This review is for the software only. I am using the software with a generic Bluetooth GPS reciever I purchased from Computer Geeks.

I must say I was very please to see the box come from Tomtom.com. I had purcased the for mentioned GPS reciever to use with my iPaq 2215 and needed software to use it with. Iwas not able tofind many software packages, but did come across the TomTom Navagator 5 for $150. It seemed steep, but TomTom seemed to be a good name in Navagation systems. From what I can tell, the stand alone TomTom systems are acually Windows Mobile units (PocketPCs) with the one main function, GPS navigation. So basicaly, if you have a PocketPC and get the software and a GPS reciever for PocketPC, you get a full TomTom system, plus more.

Installation was a bit confusing, but given my years of expirience playing with just about any electronic gadget known to man, I figured it out. To my surprise, I was seeing the little blue triange in no time! The software configured well, and interfaced with my generic GPS reciever quickly and easily. Of course, I had togoon a road trip to try it out. The first time I heard the british female voice give directions, I was a very happy camper. For $210 ($150 for software and $60 for GPS reciever) Ihad turned my PocketPC into a full fledged navigation system. And one that can be very easily moved form vehicle to vehicle.

My first expirience with Navigation systems was a test drive of a new Toyota Prius. It was nice, but quickly got lost. So, one of my first tests for this TomTom setup was to do the same route as I had done with he Prius navigation system. TomTom passed with flying colors! I have since used it on several trips and have been delighted with it.

Now for the cons:

Once in awhile I find a street mis marked int the software. In most cases, it appears tobe an old name (ie, a local street shows as Cematary St in TomTom, but is North St in real life, but there happens tobe a cematary on that street). In all cases so far, it has been very small streets or roads. Nothing major.

I have also seen some areas not depicted correctly in TomTom, but usually it has been an area that has been changed in te last few years, such as an overpass being added, but not shown in TomTom.

In retrospect, I could not have done better. This software is ALMOST perfect, and the really neat feature is I ALWAYS have a cpmplete map and directions in my pocket on my PDA, even if not in the car and using the GPS unit. I can call up directions to just about anywhere if needed in general conversation. YOu can't do that with any of the stand alone units out there unless you have them in your pocket at all times. This is really a GREAT enhancement to any PDA that is supported!

And did I mention you can now download and install funny and/or celebrity voices to give you directions? Just too cool!





Recommended: Yes