, ,

JVC KD-AVX40 El Kameleon DVD/CD/USB Receiver with 3.5-Inch Monitor, Proximity Sensor, Touch Panel Controls, Built-in Bluetooth, and iPod/iPhone USB 2.0

[ วันอังคารที่ 27 เมษายน พ.ศ. 2553 | 1 ความคิดเห็น ]
AM/FM radio, DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD, CD-R/RW, VCD, MP3/WMA/WAV, MPEG1/2, JPEG, USB, iPod receiver with Bluetooth4 x 50 Watts maximum power with two pre-amp outputsDetachable face with 3.5-inch widescreen LCD with electro-static touch panelIncludes A/V input, USB port, iPod control, Bluetooth; add JVC modules for HD and SAT radioOne-year limited warranty   More>>>

Both Exclusive Provides Security Faceplate Stealthy The Off--Appearing Car Powered Comes A Player--Complete Electro-Static Interface MenuAmazon.com Product Description Both innovative and stylish, exclusive El Kameleon technology provides the ultimate anti-theft security advantage. The KD-AVX40's faceplate converts to a stealthy black appearance when the power is turned off--appearing unnoticeable to potential car stereo thieves. Once powered on, the KD-AVX40 comes to life as a full function Multimedia player--complete with a unique electro-static touch panel operation interface and 3-D graphical menu system.

A full-function multimedia player with electro-static touch panel operation. Click to enlarge.

The KD-AVX40's faceplate converts to a stealthy black appearance when the power is turned off. Click to enlarge.

Includes wireless remote. Click to enlarge.

Includes high-quality external wired microphone.

El Kameleon Control Panel
This single-din receiver's 3.5-inch widescreen monitor is constructed with a high-resolution 211,200 pixel TFT panel capable of over thousands of display colors. This TFT panel displays a 16:9 aspect ratio for a widescreen viewing experience. The monitor can also display multimedia video and AV input content at the same time in split screen mode. The wide viewing angle virtually eliminates screen glares, making the monitor clearly visible from every viewing angle. Another new feature is full touch screen capability, which allows the entire TFT panel to dual-task as the receiver's control panel. This receiver also features a built-in electrostatic proximity sensor, which illuminates the screen when the user approaches it with their hand. Otherwise, it's pitch black--El Kameleon.

Built-in Bluetooth Wireless Technology
The KD-AVX40 features built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling while driving. Phone calls can be made easily and received directly through the receiver, while voice recognition technology enables immediate dialing from the driver's cell phone without the distraction of handling the phone while driving. Phonebook entries can be stored and accessed on the receiver and text message notification can also be displayed on-screen.

JVC also includes PBAP, or "Phonebook Access Profile" capability. This feature allows direct view and selection of phonebook entries without requiring any additional action or information transfer. PBAP also allows access to all phonebook entries, regardless of how many number entries are stored in the cell phone's memory.

Bluetooth connectivity also allows music enthusiasts to listen to their favorite songs and artists wirelessly from iPod/iPhone, cell phone, or other Bluetooth enabled devices through the receiver.

CD and DVD Playback
Enjoy your favorite CDs or watch some video on DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW or VCDs. Use the gold-plated video output terminals to send video to a passenger screen.

AM/FM Radio
The KD-AVX40 features an AM/FM radio with standards like automatic presetting. You can also add SAT or HD radio with additional accessories.

GIGA MP3 MULTI--Play MP3, WMA, and WAV Files Burned on DVD
The KD-AVX40 features GIGA MP3 MULTI, which plays MP3, WMA, or WAV files burned on DVD. With MP3 and WMA files, the 4.7GB capacity of a DVD can store up to 2,500 songs on a single disc--equal to 250 pre-recorded CDs. If you want even more superior sound quality, WAV files can be burned onto a DVD. WAV is an uncompressed PC music file format that delivers CD-quality sound. A single DVD disc can store 100 WAV files--equal to 10 pre-recorded CDs. Now you can enjoy non-stop entertainment with CD-quality sound, without an additional CD changer.

