5 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
An amazing piece of technology
Date of Review: Feb 21, 2002
The Bottom Line: Outstanding device! If it had expandable memory, it would be the only GPS unit you'd ever need.
I recently upgraded from a plain-vanilla Etrex because I wanted something that had mapping features. What an amazing device!
This unit is incredibly useful whether you use it for hiking, driving or flying. I've used it for all three activities and it's performed magnificently.
It's small, light and tough as nails. It shakes off weather (it's submersible to three feet of water for 30 minutes), temperature (I used it all day in 105 degree heat), and shock (I've accidently dropped it on to the pavement a couple of times - oops!).
The map that is factory loaded into the unit includes all of the major freeways, the minor highways, and most larger streets. You will never again have to wonder how you're going to get back on to the freeway.
One of the most useful features when when you're using it on a road trip is the freeway exit information. The unit will tell you which freeway exits have gas, food, lodging, rest stops, etc.
But, this is not just generic information. If you want to find an exit that has an Arco station and a Taco Bell, it'll tell ya. An exit with a Shell station and a Days Inn? No problem!
All of this comes pre-loaded into the unit and requires no additional software.
The unit really comes alive however, when you use the Mapsource software (about $120.00). I purchased the Metroguide USA software, but there are other flavors available like topographic maps, and the less-detailed Roads and Recreation CD.
With the serial cable (which is included with the unit) you can upload/download waypoints, maps and a cool array of interesting places.
I load maps for the areas which I'm going to be visiting and I am astounded with the amount of detail even in small residential areas in tiny little towns.
The only gripe with the downloaded maps is that the accuracy suffers when your zoomed in at 200 feet or less. Not a big deal, but you get jaded by the otherwise amazing accuracy.
It has almost every conceivable data display available, and all of the screens can be modified to suit your tastes.
If you're thinking of buying a small, light, multipurpose GPS unit that shines at a multitude of tasks, get one of these! At less than $250.00 you won't be sorry.
