02 November 2007

ARM Based Map System For Outdoor Sports

UK based Satmap has debuted the Active10, an ARM powered plus and play handheld GPS designed for outdoor enthusiasts which can also act as a guidebook.

The ruggedised Active 10 can a pin-point accurate location on digital Ordnance Survey Explorer and Landranger maps, ensuring that walkers and cyclists never get lost, as well as improving sports safety and enhancing users’ enjoyment of the great outdoors, according to the company.

The Active 10 can also act as a guidebook. Satmap can attach multimedia information, such as photographs, movies, textual information and audio recordings, which are labeled as Point Of Interest (POI) and are georeferenced on the maps. When users reach the coordinates of a POI, they have the option to read a description, play a movie, see a picture or listen to a narrative.

The Satmap Active 10 uses the Microsoft Windows CE 5.0 operating system. “This is a truly exciting product which is taking a huge step forward in GPS mapping. We’re especially delighted to be associated with the Satmap Active 10, as it is a truly innovative device in this space. With our heritage in this satellite navigation space, we look forward to continuing to work closely with Satmap,” commented Manoj Rami, senior marketing manager, Windows Embedded Business Group, Microsoft.

The device incorporates a 3.5" color TFT LCD transflective screen displaying high quality ‘raster’ topographical maps in a robust, rugged unit that can be used in almost any weather conditions, day or night. The system shows users exactly where they are, gives a trail showing where they’ve been, and can also be loaded with a route showing where to go.

The Active 10 is powered by an ARM9 processor and incorporates a SiRF III GPS receiver and electronic compass. Power options include AA batteries or rechargeable Lithium Polymer.

The Active 10 uses maps stored on SD cards, requires no PC to operate and is ready to use straight out of the box, according to Satmap. All 17 UK National Parks, such as the Lake District, the Brecon Beacons and the Cairngorms are currently available along with the National Trails, regional and county mapping, all in 1:25,000 and 1:50,000 scale maps. Satmap said it is building on its map portfolio. Satmap is also offering a custom mapping service where users can buy bespoke mapping, such as maps centred on a specific postcode.