USB Port
Stream WAV/MP3/WMA files from USB thumb drives and other devices via the included USB port.

iPod Connectivity
You can also operate your iPod via the USB port. Control your iPod/iPhone from either the player itself or from the receiver's controls, while allowing song and artist information display, play, pause, skip, or back commands from either device.

MPEG 1/MPEG 2 Playback
Play MPEG 1 and MPEG 2 video files burned on DVD or CD, TV programs recorded from a PC, or personal footage from digital camcorders, without the hassles of authoring or decoding.

JPEG Pictures
JPEG digital still photos can be displayed on their own or as slideshows.

Expandability
With its 50W x 4 MOSFET amplifier, the KD-AVX11 packs a lot of punch. But if you need more, two sets of preamp outputs (front, rear, and sub) are included.

A/V Input
Connect external devices like video game systems with the A/V input.

What's in the Box
JVC KD-AVX40 DVD/CD Receiver, external wired microphone, trim ring, sleeve, remote control, wiring harness, installation hardware, installation manual, instructions
Average Rating:
Customer Reviews
Es un buen producto, la calidad del sonido (infinity speakers) es bastante agradable. Como reproductor de DVD es bastante agradable sino requiere ver ningun subtitulo, ni el menu respectivo. Me tiene decepcionado es el sensor de la pantalla es mejor si fuera touch screen.


great unit full of features true color no faults yet nice built in amp dvd shows perfect have connected to an amp loud and clear without one but perfect with one this is a great unit jvc showed out with this one touch and kameleon is awesome great price and fast shipping
I love the display on this unit it is really bright and fun. It sounds great too. But it is a seriously dangerous toy to have in your vehicle. Trying to adjust the volume or anything else on the unit while driving is near impossible. It is super touchy and you have to be very accurate where you touch the pad to change things. That means you have to take your attention off the road to work it. The remote works fine for volume and source but who wants to fumble with it all the time. Besides there are no audio controls on the remote. To change the sub or EQ settings you have to go through 3 layers of menus and about 10 key strokes. Who ever designed this disaster must not adjust the sub and EQ for different types of music like the rest of the world.

Bottom line is it looks very cool but it is very difficult to work. I used it for 2 weeks and replaced it with a boring Alpine 9886 that has a wonderful big volume knob and 1 touch access to the audio controls. It has a lousy display but much safer and more functional. So anyone want to buy a slightly used JVC?
Read the full story »

, ,

Hifonics Brutus BXI1610D 1600 Watt D-Class Mono Amplifier

[ วันจันทร์ที่ 15 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553 | 0 ความคิดเห็น ]
1 x 550 W @ 4 Ohms, 1 x 1100 W @ 2 Ohms, 1 x 1600 W @ 1 OhmBass EQ with 45Hz bass boost and variable control from 0db to 10dbVariable Low Pass, Subsonic Filter, Phase Shift and Level ControlBalanced line input for MX accessories and line driversBuilt-In System Diagnostics protects from short circuits, over load, thermal overheat and DC Offset; Bass Remote included   More>>>

Product Description: 1 x 550 W @ 4 Ohms, 1 x 1100 W @ 2 Ohms, 1 x 1600 W @ 1 Ohm The Hifonics legacy is built on some of the most famous, high-performance amplifiers in the history of car audio and Brutus BXI amplifiers are recognized the world over as some of the best in their class. Using the latest in innovative D-Class digital chip technology, Hifonics has dramatically changed car audio amplifier design and redefined performance and value expectations. They are designed to expand with the needs of our customers with high amplification designs engineered for extreme efficiency and low temperature with better D/A conversion – at outrageously high listening levels. A/B Class amplifiers provide unique line-output features making it quick and easy to connect additional multiple amplifiers. Hifonics has a 25-plus year history of designing and manufacturing megawatt amplifiers, state-of-the-art automotive speakers and start where competitive designs end when it comes to high power handling subwoofers. The two-way, three-way and component speaker systems are engineered to take the heat from a wide range of amplification classes and provide an accurate soundstage in any vehicle. With extended frequency response for use in audio or video applications, Hifonics raises performance expectations to an even higher level. Parent company, Maxxsonics USA, offers decades of combined experience and distinction with four brands MB QUART, Hifonics, Autotek and Crunch. We independently support and maintain these best-in-class brands to bring you some of the biggest, baddest and coolest products in the car, marine and home audio industry. Maxxsonics designers and engineers take great care and satisfaction in producing only the finest quality products to exceed your needs. Look for the stylized blue "M" on your product and packaging. It stands for quality, performance and power you can only get from Maxxsonics. Read the full story »
, ,

