It starts with the Magellan Triton series of six different handheld units, which are said to be the most advanced navigational devices available.

Features include full-color, touch-screen controls, the first on the market. The unit also has a feature to record and attach audio waypoints. Users can also take pictures with the 2 megabyte camera and view a digital compass, barometer and have use of a built-in LED light.

The best news for the novice locator is that the Triton series, which will retail from $129 to $499, is "significantly easier to use than previous models."

The Triton series is also the first and only GPS unit to offer on-screen compatibility, usage and display of National Geographic software ... for all 50 states and 21 weekend explorer products covering major metropolitan areas highlighting weekend activities. One of those weekend programs covers the Salt Lake area.

National Geographic is the country's leading maker of map software, trails maps and even wall maps,

Jeff Caulfield, national service manager, said the biggest sellers in software and maps are those focused on the Western states, which, of course, include Utah and the Salt Lake WeekendExplorer 3D.

The program, identifying cities and recreational opportunities, reaches from Santaquin to the south to Bear Lake to the north, and from Utah's eastern border to the western shores of the Great Salt Lake.

The software, which retails for $29.95, covers 200 USGS maps, which at $6 a map would amount to about $1,200.

New fabrics are a big part of new items at the show, and one of the leaders in this area is DuPont. And what DuPont spotlighted at the show is its new Sorona renewable resource polymer. The product takes 30 percent less energy to produce over petrochemical-based nylon. It also reduces emissions by 63 percent in its production.

Sorona is made from cooked corn sugar.

"We've known about this process for 40 years. The new part of this is we're now using a renewable resource to produce it," said Dawson Winch, product manager.

The product is UV and stain resistant and is suitable for active wear, swim wear, ready-to-wear, outerwear and lingerie apparel. It can also be used for many other products, including parts in the automotive industry.

Mountain House has made it possible for travelers to take along ice cream without having to carry along the ice. The maker of packaged meals has freeze-dried strawberry, vanilla and chocolate, which simply removes the water. The bite-size pieces taste like ice cream but without the cold sensation.