Honda navigation systems have long been recognized for their simple, intuitive operation and extensive on-board database. When navigating freeways, a split screen design enhances on-screen information with a "map view" and "3-D" route visualization of freeways simultaneously- which helps make navigation information easier to understand. The system is integrated with the car's audio system, so driving instructions can be heard over the speaker system, and the voice recognition feature adds a hands-free realm of control to the navigation system.

The Honda Satellite-Linked DVD Navigation System uses Global Positioning Satellites (GPS) in combination with detailed information from the vehicle's DVD-based mapping system to pinpoint the vehicle's location and to provide a host of useful mapping and route guidance features. The antenna can utilize up to 12 satellites from a network of 24 global positioning satellites. If the antenna is obstructed by a tunnel, a parking garage or a tall building, an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor track the location of the vehicle so that the map information remains current and reliable. The vehicle clock is independently controlled by GPS data, so when time zones are crossed while driving the clock will automatically set itself to the current time.

Turn-by-turn voice guidance is user selectable in either male or female voice and can be turned off at any time. Destination memory recalls current trip addresses and previous destinations; and calendar and calculator with English to metric number converter is standard.

The navigation system can be controlled by the driver through either the voice recognition system, the touch screen display, or by the joystick on the instrument panel. The voice recognition system works when the "talk" button, located on the steering wheel, is depressed. When spoken to, the system recognizes commands such as "find nearest gas station," or "find nearest ATM" and can also recognize street names.

The 6.5-inch LCD display is a touch screen (TFT, resistive film) that allows the driver or front passenger to choose menu options or spell out a word (i.e. address, business name, place, etc.) through a touch-sensitive keypad. The keypad can be set to alphabetical or a QWERTY typewriter-style layout. Alternatively, the joystick can be used to highlight menu options or to highlight specific letters on the keypad to complete a word. A matte finish is used on the display to reduce glare and smudging. When disc loading is selected for the CD player, the motorized screen conveniently tilts down to allow access to the CD loader located behind the screen.

For data storage, the system uses a single DVD that contains information for the entire United States. Future updates to the navigation system can be made by installing an updated DVD (available on-line or by calling a toll free number).

Source: Honda PR