A new direction for PDA navigation.(CR cars)(Personal Digital Assistant )(Product/Service Evaluation)

The Garmin iQue 3600 is our top-rated PDA portable navigation system. It combines the functionality of a Palm-based portable digital assistant with an easy-to-use, feature-laden navigation system.

Other PDA navigation systems require that a separate Global Positioning System receiver be attached to the back. The $590 iQue has a built-in receiver. To activate the navigation mode, you flip up a small GPS antenna from We unit's rear.

As with most portable nay systems, you need to download detailed maps to a desk top or laptop computer (Windows based only for the iQue) before the unit can be used. Unlike other Palm-based units we've tested, the iQue can calculate driving routes on the fly, provide turn by-turn voice directions, and automatically replot the calculated route if you miss a turn.

In our last report on portable navigation systems (June 2003), we tested models priced at Jess than $1,000. They [included stand alone systems used only for navigation as well an PDA-based systems. Until we tested the Garmni iQue, Pocket PC systems had handily outperformed Palm-based competitors.

ON THE ROAD

Garmin offers an optional $80 Auto Navigation Kit for in-car use. It includes an adjustable mounting bracket, 12-volt power plug, external speaker for voice directions, and weighted beanbag mount. When the mount is placed on a level dash clear of air-bag panels, it holds the unit in place during normal driving. Like any portable unit, it can fly around the vehicle cabin during an accident, ...