Siemens VDO is upgrading its VDO Dayton brand portable navigation system into a multimedia center that integrates digital television into its mobile terminals. At the 62nd IAA International Motor Show Cars, in Frankfurt, the company will present the PN 4000 and PN 6000 portable navigation devices, which comes equipped with a DVB-T receiver as a standard feature. Now, you will never need to miss an episode of your favorite TV show again. The new devices vary in screen size: The PN 4000 has a 4.3-inch display, while the PN 6000 has a 5.3-inch screen.
The two new models belong to a line of portable navigation systems that include the VDO Dayton PN 2050 and PN 3000. The PN 4000 operates in real time and offers high-resolution map graphics displayed in a 2D or 3D, 16:9 monitor. Using voice prompts and directional symbols, it reliably steers the driver to his or her destination. The device also will help the driver avoid traffic when equipped with an optional TMC receiver.
Moving toward the mobile multimedia center, VDO Dayton has now integrated a receiver for digital TV signals alongside the navigation computer. This receiver, which is available in large areas of Europe, brings the “television of the future” into the vehicle. Due to powerful batteries and an external power supply, the PN 4000 can be operated outside the vehicle, like at camp grounds, the beach or vacation homes. Because the antennas are designed to be highly sensitive and redundant, the system ensures television reception even at speeds of up to 160 km/h allowing the back seat to become a mobile home theater on long road trips.
Not only does the dual tuner receive the television program, but it also displays screen text, television subtitles, and the electronic program listings for the next four days. Like the PN 3000, the new high-end system has an integrated SD card reader that can be used to load music or users’ own videos in addition to digital road data. Also, an additional Bluetooth module is available, which will upgrade the device to a hands-free system for mobile phones.
The devices are very easy to operate: The destination entry function, route selection and address book, as well as the TV functions are controlled using an intuitive, easy-to-understand menu using a touch-sensitive screen.
To ensure optimum display of the monitor in all lighting conditions, a built-in brightness sensor automatically adjusts the light intensity, keeping the high-resolution color display well lit during daytime and nighttime hours, while also helping eliminate glare for the driver. The system navigates using the 16:9 aspect ratio as this gives drivers a better overview. The system supports TV playback in both 16:9 and 4:3 mode.
Source: VDO Dayton