TomTom XL 340S Live 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable Internet Connected GPS Navigator

[ วันอาทิตย์ที่ 14 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553 | 0 ความคิดเห็น ]
4.3-inch full-color TFT LCD touchscreen with WQVGA (480 x 272 pixels) resolutionMaps of the United States, Canada, and Mexico with TomTom Map Share, Advanced Lane Guidance, and 7 Million POIsGO LIVE automatically accesses traffic feeds; updated fuel prices; and Local Search powered by Google, Weather, and moreIQ Routes Technology gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel on your route to calculate your tripWith TomTom Map Share technology, you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, road speeds, and turn restrictions on your own device   More>>>

TomTom XL 340-S LIVE is navigation and so much more. Real-time information saves you time, money, and stress. GO LIVE automatically accesses traffic feeds, updated fuel prices, Local Search powered by Google, and Weather--so you can stay in the know on the go. Real-time services work right out of the box via a built-in wireless data connection. Three months of service included.

GO LIVE automatically accesses traffic feeds, updated fuel prices, Local Search powered by Google, and Weather. Click to enlarge.

Advanced Lane Guidance brings clarity to complex multi-lane exits. Click to enlarge.

The award-winning Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds flat against the device. Click to enlarge.

TomTom's award-winning software means the ultimate driving experience. Click to enlarge.

Widescreen Connected Navigation and Advanced Routing

Award-Winning Navigation
TomTom's award-winning software means the ultimate driving experience. Switch on and go right out of the box. Just enter your destination on the touchscreen and start driving anywhere in the US, Canada and Mexico. TomTom XL 340-S LIVE guides you door to door with turn-by-turn spoken instructions, including street names and more than 7 million points of interest.

LIVE Services

  • TomTom Traffic
  • Fuel Prices
  • Local Search powered by Google
  • Weather and more

Real-time services work right out of the box via a built-in wireless data connection. Three months of service included.

IQ Routes
The XL 340-S LIVE features IQ Routes Technology which gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel on your route to calculate your trip time rather than posted speed limits. You'll always travel the smartest route.

Real-time connection to LIVE Traffic
LIVE Traffic keeps you up-to-date on Traffic events to minimize potential delays.

Fast Route Recalculation
Instant route re-calculation if you deviate from the planned route.

RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver-Ready
This TomTom device is compatible with the optional RDS-TMC receiver, so your routing is optimized for the traffic ahead.

Advanced Lane Guidance
Advanced Lane Guidance uses photorealistic images to bring even more clarity to complex multi-lane exits so you can be more confident on the road.

4.3-Inch Touchscreen
An extra-wide 4.3-inch touchscreen helps you find your way, worry-free.

TomTom Map Share
TomTom has the most accurate maps and with TomTom Map Share technology you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, and more on your own device.

Get Help
With the "Help Me!" menu, there are added safety features so you can easily access local emergency providers.

EasyPort Mount
The award-winning Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds flat against the device, making it easy to take it with you from car to car.

The TomTom XL 340-S LIVE is the ultimate connected car navigator.

