The Big Idea - put the paper maps, like National Geographic, which customers are familiar with and enjoy using, onto a rugged, sports GPS so that people can focus on enjoying their outdoor sport safely without the worry of navigation.
In 2004, having worked with GPS technology for a number of years, Satmap’s founder, Richard Calthrop-Owen, was convinced it was possible to design a hand-held GPS that would display real topographical mapping. His love of hiking and mountain biking in the great outdoors, as well as his experience as a pilot in the Royal Air Force (UK), had given him plenty of opportunity to see the need for this kind of technology. Paper maps are great, no question, but when it’s dark and the wind is strong and the rain is heavy, reading maps safely and accurately becomes a challenge.
Howard Dyson, Satmap co-founder, was a former Household Cavalry Officer in the British Army, and he was equally convinced by the idea and together they founded Satmap Systems Ltd in 2005 and the development of the Active 10 began.
The Active 10 was the first hand-held GPS to display topographical mapping. Regular updates ensure it is still leading the way in terms of new functionality and features.
Satmap has set a new standard in GPS mapping and holds the mission to lead this market through continuous innovation and development. Satmap only partners with the best mapping providers in each country to ensure customers have the best user experience possible whatever their location.
On November 16th 2010, National Geographic and Satmap Systems Ltd. announced the integration of the best-selling National Geographic map data into the award-winning Satmap Active 10 GPS handset. The Active 10 TREK went on sale in the US on November 17th.
The partnership with National Geographic includes all the major National Geographic topographic map titles - the TOPO! Series, the Adventure Series, and, for the first time on any GPS, the top of the range Trails Illustrated series.
The Satmap products are also sold in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, the UK & Republic of Ireland.
Satmap Systems Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of British owned, Satmap Systems Ltd , a leading, award-winning GPS and digital mapping company. Its aim is to provide the best topographical maps available on a rugged, handheld GPS. Users can get accurate information on their location which will enhance the enjoyment and safety of their outdoor sports.
Satmap's head-office is in Surrey, United Kingdom.