The company that most of us know simply as "Magellan" has a long and complex history. Magellan Systems Corporation was founded in 1986 and acquired Ashtech, a GPS company, in 1997.
The newly formed company became Magellan Corporation.
In 2001, Thales - a leading electronics company with a global market - acquired Magellan Corporation and merged it with its subsidiary, Thales Navigation, S.A.
Thales Navigation now markets its global consumer line of GPS solutions under the Magellan brand, while using the Thales navigation brand for its professional line.
The Receivers
This lengthy pedigree boils down to two things: quality and innovation. The world’s first commercial handheld GPS receiver was the Magellan NAV 100, introduced in 1989. Over the years, Magellan has launched a number of innovative products that have helped catapult the company to global success. They were the first to introduce a handheld GPS receiver priced under $100 (in 1997) and this careful attention to consumer needs is part of the reason Magellan stands out as an industry leader today.Magellan’s GPS receivers are designed to meet any need.
For example, for vehicle navigation, Magellan’s Roadmate series offers a voice-enabled device with a user-friendly interface. The SporTrak series provides a rugged body suitable for outdoor use. For a low cost and compact unit, Magellan gives us the eXplorist series. The newest eXplorist provides PC-style file management, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a geocaching application - all packed into an affordable and compact device.
Perhaps the most popular Magellan GPS receivers are in the Meridian series. These units are feature-packed and geared for the more serious navigator. The high-end models include an electronic compass and color screen, yet have the rubberized waterproof case that is rugged enough for any environment.
Magellan also offers small GPS units that are compatible with many PDA devices. This combination opens up a wide array of uses, including the opportunity for users to enter data and make notes about a given location. A range of maps are available for use with all of these devices.
Full description of these and other items can be found on Magellan’s website. You will find these products available at many retail outlets or you can simply order them from the Magellan web store (www.magellangps.com).
The Future
Thales has offices throughout the world, serving the defense, aerospace, services, and security markets. The group employs more than 60,000 people worldwide and, in 2003, reported revenues exceeding 10.6 million euros. The Magellan division corporate headquarters is based in Santa Clara, California.In 2004, Thales appointed Christian Bubenheim as the General Manager of its Magellan Consumer business. Bubenheim has a long history in consumer electronics, working with such companies as Apple Computers, Compaq, and Intel. These impressive credentials will be used to help shape Magellan’s future as GPS technology becomes even more widely used throughout the world.