What's in the Box
TomTom XXL 340-S 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator, Easyport Mount, USB Car Charger and USB Cable, Documentation
Average Rating:
Customer Reviews
My wife is geographically challenged. I grew up in South Florida, where we live, and she grew up in Toronto where we don't live. I suppose sending me out for bread in Toronto might become as interesting as what happens when my wife goes shopping in the vast flat malls of Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, but somehow I doubt it. Like my father before me, I have the unerring ability to find a slum on any continent without trying very hard.

Hence this Tom Tom GPS. This is actually the second one I have bought her. The first was from that amazingly bad generation of GPS devices which constantly screamed "GO BACK! GO BACK!" which was really freaky if you didn't know where you were going and annoying if you did.This little baby just assumes you know where you are going, within reason, and quickly recalculates your route.

Connecting to Google is cool. In this town things change rapidly, new restaurants open, new stores get hot, and the older GPS are clueless. With a Google connection, you are on your way. If you want you can update your own maps, but unless you are a cartographer, why would you want to?

But the interface is easy even for the technologically challenged. All and all a really nice GPS which I may steal from my wife on occasion.
Works great. Easy to use. Live services are a waste of time for me. If you live in a major metropolitan area, it would be worth it. I live in a rural area and the facts are that the Live weather doesn't have my town or any near it. The closest one it shows the weather for is a half-hour drive away! Keep that in mind if you don't live in a major town.

Other than that complaint, the TomTom works great and is a quick favorite!
Love TomTom. I got 4 years ago and it was awesome. I took a cross country trip totally unplanned. - I would drive until I was tired, then look for a hotel within the driving distance I wanted to go, call them through the bluetooth, make the reservation and head that way. Some nights I would even locate an Outback Steakhouse close to the hotel, call through the TomTom bluetooth, order dinner and pick it up on the way to the hotel! I had my cat with me who had a bad reaction to his sedative, I was in the middle of no where Oklahoma, but TomTom found me the nearest vet, I called on my way and got him taken care of! My TomTom died (after LOTS of hard use and dropping) about 6 months ago. I got a Garmin instead but ended up selling it and getting a new TomTom. They are very reliable, and easy to use. Find POIs seems to be the best with TomTom. The ONLY downside I find is the cost of live traffic updates. It is an awesome feature that really helps me on trips to LA from Orange County and occasional trips to Phoenix. But the price of 10/month is a lot when other brands have lifetime traffic updates (a one time fee, no more). I hope TomTom with get on the bandwagon and get a lifetime subscription price to offer. Love Love Love TomTom
Read the full story »

, ,

Alpine MRP-M500 - Amplifier - 1-channel

| 0 ความคิดเห็น ]
RMS Power Per Channel Into 4 Ohms: 300W X 1RMS Power Per Channel Into 2 Ohms: 500W X 12 Single Voice Coil Subs Or 1 Dual Voice Coil Works BestNumber 1 Rated Amp In The US   More>>>

Power up your system with Alpine's V-Power amplifiers! This best selling family of amplifiers offers more choices for building the right system for you, and provides flexibility and value in an aggressive design. Alpine continues to bring you mind-blowing sound performance - only the best - so you get the sound you deserve.Want serious power for your system? While trying not to blow your budget? Go with one of the Alpine V-Power amps for unbeatable dollar-per-watt value and Alpine quality sound, along with Bass EQ for maximizing bass performance.Alpine's high-power mono amp Class-D design gives you more power, cleaner signal and tighter, deeper bass without draining your battery. Class-D provides continuous clean power to your speakers, operating at 80% efficiency far greater than conventional Class-A or B amplifiers. Translation: Enjoy cleaner bass, even during extreme power demands.Rugged heat sinks and an extremely sophisticated thermal management processor that continuously monitors the amp's temperature, ensure nonstop output and stable, reliable performance.
Average Rating:
Customer Reviews
I mounted the m500 in my spare tire wheel well of my sedan on a custom platform, etc. Running two 6.5" eD subs wired at 4 ohms.

The amp does a great job and stays cool at all times. I've tried a few other boxes in the trunk at times (2 ohm JBL 12", 4 Ohm Kicker CVR 12") and this amp always pushes the speakers very well.

