Thread: Navigon 40 Plus - TMC under iGO8?

Originally Posted by Boki_Srb

Not such a simple story. I tried to simplify, but you are persistent

Yeah, sorry. I'm very stubborn when it comes to that.

Any idea why the newer devices cannot be used any longer in such way as the old ones? Has the chip been protected or is it an integrated solution with GPS/TMC in one?

Normally these companies only combine single ICs (per function) into their layouts as this is cheaper than individually developed and patented solutions (i.e. Navigon's very own IC would cost way too much). So developer and chip behind each function of the device should be identifiable. Maybe opening one Navigon up would be a good start. Especially if there is no WinCE-software available to identify what is inside it.

So I'm going to open up my 40 Plus and have a look inside...

Time for some basic surgery... (tried attachments, but imgbox is faster with thumbnails):

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Easy to open. Remove 4x Torx 4-screws. Then use your thumbnail or a smartphone plastic tool to open case.

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Very typical configuration for smartphone, navigation and/or handheld gaming device.

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Display unclipped. Common LCD & digitizer-combo, most likely even replaceable.

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The lower half is way more interesting anyway! Battery & loudspeaker are unclipped and then the pcb can be removed with no further screws.

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Upper side. Very interesting are "free places" for components. This pcb was most likely used in more devices and with additional capabilities. The metal shielding can only be removed on the smallest protected area. Oh, well.

Spoiler: pic

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Lower side. MicroSD-slot and more additional components. Interesting chip at the right side. "db G199". It's mostly ceramic. Any idea what that is? And another shielded area that cannot be opened.

Spoiler: pics

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Close-ups of lower side.

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Close-ups of upper side.

Let's open the small shielding!

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Hrmpf! One bigger IC still under some metal. Let's cut that at one side and bend it up. Smaller component reads "ABTbok T16aHU".

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Bend up reveals IC - "SiGe 4150L 031BR".

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And closed up again. No permanent damage done.

OK. More work? Hot air-workstation is available, so no problem. Any suggestion maybe where interesting components (TMC-specific) may hide?