Windows Phone Thoughts: Pharos Traveler 525 GPS Part 2 - Ostia 7.5 Navigation Software

Product Category: Software- GPS Navigation
Manufacturer: Pharos
Where to Buy: MobilePlanet
Price: $120 USD
System Requirements: Pocket PC 2003, Pocket PC 2003 SE or Windows Mobile 5. 2.5 Mb memory is required for the program. Map data is recommended to be stored on memory card (SD on Traveler 525, included with the package)
Specifications: NMEA-0183 compliant at 4800-baud rate; Detailed street level data, with up to 10 maps opened simultaneously; Real-time traffic and custom POI’s; Reference by address, intersection, POI, longitude/latitude or Outlook contacts; Routing from one Point of Reference to another, with up to 10 intermittent “multi-stops” in a route; Text directions, Driving directions, and route guidance; Favorites stored on Pocket PC independent of contacts; GPS status indicators, with on screen strength indicator; Real time simulation of route with GPS disabled; Three views (1 overhead, 2 birds-eye) and nighttime map display.

When navigating with the iGPS receiver (built in to the Traveler 525): Three routing methods: Fastest, Shortest, Avoid freeways; Street name of the next turn at the bottom of screen; Show the distance and direction of the next turn and distance to final destination; Screen displays: Map, Split map and arrow, arrow; Audible Voice prompt route guidance; Trip-trace recording of the route traveled; One-touch or Auto Re-route; Moving map while navigating; Selectable “North Up” or “Heading Up” for map display.

Pros:

• Very feature rich (see above);
  
• Voice prompts available in imperial (miles) or metric (kilometres).

Cons:

• User interface can be a bit confusing, trying to find a tool vs. option;
  
• Map accuracy is crucial;
  
• ETA calculation is too long at longer distances;
  
• No documentation on recording/using custom voice prompts.
  

Summary:
A GPS unit is only as good as the accuracy of the maps it uses and the ease of use of its interface. Ostia, the navigation software used with the Traveler 525 from Pharos, does a pretty good job in both departments. Pharos is continually updating and improving the source of the maps used and the user interface is straightforward and simple to use. There are some minor quirks, and some of the more advanced features take a bit of searching for, but Ostia should be able to handle the demands of both the casual user and road warrior.

Read On for the full review!