Last months PBO handheld GPS test

tjfmmaes

tjfmmaes

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I just bought this months PBO which mentioned that they had a basic handheld GPS test in the previous issue. I am looking to buy one so I would appreciate it if anyone could tell me what the outcome of that test was? I am also interested in any experiences with or advice on good basic handheld GPS'. I charter mainly and always felt it would be nice to have my own piece of kit that I know how to use.
 
I resently bought a Garmin Marine GPS 76, which came out well on the tests. But what Garmin don't tell you is that some of the features don't work outside the USA,
as there is no data source availalbe. When you have your short list check that the features actually work and the data source is availble for the area you need.
 
One thing I can say is that Garmin aftersales support is very good. I broke the display on a Garmin etrex, it was completely my fault and after the warranty had expired. They offered to replace it with a brand new unit for £40. I've heard that they have fixed broken GPS for other people for free even out of warranty.

So I would always go for a Garmin model, personally - they definitely understand how to look after their customers.


Chris
 
Garmin GPS12

Purchased two years ago to take on a flotilla holiday got it for £90 as a rework.

The cable to battery (is essential) and in my case to laptop for download of waypoints cost £27 but was well worth it.

As a backup I have found this GPS to be excellent value for money particularly for nautical use.

Trevor
 
Re-launched my boat 3 years ago, had to sail it round from the south west to the north east coast, looked at varied all singing all dancing G.P.S's, thought about real reason for buying, ie to double check my traditional chart work, 3 years on my £59 Magelan 300 hand held from compass watersports with its neat little bulkhead bracket still does all I ask of it and I might add finds its position quicker than some of the more up to date models owned by sailing friends. Newer models might make a cup of tea whilst singing "Ave maria" for all I know but I bought mine as a safety back up, a job it does admirably to this day. Fair Winds
 
I still use an older Magellan 8 channel job ..... takes ages to lock on if moved from switch off spot, but once up and running - fine and accurate since SA switched off. It must be near 10 year old now !!!
I look at the newer jobs, little bit smaller, 12 channel fast start etc. But I have a nice bracket neatly fitted under the sprayhood .... GPS slips in / out easily. Now that I have hooked up PC to nav with it .... NMEA 0183 .... I am not bothered about the LCD display that fades in the sun after all day working !!! Things probably only worth a fiver in the jumble ...... but it works !!!

Nigel ...
Bilge Keelers get up further ! I only came - cos they said there was FREE Guinness !
 
Got a garmin etrex summit cost around 200 pounds works very well.Is now cannected to my laptop with some 100 pound software to make excellent plotter.

Oooh look its still not dark and its nearly 5pm
 
I have used my Garmin 12 for the past three years. It is reliable, clear and straightforward. It uses batteries as fast as they say. I have rechargeable batteries but will get a 12v link up for the new season.

Will Taylor
 
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