garmin handheld gps reviews

August 27, 2010

Magellan RoadMate 1424-LM 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator with Lifetime Maps

Filed under: Magellan — Tags: , , , , , , — admin @ 1:45 pm

Magellan 1424-LM


Buying a GPS was a daunting task. I was contemplating purchasing one for quite sometime but kept going back and forth on whether its worth it. The main issue was I wrongly assumed that you needed a higher end GPS to get a quality experience, but I would not use it enough to spend the money. If I was going to buy a GPS, I felt it was important enough to spend the bucks on a high end model.

I settled for this one being persuaded on it being a goldbox deal at a decent price and for the lifetime maps. I concluded that I would not use the GPS frequent enough to warrant purchasing a high end GPS model, and the lifetime maps costs between -90 for any company. I did not want my product outdated for months or years to come and did not think I would use the GPS often enough to want to purchase the lifetime maps for other units, so this perfectly satisfied my needs.

Well after using it significantly, the Magellan Roadmate 1424 is awesome.
The Pros:
-VERY QUICK IN TYPING YOUR DESTINATION. Sorry for the caps, but it is just amazingly good at narrowing down and auto-filling your destination. It will literally eliminate thousands of street possibilities, and just narrow down to actual street names within the city for you to choose. IT ONLY TAKES SECONDS to type your destination.
-Acquires signal fast
-The map on the GPS unit has a realistic look that I much prefer over the cartoony Garmin and TomToms.
-Great customer support
-Magellans software is very easy to use. It does all the work for you in fetching and installing updates.
-Product is loud and will tell you outloud the street names accurately. I was surprised on how well the unit was pronouncing some street names.
-After extensive use in a busy city, the GPS unit was very accurate in getting me around.

CON-
The update software for Magellan does not support MACs. Hopefully, they are working on that.

I honestly could not find any major faults. Than again, I am not a GPS enthusiast but am perfectly happy with my purchase. This product proved to me that you don’t always have to spend the money to buy the best.

Good product Low price – David –
This is my second Magellan GPS. The map is very readable in all lighting conditions and the destination is easy to enter. The sound is not as good as the older unit I purchased three years ago, There is a “fuzzy” quality that I find somewhat anoying, and there is a volume inconsistancy in that the direction instruction is louder than the street name confirmation that follows each instruction. I have tryed to adjust the volume but louder or softer the descrepency remains.

Where are the free map “updates”? – CA –
The unit is great, but a big reason I chose this one over other models was that it came with “free updates”. It appears that on the website, firmware is an “update” but maps are an “upgrade”.

for my son – Gary Birdsall –
so far, so good. my son likes it a lot, even though he just started using it. seems very sleek and responsive. seems like good quality. will let you know more in a couple of months


Magellan RoadMate 1424-LM 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator with Lifetime Maps

  • Includes Lifetime Map Updates
  • OneTouch favorites menu provides instant access to your personalized bookmarks of favorite places and searches
  • Large, ultra-slim 4.3-inch color touch screen with maps of the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada
  • AAA TourBook provides ratings and descriptions on AAA approved places to stay, play, dine, and save
  • Spoken street name guidance lets you keep your eyes on the road Text To Speech

Navigate in style with the new, ultra-thin Magellan RoadMate 1424 GPS device with a 4.3-inch wide color touch screen and Lifetime MAPS. Premium features include: QuickSpell with SmartCity search; highway exit POI; spoken street name guidance; AAA TourBook and member Roadside Assistance; plus so many more.
Navigate in style with the new, ultra-thin Magellan RoadMate 1424-LM GPS device with a large 4.3-inch color touch screen. Plus, get the security of knowing that your maps are always the latest available with free, lifetime map updates. Additional premium features include: OneTouch favorites menu, built-in AAA TourBook and Member Roadside Assistance, maps of the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. QuickSpell with SmartCity search, highway exit POI, spoken street names, and more!

With convenient features and lifetime map updates the Magellan RoadMate 1424-LM GPS navigator delivers a powerful navigation experience for everyday drivers.

