The Lowrance iWay 350C navigation system combines multimedia features with a basic yet very effective GPS unit. With MP3 playback, a picture viewer and an integrated FM transmitter (a.k.a. modulator), the 350C will keep you entertained, and it makes quick work of getting you from point A to point B as well.

The 16-channel WAAS-enabled GPS receiver in the 350C is quick to acquire a signal, and it does a good job staying locked on even in hilly terrain or amongst taller buildings. Route plotting is fast and accurate, and the 350C automatically directs you back to your original course if you miss a turn. The unit is preloaded with NAVTEQ maps of the continental United States and Canada, and updates can be loaded by connecting the 350C to your PC via USB cable.

While it offers turn-by-turn voice guidance, the 350C lacks text-to-speech functionality that speaks actual street names. In addition, this unit is not compatible with traffic alert systems, so you won't receive any updates of traffic tie-ups ahead on your route.

The 350C comes with a 4GB hard drive, but this memory is primarily dedicated to map data. You can save up to 1,000 addresses in the internal memory, but music and JPEG image files must be accessed via the unit's SD/MMC memory card slot. The audio player is compatible with MP3 and OGG files, and it includes the standard shuffle and repeat modes.

The 350C's 3-1/2-inch color LCD display has touchscreen controls, so operating the unit and navigating the user-friendly menu system is a simple process. A gauge mode shows you the distanced traveled, your current, average and maximum speed, the estimated time of arrival and the time elapsed during your trip.

The built-in battery lasts up to 15 hours per charge (depending on usage), which is excellent for a portable GPS unit. In addition, the FM transmitter makes it easy to listen to digital audio and voice commands over your car's sound system, and there are no wires to connect. This makes the 350C ideal for vacation navigation in a rental car.

The package includes a power adapter/charger, a suction-cup window mount, a USB cable, a carrying case and a cleaning cloth. If you are looking for multimedia playback combined with a simple but effective navigation system, check out the Lowrance iWay 350C.


Pros:  Effective navigation, integrated FM transmitter, multimedia playback, great battery life
Cons:  Audio and image files can't be stored internally, no text-to-speech or traffic alerts

Warranty
1 year