For the money, it's a great amp to use in a small/medium sub setup. You can install it anywhere without overheating concerns and it seems to produce at it's power ratings. Highly recommended
Whether your pairing two subs or just powering one this amp is great. Power + (Alpine) Reliability + Great Amazon Price = Happy customer!
Perfect Amp for my needs.

I was surprised when I open my package and saw how small this Amp is, I immediately thought it would not put out the power claimed in the many reviews I read. Boy was I wrong, this amp paired with my 12" Alpine Type R 2ohm sub... in my opinion were made for each other. Amp puts out good, clean, continuous power (500 watts RMS at 2ohms!!!). I have about a 45 min to an hour commute to and from work, and I play my system loud the entire time. Only had the amp about two weeks, but it has yet to cutout (clip). Additionally, amp runs cool. This will be extremely beneficial come summer time. And the small package allows you to mount the sub just about anywhere.

Read the full story »
, ,

Garmin nüvi 785/785T 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator with Bluetooth and Maps of U.S, Canada & Puerto Rico

[ วันเสาร์ที่ 13 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553 | 0 ความคิดเห็น ]
Bright, 4.3-inch diagonal color WQVGA TFT touchscreen with 480 x 272 pixels and white backlightPreloaded with City Navigator North America NTBluetooth wireless technology for hands-free callingHigh-sensitivity GPS receiver for improved performance and receptionNOTE: Model number on the box is 785T because the traffic receiver is included; however, the model number on the device itself is 785 as the "T" in 785T refers to the additional component   More>>>

Directionally challenged? Many people lose their sense of direction. Getting from point A to Point B can be so stress provoking that you hardly want to leave point A. The Garmin nuvi 785T helps get you from one point to another and helps you have fun at any point you choose. And you'll never be lost. The nuvi 785T offers full coverage mapping for the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. The preloaded map data features nearly six million points of interest, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs and attractions. The map data is provided by NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping. It features 3D buildings, lane assist and lifetime traffic alerts from NAVTEQ. Take advantage of Garmin's first premium traffic service without subscription fees. 3D navigation with lane assist provides drivers a clear picture of what lies ahead on their route, including road sign detail and arrows indicating the proper lane for navigation. Some areas even offer a 3D view of buildings. Steer clear of traffic with nuvi's integrated FM traffic receiver. Receive alerts about traffic delays and road construction that lie ahead on your route. The nuvi 785T features an MSN Direct receiver with a 3 month trial subscription that includes updated information about traffic conditions, fuel prices, weather reports, movie listings, headline news, stock quotes and local events. Auto time zone will automatically adjust your time zone while navigating Garmin Connect Photos - associate your favorite images with saved locations DEM maps show you shaded terrain contours at various zoom levels High-sensitivity GPS receiver for improved performance and reception Turn-by-turn directions with voice guidance Easy-to-use, Touchscreen interface Trip computer records mileage, max speed, total time and more Simplified PC connectivity, using USB mass storage Configurable vehicle icons allows users to select a fun, and cus
Average Rating:
Customer Reviews
I am very pleased with this product, which has facilitated a lot to me and a lot of travel
I am the first time GPS user. This model is very intutive, hardly needed the user manual. This has lots of nice features and they worked well for the first time. There are few issues I have noticed.
1. The satellite map acquire time is noticeable. Infact when I was in NY city it lost the satellite in the street until I hit the intersection. This may be due to tall buildings obstructing the sat path.
2. After setting my NJ home location and asked the GPS to map route from NY city to home, it did setup the route. But when I came out of the Holland tunnel it kept on calculating the route even though I was on NJ I95 and kept telling me to take one of the immediate exits.
One thing I failed to see in the GPS options is choices of setting up routes like the google provides; shortest path route, fastest path route, avoid toll roads, avoid highways and others.
3. The standby time for the battery power(when powered down) appears to be low. The GPS was fully charged and kept over night. It had lost couple of green bars the next day, this is bad.
It's a great product, however the list of compatible Verizon phones is limited. My phone will connect, receive and dial, but no audio going in or coming out...? I may have to contact Garmin to see if I'm doing something wrong... The update worked fine, but took quite awhile, so make sure you have a chunk of time to invest. Happy with purchase. Amazon was the cheapest at the time.
Read the full story »
, ,

