Next GPS, what should I get?

Posted: Sun Mar 03, 2002 9:43 pm

So, after caching yesterday (3/2/02) with the snow coming down fairly strong, and after almost dropping it in 2 different rivers, as well as several falls, I think it's time to replace my GPS companion for my Palm Vx with a stand alone GPS unit. Any suggestions? I like the size of the eTrex series, but what I have seen, they don't offer a seperate heading and bearing display. Is this correct? I might be able to get my hands on a GPS 310, but IIRC when you enter coordinates its DD.MM not DD.MMM. That means it's not as accurate. Oh woe is me...

Are there any suggestions on a good unit?

Features I'd require:
Heading and Bearing on same screen.(numerical values, not just an arrow.)
Features I'd like to have:
Electronic compass
External antenna connection

TIA!!
Team Sylvanis
Chad & Sara Fraker & Crosby (GCing Yellow Lab)

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GPS companion for Palm

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It's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand.
95 YJ RIP
02 TJ

Posted: Mon Mar 04, 2002 9:08 am

Hi Sylvanis,

I'm using the Etrex Legend and it shows bearing and heading on the same screen. It's just a matter of configuring the screens to your liking.
The Vista model of the Etrex will also give you the compass on your wish list for $100 more.
As far as an external antenna, I haven't had the need for one, other than while hiking in deep woods and it's not likely that I would use it then. While driving it always gets great reception.

~ Sam

Posted: Mon Mar 04, 2002 9:41 am

In your requirements, you didn't mention what to us, IOHO, is the most important requirements: a Quadrifiler helix antenna, affectionatly known as a 'quad antenna', vs. the 'patch antenna' that some GPSRs use. The quad antenna makes a significant difference in reception under heavy tree cover and damp, rainy, or overcast days.

Your requirement for electronic compass really narrows the field. Few GPSRs have this feature. When you add in the requirment for an external antenna I'm not aware of any model from Garmin, Magellan, or Lowrance. Garmin's GPSMap 76s will have both features when its released.

The models with compass we know of are:

Garmin Vista - patch antenna
Garmin Summit - patch antenna
Magellen Meridian Platinum - quad antenna

If you can pass on the electronic compass, we'd recommend:

Lowrance GM100 - external antenna, builtin quad
Magellan 330 - quad antenna
Magellan 315 - quad antenna, but make sure you have the new firmware to correct the auto-averaging problem
Garmin III, III+, or V

Have fun!

[This message has been edited by CacheCows (edited March 04, 2002).]