XM to Introduce First Personal Weather Tracking System

XM's Real-time Weather Tracking for GPS Navigation Complements XM's Real-time Traffic Service XM NavTraffic

WASHINGTON, Jan. 3 -- XM, the nation's leading satellite radio company, will display a concept vehicle with XM's latest technology at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) January 8 through 11 in Las Vegas, Nev.

The XM vehicle will feature the first personal weather tracking system for GPS navigation. The system tracks specific, real-time weather conditions between your current location and your final destination. Plus, it provides the near-term weather forecast for your personal path. Rather than simply give general weather conditions for a region, the system focuses on the weather on your individual route. The weather information is continuously updated and delivered to the navigation system via satellite.

The weather technology, which is expected to be introduced in summer 2007, is developed by XM and its weather solutions partner Baron Services. XM and Baron, through its division WxWorx (pronounced "weather works"), currently offer professional weather services for airplanes, boats, and emergency responders, which have set the standard for mobile weather solutions in these markets.

"XM is offering the first system that alerts consumers to real-time weather threats on the road ahead," said Rod Mackenzie, vice president, advanced applications, XM Satellite Radio. "You're not just getting the temperature and the forecast for a city. You get the weather that will impact your specific journey, and this information is constantly being updated. It's a major breakthrough in providing consumers with comprehensive, personalized weather information."

This new, real-time weather service builds on the success of XM NavTraffic, the real-time traffic service introduced by XM in fall 2004. XM NavTraffic informs drivers of current traffic conditions, such as travel speeds on major roads, accident locations, and road closures, on a GPS navigation screen. XM NavTraffic is available in vehicles from Honda, GM, Toyota, and Nissan, as well as various retail aftermarket GPS navigation products.

Beyond the new weather technology, the XM "infotainment" vehicle on display at CES will feature a broad variety of information and entertainment that XM can deliver to the automobile, including concepts such as in-car video.

The XM vehicle will have in-car video systems developed by XM and On2 Technologies that can receive video and audio from XM. XM will demonstrate how video content can be sent to the vehicle by the same satellites and ground repeaters that XM uses to deliver satellite radio.

Other innovations inside the concept vehicle are voice recognition and parking locator technology. XM will show the latest software for voice- enabled XM radios developed by VoiceBox Technologies, which offers voice controls for the radio, as well as commands for weather, traffic, stock quotes, and sports scores. ParkingLink, a project of XM, Quixote Transportation Technologies, and Standard Parking Corporation, locates parking facilities on the vehicle's navigation screen and tells the driver how many parking spaces are currently available.

The XM "infotainment" vehicle will be on display at the XM booth (CES Booth #4606) in the Las Vegas Convention Center's North Hall.

Multicore processors drive in-car entertainment

Consumers are increasingly demanding more entertainment functionality and devices to be seamlessly integrated in their vehicles. NXP Semiconductors, the newly independent semiconductor company founded by Philips, is addressing this demand with a multicore approach to semiconductors for in-car entertainment. Using a multimedia infotainment concept demonstrator, NXP is now running a complete in-car entertainment system that provides consumers with a compelling array of multimedia applications, ranging from video to voice selection of digital music.

Strategy Analytics projects that there will be 13.6 million voice-controlled multimedia infotainment systems shipped in 2012.

NXP's proof of concept is one of the first to give life to the promise of voice-activated applications such as mobile phone dialing and music selection.

The demonstrator also shows video playback from multiple sources including broadcast and DVD; audio playback from sources including digitally connected portable media players and USB memory sticks; and the demonstrator's onboard hard disk drive.

All functions are running on a small number of processors that could be implemented on a single board today and are primed for implementation on a single next generation integrated circuit (IC).

The features demonstrated can be run either individually or in many concurrent combinations.

'With its ability to run several concurrent applications the demonstrator is a major advance, offering designers seamless access to entertainment, information and services so consumers can enjoy the same media in on the move as they do at home', said Torsten Lehmann, Director of Marketing and Strategy, Car Entertainment Solutions.

'The solution maximises the car occupants' choice of media - stored in the car, broadcast, or stored on a portable media device - all with the software flexibility needed to meet the different requirements of carmakers'.

NXP collaborated with some of the leading software developers in the digital media and automotive markets to realise the demonstrator, including Nuance Communications (voice control), Gracenote (content management) and Ordina (DVB-T reception).

The demonstrator uses NXP's high-quality Trimedia DSPs for crystal clear audio and video processing and ARM-based microprocessor cores to ensure compatibility with major automotive operating systems.

The software is configurable to address various combinations of video, audio and connectivity use cases.

