Hey Ferg.
I use a "road going" GPS to get to the airport, usually when I land away
somewhere and cant remember where I left the aircraft (or sometimes what
aircraft I left). Beer is a wonderful thing isn't it. Now what other
hobby do you suggest?
Incidentally I agree with everything you said. I too subscribe to the
"have to many" theory and always carry at least two units.
Cheers
Alan
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Fergus Kyle
Subject: Re: Europa-List: Handheld GPS recommendations
JR(Bob) Gowing,
I appreciate your caution in sending out the buddy's
suggestions, but have the following to mind:
"It seems unreasoned to me that a person would spend $100,000 on an
aeroplane and, after absorbing a miniscule amount of experience in
electronics would choose the cheapest, cobbled together GPS system they
can
find!"
At the price, get three, use two, save one. My Dad was a
cobbler.
"Your life may depend on your GPS!"
If it does, someone is in the wrong hobby.
" How long does the system take to acquire the satellites after powering
up?"
It may not matter if the second system is running
(independent
power)See the answer to the first question, above.
"Does the system function under heavy cloud?"
Depends on how heavy. I haven't seen any yet.
"How reliable are all of the cables and connections? (There is
significant
vibration in an aeroplane)"
About the same as the battery cable.
"It contains a built-in GPS unit that requires no cables to operate."
Good idea. Watch for new models.
"An external powered antenna is available that has a gain of more than
20dB.
This will receive weak signals even through clouds, or wet leaves on
trees
if you are in to low flying."
True of any system - get two and still save. Give up low
flying.
"The unit can be used in your car to guide you to and from the airport."
Yup, the wrong hobby altogether.
"The Pin runs Windows CE and so will run your cheap GPS software of
which I know nothing, but I urge you to obtain the best software that is
available regardless of cost."
That may still be true of the Pin with PocketFMS. It pays to
investigate before leaping.
I am sure there are other considerations as well but often
the
best move is on the advice of a seasoned and trustworthy fellow flyer.
It's
akin to the "local Knowledge" that mariners depend on .
Cheers, Ferg
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