TomTom XXL 540S 5-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator

[ วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 11 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553 | 0 ความคิดเห็น ]
TomTom GPS navigation with a five-inch, full-color, TFT LCD widescreen touch displayPreloaded maps of U.S., Canada & Mexico with TomTom Map Share, Advanced Lane Guidance and 7 Million POIsIQ Routes Technology gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel on your route to calculate your tripWith TomTom Map Share technology, you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, road speeds, and turn restrictions on your own deviceAward-winning Fold and Go EasyPort mount, folds flat against the device, making it easy for users to transport   More>>>

The TomTom XXL 540·S is complete navigation in a XXL widescreen device. Switch on and go right out of the box. Spoken turn-by-turn instructions including street names will guide you to any address in the US, Canada and Mexico--including more than 7 million preloaded points of interest.

Complete navigation in a XXL widescreen device. Click to enlarge.

EasyPort mount folds neatly onto the back of your device. Click to enlarge.

Advanced Lane Guidance uses photorealistic images to bring even more clarity to complex multi-lane exits. Click to enlarge.

Complete XXL Widescreen Navigation and Spoken Street Names

IQ Routes
IQ Routes Technology* gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel on your route to calculate your trip rather than only posted speed limits, so you'll always travel the smartest route.

Advanced Lane Guidance
Advanced Lane Guidance** uses photorealistic images to bring even more clarity to complex multi-lane exits so you can be more confident on the road.

5-Inch Touchscreen
An extra-wide 5.0-inch touchscreen helps you find your way, worry-free.

TomTom Map Share
TomTom has the most accurate maps and with TomTom Map Share technology you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, road speeds and turn restrictions on your own device.

Get Help
With the "Help Me!" menu, there are added safety features so you can easily access local emergency providers.

EasyPort Mount
The award-winning Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds flat against the device, making it easy to take it with you from car to car.

The XXL 540·S is complete, widescreen navigation.

*Feature only available in the United States and Canada
**Feature available in the United States only

What's in the Box
TomTom XXL 540S 5-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator, Easyport mount, Documentation
Average Rating:
Customer Reviews
I had a Garmin but wanted to update to a larger 5" screen. Was leaning towards another Garmin, but after reading many reviews on a compatible one, I decided on this particular TomTom. It does operatre defferntly but it is not impossible to learn how to use it. I really liked the way I was able to set this one up via my computer. Its GPS tracking seems almost on the money as to where your vehicle is, that was something I was not used to with my old 2007 Garmin one. I like it's thin profile, large screen and all the details on the screen. Glad I made this TomTom my choice this time around. It will be a keeper for quite a while.
Two times taken me to the wrong way, some turning direction is wrong, and some street is not available. It is a worse device.
When I was researching for a gps, I was looking at several brands. I liked the shape of the Tom Tom units, how it's arched on top. Then seeing the size of this XXL, I had to have this! I've borrowed gps's before and they were so small. It's so easy to use, it's very fast at creating routes. The ALG is a great feature. It really helps. You can customize the welcome screen to anything you want. I changed mine to a Chrysler emblem to match my car. You can make it yours in many ways, changing map colors, car symbols, adding voices. Tom Tom also has some extra services that you can add, such as Fuel Prices and Safety Cams. To me, this is one of the best, if not the best unit on the market.
Read the full story »

