results, Panasonic says.

(Click here for a larger view of Panasonic's Strada PND)

Panasonic did not release information about the processors or the amount of memory provided on its new Strada Pocket devices, but the PNDs run Windows CE 5.0 with a proprietary user interface. In addition to a GPS receiver and a five-inch touchscreen display, the hardware includes both microSD and SD expansion slots -- the latter key to two special capabilities touted by the company.

According to Panasonic, two Strada variants (the CN-MP200DL and the CN-MP200D) have receivers capable of viewing TV programs broadcast via 1seg system -- so-called because it uses the one segment of Japan's ISDB-T (integrated services digital broadcasting-terrestrial) system that is reserved for mobile devices. On these models, the SD slot may also be used to transfer programs from Panasonic's "Diga" video recorders, the company says.

SD storage can also be used in conjunction with personal computers and the Google Maps website (right), as a means of adding personalized POIs to the Strada devices, Panasonic says. The PNDs receive regularly updated traffic information via integral FM receivers, the company adds.

Panasonic says the Strada PNDs include accelerometers and angular velocity sensors the devices can use to estimate their current position when a GPS signal is temporarily lost. This is relevant in situations such as driving through long tunnels, the company notes.

As noted above, models CN-MP200DL and CN-MP200D include 1seq TV receivers, and the "DL" includes accessories such as an AC adapter and the stand shown at left. The CN-MP100DL comes with accessories but no TV receiver, while the CN-MP100DL is without optional extras.

All four PNDs measure 5.07 x 3.42 x 1.25 inches (129 x 87 x 32mm), says Panasonic. TV-equipped models weigh 10.2 ounces (292g), while the other versions weigh 9.9 ounces (281g). A built-in lithium-ion battery is claimed to power the devices for up to two hours.

Availability

Panasonic says the Strada PNDs will be available in Japan next month, though pricing was not released. More information may be found on the company's website, here.

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