Re: [Paddlewise] Garmin 76CSX

> The difference between the CX and CSX models is NOT the compass feature.
> It is the "Sensor" feature, which provides altimeter / barometer
> functions.
> While the altimeter can be critical in hiking use, the barometer is
> most helpful on the water.
>
> I chose the 76CSX over the 60CSX because I preferred the rectangle
> design w/o the protruding antenna.
>
> The "X" versions offer improved reception and fix functions AND allow
> for use of interchangeable mini-SD memory cards.
> You can use the provided software to download and customize your own
> memory cards, or buy some of their pre-programmed
> maps on miniSD cards.
>
> This last bit is helpful if you use your device for driving, then want
> to switch to a more area-specific Blue Water Chart or Topo set.

The X stands for Ex-pendable memory, C- colour dispaly, S-compass (donno
why). So, CS has a compass (no memory card slot), CX -  memory card slot (no
compass), CSX - both compass and memory card slot. Both CS and CSX have
altimeter-barometer sensor.  I own CS.  Didn't notice much faster response
or locking time on satellites than my old black and white Vista, but display
is larger and colour is nice to have.  Map 60 is TAD smaller (same size
dispaly as 76, I think), but it does have a protruding antenna (albeit very
short), and its back isn't flat, made for hikers grip rather than for a
kayak deck or sprayskirt, and doesn't float.  You can add a foam pad to
Map60 (Dave did), but then it will become larger than Map76.

I didn't try, but units 60 (C, CS) and 76 (C, CS) does allow switching
between different maps.  All you need is to choose from the menu which map
you want to display at the moment, - for example City Map or Topo or
Bluechart (otherwise, the unit will choose automatically, according to
built-in maps hierarchy). What you can not do with non-X models, is
switching from one area of Blue Chart to another one - each area requires a
separate $75 unlock coupon, and with non-X you keep this unlocked area on
your CD, while with X you keep it on another memory card which you, in
theory, can get out of PFD pocket and insert into the slot - though I
personally wouldn't, at least on water.  With non-X model you need to go to
your computer in order to switch between different areas of Blue Chart - but
these areas are quite big, you may check on the Garmin website.

Non-X Map 76 has been discontinued, and can be get cheap, I think - but
Garmin won't provide mapping software updates for non-X 76 series.  Though,
when it does provide it, it's no longer free (used to be free, but alas).
It doesn't mean that you can't buy a NEW mapping sofware for non-X series -
most maps are compatible with non-X (if not all).
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************