TomTom GPS Navigation - How They Came About

One of the leading brands on portable GPS navigation today is the TomTom brand. They started out as a Dutch Company last 1991 and was founded by 3 partners - Peter Pauwels, Harold Goddijn and Pieter Geelen. This company first started on developing software on handheld devices for businesses like barcode readers, order entry etc. In year 2001 they started focusing in developing in consumer electronics - navigation systems for cars.

Their first GPS product is a software for a PDA unit called the TomTom Navigator and was released to the public in  mid 2002. This is basically a software installed on a compatible PDA and with an extra GPS antenna attachment and a windshield cradle, act as a portable GPS system for cars. It gained popularity in Europe as an inexpensive alternative to a built in OEM navigation system in high end cars.

Early 2003, the company started making and selling the stand alone units that the TomTom  GPS navigation are known for.

TomTom GPS Navigation Products are comprised of the TomTom Go which is a  portable all in one unit - touchscreen, speakers, navigation software, USB port, internal lithium ion battery. It can synchronize data to your PC using the USB cable and it also has bluetooth connection for your smart phone and you can use the unit as a hands free calling device using it's internal speakers. It can also receive and download traffic and weather updates when used in conjunction with a TomTom Plus which is a subscription fee based service.

There is also the TomTom One and XL (bigger screen) units which are their entry level portable GPS for cars. These units have the basic navigation functions but don't have the bluetooth capability like on the Go models and also they are priced cheaper.

TomTom also has GPS systems for the motorcycle riders called the TomTom Rider. A little bit on the expensive side but it is more durable and water resistant and also has a "glove friendly" touchscreen. It can also easily say the instructions using the included bluetooth headset designed for your helmet. The screen also has an anti-glare coating so that the rider can seen the screen even on mid day sunlight.