The implementation provides extensive connectivity capabilities, including digital i-Pod connectivity and hands-free telephony.

NXP is showing this proof-of-concept demonstrator in the company's suite at the Wynn Resort at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

There is also a demonstration of current generation in-car video and connectivity solutions based on NXP's leading PNX9520 media processor.

The PNX9520 demo features video streaming from portable devices over wireless LAN as well as a multitude of other video applications involving up to two independent screens.

Sony Xplod Car Audio Head Units Announced

Head Units Offer More Ways to Connect to Digital Music Players and Satellite Radio

For drivers who want to transform their cars into ultimate music machines, Sony Electronics today unveiled four Xplod® in-dash CD receivers that offer the flexibility to play digital music or satellite radio in the car.

"Our strategy is to offer full connectivity," said Brennan Mullin, general manager of Sony Electronics' mobile electronics division. "Whatever your music source, we provide an easy way to play your tunes on the road."

Plug It In

Each new car stereo offers MP3, ATRAC3plus™, non-DRM AAC and non-DRM WMA playback support and features an auxiliary input (aux-in) on the faceplate, making it possible to use portable music players in a vehicle with a standard 1/8-inch mini jack cord (not supplied). Similarly, three of the new models have a USB input, so drivers can plug a digital music player or thumb drive into the car stereo via the port, which is conveniently located on the front panel. For drivers who want to add a Sirius or XM Satellite radio, the head units are satellite-ready via a CD changer control. Satellite radio subscriptions and antennas are sold separately. Each model is also compatible with Sony's XA-110IP iPod adapter.

Get the 411

The most advanced of the GT series head units, the CDX-GT81UW model, is for digital music enthusiasts who want options for creating a powerful, in-car listening environment. Its full motion fluorescent display and motorized fold out faceplate make this the perfect deck for tricking out your ride.



This high-quality MP3 receiver, incorporating Sony's Drive-S HX CD chassis, has front panel aux-in and a USB input. It is satellite and adapter ready, and offers 4-volt front, rear and sub preamp outputs. It also includes switchable blue and red key illumination.

With the same feel as the high-end unit, the new GT710 receiver is designed for drivers who like to play a mix of digital music and traditional CDs. The CD/MP3 receiver has a motorized fold-out detachable faceplate and a switchable blue and red key illumination. Plus, it features Sony's latest Dynamic Soundstage Organizer and a 3-band parametric EQ for audio control.

Most of Sony's head units are compatible with other manufacturers' portable audio players, as well as its own. The CDX-GT610Ui CD/MP3 receiver will be appreciated by those drivers who own iPod devices. With its built-in 30-pin connector attached to a 1.2 meter cable, drivers can simply plug their device directly into the head unit and control their library from the faceplate or remote control. The receiver is satellite-ready, comes with front aux-in and USB input, and is finished in gloss black with blue key illumination.

The CDX-GT410U CD receiver is satellite and adapter-ready and features front aux-in and a front panel USB for connecting digital music players. It has a 13-segment LED display and switchable red and green key illumination.

GPS Has Evolved

GPS SYSTEMS FOR EVERYONE!

LAS VEGAS -- Not so many years ago, civilian Global Positioning System devices were the province of land surveyors and other specialists, who needed suitcases to carry them around. Now the devices are popular with hikers and soccer moms, and they are small enough to hold in one’s hand, attach to a dashboard or integrate into other products.

As with the latest crop of devices on display at the Consumer Electronics Show demonstrate, GPS units are easier than ever to use and they are now coming bundled with other capabilities.

One of the slickest products is the Pharos GPS Phone. The 5.2-ounce phone is a little larger than many cell phones, but it includes a 2.8-inch touch screen that displays easy-to-read maps and driving instructions. The GPS phone ships loaded with North American road maps and “points of interest.” Users can update this data by connecting to Pharos servers via the phone’s built-in Wi-Fi or cellular service.

The GPS phone also offers quad-band cell capabilities, Bluetooth, a 2 megapixel camera, an FM radio and Windows Media Player. The phone, which uses Windows Mobile 5.0 as an operating system, has a suggested retail price of $699.95 and can be used with various service providers.

Garmin International’s new Nuvi 680 is also impressive. Garmin has been providing auto GPS devices for some time, but this product is something new. Besides serving up maps and directions, the Nuvi 680 also enables users to locate the lowest gas prices, movie theaters and other information -- all courtesy of MSN Direct.

The Nuvi 680, which also doubles as an MP3 player, sports a 4.3-inch wide screen and supports Bluetooth. The unit has a list price of $999, which includes a year’s subscription to MSN Direct.

