Windows Phone Thoughts: IOGear Bluetooth GPS with Navigation Software System - Outstanding Gear for the Traveler

Navigation
While on the road, entering a new destination couldn't be easier. I should say up front that you should always pull over before typing in addresses. Typing and driving do not mix (there...that should satisfy the legal department). Tapping the large menu button on the main screen presents you with 8 options; Destinations, View Options, Route Options, Speed Alert, Map Options, Record, Volume, GPS Info.


Figure 7: The Main Menu.

Destination
Destination, ironically enough, is where you tell the computer where you want to go. Since the software knows what you have loaded, it limits your options to that set of data. If you have an entire state loaded, you get the option to enter the city, and then the street and then the number, all in a drill down manner. The letters and numbers are large and easy to tap out with a finger (instead of a stylus) and as you type, the software is comparing your input against the database of locations and presenting you with possible matches. This speeds input considerably. Once a destination is selected you can add it to your favorites, see a map of the area, or have the computer plan out your route.


Figure 8: The Options Screen.

Volume
This gives you a very simple slider control, mute button, and a test button (to make sure you like your selection).


Figure 9: The Volume Screen.

Display Options
From this screen you can choose a normal top down view, and 3 different "3D" forced perspective views, depending on what works best for you. I have noticed that the 3D views take a little more processor than the traditional top-down. You can also set the display for day mode, night mode, or automatic.


Figure 10: The Options Screen.


Figure 11: A 3D View.

Route Options
This lets you control to some extent how the software will plan your route. For example, if you know that you are broke, you can tell the software to exclude toll roads from the route. Conversely, if you are on a Vespa, you can tell the software to avoid the highway. Of course if you are using GPS on a Vespa, there may be other issues to be dealt with...


Figure 12: Route Options.