Plenio VXA-5000 Multimedia-GPS Heads to the US

The Plenio VXA-5000 GPS-PMP combo passed the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) "tests" and it's currently tagged "in stock soon" on Amazon. Even though it doesn't bring new stuff to the GPS-PMP market, it is worth taking a look at.

Boasting a 4.3-inch screen, the on-board GPS device is definitely not holding the "wide screen" seen at the Plenio VX-3000 (7-inch). The Bluetooth wireless technology, built-in microphone and speaker enable Bluetooth hands-free calling functionality. Moreover, the multimedia functions include stills viewing, playing videos, games and music. The device can also double as a media player as long as you remember to stuff some music or video content on your SD card. Due to the FM transmitter, you can also use your car stereo for audio. The navigation system software is pretty simple. It comes preloaded with a map that covers the entire US and it features touch-screen, "Root Set" and a POIs data base. There's no way it could come with real-time traffic updates. All things considered, if you don't trust your common sense when it comes to driving, better stick with a TomTom or a Garmin in-car GPS.

Plenio VXA-5000 is already for sale on Amazon for $430. Anyway, don't expect this to include a DMB (Digital Media Broadcasting) receiver.

Here are some specs:

- Samsung S3C2410 266 Mhz application processor
- SiRF Star III GPS
- 64 MB SDRAM for sysmte memory (for user apps and map storage)
- 64 MB Flash ROM onboard flash memory (for the OS and embedded apps)
- High-density rechargeable 2200 mAh Lithium Ion battery (3 hours of operation)
- 4.3-inch screen with anti-glare coating
- 480 x 272 QVGA screen with 16.7 M colors and a full-color display
- 200-nit LCD
- TMR (Transmissive with Micro Reflective) technology
- 1 W built-in speaker
- 3.5 mm stereo jack on the device

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