GP what? -or-The GPS guide for the electronically challenged
Written: Feb 24 '00 (Updated Feb 24 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Lightweight, inexpensive
Cons: Not the most accurate GPS out there
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| bonzobean's Full Review: GPS 300 |
I am assuming if you are reading this review, you may not know much about GPS. So, let me give you a brief overview on what GPS is and what it can do for you.
GPS is an acronym for 'Global Positioning System'. It was developed by the United States Department of Defense and aids in determining where you are on the face of this huge planet of ours. You see, these receivers are smart little fellas. They are able to figure out where they are based on the distance from from different satellites in space. When the measurements taken from four satellites are processed, the receiver figures out the dimensions of position, velocity and time. No, I'm not kidding, you could be in Siberia, Timbuktu, or at Uncle Joe's and your GPS can confirm that fact for you.
The Magellan GPS 300 (formerly known as the Pioneer) is the perfect model for the beginner. Although, this version is also used by those with more expertise. This version is just simple, inexpensive, and easy to use. You will not believe the ease in use of this model. If you know anything about map coordinates, you could probably take your system out into the woods and figure everything out yourself. However, you might want to take the time to learn a few of this model's basics first.
Why do I like this model? First of all, it has all the basics. I can find out where I am. I can set landmark points to find my way there and back. You can program your route. All you need to do is enter the latitude and longitude of your landmarks and this system will program the route for you. Along with the route, you can also monitor the direction you are heading as well as your speed. This model is very lightweight and has a carrying case you can clip onto your backpack. The receiver takes two AA batteries. We've had our receiver for two years and haven't replaced the batteries yet. According to the instruction booklet, the receiver will operate continuously for up to 24 hours. To really make use of your new GPS, go invest in a good topographical map of the area you will be in. These maps are usually sold for about $4 a piece. The GPS reports in latitude and longitude coordinates. You can use the basic degree and minutes, or if you really want to pinpoint your area, you can set it for degrees, minutes, and seconds. You can also use Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM), if you happen to have a good military map.
Tips for using your GPS system. First of all, try and set up your receiver in a clearing with little to no overhead obstructions. You want to get a clear signal from those satellites. Your GPS will still work with these obstructions, but it'll just tack on extra time. Uh oh, you say you've fallen in a stream? Not to worry, your Magellan GPS receiver is waterproof. Just dry it off and away you go. Plan on spending roughly two minutes waiting for the satellite feedback. This would be a good time to stop, drink some water, and check out your topographical map. You did bring one, didn't you? And, before you head out into the wilds of North America, why not practice a little. Go out in your front yard, get your coordinates, figure out the coordinates for a buddy's house, punch in those coordinates (you'll need the aid of a map for that one), and then let the system figure out which direction you need to head to get there and how far you are from their house. Of course, to get there, chances are you won't be heading in a straight line (unless, of course, they're across the street), but this certainly demonstrates the ease in using your new Magellan GPS 300
Remember, this system was created for the Department of Defense and when made available to the general public, a few 'errors' were intentionally introduced. Not knowing you personally, the government felt it might be best if you were not able to use your receiver to aid in launching missiles at your least favorite politician. Don't worry, the receiver will report in your coordinates with up to a 100 meter error range. As long as you have a good topographical map, you'll have no problem pinpointing your location. If you really feel you need to pinpoint your location more accurately, you might want to consider spending more. The top of the line models can improve your accuracy to about 15 meters or so. I've used the military models, and they are certainly accurate, but for what we civilians have planned, The Magellan GPS 300 will certainly do the job intended.
All in all, I think our GPS is a nifty gadget. I would definitely recommend using a GPS, if not this particular one, while backpacking and hiking. Anytime there is a chance you could get lost, bring your GPS. Now, I know, I know, you're saying, "not me, nope, I wouldn't get lost." Well, just keep in mind, if a freak snowstorm sets in and you can't see your way, your Magellan GPS could very well save your oh-so-frozen behind.
Recommended:
Yes
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bonzobean
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Location: West Coast
Reviews written: 134
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I think the mistake many of us make is thinking the-state-appointed shrink is our friend.
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