, ,

Garmin nüvi 265W/265WT 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic

[ วันจันทร์ที่ 8 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553 | 0 ความคิดเห็น ]
Bright 4.3-inch diagonal color touchscreen; 480 x 272 pixels, WQVGA TFT display with white backlightSleek, ultra-thin design fits easily in pocketPreloaded with City Navigator North America NTSupports Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling when paired with Bluetooth-enabled cell phonesNOTE: Model number on the box is 265WT because the traffic receiver is included; however, the model number on the device itself is 265W as the "T" in 265WT refers to the additional component   More>>>


Average Rating:
Customer Reviews
This GPS Is good but i have a problem with the routing is will direct me on roads that are not there and out of the way... The avoid gravil roads seting does not reconise the gravil roads i guess. other than that its OK.
I'm in the market for a new GPS to replace my old Navigon 2200 GPS. Tried several models and purchased this one during one of Amazon's many GPS sales. I found this GPS a bit annoying to use. First I purchased the WT model which claims to include the Traffic, but it actually doesn't. It uses MSN Direct as it's traffic monitor but it never explains how to actually activate it, even though it constantly prompts you to everytime the unit starts up. I'm assuming I have to do it by plugging the unit into my PC. But the free MSN traffic only lasts 6 months, after that you have to pay.

I tried out the free trial of the Safety Camera subscription. This doesn't seem to work well at all, it was very random on the safety notices - when I looked around I didn't see a single Safety camera. I drove around the beltway for a few days then on the fourth day all of a sudden there's a safety camera warning every mile on the beltway. There are no Safety cameras on the Beltway, so where it was pulling this data from, I don't know.

It has a really good POI database, I used it to find eating places around my new office location and it worked flawlessly.

This unit fails at it's most basic function which is giving directions. It's excellent once it catches on and calculates, but a lot of times when you are leaving an Office Building, or Shopping Parking lot, it refuses to navigate it's way out of such areas. All it'll say is Go to X Street, or X Highway with no directions on how to actually get to X Highway. It doesn't tell you which way to turn or anything, sometimes the road you need to be on after leaving a Parking lot is 2 or 3 blocks away. It was annoying beyond belief. Some days the Voice Direction worked, others, it didn't. Sometimes the refresh is a few seconds slow and the directions will lag by a few seconds - so if you have to make a sudden turn this may cause an issue.

I like the favorites function, but I don't like clicking 3 times just to get to it.

The positives of the unit are, it has a pretty interface with big colorful icons, the POI db is really good, very accurate once it actually starts navigating, the fonts are all nice and big. I also really liked the holder, it felt solid and gave enough room where you can bend it in just about any direction. Unlike Tom Tom's which was so rigid it broke the minute I tried to move it.

I also hate feeling nickel and dimed, when you plug the GPS into your computer and go to the Garmin store, there are a bunch of really cool optional features for this unit but everything costs $80 or more. So if I wanted things like traffic, speed cameras, special maps, etc... It'd cost me another $200 or $300. Not cool.

I ended up returning the unit. The GPS hunt goes on...











Had my Nuvi 265W for over three months now, with not much success in finding out what it does, when it does, and how I can reproduce what I just managed to do once. It is not just this model; I am sure all others are using the same algorithm to frustrate the user. I set a course without opting for "do not use main arteries" (or something like that) and found myself on the five lane I5 (in Seattle it bisects the city) having to enter from the leftmost lane and exit at the right within 500ft. It was a scary experience to cross fast traffic within such short distance. OK, next time I opted for "do not use main arteries", this time it took me to my first turning in the middle of a bend where I could not see the traffic coming from both ways. The software is not smart enough to make the optimum choice for the course; the user must opt one or the other and hope for the best. I tried it on courses where I knew the roads to be both shortest and traffic-free, yet it wanted to take me into crowded and more roundabout routes. I have not been able to bring up the "via" option reproducibly; I have no idea where this resides in amongst the options. It seems it pops up once in a while but totally irreproducibly. I found it pretty useless to plan a long trip. I wanted to replace the destination I had already entered; the only way it would do was by erasing it, although I saved that address, later I could not find it anywhere. In summary, the hi-tech device is not serving its purpose as I expected, and has become a source of irritation.
Read the full story »