Re: [Paddlewise] Garmin comparisons (was GPS & Mapping Software)

From: Philip Torrens <skerries_at_hotmail.com>
Date: Fri, 14 Jul 2000 09:16:58 PDT
>From: JCMARTIN43_at_aol.com
>Anyone want to offer a value comparison between the GPS-12 at about $145 
>and the GPS-48 at about $210?  The -12 appears to be a good, all-around 
>system with all the basics and some bells'n'whistles, while the -48 
>includes an updateable marine database of cities and navaids in the U.S., 
>plus a few added features including "water resist[ance]" --- but after the 
>totally disappointing performance of the eTrex in that department, I'm not 
>about to accept any water tollerance specs from Garmin!  It goes in a bag.
>
>Bottom line, does the marine database and the other "marine" features in 
>the -48 warrant the additional 45% in cost over the -12?
>
>Jack Martin

I've never actually used GPSs with built-in maps in the field, though I've 
played with samples a bit. My concerns would be two-fold:
1. I think trying to squint at the tiny display at sea (and to pan and zoom 
the display in rough water) could be an excellent way to promote 
sea-sickness and capsize.
2. I'm going to carry paper charts anyway (so I have something to use with 
my compass in case my GPS craps out - it happens!), so I won't realise any 
"savings" from having built-in maps.

The pros I can imagine for built-in charts are the instant, real-time
position plotting, and the point-and-shoot ease of entering waypoints.

By the by, I'm unsubscribing from Paddlewise until July 26 - I'll be away 
paddling in the Broken Island group.

Cheers,

Philip Torrens
N49°16' W123°06'



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Received on Fri Jul 14 2000 - 09:45:10 PDT

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