Toshiba Corp claims to have set the scene for mobile telecommunications in the 21st century with its satellite car navigation systems that doubles as a compact disk player and is activated by remote control. The system comprises a CD-ROM drive, liquid crystal display monitor with a 5 screen and a built-in speaker. The navigation system is designed to help motorists work out routes, find tourist attractions and locate the nearest hotel. The Global Positioning Satellite antenna or GPS, can access eight satellites and use this information to plot the driver’s position. Users then access the EtakGuide, CD-ROM software that displays detailed information and maps of the area enabling the motorist to determine the distance from her current location to final destination. California is the first region to have this information on CD-ROM, with other regions, as yet to be determined, becoming available next year. The NAV1000 enables drivers to zoom in and out on the image and also includes an audio compact disk giving spoken explanations of many features, all operated by remote control. The CD-ROM can also be re-routed to the vehicle CD player. The system is expected to be available on the US market in October and will sell for approximately $3,000.