FEATURES

Exclusive OneTouch Favorites Menu
Easily bookmark favorite destinations and searches with personalized bookmarks so you can find them anywhere you travel. Find your favorite cafe or restaurant in any city with a single touch. Simple navigation with “Your favorites at your fingertips.”

Free Lifetime Map Updates
Receive up to four map updates per year, for the life of the GPS. No extra cost!*

Exclusive AAA TourBook Guide
No membership required… Invaluable to anyone who travels, the AAA TourBook guide information with all 50 states and Canada is built right into your Magellan product. Get ratings and descriptions on AAA approved places to stay, play, dine, and save.

4.3-inch Touch Screen
The large, ultra-slim 4.3-inch color touch screen shows your position on the unit including map route, destination, ETA, Points of Interest (POI), OneTouch favorites, street names, and more–all at a glance. Click to view full-size image.

6 Million Points of Interest (POI)
Easily find whatever service you need. Gas stations, restaurants, hotels, ATMs, and hundreds of other businesses are intuitively categorized and searchable from the built-in POI database.

Highway Exit POI Search
Search for gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and more near upcoming highway exits.

QuickSpell with SmartCity Search
Enter destinations with only a few touches. QuickSpell with SmartCity search helps you quickly enter addresses and narrow location searches, making destination entry easy.

Multi-destination Routing
Plan a trip with multiple stops in the order you want or have the device optimize it for the most efficient route. Easily reorganize, add, or remove destinations.

Spoken Street Names
Hear street names and directions for a clear understanding of when to make the next turn while you keep your eyes on the road.

 
 

Premium Maps
Travel the entire United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada with all the maps you need, pre-loaded on your device.

*Lifetime Maps entitles you to receive up to four (4) map data updates per year, for the life of the GPS receiver or until Magellan no longer receives relevant map data. Visit MagellanGPS.com for complete details.

What’s in the Box
Magellan RoadMate 1424-LM GPS receiver; pre-loaded maps of United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico; windshield mount; adhesive disc for dash mounting; vehicle power adapter; user handbook.

Shop Magellan RoadMate 1424-LM 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator with Lifetime Maps Online, Shop Magellan 1424-LM Online

July 20, 2010

ARKON CM012 Magellan, Nextar, HP, Navigon, Garmin, TomTom Friction Dash Mount

Filed under: Arkon — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 5:30 am

Arkon CM012


This ARKON Brand GPS Holder is excellent. It remains in place on the dash board by its’ non-slip friction base and its just right weight.
It is far better than sticking the GPS to the windshield and constantly removing it. When not in use, simply place the GPS and this Holder on the car floor, or other out-of-sight location, or take it in with you. A great product. It is universal for all GPS’s. You can also buy this ARKON base matched with several GPS brands of suction holders, too. I have not seen a better price for CM012 than here.

Allows the GPS to be placed in high visibility position – Reviewer400 – USA
I have used this about 6 weeks now on several trips. I prefer a dash mount over window for better driving visibility. This works great with my TOM TOM XL 540, no problems at all. I have not tried it yet with any other gps units. I am actually going to order a spare.
The GPS can be easily positioned to face into the vehicle as there is an area where is is not blocked as in most other dash mounts.

Durable and U\seful – Easy to use and works – J. Kurz – Florida
We had the doughnut shaped bean bag friction mat, but our GPS never quite worked well on it. I kept saying “Why doesn’t someone invent one of these for my GPS?” Looks like they did. Fits our Tom Tom One no problem. If your GPS is not quite fitting into your doughnut friction mat, get this one. Sell your other.

works well – W. E. Fought – Gulf Coast Al
This dash mount works very well with my TomTom. I haven’t had a need to use the the stick to the dash loop for holding the mount in place. It does very well with the friction pad on the bottom through turns, stops and starts. I leave the TomTom attached to it all the time and carry the whole thing as a unit. When in the house it sits on a window sill to pick up the signals while connected to my PC.


