The Gophers TRI-O ce was recently released by Gophers Technologies Sdn Bhd, a six-month old Malaysian company. This device comes with the latest SiRF Atlas III CPU which replaces the Samsung 400MHz processor and SiRF Star III GPS receiver.

The SiRF Atlas III has a fast Time to First Fix (TTFF) which is the time it takes to calculate its first position when stationary, as well as the ability to lock on to signals when on the move. With this new chipset, its interface will be activated quicker and more responsive.

It sports a 3.5 inch touchscreen with voice navigation available in English, Malay, Mandarin and Cantonese. It comes preloaded with MapKing and Malsing Maps as well. For map updates, users will need to register online for the latest maps which will be updated every quarter. There is also a wide selection of Points of Interest (POI) to refer to, such as your closest petrol stations, hotels, sight-seeing locations, historical landmarks, shopping malls, restaurants and more.

In addition, the Gophers TRI-O ce plays MP3, WAV and WMA files. Users are able to e-books and access JPEG images too. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts up to 3 hours with 300 hours standby time and is rechargeable via the car battery or AC adapter; both are provided in the kit.

The Gophers TRI-O ce can be purchased from authorized dealers, online at www.gophers.com.my or by calling 1-300-888-GPS (477). It will be retailing at RM998 for both Malaysia and Singapore maps.