It's a big convention, and your time is limited, which is why we have assembled this preview. There's almost too much to do. By formulating a plan in advance you can make the most of your time, piecing together an efficient plan.

We're all faced with squeezing to make ends meet. While some travel budgets have been eliminated, others are being trimmed to the very basic needs. However, many Las Vegas hotels have reduced their rates significantly. I also have heard that deep discounts can be found through travel packages. I expect attendance to be down this year, but a smaller crowd means an easier path to navigate the floor, and possibly more time with exhibitors.

This issue holds three tools to help you at the show. The NAB Extra is your key to the new technology on display. Get a head start on what to see by making an early list.

Next we help you find your way in the North Hall with the pull-out map, which also includes a partial booth listing. It's easy to get lost if you just wander to floor, but our map guides a clear path.

The sessions are an important part of the convention, and we have listed the Broadcast Engineering Conference presentations that relate to radio, as well as a few other key events. Add these to your calendar and you won't miss anything important.

But the printed issue is only part of the preview. Each year we produce our exclusive NAB FASTtrack, which sorts the exhibitors into product categories and then arranges them into booth order so you can plan the fastest track around the convention.

The FASTtrack, exhibitor guide and session outline are also available for your handheld device. Download the Radio magazine FASTtrack, Exhibitor Directory and BEC Session Guide to your Palm or Pocket PC today. The files are on the Radio magazine website. Look for the FASTtrack for PDA link.