The Nuvi 680 isn’t the only option for GPS data integration in the car. Dash Navigation is also previewing its Dash Express GPS service. The service, which should be available this summer, will deliver location-sensitive information, such as guides to retailers, gas stations and the like. But it will also include traffic information by collecting data from other Dash-enabled units on the road. Dash Express is designed to work with existing GPS units.

JBL Sets the Standard for Car Audio With GTi MkII Component Systems

JBL Mobile Systems, with a proven track record of designing and manufacturing car audio components that make the music in your car sound like a live performance, today unveiled its GTi MkII Component Systems. Available in 5-1/4-inch and 6-inch models, the component systems are the latest addition to the GTi product line. Audio distortion is virtually nonexistent with the GTi Component Systems – they provide crisp and clear sonic reproduction at all sound levels.

“The JBL GTi component systems deliver what recording engineers call cut or bite – it’s a quality heard at live music events,” said Andy Wehmeyer, product marketing manager, JBL Mobile Systems. “In order to reproduce it, speakers must be capable of handling tons of power and of responding instantaneously to high-amplitude transients – without distortion, without hangover and without high-amplitude adjacent-band deviations. A pioneer in the live music arena, JBL has more experience reproducing live music than anyone else, and the result of our extensive engineering efforts is some of the best car audio component systems money can buy.”

Advanced motor technology is at the core of the GTi MkII component systems. Both the C508GTi and the C608GTi employ JBL’s Symmetrical Field Geometry^™ (SFG), which includes a flux-stabilization ring designed to create symmetrical coil inductance while the coil is moving within the motor. This dramatically reduces distortion – even when the speaker is driven to its excursion limit. A two-inch aluminum edge-wound voice coil is used on both the five- and six-inch models. The ribbon-shaped aluminum wire enables JBL to precisely specify the number of coil windings in the magnetic gap, optimizing motor force for high efficiency and reducing distortion. It also provides maximum power handling and minimum coil inductance for extended high-frequency response.

To further reduce distortion, the systems’ woofer cones are made of anodized aluminum and feature the company’s patent pending Plus One^® technology, creating 30 percent more cone area than is found in competing speakers, and delivering higher efficiency and more bass output. Anodized aluminum moves first-modal cone-body breakup to a higher frequency outside the operating band, significantly reducing audible distortion and maximizing midrange clarity.

Both systems include JBL’s 08GTi tweeter, and an outboard crossover network with a 24dB/octave Linquitz-Riley acoustic alignment. Air-core inductors are used to reduce magnetic saturation, and high-power and polypropylene capacitors ensure near-ideal characteristics with low series resistance (ESR).

The C508GTiMkII component system (MSRP: $479.00) and the C608GTiMkII component system (MSRP: $499.00) are now available at authorized JBL car audio dealers

XM Radio to Demonstrate In Car Video, Weather Tracking System at CES

XM has teamed up with On2 Technologies to showoff satellite video at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas that starts this week. The company says the new technology will allow their satellites to beam video content to automobiles. XM also announced another great tool for drivers in the press release. A real-time weather tracking system that will allow drivers to see what kind of storms might be heading the way they are traveling. I


n the statement Rod MacKenzie stated, “XM is offering the first system that alerts consumers to real-time weather threats on the road ahead. You're not just getting the temperature and the forecast for a city. You get the weather that will impact your specific journey, and this information is constantly being updated. It's a major breakthrough in providing consumers with comprehensive, personalized weather information.”

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Navman F20 awesome entry level GPS

The global GPS market has been exploding for the past six months, and with more competition comes better models at lower prices. Navman's entry-level F20 lists for $349 (although you can find it for $50 less) and delivers a satisfyingly simple way to navigate. It doesn't have advanced features like Bluetooth or music playback, but price-conscious buyers will be happy with its value and streamlined interface.

The F20 is a slim unit measuring 4.6 x 3.1 x 1 inches and weighing 7.1 ounces, with a 3.5-inch color touchscreen. It doesn't have a fold-out antenna but manages excellent GPS reception without one. It ships with a suction-cup mount and a cigarette-lighter power cord.

Maps of the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Guam, come preloaded on a removable SD Card. Many GPS units, even lower-priced ones, also include Canadian maps, so look elsewhere if you'll be driving across the border.

The F20's controls are simple enough for people who have never used a GPS system. When you first power on the device, it locks onto available GPS satellites using second-generation SiRFstarIII chips, a process that takes a few minutes the first time but is fairly speedy (less than a minute) after that. To access the menu, press the middle button on the right side of the F20. From there you can set your home address, enter favorite addresses, set preferences, or call up the five million points-of-interest database.

