GPS Discussion

[grimmwit]

After bouncing around the woods with the group yesterday, I'm more determined than ever to get my grubby hands on a GPS device.

After considerable hand-ringing, and visits to several GPS resellers, I think I've decided to go for the Garmin Nuvi 250W. Keeping in mind that this will do dual duty in my Jeep and in the motorhome.

Before I pull the trigger, any thoughts from the audience? I've looked at handheld units by Garmin and Magellan. I also looked at the Magellan Crossover, which as its name implies, is designed for auto or handheld use.

I am intrigued by the Navigon, but they seem to be relatively new to market, with some issues.

Thoughts?

Kelly

[Steve]

I can't make any recommendations on a dual purpose gps unit. I do know that most work about the same for for street driving purposes. Just make sure that you can load maps that include the forest roads. I'm sure you can on most of them.

Steve

[grimmwit]

Well, in case it's of any value to the folks here, I figured I'd update this thread.

I went ahead and purchased the Garmin Nuvi 250w. It can be had for $299 via an number of Internet sites.

As stated before, I wanted a unit that would work in the Jeep or motorhome. From my research this mandated that the unit use the "SiRF Star III 20-channel" receiver. My motorhome is a class C rig, with a cabover extension that will block the sky. From all indications, this receiver is strong enough to overcome the obstacle.

This unit also covers Canada, Alaska and (I think) Puerto Rico. Not sure I'll make it to Alaska or Puerto Rico, but Canada was a must. If you don't need maps outside the lower 48, the Nuvi 200W will save you a few bucks.

I can add maps via an SD card. Still need to investigate which maps to ask Santa to send my way.

I half expect I'll wind up buying a handheld for the Jeep eventually - but I'll definitely give this a try first.

I found this website to be worthwhile during my research.... http://gpsmagazine.com/ (Steve, I hope you don't mind the link - I have nothing to gain from it being here)

My last GPS unit was a handheld unit - was probably 5 years old. I was amazed at how quickly this unit figured out where it was and ready to go - probably about 1 minute from the time I turned it on.

Only beefs so far: It doesn't come with an A/C charger, so I have to charge it in a vehicle until I buy one. No carrying case to protect it while stored.

Hope this helps if someone else is looking to make the jump. There are so many units out there, it'll make your head spin.

Grimmwit

[Steve]

Thanks for info. I look forward to hearing more about it in the future.

Steve

[Photog]

Any updates on the Nuvi, and its use of TOPO maps?

Can it use an external antenna? These usually improve lock-on time, and general accuracy.

[grimmwit]

Any updates on the Nuvi, and its use of TOPO maps?

Can it use an external antenna? These usually improve lock-on time, and general accuracy.

I took a drive up towards Mt Rainier about a week ago. The side roads (FS roads) didn't appear with the built in maps. I've asked my favorite Santa for the additional maps that are available from Garmin. If/when those arrive, I'll load up the additional maps and take another drive.

As best I can tell, there's no need for an external antenna. My research indicated that the chipset in this unit is particular sensitive. As a test, I put the GPS in my class C motorhome and fired it up. It was ready to go in amazingly short order - under a minute after power up. The signal strength meter has 5 bars; it showed 4. This was while parked right in front of the house, which undoubtedly blocked some satellites in the eastern horizon. I haven't driven in the motorhome with the unit, but I've seen many positive reports in the RV forums.

I'll be giving the unit a more thorough work out over the holidays. I'll post again; hopefully I'll have the maps by then.....

Grimmwit

[Photog]

If you get the TOPO maps and install a few, let us know if the roads and elevation lines both show up.

Garmin Street Pilot units have a problem with this.

[EnjoyDaRideTRD]

Costco is having up to $150 off their suggested retail price.
For a Nuvi 250, I found it online for $299, and the better model Nuvi 650 is also for $299.
I am considering the TomTom 720 for $349, but not this time yet. I have a Garmin Extex Vista handheld and that should help me out until the models now go lower in prices. Good luck in your search.

[RidgeRunner]

Here is another thread with some more GPS ideas over at 4wdtrips.net.

Mick

[Photog]

Any updates on your new Garmin?