Sony has announced a new satnav, unit at its Media Experience Event in Rhodes, Greece. We managed to get our hands on the new player, so should TomTom be worried?

Best described as the iPhone for the GPS world, the new NV-U92T is a basically a large widescreen 16:9 4.8-inch LCD screen. There are no buttons on the GPS receiver apart from one that releases the clip for the docking cradle and everything is controlled via on-screen movements and touches.

That screen is big, bigger by half and inch on TomTom’s Go 910 model and it was clear talking to the Sony spokesperson that ran us through the demo that this third generation player is there attempt at clawing back some of the 60% market share TomTom has carved for itself.

The software, which now features full UK postcode support is very simple to use, the buttons, thanks to the large screen, are large, and we had no problems selecting the right boxes to get an address in or using the menu system. The unit also offers gesture control that allows you to just sketch a simple line or shape on screen with a fingertip and the NV-U92T will guide you safely and surely to frequent destinations – like “home” or the “nearest filling station”.

That menu system has been kept to a minimum. You might think with Sony being the multi-media giant that it is there would be an MP3 player, picture view, movie watcher, mobile phone, digital camera and games machine built-in for good measure but you would be wrong. The NV-U92T has none of these. “We wanted to stay focused on the task at hand”, we were told. “Our research suggests people want a satnav to tell them how to get somewhere not play their favourite movies.”

In fact the only non-core product inclusion has been Bluetooth for handsfree calling.

Although we weren’t able to test the model in action on the road - there is no mapping data for Rhodes, the unit seemed nippy in responding to our commands and address lookups.

As with other models, there are plenty of POI preloaded and the model also comes with the whole of Europe on its 2GB of Flash memory built-in. Failing that, users will also be able to update POI and maps via the Memory Stick slot at the bottom of the unit.

As you would expect from a top of the line machine, The NV-U92T automatically monitors real-time broadcasts of Traffic Message Channel (TMC) and will update your route accordingly if you so wish.

Finally, and again we were able to verify with a test, Sony has included something it is calling Position Plus. Through a built-in sensor rather than software emulation, the technology promises to ensure accurate, uninterrupted routing even when GPS signals are temporarily compromised, like when you go through a long tunnel.

Source: Pocket-Lint

350 garmin gps navigation nuvi portable vehicle only $467.99

FotoNation has been selected by Trimble to provide wireless PTP-IP technology for Trimble’s Mapping & Geographic Information System (GIS) handheld product line. Trimble’s new TrimPix technology enabled by FotoNation, links high resolution digital photographs to GIS features using Wi-Fi capable Nikon cameras.

As each photo is taken, the Nikon camera automatically transfers the digital image wirelessly to Trimble’s handheld GPS receiver or field computer. Once the photo has been transferred, it is linked to GIS (Geographic Information System) data for use with mapping and searching applications. Current Nikon cameras supporting the WiFi capability include the COOLPIX models P1, P2, P3, S6 and S7c.

FotoNation was selected for Trimble’s wireless implementation because of its expertise in PTP-IP wireless communications transfer protocol, which was standardized in 2005 by CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) for the transfer of images and other digital media content across TCP/IP and WiFi networks between digital imaging devices and services.

Through FotoNation Connected-Photography solutions, digital cameras can be connected to numerous devices, including printers, computers, handhelds, cellphones, in-store kiosks, TVs, and PDAs, etc. The PTP-IP standard allows companies to open up to new applications that can take advantage of instant image transfer to/from camera phones, digital cameras and other digital imaging devices.

Source: Computing News

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The Lowrance iFinder GPS is an affordable GPS navigator that includes all the features you need to get around. Due to its portability, it is a good choice for hikers, cyclists, and road trippers. It’s so simple, just plot a route via the easy-to-use keypad, and the iFinder Go follows the path precisely, with intuitive navigating that keeps you from veering off course.

The navigator is so reliable that its 16 parallel channel GPS and WAAS receiver is accurate to within several meters, making it a great fit for scavenger hunts as well as hikes. Each trip is completely customizable, with the ability to create new routes, waypoints, trails, and more. You can also easily recalculate your trip route should you get distracted and lose your way, and thanks to the 32 MB of built-in memory, you can save and retrace up to 100 of your favorite plot trails, with up to 10,000 points in each path.

The device holds more than just previous routes, however. It also comes preloaded with a background map of the continental U.S. and Hawaii, with such features as coastal nav aids, wrecks, and obstructions. In addition, the device supports up to 1,000 waypoints, 1,000 event markers, and 100 routes. Users with a zest for detail will appreciate the 40 map zoom ranges (from 0.02 to 4,000 miles) and the 42 graphic icons used to mark special spots.

