Gps Systems

[copgib]

Ok Folks, I know there are guys out there using these GPS Systems. My question is which GPS System do you like and why? I am considering getting one and just need some input from you all. Thanks ahead of time Hugh (copgib@earthlink.net)

[RyanH]

Magellan Meridian Platinum is a nice handheld unit. Plus's include onboard barometer, thermometer, easy navigation, built-in basemap with expansion capability (SD card). Can upload maps only from their proprietary Mapsend program, however, and this is not updated with the same frequency as some other makers. The Mapsend Topo will do topographic displays which are useful when hiking and planning a route. Don't drive blind by this, though. The basemap seems to be off by about 200 feet (understandable considering that roads aren't infinitely thin lines), but if you are in a city with crowded blocks, it can sometimes be misleading as to which road it shows you being on. It does give a readout as to the road you are on and are approaching, however, a nice feature.

I also use a Garmin etrex (the basic Yellow model). It's a nice breadcrumb GPS tracker, but lacks roads.

Both are very rugged and can take some serious abuse. The magellan is pretty good for use in a car and has helped me to find my customers every time, but is not advisable for using WHILE driving.

I've heard of some other really nice systems that are intended to interface with a Palm or other PDA and laptops, but haven't used them.

[One Tough Pressure]

Technology is just to much sometimes. I keep a current Thomas Bros in the truck for last minute look ups, and print out map quest directions if needed.
If your area has a ton of new construction that may not be on a map then I can understand the GPS.

[RyanH]

Originally Posted by One Tough Pressure

If your area has a ton of new construction that may not be on a map then I can understand the GPS.

Downside to the quickly outdated GPS maps is that new construction won't be there. It's fantastic for reference, though.

[copgib]

Well I got me a Garmin Street Pilot 3 GPS System. Full color and looking forward to using it out there. Hugh

[newlook]

I try to know where I am going before I leave the house . Mapquest has been our source for directions...you know how us men are..when we got lost driving around...we are not really lost. We are just looking

[RyanH]

FYI...
Delorme also makes a really nice and very accurate system. They also are a little more versatile with the mapping system as they don't use proprietary mapping software (like magellan). There is a cool new package with a Bluetooth enabled receiver that will interface with a PDA or laptop and give live-update locations.
You can also just stick it in the car and it will record the entire trip along with details such as speed along the way, time, where you have gone, etc. There is not screen, just a little box. Might be ideal if any of you have fleet vehicles with other folks driving them around. I think mapping S/W and the receiver run around $150 +/-.