SPOT GPS

I would be interested to know why you would like these 'extras'

I have had SPOT for a while now - never (knowingly) had any issues with reception - therefore not sure why anyone would need external aerial.

I have used the same set of batteries for almost 2months without any problem - power consumption in the field is pretty low really

Would like to use for motorhome and caravan with metal roof. Like the functions of SPOT and the emergency feature. Would like to put external aerial on the roof and plug into external power supply. Would only take portable a few times and more often than not use fixed. The price for security and safety is good. Needs to be able to be used from inside so no need to go outside to 'see' the sky.

Hi Marty,
I too would be curious to hear your thoughts on why an external power source and aerial would in your opinion be necessary.

I know member Wayne used his every day for about 22 weeks earlier this year on one set of Lithium batteries and it's still going strong! (Wayne leads all sorts of tours and off road adventures)

These two options aren't something I'd ever wished for in my SPOT.

Mate, love to hear your thoughts.

Geoff

Thanks Marty,
We where both replying at the same time!

See your point, in your case the external aerial at least would be essential. I suspect the Lithium battery life span would negate your external power requirements.

Did you know you can get an external aerial that retransmits internally? Poor explanation I know, for more information give Brian at GPSOz a buzz. He uses one in his big tin shed/shop to demonstrate his store stock.

Geoff

That type of aerial is not suitable for caravan or motorhome. Probably the next model will come with extra features. The CFA were interested to track vehicles and wanted external aerial.

Hi Marty,
You are 100% correct, I was on my way out when I answered you before and didn't think it through fully.

The aerial I proposed is as you alluded, receive only. The SPOT doesn't transmit on the GPS network anyway, it uses the data side channel of satellite phones.

The next model SPOT is on their international site right now. I've not looked at what extra features it contains over the original unit, maybe it does contain what you require.

There are other ways of tracking vehicles more suited to a commercial environment than SPOT. Maybe the CFA would find these more suitable.

Geoff

Rod,

Have you received your recall pack yet? Nothing received here so far.

Cheers

Peter

This is what the told me
"Non-USA customers will follow the same procedure as Canadian customers. When we have the units available for shipping we will ship a unit that is already operational to you along with shipping materials for the return of the original unit that you have."
Looks like you get the new one and then return the old one. I believe it will be sometime this month before they start sending them out.
RodN