Re: [Paddlewise] GPS unit

Handhelds are not intended for map viewing, even though many have built-in
map and uploading capabilities.  Display is too small, and you need to
scroll up/down/left/right to see anything except for tiny fraction of the
map. Text labels of cities, ports, roads etc also could be too small for
many people especially in poor light conditions.  Absolutely necessary is to
carry a normal paper map and compass in addition to handheld GPS (even
though some models have electronic compass).  I have Garmin Legend -
built-in map, map uploading capability, no compass. It failed me once in an
open area with 100% sky visibility 5 km off shore, - said it could not see
any satellites (out of regular 10), but it happened just once.  2 hours
later on campsite it showed my location all right.  Battery life is a
serious problem for many hadnheld units.  Manufacturer's time is either
overstated or quoted for long-life batteries AND with compass and other
fancy options "off".  Rechargeable batteries will last about 30-50%
shorter.  Water-resistance of my Legend is OK,  - it was immersed once.
Alex.


> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ally Pike" <ally_at_thepikes.org>
> To: "Paddlewise" <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net>
> Sent: July 23, 2003 7:39 AM
> Subject: [Paddlewise] GPS unit
>
>
> > I will be going on a week long kayaking trip along the Maine Cost in a
few
> > weeks and have been spending the 2 months researching GPS Units and see
> that
> > there are many mixed reviews on almost all of the handheld units.
> >
> > I would love to hear about the GPS units that some of you use and what
you
> > love and hate about it.
>
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