BIOS: Technology Means Business

HP, with the help of ViaMichelin, is set to introduce a new plug-and-drive satellite navigation system. HP’s iPAQ rx1950 Navigator is pitched as an easy-to use GPS solution based on the company’s iPAQ rx1950 Pocket PC, car cradle and ViaMichelin navigation software.

The solution offers a variety of features for accurate turn-by-turn visual and voice guidance to any address in the UK. In addition, integrated wireless WLAN capability ensures connectivity from home, at work and on the road.

The HP iPAQ rx1950 Navigator solution can be used to plot a journey or to search for points of interest en route, while still allowing you to manage your calendar, contacts, tasks and appointments - an added benefit compared to dedicated in-car sat-nav devices such as the TomTom Go.

Microsoft’s Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system with updated Office comes pre-installed, so you can work on the road (not literally of course), browse the Web or listen to WMA, MP3 and WMV audio.

This dual-purpose iPAQ also comes with a pre-programmed ViaMichelin Navigation Secure Digital (SD) card. Simply plug the SD card into the iPAQ and the GPS application will install automatically, says the company. The GPS receiver is actually embedded into the cradle (also includes a loudspeaker) so you can’t walk around with the device to get a fixed location, unlike Mio’s A201 Sat-Nav PDA.

The integrated GPS receiver should ensure accurate satellite coverage and good reception of satellite signals, regardless of windshield thickness. No external antenna is required. Thanks to the cradle’s integrated loudspeaker, the rx1950 Navigator is also the loudest navigation device on the market, claims HP, producing great sound quality that you can hear even with your windows open and music playing.

In addition to standard Points of Interest (POIs) offered in the pack, a selection of exclusive POI files are available to download (speed radars, tourist locations from The Michelin Green Guide, petrol stations, car parks, garages, golf courses, and so on). A warning will alert you when you get close to a POI.

Technical specifications of the PDA include a Samsung SC32442 300MHz processor, 3.5-inch transflective TFT QVGA LCD, 96MB total memory (64MB ROM and 32MB SDRAM), SD slot (supports 4-bit SDIO and 4-bit SD/MMC), microphone, speaker, and 3.5mm headphone jack. You also get a removable/rechargeable 1100mAh Lithium-ion battery.

Free Software Points are awarded with every iPAQ Pocket PC purchased. These points enable you to choose from over 250 of the best titles available and download additional maps and new software absolutely free. The HP iPAQ rx1950 with ViaMichelin GPS Navigation system is available from selected retailers and online resellers next month, priced at £299.

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