For my journey from John O Groats to Lands End, I have the benefit of a prototype iCN630 GPS navigation system supplied by NAVMAN. Using the inbuilt satellite receiver, this small unit is able to pinpoint my position on the face of the Earth. I will use this amazing piece of electronics to prevent me from getting lost in fog and other bad weather. The system stores maps of the whole of Britain and Europe and gives directions to your destination on it's colour screen and backs this up with a female voice telling you exactly when to turn corners. The handset is able to be run via the solar panels that I have on the cart's roof.
I will be giving the system a thorough test during the 720 mile journey and will be reporting back via this website.
The unit is very light and appears to work well. The voice is not at all annoying and the interface is extremely easy to use. The screen is bright and the maps are detailed and easy to read. I think this unit will be of real use in some of the more out of the way parts of my trip, as well as busy urban areas. It is also very nice to know that if I get into any serious trouble, I can tell someone by mobile telephone exactly where I am.
I would like to thank NAVMAN for their kindness and for their philanthropic interest in my charitable event.