14 DAY TRIAL // As personal navigation devices have become extremely widespread, the manufacturers of such items are trying to come up with all sorts of innovations and extra-features that will make their products more attractive for the customers than those of the competition. And that's exactly the case with the latest two such devices announced by Siemens' VDO Dayton branch, namely the PN 4000 and the PN 6000 that, besides their normal navigation purposes, can also be used for viewing digital broadcasts.
According to the company, the two new models belong to a line of portable navigation systems that includes the VDO Dayton PN 2050 and PN 3000. They both provide pretty much the same features, with one major difference: the PN 4000 features a 4.3-inch display, while the PN 6000 sports a 5.3 incher, which can be used either for viewing the navigation maps (in 2D or 3D) or the TV programs; the device is capable of tapping into via the built-in digital TV receiver. Moreover, the device sports several antennas, which are designed to be highly sensitive and redundant, which allows the system to ensure television reception even at speeds of up to 160 km/h.
The TV-related functions provided by the two PNDs are quite interesting and advanced, as the dual tuner receives the television program, but it also displays screen text, television subtitles and the electronic program listings for the next four days. Like the PN 3000, the new high-end systems have an integrated SD card reader that can be used to load music or users' own videos in addition to digital road data. Moreover, the manufacturer will also make available an additional Bluetooth module, which will upgrade the device to a hands-free system for mobile phones.
However, the device also provides some pretty interesting navigation functions, as for example destination entry, route selection and address book, all of which are controlled (together with the TV functions) via the touch-sensitive screen. Moreover, in order to ensure optimum display of the monitor in all lighting conditions, a built-in brightness sensor automatically adjusts the light intensity, keeping the high-resolution color display well lit during daytime and nighttime hours, while also helping eliminate the glare.
Unfortunately, no pricing or availability information has been released by the company, but we'll get back to you as soon as said data becomes available.
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