Thursday, August 19, 2010

Sharing Experience with Newly Bought GPS Unit

Actual Unit Set (Pic courtesy from Kevin)

I've heard & tried with several types of GPS but never own one so far until recently. 

FYI, this unit as shown above is from China (yep, seems very common nowadays) with PAPAGO software pre-loaded. The map version stored is 100415 which released around April 2010. So far I've been using it for a few times after 3 weeks, I guess it is time for me to write the review:

Hardware Specification:
-SIRF Atlas 4 Duo Core
-4.3" Touch Screen
-Support MicroSD expansion
-Build-in 2GB / 4GB (price varies)

Software Specification:
-WINCE platform
-M3GPS PAPAGO ver. X5.2 GPS (multiple language support including English, Chinese, Malay)
-Support Malfree Maps (2D Map, 3D Map w building, various POI, lane assist, junction view)
-Maps include Malaysia, Thailand (certain region), Singapore & Brunei
-Support MP3 format
-Support MP4, Flash, AVI, RMV (certain version) format. Advice file size does not exceed 150MB
-Build-in 6 games
-Support JPEG format
-Support TXT text format
-Contain Camera Detecting Alarm

Here are some of my findings:
-Satellites detection in open area is very fast (usually around 30 seconds)
-The re-calculation rate is consider quite fast
-Speed Camera detection response according the plotted location in map
-The 3D map layout is suitable for me as it displays the road layout in a more realistic approach
-Since it supports Malfree maps, it means there is no cost when using the map. Also I've tested where it is very easy to upload new map in future
-Warranty for GPS unit is 1 year (including screen defect)

However I've also notice some issues:
-Difficult to view the screen under strong light as no screen shield is provided
-Route advised might not be accurate. I've experienced the GPS guided me to the junction but actually there are straight passage available. Also I've reached places which doesn't match the map. I believe the problem is due to the map plotted & expect it can be improve during the coming new map
-Sometimes the voice description is confusing
-Some POI is not updated. Problem can be solve by adding new POI or wait for new map

To share my experience, I feel it does help a lot when I try to reach new places. I've used it to travel to Malacca, Klang & Ampang which I'm not familiar with. Overall the result is pleasing. However it leads to another problem - You can't memorize the route properly as you concentrate to the GPS instructions & the road condition but missed out the key landmark structure (which I used to learn the route). I guess nothing is perfect :)

For those who consider to occupy the unit, you may contact me to know further regarding the price & units available. Ok, let me see where I wanna go next......

NEW UPDATE: 5' Model is ready now. Do contact me for further detail

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