Mitac Mio 268+

The Mio 268 from Mitac is a good entry-level satnav system. It comes with a built-in satellite receiver and can be easily transferred between vehicles. Maps for the Mio 268+ come pre-loaded on a memory card. The Mio 268 is "plug and play" - just insert the SD card, attach the power cable and your good to go.

The MioMap CE software is based on Navigon's Mobile Navigator 4 software. The Mio 268 can be controlled using either the touch-screen controls or the control buttons on built-in to the case.

The unit has a good Points of Interest (POI) database. This shows locations for hotels, petrol stations, cash machines, hospitals etc. Simply choose the category you are interested in and the Mio 268 will show those amenities in that category close to your current location. By selecting one of those amenities, the Mio 268 is able to navigate you direct to it - so the next time your car is low on fuel, just call up petrol stations and the Mio 268 will take you to the nearest one - the benefit of this feature cannot be emphasised enough.

Voice instructions provide turn-by-turn navigation and the on-screen maps illustrate the route to your pre-chosen destination. The unit has a built-in speaker and rechargeable Li-Ion battery. This flexibility allows the Mio 268 to be easily transferred between vehicles - another great benefit meaning families and work colleagues can share one unit to reduce their costs.

If you need to make several stops on your journey, then multiple destinations can be entered into the Mio 268's memory - used in conjunction with the rechargeable battery, it is possible to program the unit in advance of your journey either at home or in the comfort of your office.

Music on the move is a good way to relax - the Mio 268 comes complete with MP3-playing software installed - just insert an SD or MMC card with your music stored on it in MP3 format and you have a portable entertainment system.

The unit comes boxed with an external GPS antenna, in-car cigarette lighter adapter, mains AC adapter, USB cable and windscreen suction mounting. Other items which may also be purchased include a carry case, earphones, a remote control (for passengers to control the system) and a bicycle mount for using the Mio 268 on two wheels.

The unit comes with map data for UK and Ireland with European maps available separately.