Navman thoughtfully included quick-access buttons for finding nearby gas stations and parking areas, as the company has done with previous models. It's a handy feature, since those are the two areas you're most likely to need directions to when in unfamiliar locations. You'll also find onscreen shortcuts for home and recent destinations.

Using the F20 is a mostly pleasant experience, as the controls are simple. But the onscreen menus move a little too slowly for our taste. You can search by address or intersection as well as by places of interest and recent trips. Our only quibble is that after you've entered an address, you're presented with a list of possible destinations and are asked to select the correct one. You have to go through this step even if there's only one address on the list. Also, you can't plan a route with multiple destinations, so you're limited to a single stop.

The F20 speaks directions clearly as you drive, signaling turns far in advance and then telling you again when it's time to turn. On our tests, the F20 quickly rerouted us when we took a wrong turn. The device can be a little too chatty; for example, we wish it didn't tell us to continue going in the same direction quite so often. The F20 doesn't speak street names, as higher-priced models do, so you'll occasionally need to glance at the map to make sure you're turning on the right street.

Pressing the bottom-right button lets you toggle between 2D, 3D, and text views of your directions. Once, during a detour in densely populated Secaucus, N.J., the F20 didn't have data for the streets we were on and acted as though we were driving through a field (it urged us to turn around and find the nearest road). It was funny, but it shows that the maps aren't as thorough as they should be.

The F20 powers up while connected to your cigarette lighter and will work for 3.5 hours on a charge, so you can take it out of the car. There's no outlet power cord, though, which would be handy for entering destinations at home before you leave. There's also no USB cable, so you can forget about downloading live updates online. There is currently no way to subscribe to live traffic or weather data in the U.S., although Navman promises there will be in the future.

It doesn't double as a Bluetooth speakerphone, and it can't play your favorite tunes. But if all you want are good, easy-to-follow directions at a decent price, the Navman F20 is hard to beat.

How to Choose a Radar Detector?

Radar Detectors can be purchased at our site.



Some features to look for:

• Type of detector: There are three types of radar detector: corded, cordless, and remote-mount. Corded detectors usually mount on the windshield via suction cups, and provide the best range of detection. Cordless detectors are transported easily between vehicles, and provide a cleaner installation than corded models. Remote-mount detectors are permanently mounted to your vehicle, providing a clean installation that's virtually undetectable by thieves.
  
  
• City Modes: City mode turns down the range or sensitivity so that you get fewer false alerts; this feature is helpful for urban driving.
  
  
• Laser detection: A detector with one laser sensor can detect laser beams in front of you, but not behind you or off to the sides. 360-degree laser detection uses two sensors to look for laser pulses to the sides and behind you. Models with 360-degree laser detection tend to be more reliable, but more costly.
  
  
• VG-2 and Spectre protection: These are shielding technologies that let you know when police are using radar detector detectors (RDD). Spectre is a more advanced RDD technology that is currently being used in several states and Canada. Some detectors offer Stealth protection, which warns you and then shuts down the detector, while more expensive detectors offer Invisible protection — they may be shielded from VG-2, Spectre, or both, so they can continue operating without being discovered.
  
  
• Digital voice alerts: A voice alert tells you what your radar detector has picked up. You don't have to take your eyes off of the road to look at the detector's display.
  
  
• "Instant-On" Protection: Practically speaking, you can't really defend yourself against Instant-On radar; if it's been aimed at you, your speed has been measured by the time your detector gives an alert. However, if the radar was targeted on a car ahead of you, a detector with sensitive K-band reception will alert you. High K-band sensitivity is what allows manufacturers to promote a detector as giving Instant-On Protection.

Radar Detectors: Treat yourself to peace of mind
The freedom to relax and drive with confidence — that's what an investment in a radar detector can give you. Today's models combine simple, ergonomic design with up-to-the-minute technology. They can offer you affordable, convenient protection, not only from speeding tickets but often from driving hazards, as well.


How radar detectors work
Think of a radar signal as a beam of light from a flashlight. When you shine a flashlight at an object, your eyes perceive the light reflected from the object. Now imagine yourself as the object being illuminated. You can see the light from the flashlight from a much farther distance than the person with the flashlight could ever hope to see you. That's because the beam loses energy over distance. So while the beam has enough energy to reach you, the reflected light doesn't have enough energy to travel all the way back to where it started.

Police radar guns "see" a vehicle by transmitting a microwave pulse. Then they make use of the Doppler Effect: the frequency of the transmitted pulse is compared to the frequency of the reflection, and speed is calculated by using the difference between them.