in GPS receiver and antenna. 12 GPS channels. Voice guidance for navigation. Scrolling 2D or 3D view. Just plug in and go. USB interface. DC input jack. Full detour Route planning functions. In-car mounting system. Rechargeable battery via 12V cigarette lighter. from littlewoods catalogue

Magellan SporTrak
The ruggedly handsome compact lightweight and waterproofGPS receiver offers tremendous opportunity for the outdoor enthusiast. Accurate to within 3 metres the SporTrak features nine large graphic navigation displays to view all the information you need to get to your destination and back safely and securely adding a new level of enjoyment to your adventure. A large 1Mb of memory allows transfer... from fieldandtrek

satellite navigation system
3.7-in high resolution colour screen. Remote control. Map and voice guidance. 8 language options. 12 Channel parallel GPS reception. 30,000 points of interest pre-installed. User-defined points of interest. European Mapping. H 7.6, w 16.5, d 4.4cms. from LX direct
"GO 300" satellite navigation system
Pre-installed UK street level mapping. Voice-guided directions. 3.5-ins touch screen and 3D colour maps. Full postcode search facility. Bluetooth functionality. Estimated time of arrival feature. Favoured destination feature.from LX direct

"GO 500" satellite navigation system
Pre-installed UK and Europe street level mapping. Voice-guided directions. 3.5-ins touch screen and 3D colour maps. Full postcode search facility. Bluetooth functionality. Estimated time of arrival feature. Favoured destination feature. Car mount included.
£429.99 from LX direct

"streetpilot i3" satellite navigation system
Automatic routing with turn-by-turn directions and voice guidance. Built-in GPS antenna. Colour TFT display with backlight. UK street-level mapping on the 256Mb pre-loaded memory card. Vehicle suction cup mount. USB interface cable.
£229.99 from LX direct

Navman GPS System and Pocket PC, PiN 570
The Navman PiN 570 satellite navigation (satnav)system comes in a stylish tungsten and graphite casing. Its compact form has the GPS receiver discreetly tucked away at the rear - just flip the module skywards and let the PiN 570 guide you, with voice direction and accuracy within 5 metres. And, when you've arrived at your destination, the compact PiN 570 stows easily into your pocket. The PiN 570...
£279 from John Lewis

HP iPAQ Navigator, RX1950
Free 2 year guarantee. The versatile HP RX1950 Navigator works as both pocket PC and satellite navigation system. ViaMichelin's experience, up-to-date maps, quality GPS information and hardware mean you'll always be in control of your journey. Simply plug in the power supply, insert the navigation SD card and go. A user-friendly interface design allows quick access to all key functions via the...
£299 from John Lewis

Tom Tom MP3 Player - Go 510, 710, 910

2006-03-03T17:46:00.000Z

The new range from Tom Tom look pretty damn incredible. The Go 510, Go 710 and G0 910 have 4 inch touch screens, road condition updates and pc software. The Go 910 features an MP3 player with 20gb of storage, an SD expansion slot and coverage in the US, Canada and Europe.

If you're looking for a simpler device the Go 510 only has SD expandability with no internal storage for music. However, you can connect them to your iPod.

"The product range we unveil today is the next generation TomTom GO, featuring significant improvements in design and usability, including hardware, software, connectivity and new content & services," said Tom Tom Boss, Harold Goddijn.

Sat Nav Info Rating: 8/10
Try Sat Nav 2 U / Comet

Sat Nav Causing Accidents - Survey

2006-03-01T16:16:00.000Z

A survey of 2000 drivers by Privilege Insurance has found that 1 in 10 drivers have programmed their sat nav devices whilst driving. Is this "driving without due care and attention"? Well there's talk that you could get a Â£1000 if you take your eyes off the road - madness so you can't look at your stereo, your passengers, your heating etc?

But I suppose when you think that of those that used their units whilst driving, seventy-five per cent spent more than 10 seconds doing so which, at 60 mph, would equate to two lengths of a football pitch.

Ian Parker, Managing Director, of Privilege Insurance rightly recommended drivers to take a break every two hours which they could use to check their route. But he also stated: "Perhaps safest of all would be for drivers on an unknown route to take a passenger with them and allow them to navigate." What's the point of buying sat nav then? My view is that you only need to play with your sat nav when you get stuck in traffic and you want to find an alternative route. Then you can stop and do this.

The other finding, which I find is startling, is that maps are safer than satellite navigation. Com'on ... I've tried looking at the map whilst driving, if you're doing 70 down the motorway you would have to look at the map once to see where you are, then again to make sure you're right, then work out where on the map you want to go to, then confirm, then work out the route. This just won't happen with a sat nav. But if you look at their data, 20% using sat nav said they lost concentration, whilst 17% using maps did. With a sample of 2000 drivers, surely the 3% isn't statisticalyysignificantt".

From personal experience, sat nav is safer - especially when driving at night!

GPS Watch from Globalsat: GH-601 / GH-602

2006-02-28T15:24:00.000Z

If you're looking for a waterproof wrist-watch with GPS navigation that you could use when jogging, biking or even skiing then you should consider the Globalsat GH-601 or GH-602.

Unlike many Sat Nav systems which have fairly week signal strength, the device from Globalsat has the SirFStar III GPS chipset which should give you a signal in most environments.

You may be thinking about the difference between the 601 and 602 models, well the 602 adds an electronic compass and a barometric altimeter.

The battery gives you 16 hours of use with the GPS turned on and compass and altimeter turned off, without all three it amounts to 70 hours.