To top it off, the iFinder Go’s bright yellow housing is waterproof, so you can use it in the rain or safely store it in your pack when rafting. Additional features include a 2-inch white LED backlit screen with 200 x 140 resolution, internal backup memory for storing your GPS data and settings, and a wrist-strap accessory. The pocket-sized unit measures 2.12 by 5.15 by 1.24 inches (W by H by D) and runs for up to 48 hours on two AA batteries (not included). It also includes a one-year warranty.

iFinder GPS Go Waterproof 16 iFinder GPS Go Waterproof 16, Now you can enjoy the biggest, easy-to-use, 16-channel compact GPS handheld performance — with built-in mapping detail — for the smallest price ever

Navman today announces their new Jupiter 30 GPS receiver, capable of 66 second cold start TTFF, -159dBm signal locks, and 1,118mph max velocity, enabling GPS tracking indoors and in “impossible locations.” We’re not sure why these supposed locations weren’t previously possible to track with the SiRFstar IIIs that a ton of people already have, but hey, if it works better than the competition in real life than it does on paper then that’s what counts. Now, get that chipset in packages as small as Pharos’s iGPS-500 and you’ll really have something.

Source: by Ryan Block - Engadget

RF-shielded MN1010 Module, designed for portable consumer electronic applications, is complete 12-channel Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver that requires power and antenna for operation. Drawing less than 75 mW, receiver allows all satellites in view to be tracked, minimizing position jumps caused by individual satellite blockage. GPS chipset, from u-Nav microelectronics, features uN1008 CMOS RF front-end and uN8130 baseband processor.

MMT announced today, at the Institute of Navigation Show, the availability of their MN1010 Module. It is the world’s smallest complete global positioning system (GPS) receiver. The ultra small design is packaged into a 10×10x1.8mm, RF shielded 36 pin package. This module is a low power, high performance GPS Receiver solution designed for portable consumer electronic applications. It draws less than 75mW making it an ideal solution for battery operated, PDA and wireless applications devices. It is a complete 12 channel GPS receiver that only requires power and an antenna to operate. The 12 channel receiver allows all satellites in view to be tracked, providing a solution to minimize position jumps caused by individual satellite blockage.

The GPS chipset integrated into the MN1010 is from u-Nav microelectronics and features the uN1008 CMOS RF Front-End and the highly integrated uN8130 Base-band Processor. This chipset provides a low power, high performance cost competitive solution.

The MN1010 is supported by an evaluation kit which includes software and references designs to reduce time and cost for the OEM development. Samples are currently available with full production quantities scheduled for October 2005.

“MMT is committed to providing high quality GPS solutions in a small, low power package for portable consumer applications. We believe that the combination of MMT’s advanced manufacturing technology together with the low power GPS chipset solution has produced an outstanding state of the art product,” said Alfred Low, CEO of Micro Modular Technologies Ltd.

About MMT

Incorporated in May 2004, our corporate mission is to develop GPS modules and other smart GPS modules that allow our customer to design with ease thus shortening their product development cycle. MMT is headquartered in Singapore with design center in Irvine and Singapore. For further information please visit us at: www.micromodular.com.sg

About u-Nav Microelectronics

u-Nav is a privately held, fabless semiconductor company that develops GPS chipsets and software for the emerging mobile location based services market. u-Nav’s technology delivers ultra-low power at low cost with state of the art performance to enable operation indoors and in urban canyons. u-Nav Microelectronics is headquartered in Irvine, California, with design centers in Irvine and Tampere, Finland.

CONTACT: Bell Lee of Micro Modular Technologies PTE LTD, +65 6745 8832, bell_lee@micromodular.com.sg

Web site: http://www.micromodular.com.sg/

AutoFarm, the leader in GPS precision farming, announced today the release of the Cultiva OnTrac assisted steering system. Delivering up to 2-inch pass-to-pass accuracy, the system integrates directly with the steering wheel thus eliminating manual steering obstructions caused by friction drive motors. OnTrac affordably installs on nearly all makes and models of tractors and other agricultural vehicles in as little as 30 minutes with basic tools.

The Cultiva OnTrac drive integrates with the steering wheel to ensure precise vehicle control in all conditions. The OnTrac is controlled via the Cultiva ATC, which features an 8.4 inch color display providing the operator a Virtual Highway view of the field. Complete with where-applied maps and record keeping functions, Cultiva OnTrac with ATC is a feature-rich steering solution for under $8,500.

“OnTrac was installed and running in 30 minutes,” says Jerry Hull. “The picture guided calibration and simple-to-use menus guaranteed trouble-free startup.” Hull farms thousands of acres of corn and wheat in Kansas.

GPS assisted steering helps reduce input costs by minimizing skips and overlaps. Operator fatigue is also reduced ensuring consistent performance during peak seasons. Greater accuracy, reduced fuel consumption and increased farm productivity contribute to a rapid payback of less than one year for most growers.

The steering system accurately navigates curves and compensates for vehicle tilt on hills, with the optional tilt compensation package. The integrated design allows the operator to safely disengage the Cultiva OnTrac system by simply gripping the wheel.

Existing Cultiva ATC with compatible GPS receiver owners may upgrade the guidance system to OnTrac assisted steering with the purchase of the OnTrac drive unit for $3,495. The system works well in WAAS and OmniSTAR HP differential correction modes. OnTrac will be available in the United States and Australia in late March 2006. The product will be available in Europe following completion of regulatory review.

About AutoFarm

AutoFarm, a division of Novariant Inc., is the premier solutions provider for precision positioning and intelligent control systems. AutoFarm manufactures and markets Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and precision agriculture solutions for automatic steering and leveling based on its experience in advanced aviation landing systems. AutoFarm can be found on the web at www.gpsfarm.com or reached at 1-866-428-8632.