Device Profile: NaviFlash in-car navigation system

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(Nov. 24, 2004)

A German company has used embedded Linux to build an in-car navigation system with route-planning, traffic avoidance, and spoken direction features. NaviFlash's NaviFlash device comes pre-installed with detailed maps of Germany, and the main roads of Europe, with maps of 17 other European countries also available.

The NaviFlash is a tiny, relatively inexpensive GPS device
The NaviFlash is based on an Intel XScale PXA255 processor, and features a compact, all-in-one design with an integrated 128 x 64 pixel monochrome LCD screen. It includes a GPS (global positioning system) receiver capable of tracking 12 satellites.

The NaviFlash attaches to automobile dashboards without drilling or screws, the company says. Cables connect the device to a cigarette lighter socket, and to a remote GPS antenna with a magnetic base. An optional external connection cable allows exterior antenna mounting.

The NaviFlash comes standard with a 512MB CompactFlash card pre-installed with a detailed map of Germany, and a map of the main roads of Europe (MRE). Maps are also available for:

Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway + MRE
Great Britain, Ireland, + MRE
Austria, Switzerland + MRE
Spain, Portugal + MRE
Italy + MRE
Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg + MRE
France + MRE
Czechoslavakia, Poland + MRE

The device can perform route calculation, taking into consideration five preselected route criteria, as well as Traffic Message Channel (TMC) information enabling the device to dynamically route around congestion, NaviFlash says. The device uses maps from TeleAtlas, along with navigation software written in-house by NaviFlash engineers. Directions are presented graphically, and are also spoken in a clear, pleasant voice through an integrated speaker.

The device comes with cables, and a infrared remote control (pictured at right), ready to use in vehicles with a cigarette lighter plug. The device is available direct, priced at €599, and through various retail outlets. Map packs are priced at €145 each.

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