Garmin, a well-known and respected manufacturer of global positioning system (GPS) receivers, has begun to incorporate its experience into a new line of PDAs. One such model is the iQue M5, a Windows Mobile-based PDA/GPS hybrid with a long list of features and a rather hefty price tag.

Let's start with those features first. The M5's GPS antenna doesn't stick out all the time, instead folding flush inside the device when not in use to avoid any potential damage. The bright 320X240-pixel screen is easy to view (although not in direct sunlight), and the M5 comes equipped with a suction-cup mount for attaching the PDA to a windshield while driving. The unit also has a charger with a speaker for listening to directions on the go.

On the PDA side of things, the M5 employs a 416MHz Intel PXA 272 Xscale processor and has 64MB of RAM (as well as 64MB ROM, with 15MB safe storage available). There's an SD slot for storage expansion and Bluetooth connectivity is built in, but there is no wireless internet access. You can adjust the screen orientation from portrait to landscape, letting you view documents or web content in a wider format.

As might be expected, the GPS features are rather extensive. The included QueMap software is easy to use, letting you find a location down to the nearest intersection. You can plot directions and have the M5 walk you to your destination. You can also choose an address from the PDA's address book, and the M5 will show you how to get there from your current spot on the globe.

The M5 averages around 5 hours of battery life with the GPS and half backlight on, a good amount for getting where you need to go. After boot-up, it took the M5 about 45 seconds to obtain a satellite lock. Plotting directions usually only take a few seconds, so the M5 is a speedy receiver as well.

Now, let's get to the bad news. The iQue M5 has an MSRP of a whopping $700. Although we were able to find it for around $550, that's still a big price tag even for a combination PDA/GPS receiver. But if cost isn't an object, the Garmin iQue M5 is one of the best options for users needing a powerful GPS receiver that's a good PDA in its own right.

Pro: Powerful, fast GPS functions.
Con: Expensive, no wireless internet.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Garmin International Inc.
1200 East 151st Street
Olathe, KS 66062
913-397-8200
http://www.garmin.com

Warranty
1 year