Handheld GPS advise

Check this one out

Garmin Colorado 300

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Hi Dave
I do not know what you are getting out of a set of batteries, but for my Garmin eTrex Vista HCx and GPSMAP 60CSx, I am getting about the 20 Hour Mark out of a set of batteries. I also have the Garmin Topo Australia Cards added as well gives great coverage - more than happy with both units.

Cheers

Stephen

Magellan should recall all their Tritons, we had 4 for work and something went wrong with EVERY ONE of them! Pity, in my opinion they had a great name unit they released the Triton range. The Meridian series were super.

Go buy a Garmin GPSMap 60cx or similar and upload Shonky Maps onto it. Cant go wrong.

Magellan -> Garmin convert!

Cheers,

Garmin has more map options than the Magellan.

Have a look at the Oregon here http://www.octapc.com.au./prod196.htm excellent service and price. There are a number of models in the series 200 300 400 check out the advice as to differences. I'm getting the 400c (marine maps incl). The touch screen was the selling point and the included maps. Keep in mind that the 550 is due out soon. The only con I've come across on the net is that the screen is fairly dull but this is caused by the v.high resolution i(240 * 400) and the touch screen. Everything is a compromise.

The con with the Colorado and why I wouldn't touch it - is that there has been no software updates from Garmin so there are issues with inaccurate positions and why would you bother with a wheel and buttons when there is a touchscreen albeit a dull one for a small price hike.

Many people will recommend the 76 or 60 series by Garmin because they are a more known quantity and appear to be one of the most accurate units available. I chose the 400c over them though because the included maps and better resolution, and touch screen.

Keep in mind these are not auto voice turn by turn units. You can get city navigator but it will beep at you when there is a turn coming up.

I've just ordered the 400c and if the screen is too dull I'll put up a post in the forum here. The after sales service is crucial and you will find Nicko at Octapc 2nd to none.

Regards,

Sam.

Hi all
Thanks for the advise.Late reply due to using up all GB of net allowance on trying to work this piece of #$%@ out. I forgot to mention that it locks up if you zoom in or out and the batteries have to be removed to reboot.Have packed it back in box and driving from Carwell to Townsville tomorrow to get refund. Garmin replacement to follow.
Kind Regards to all
Dave.

Check GPS forums. Getting lots of reports that with the latest firmware upgrade the Oregon is as now as accurate as the venerable 60.

Just make sure you get one that uses the SiRF III chipset - they are SO much better at picking up satellites when under tree cover.

e.g 60C doesn't - 60CX does.