ARKON CM012 Magellan, Nextar, HP, Navigon, Garmin, TomTom Friction Dash Mount

  • Compatible With All Portable Navigation Device Windshield Suction Pedestals Including Those For Garmin, Magellan & Tomtom
  • Includes Safety Loop Sewn Into The Backside Of Mount & Optional Adhesive Safety Hook That Attaches To Loop On Dash Mount
  • Shape: U-Shape

Arkon Cm012 Universal Weighted Dash Mount With Safety Hook

Shop ARKON CM012 Magellan, Nextar, HP, Navigon, Garmin, TomTom Friction Dash Mount Online, Shop Arkon CM012 Online

June 13, 2010

Gilsson 12V Cigarette Lighter Adapter for Garmin GPS Nuvi 200 250 255 350 660 755 760 785 885 Magellan 1412 4210 4250

Filed under: Gilsson — Tags: , , , , , — admin @ 9:30 am

Gilsson GUSB5V


I’ve had a Garmin Nuvi for about 2 years now and found it unbelievably frustrating that the car adapter wouldn’t POWER the unit. THANK GOODNESS for this Gilsson unit. It powers and charges it simultaneously allowing me to jump in the car and USE my Garmin w/o having to worry about it being pre-charged! FABULOUS. My only ‘ding’ on the product is that the connection is a bit loose but doesn’t fall out so works fine and that the 90degree connector happens to go the opposite way than the way I prefer it – but again, it works fine anyway – so really, no complaints!!!!

Happy Customer!! – Robert L. Gamblain – Florida
I plugged this into my Magellan and started using it. You cant beat it for the price.

Did not work for Nuvi 205 – R. Barton –
Did not work for Nuvi 205. To be fair, 205 was not listed among other Nuvi 200 series in description but I think the power port is the same on all Nuvi 200 models.

Plug In – Mikeal L. Miles –
I think this is constructed better than the original. The tip doesn’t come off. Very satisfied with this purchase.


Gilsson 12V Cigarette Lighter Adapter for Garmin GPS Nuvi 200 250 255 350 660 755 760 785 885 Magellan 1412 4210 4250

  • Powers and charges Motorola Razr, Blackberry, Garmin Nuvi, Mio, Magellan Maestro 3200 3250 4250, Navigon 2100 5100 and TomTom GPS receivers.
  • Cables from other vendors may only charge but NOT power Garmin Nuvi while plugged in. Nuvi’s are wired differently!
  • This cable keeps your device charged while travelling.
  • High Quality Cable – Guaranteed to work with above devices !
  • 6-feet cord with right angle 90 degree connector.

Garmin compatible Nuvi GPS 200 200W 250 250W 260 350 360 370 650 660 670 680 750 760 770 780 GPS receivers, Mio C220 C230 C520 H610 C720T, Magellan 3200 3250 4250, TomTom One OneXL, Go 720 920T 12-30V DC Power Cigarette Lighter Adapter

Shop Gilsson 12V Cigarette Lighter Adapter for Garmin GPS Nuvi 200 250 255 350 660 755 760 785 885 Magellan 1412 4210 4250 Online, Shop Gilsson GUSB5V Online

May 22, 2010

GPS 3.5″ Leather Case for Garmin Nuvi 200 205 250 255 260 265T 270 275T 300 310 350 360 370 Magellan Maestro 3200 3210 3220 3225 3250 RoadMate 1200 1212 TomTom ONE 130 Navigon 2100 5100 -Compatible to Garmin 010-10723-02

Filed under: Gilsson — Tags: , , , , , , , , — admin @ 10:00 pm

Gilsson GL35-2




GPS 3.5″ Leather Case for Garmin Nuvi 200 205 250 255 260 265T 270 275T 300 310 350 360 370 Magellan Maestro 3200 3210 3220 3225 3250 RoadMate 1200 1212 TomTom ONE 130 Navigon 2100 5100 -Compatible to Garmin 010-10723-02

