Simplify your laptop buying
CNET editors' review
-
CNET editors' rating:
stars
Good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 07/20/2005
The main attraction is the 3.5-inch TFT display, which shows off 65,535 colors and a 320x240-pixel resolution. Sounds like any other PDA, right? True, except it features smart technology that improves day brightness when the device is docked and powered by the vehicle mount. Plus, the WayPoint automatically readjusts the color scheme of maps, depending on whether it's day or night. In our tests, the WayPoint impressed us with these capabilities, and we had no problems seeing what was on the screen in direct sunlight, which is a common problem with PDAs and GPS devices. However, we weren't impressed by the fact that the display had a tendency to hold a lot of smudges and fingerprints, so keep a screen chamois nearby.
Depending on what mode you are in (Pocket PC or GPS), you'll find four shortcut keys that launch 12 different functions below the screen. In Pocket PC mode, you can access your calendar, contacts, tasks, and the WayPoint mapping program. When you are in WayPoint mode and using the GPS functions, the shortcut keys will open your favorite destinations, detour rerouting, display information (that is, speed and location), and access to the TrafficWatch and weather programs. Alternatively, by holding down these buttons, you can set your current location as a favorite, display the nearest seven points of interest (POI), call up an upcoming turn, and access traffic and weather options, respectively. There is a four-way toggle beneath the shortcut keys but, unfortunately, no center Select button. Completing the front of the device are three small battery, alert, and signal LEDs at the top, as well as the power button.
On the left side of the WayPoint 200, there is a voice-record button, a reset hole, and a jog dial. The dial is particularly handy, since you can use it to navigate the menus, and unlike the toggle on the front, it functions as an OK key when pressed. In addition, you can use it to zoom in and out of maps. Finishing out the design components are a standard headphone jack, dual expansion slots (CompactFlash and SD/MMC), an infrared port, a stylus holder on the top, and a user-replaceable battery on the back.
Mobile Crossing was generous with the accessories included in the box. You get a Bluetooth GPS receiver, a Bluetooth CompactFlash card, a desktop cradle, a vehicle mount, a power adapter, a USB cable, and a car charger. Strangely absent was a protective case. We must also warn you that when you first unpack the contents of the package, you may be overwhelmed by the mess of wires, and it can be confusing to determine what connects to what. In fact, reading the quick-start guide may bring back bad memories of when you tried to assemble your kid's tricycle for Christmas.
Mobile Crossing markets its WayPoint 200 as a "personal navigation system that also happens to be a fully Windows Mobile-compatible handheld," so the emphasis is on GPS. That said, the WayPoint 200 is a respectable Pocket PC. Powered by a 400MHz Intel PXA260 XScale processor, the handheld comes equipped with Windows Mobile 2003, 32MB of flash ROM, and 64MB of RAM. You get the usual programs, including Pocket Word and Excel, Windows Media Player, Internet Explorer, and Microsoft Reader, plus a couple of extra utilities, such as Gizmo Backup and QuickLaunch.The real stars, of course, are the navigation features. Unlike with other PDA/GPS devices we've seen, you don't get a software CD with maps of the United States. Instead, Mobile Crossing delivers your WayPoint 200 with integrated maps of your home region, as indicated at the point of purchase, so there's no need for transferring maps. And if your travels take you beyond your home area, you can purchase more regional maps from the company's Web site. Although it was convenient to be able to use the device right out of the box, we weren't thrilled with the fact that we'd have to spend more money for additional maps ($19.95 for the second region, $9.95 for any additional maps), especially when the handheld already costs so much.
You get all the standard functionality: text and voice-guide directions (see Performance); automatic rerouting; and a wide-ranging POI database that includes gas stations, ATMs, campgrounds, sports stadiums, wineries, and more. You can create directions by address, intersection, favorites, and your contacts list, as well as avoid certain routes, such as toll roads and areas of construction.
Continue reading
