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Thales Navigation, a provider of Magellan consumer and Ashtech professional GPS solutions, has made available a new personal navigation solution for Palm m500 series handheld computers.

The company said the Magellan GPS Companion is able to calculate and download a route to a Palm m500 series handheld computer for audio-prompted, turn-by-turn GPS guidance on a moving map. The device features Rand McNally StreetFinder Deluxe Travel Navigation Software and Magellan NAV Companion software, which provides traditional GPS navigation information.

According to Thales, the cordless Magellan GPS receiver attaches to the back of a Palm m500, m505 or m515 handheld to provide satellite-positioning information with WAAS-enabled, three-meter accuracy. The receiver communicates with the Palm handheld through the serial port, leaving the expansion card slot available for downloads.

By using StreetFinder Deluxe software on a PC with Internet access, the company said users can create custom maps with routing overlays and driving directions, then export the data via HotSync to a Palm m500 series handheld. Two AAA batteries provide 12 hours of operation without drawing power from the Palm handheld's internal battery. An optional 12V Magellan power cable features a built-in battery charger.

Magellan NAV Companion software allows Palm users to convert their handheld into a traditional GPS receiver for finding their way to destinations that don't appear on conventional maps, and for outdoor activities, such as hiking, climbing and off-road driving. It provides an analog speedometer, a digital compass, waypoint and route management capabilities. The device has a street price of around $200.