Accessories

First Impressions

Whilst the use of the unit seems quite intuitive I spent some time reading the instructions before use so as to not only understand the SatNav but also how the built in dash cam functions. A CD drive on your computer is required as there are no paper instructions.

The instructions on the included CD are very comprehensive being clearly written and avoiding technical 'jargon' starting with a quick-start guide followed by detailed operating instructions.

Aguri produce these units with the latest mapping available together with a host of pre-installed POIs (ACSI, Camperstop, EU Aires etc). Lifetime map updates can be updated using the supplied installer software. Whilst the .pdf instructions can be read on PC or Mac, the updater software is not yet Mac compatible.

Setup and Installation

Although everything works straight out of the box (ensuring the unit is charged up first) the users experience will be improved following a little setting up. Obviously the first thing to do is to select your motorhome as the desired vehicle and input it's various dimensions and weights. Then units like mph or kph and the types of warnings preferred regarding speed cameras etc. You can even personalise the vehicle icon to a motorhome enabling you to see 'you' on your travels!

Once done, it's just a matter of clipping the bracketry together and placing it in the vehicle making sure that the front facing camera has a clear view ahead.

Just handling the setup it is clear that the unit has a high quality feel to it with a nice 5" touch screen and very logical setting controls.

The Sat Nav

Once you have set up your vehicle specs the SatNav will route you accordingly thereby avoiding low bridges, width and weight restrictions etc (remember: these specialist mappings of any make will only ever take into account signed and official limits - it will not know about narrow lanes caused by overgrown verges and trees etc so vigilance and common sense is still required).

There is also intelligent junction view and lane guidance giving you plenty of warning of approaching junctions and major intersections en-route.

The unit comes with an extensive range of motorhome and caravan specific POIs. There are 30,000 motorhome stopover locations including those from The Caravan Club, Camping and Caravan Club, Bordatlas, ACSI, Camperstops and others.

The latest version of Aguri's Speedshield speed trap database is included and, like the mapping, includes free updates. It is claimed to be one of the most comprehensive databases available and includes GATSO, Truvelo, SPECs average speed cameras PLUS thousands of locations where mobile speed traps and laser guns are used. This coverage extends across Western and Eastern Europe.

The Dash Cam

The RV500 DVR comes with a built-in HD DVR dash cam eliminating the need for yet another accessory to clutter your view ahead. There's an inbuilt 8GB SD card, a 120 degree super-wide angle lens and GPS tracking enabling an exact record of where any incident or event took place, together with time and date.

The dash cam starts recording automatically when the unit is switched on and also has the ability to take still images. There are setup options for the dash cam within the main settings.

Playback can be instant on the satnav's 5" screen or, using the supplied PC software the footage and data can be analysed in greater detail on your computer.

What's in the box?

Aguri RV500 DVR PND (portable navigation device)
Micro SD card
Holder
Adjustable mounting bracket for windscreen or dash top.
Adhesive suction mounting disc
USB lead
Car charger
CD including Instructions as a .pdf file

Our verdict

If it performs as promised from our initial look around the unit, I'm looking forward to seeing how it all works in the real world on our forthcoming travels.

To be continued.....

So, how does the Aguri RV500 DVR perform?

For our impressions of the unit in use AND Aguri's excellent response - Click 'Next'