Ok tried a full format (not quick) and connected to home. it installed navcore ver 8.544, rebooted and then asked for country/ left or right hand/miles or kms/time format. (first time Ive seen this). Then disconnected from home and tried power on: still stuck, wont power off

Reconnected to home and installed update navcore 9.057. disconnect, power on, still stuck, wont power off

Not looking good is it?

Not looking good, no

But try TomTom clearflash and try to boot up again.

Ok tried clearflash and re-booted... no change.

Many thanks guys I appreciate your efforts but I guess the unit is a 'dud'

Cheers

Sometimes that happens.

Maybe use the device for spare parts.