MS2000 Portable Sat Nav, Conrad Anderson UK, Press Releases

MS2000: Compact, competent and comfortable

MS2000

Conrad Anderson launches a VDO Dayton portable navigation system with access to full European mapping - Simple to integrate into the vehicle, Conrad Anderson is continuing to expand its range of navigation systems. Following the fixed and radio slot devices, the company is now, for the first time, also offering a "portable navigation device" (PND): the MS 2000, as an entry-level model or variant for frequent drivers who regularly switch vehicles.

The powerful pocket pilot can be installed and integrated without difficulty on any vehicle like all other VDO Dayton systems. Thanks to an optional remote control device it can be operated safely and conveniently from the steering wheel while driving. The system also gives the driver access to the full digital map material for Western Europe.

As with its fixed systems, VDO Dayton has taken care to ensure convenient, simple and therefore safe operation of the MS 2000. The device can be operated not only via an easy-to-follow menu on the large touch screen but, if wished, also via an optional cordless remote control which can be fitted easily to the steering wheel (RCS 5100). So, while driving, drivers can keep their hands on the steering wheel and their eyes on the road. The 3.5 inch screen has a non-reflecting surface and is backlit so that the maps can be read easily at all times. For fast and easy mounting, the slim pocket-sized device has a practical swan neck with suction foot. Additional mounting holders are available as optional extras.

With the MS 2000 the navigation is not restricted to individual countries. All devices are supplied complete with the full digital map material for Western Europe including special destinations, the so-called "points of interest" (POIs). By means of a USB connection or SD card this data can be easily transferred to a PC at home for individual configuration. For this purpose there is not only the MS 2000's 544 MB flash memory but also a separate slot for an SD card. With this memory card additional navigation data as well as MP3 format music files or digital photos can be loaded and called up on the MS 2000.

As on VDO Dayton's fixed systems, the MS 2000's route guidance is in the form of spoken directions, pictograms and routes. The device offers a choice of a two or three-dimensional display. It also features an automatic zoom function which enables complicated route sections, junctions or turnings to be enlarged. In addition, all images, menu items and user control fields are partly transparent so that the map on the level beneath remains visible. In this way the driver always has an overview of the broader map context.

The MS 2000 can operate independently thanks to its powerful and easy-to-remove rechargeable (and replaceable) battery, and can therefore also be used by pedestrians or motorcyclists. It can also be quickly integrated in the car by plugging it into the cigarette lighter socket. The MS 2100 also features a separate audio outlet port through which navigation directions or MP3 music can be channeled into the vehicle's entertainment system and played through the audio system loudspeakers.

The MS 2000 will be available from mid October and will retail at £479.99 (inc VAT) or £499.99 for the MS 2000 and steering wheel remote control.