  • Genuine High Quality Garmin Navigon Mio Holux 3.5″ GPS Leather Case
  • Perfect fit for Garmin Garmin Nuvi 200 205 250 255 260 270 300 310 350 360 370, Navigon 2100
  • GPS is secured within the leather case with magnetic strap/button
  • Protects your GPS and Screen from scratches and damages
  • Built in side storage pockets for SD cards and business cards

Premium 3.5″ GPS Leather Case for Garmin Nuvi 200 205 250 255 260 265T 270 275T 300 310 350 360 370, Navigon 2100 with SD card and Business Card Side Storage Pockets. This unique leather case will protect your Garmin Nuvi 3.5″ models, Navigon 2100 5100, Holux 3.5″ GPS Receivers, as well as other selected 3.5″ GPS Receivers. Superior than Garmin 010-10723-02 Leather Case

Shop GPS 3.5″ Leather Case for Garmin Nuvi 200 205 250 255 260 265T 270 275T 300 310 350 360 370 Magellan Maestro 3200 3210 3220 3225 3250 RoadMate 1200 1212 TomTom ONE 130 Navigon 2100 5100 -Compatible to Garmin 010-10723-02 Online, Shop Gilsson GL35-2 Online

April 13, 2010

Gilsson Universal Garmin Magellan TomTom Accessory Bundle Power Charger Adapter Mounting Bracket Travel Carrying Case

Filed under: Gilsson — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , — admin @ 1:45 am

Gilsson GB1




Gilsson Universal Garmin Magellan TomTom Accessory Bundle Power Charger Adapter Mounting Bracket Travel Carrying Case

  • Universal GPS Accessory Bundle

Universal Premium GPS Accessories Bundle includes Deluxe Neoprene Protective Case, Universal Cigarette Lighter Adapter with two adapters, Suction Cup Pedestal, GPS Holder, two Stylus, Anti-Glare Screen Protector and Suction Cup Plate for Dashboard, suitable for selected Garmin, Magellan, TomTom, Navigon, Mio and Sony GPS receivers.

Shop Gilsson Universal Garmin Magellan TomTom Accessory Bundle Power Charger Adapter Mounting Bracket Travel Carrying Case Online, Shop Gilsson GB1 Online

March 12, 2010

Magellan RoadMate 2000 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Filed under: Magellan — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 12:15 am

Magellan 2000


I purchased the Magellan RoadMate 2000, my first and only GPS system, at least 2 years ago and could not ask for a better product. We pull a trailer all around the country 5-6 months a year. As we travel so much I used to have multiple hard copy maps and LapTop map systems to lead us around the country. Within 3 months of getting the Magellan RoadMate 2000 I stored the hard copy maps and have not used them since. In another month I stopped using the LapTop systems (which are also GPS); it is now a backup for the just in case we get really lost; have not used it for over a year.

Now I just plug the address of our next destination into the Magellan RoadMate 2000 and off we go, no maps are ever opened. We’ve driven over 30,000 miles and only on one occasion did it let us down; it had an address 1 block east of where it actually was – this had us screwed up for a while. Our backup LapTop system didn’t help us out in this case.

We don’t use point of interests we just drive point A to point B.

I’ve gotten so lazy that I don’t even pay attention when traveling around new areas as I know the RoadMate will always lead us back to our trailer no matter where we are in the US.

Every time we enter a new area I am amazed that the RoadMate does such a great job.

Good GPS but useless with no power – Techno Geek Guru – USA
Last year I decided to but my wife a GPS for her car. This isn’t my first GPS. I already have an automotive one in my car, multiple hand held units along with older units datting back to 1992. I also use one on a daily basis Geocaching.
About the GPS:
Pros: Touch screen and easy to use with clear instructions.
Cons: It’s size is a little larger then most of todays units. The cradle isn’t very solid. The battery in the unit went down hill from day 1. Only 6 months after installation and very little use the power connection inside the unit just died. The GPS was treated very well and it just died. It now sits all by itself on the shelf waiting for me to repair it or thrown into the electronics recycle pile. I would not purchase one of these units due to the power and battery issue.

