Though not a standalone device, the Magellan GPS Companion is included in this roundup for comparison' s sake. The GPS Companion is a great add-on for folks who already own or want to purchase a Palm m500 series PDA, but we don' t recommend this GPS device as an alternative to the true outdoor standalone devices from Garmin, Lowrance, and Magellan.
Specifications

Turn-by-turn
Yes
Dimensions
6.1 x 3.1 x 1.4 inches
Waterproof
No
Power
Battery

More

The GPS Companion is heavier ( 8.8 ounces, including the PDA) than any of the devices in our roundup. It' s also bulkier: When measured with the Palm device, it' s 6.1 by 3.1 by 1.4 inches ( HWD) . Most important, it' s not ruggedized or waterproof.

Still, the GPS Companion excels as an in-vehicle navigation device or when used just walking around town. It attaches snugly to the serial port of the Palm m500, m505, and m515. The GPS Companion comes with a 12-parallel-channel GPS receiver, Magellan' s NAV software ( which resides on the Palm device) , and Rand McNally' s StreetFinder Deluxe travel navigation software. With these tools, you can create and upload custom maps and turn-by-turn driving directions of any location in the U.S. ( except Alaska) . The NAV software also includes an analog speedometer, a digital compass, and waypoint and route management capabilities.

The GPS Companion communicates with the Palm handheld through the serial port, leaving the Palm' s expansion card slot open for map downloads. The optional 12V power cable includes a built-in battery charger for extended travel. Also, the GPS Companion runs on two AAA batteries and does not draw any power from the Palm' s internal battery.

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