Funny voices for your Sat Nav

2006-02-22T11:43:00.000Z

I've always wondered (but never got round to looking) if there are any voices I can download for my Tom Tom. But now a new survery featured on the Auto Channel and conducted by The Co-operative Bank has revealed that Peter Kay would be the top choice for motorists, whilst Joe Pasquale would be the least.

Mark Byrne, Head Marketing Management at Co-operative Financial Service (CFS), which recently launched Deal Check, a free valuation service for car buyers, in conjunction with What Car?, said: "This isn't science fiction. In the near future we could be changing sat nav voices like we download ring tones to our mobile phones.

Here's the list:

Favourite comedy voice
Peter Kay 49%
Homer Simpson 24%
Dawn French 12%
Jonathan Ross 9%
Victoria Wood 6%

Least favourite voice
Joe Pasquale 35%
Janet St Porter 29%
Cilla Black 16%
David Beckham 12%
Tony Blair 8%

Favourite male voice
Sean Connery 39%
Trevor Macdonald 20%
Tom Baker 14%
Terry Wogan 11%
Kelsey Grammer 11%
Other 4%

Favourite female voice
Carol Vorderman 32%
Fiona Bruce 28%
Mariella Frostrup 25%
Kathleen Turner 10%
Miriam Margoyles 4%

Other Useful Sat Nav Sites

2006-02-20T19:28:00.000Z

To help you obtain the widest possible choice of Sat Nav retailers and information resources, we've added a list of such sites.

» The Navigation Company
They have a truely outstanding range of Sat Nav systems and product information.

» Nav Now
They currently have a wide range of Sat Nav systems, indluding the Aspen IVDN-7004, Becker Traffic Assist, Blaypunkt Lucca, Chicago, a whole range of Garmin, Magellan and Tom Tom unites.

Blaupunkt Sat Nav with MP3 Player

2006-02-20T19:15:00.000Z

Blaupunkt are renowned for their innovative products and they continue the trend with the TravelPilot Lucca MP3. IT combines an MP3 / WMA player, photo-reviewer and a 3D GPS navigation system.

Whilst you drive it can play your favourite songs, but with only 512mb of memory it's really not much use for the dedicated music fan. But if you combine it with a CD player you should be fine.

Sat Nav to the Masses

2006-02-20T13:07:00.000Z

The Nokia N70 and CoPilot will bring Sat Nav to the masses the Virgin.net technology editors assert.

They believe that we're heading down a route of portable gps devices being mobile phones rather than specific units such as a Tom Tom or Navman. This comes after the introduction of Symbian Series 60 handsets which began with the Nokia N70.

Whats really nice is the fact that the CoPilot Live 6 Software has been updated to allow voice guidance as well as colour 3D maps.

RAC: Sat Nav are dangerous

2006-02-19T21:45:00.000Z

The RAC believe (i.e we believe they believe) that there are too many distractions when we drive. We've not only got road signs that don't always make sense, but we've got sat nav devices too.

If anyone's tried to navigate the M6 where it splits into the Toll Road and the M42 then you'll know what I'm on about. The Tom Tom says "keep left", well how far left you wonder as the signs above the road give indication of which lane we're supposed to be in. Whilst we confirm with the Tom Tom our concentration is distracted and our eyes move off the road.

We should all trust our sat nav devices and use them more to prewarn us of lane changing etc. It's normally other passengers, the radio, changing tracks and taking a quick swig of Lucazade that will distract us more.

What we're waiting for is "speech recognition" sat nav systems. Now they'll be great, but how they work when you're arguing with your passengers about whether if you're going to the shops on the way home from work or not is another matter.

If you can, go through the route summary before you leave and take a mental note of the roads you'll be traveling on.

Sat Nav Rental from Hertz

2006-02-19T21:40:00.000Z

It's a good idea, and we're supprised that other car hire companies haven't thought of it sooner.

Basically what you've got to do is ask for a car that have "NeverLost" installed. To find out more view their FAQ.

Ford Helps Sat Nav Owners

2006-02-19T21:32:00.000Z

Ford has announced that its 700 UK dealers will now be implementing a registration system to help secure Sat Nav devices against theft. They'll be security marking each unit so they'll be easier to trace and riskier to sell.

They'll be working in partnership with Retainagroup, the dealers will be marketing a simple DIY kit that has a unique id-code and 24 hour phone access to the Internation Security Register. The kit will cost £10 which is less than the usual £11.75.

Advice for Beating Sat Nav Theives

2006-02-16T15:30:00.000Z

"Don’t lose your satellite navigation equipment to car thieves" says Avon and Somerset Police. Here's what they say.

With satellite navigation equipment become more popular with motorists, it is also becoming more popular with criminals.

Where it’s portable, keep it safe by taking it, together with the support cradle and suction pads, with you when you leave the car, and remember to wipe away any suction pad marks left on the windscreen or dashboard, as thieves will look out for these.

Don’t leave the equipment in the glove compartment – thieves will usually check there first.

You can also help by following these tips:

· Mark your satellite navigation equipment system with your postcode and house number or your vehicle registration number or another unique number, using special security markers.

· Make a note of the make, model and serial number of the equipment and keep the note somewhere safe – not in the car. Consider recording this information on one of the commercially available asset registers.

· Don’t leave anything on view in your car. Thieves are opportunists and it only takes them moments to break into the vehicle.

· Lock all doors and windows, not forgetting the sunroof, when leaving your car.

· Never leave the keys in the ignition when the car is unattended, even while you’re paying for petrol.

· Use car parks that are part of the police-approved Safer Parking Scheme. Approved car parks display the official “Park Mark” sign.