Although it's not as famous as other important names on the market (like Garmin and Magellan, for example), the Pharos company has released quite a few GPS devices over the past few years, including here several personal navigation devices. And this is exactly the type of device we'll talk about as follows, namely the Drive GPS 135 model, released back in the second half of 2006, a device closely related to the 140 model, but providing certain features targeting especially the budget-conscious consumers.



The first thing that must be mentioned about this particular PND model is the fact that the device contains street level maps of the U.S. and Canada preloaded and routing software that delivers voice prompted, turn by turn driving directions. GPS signals are acquired with the highly sensitive SiRF Star III and routes are clearly shown on the large, 3.5-inch color touch screen display.



For added entertainment when driving long distances, the 135 also comes equipped with a photo viewer and an MP3 player (no video player, one of the most important differences compared to the 140, beside the lack of Bluetooth, the slower CPU, the lower amount of available ROM, etc.). Music files as well as video files can be heard in full sound when connected to a vehicles sound system via the speaker outlet jack on the 135.



The portable navigation device is are powered by Pharos’ “OSTIA” software, which offers an easy to use interface for rapid input of addresses and output of driving directions. OSTIA also allows for customization of the device, where users have the option to select from five different languages, choose how they wish to have their route calculated and also decide if they wish to view their route in a “heading up” or “north up” manner.



The 135 comes with everything one might need to power the unit and display it in your vehicle. A windshield mounting bracket, USB cable, AC charger, 12-volt DC car charger and 2GB SD card are included, making for easy installation right out of the box. The Drive GPS 135 is available at several online retailers for around 220 – 250 US dollars, which is quite an affordable price to pay for such a product, at least compared to other similar devices available on the market.