magellan – roger mehrtens – COLUMBIA, IL, US
the magellan roadmate is easy to use. only complaint is that it needs a updated map.magellan charges you for a update map.

as advertised – Leonard Orlandini – CHICAGO, IL United States
very good for the price, no frills does exactly what it is supposed to dom nice large screen and clear voice directions


Magellan RoadMate 2000 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator

  • Advanced vehicle navigation system gives you one-touch access to detailed information about a destination
  • Simple touch-screen menus and 40 built-in, interactive maps of the contiguous United States let you select virtually any destination
  • Features a 3.5-inch color touch screen display for easy access to navigational information
  • Nearly 1.3 million pre-programmed points of interest enable you to quickly find gas stations, airports, hotels and much more
  • Measures 4.28 x 3.15 x 1.12 inches (W x H x D); weighs 2.0 pounds

The Magellan RoadMate 2000 makes it easier than ever to get where you need to go. Simple touch-screen menus and a built-in interactive map of the contiguous U.S. makes it easy to select virtually any destination and get voice and visual turn-by-turn directions as you drive.Use the touch screen to enter an address or select a point of interest and get an instant route using the shortest time, shortest distance, most freeways or least freeways. Nearly 1.3 million pre-programmed points of interest enable you to quickly find gas stations, airports, hotels, restaurants and much more.Points of interest icons appear on the map. Touch an icon to get detailed information about a destination, including phone number when available. Save your own personal points of interest to quickly navigate to frequent destinations.A complete set of advanced features include SmartDetour to route you around sudden slow freeway traffic, multi-destination routing, QuickSpell to quickly enter your destination, and 3D ‘bird’s-eye’ view to clearly see your surroundings. Plus, the built-in battery gives you continuous use for up to 3 hours.The Magellan RoadMate 2000 is advanced vehicle navigation that is pocket-sized and remarkably affordable.
Small, powerful and affordable, with a SIRF StarIII chipset for quick GPS signal acquisition, the Magellan RoadMate 2000 makes it easier than ever to get where you need to go. Simple touch-screen menus and 40 built-in, interactive maps of the contiguous United States let you select virtually any destination and enjoy voice and visual turn-by-turn directions as you drive.


A fully-featured vehicle navigation system with built-in maps, a SirfstarIII chipset, and nearly 1.3 million pre-programmed points of interest.
See unit in detail or see a product demonstration (requires Flash).

Detailed information is displayed for all trips.

A turn-by-turn voice and visual guidance system allows you to get to your location quickly and safely.

This advanced vehicle navigation system features a 3.5-inch color touch screen display that you can use to enter an address or select a point of interest. You’ll instantly receive the best route using the shortest time, shortest distance, most freeways or least freeways– it’s all up to you. And nearly 1.3 million pre-programmed points of interest enable you to quickly find gas stations, airports, hotels, restaurants and much more.

Convenient and easy to use, the RoadMate 2000 gives you one-touch access to detailed information about a destination, including phone numbers when available. Simply touch the icon on the screen, and you’re ready to go. You can also save your own personal points of interest to quickly navigate to frequent destinations. When time is of the essence, take advantage of some of the RoadMate’s advanced features, including helpful technology that routes you around sudden slow freeway traffic, a multi-destination routing option, QuickSpell software to quickly enter your destination, and a 3D “bird’s-eye” view to clearly see your surroundings. You can even select up to 20 destinations in advance to plan out where you need to go.

Great picture quality is a guarantee, thanks to the integrated ambient light sensor, which adjusts color and contrast for easy night viewing. In case of an emergency, you’ll never have to worry about being stranded; just one touch displays your exact location so you can quickly advise roadside assistance or emergency services.

The RoadMate 2000 also comes with a high-impact plastic case that protects against marks and scratches while the built-in battery delivers continuous use for up to three hours. Easy to transfer between several different vehicles, with 4 GB capacity and optional SD card expansion, this system is ideal for business and personal travel.


Shop Magellan RoadMate 2000 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator Online, Shop Magellan 2000 Online

March 10, 2010

Magellan GPS Companion for the Palm m500

Filed under: Magellan — Tags: , — admin @ 11:45 pm

Magellan 980621-01


We used to this find the property line on a large wooded lot. It worked well, and got us within a few feet either side of the actual line, making it possible for us to mark and doze the fence line.

Hardware was quick and easy to use. However, as others said the software needs a little studying to understand. But once you understand it you can download coordinates to overlay onto a map on your computer.

All-in-all I’d recommend this item.

first impressions – Simone Bernardelli – Norristown, PA United States
I compare my experience with the one of my co-worker with a Pharos PK012 Pocket GPS Navigator Kit for iPAQ.

The Pharos seems to be faster with the position update. The Pharos cannot work with batteries and comes with a cigarette lighter adapter. If you want to use your GPS outdoors or on a motorcycle the Magellan for Palm will have a little advantage. Otherwise the Pharos has an advantage.

I agree with many about the software from Rand McNally. I just don’t like it. Even comparing it with the “no brand name” Ostia software, included with the Pharos, the Rand McNally immediately looks slower, harder to use and with way less features.
With Ostia you can invert the route, select origin and destination from your contacts, recalculate a route on the fly!
With the Rand McNally you have to prepare the route from your PC. The Ostia had a better way to display map and directions at the same time too (different ways to split the screen). Maps looks more readable on the Ostia.

I noticed that using the Rand McNally software and relative maps from the internal memory produced better results than software and maps on SD card. I will pretty soon try to have software on internal memory and maps on SD card.
My SD card is a Lexar 256Mb: does anybody know if maps will perform better on an original Palm SD card?

I also did the mistake of syncing and opening on the Palm a bigger map of metro Philly and got stuck 10 minutes to wait the high level map to load… and I did not sync any POI (point of interest)!!!!

Palm User – –
The StreetFinder software tends to have a problem when you have a large SD card attached (512MB – Even without map on it!) When you select the changing map option, the StreetFinder goes into la, la land (I only waited 5 min & soft reset). But if you pop out the SD card it will function normal again.

I’ll try a 128MB card with 60x write speed. Probably not going to make much difference. Anyone knows a work around on this?

Really just a toy – K. Traa – Linwood, NJ United States
The GPS device is cool, but the Rand McNally Streetfinder software is junk, really worthless. In the Northeast corridor where you would expect the data to be a little more precise, the software often says you are “off course” even when the position icon shows you exactly on course. And the plotted course route is often not the best route, sometimes it is dowright wacky. Should I mention that I am still waiting (six months later) for my mail-in rebate?


Magellan GPS Companion for the Palm m500

  • Sleek and lightweight design
  • Combines GPS technology and Rand McNally Streetfinder navigation software
  • Provides turn by turn guidance to your destination
  • Graphical GPS displays your speed, heading, distance to destination, and more
  • Compatible with Palm m500

Add the powerful navigation capability of GPS to your Palm m500 with the Magellan GPS Companion. Sleek, lightweight and affordable, the GPS Companion offers the advantages of GPS technology and a new level of confidence, safety and dependability to your business and recreational travels. Whether your are in the urban canyons of the city or deep in the country, attach the lightweight GPS Companion to your Palm m500 series and you’ll always know where you are and where you’re going to within a few meters.The GPS Companion comes complete with advanced navigation software. Download and navigate with detailed, street-level mapping of the entire continental United States. Rand McNally’s award winning StreetFinder Deluxe travel navigation software includes over one million points of interest to easily guide you to gas stations, hotels, restaurants, ATMs, airports, tourism locales, businesses and more. Easily pinpoint your location on the map and let your GPS Companion guide your travels, turn-by-turn. Edit and create your own maps to plot your journey, then HotSync to your handheld and let the adventure begin. Nav Companion software allows you to mark waypoints and save positions and directions for making return trips quickly, safely and easily.

Shop Magellan GPS Companion for the Palm m500 Online, Shop Magellan 980621-01 Online

March 9, 2010

Magellan Triton 300 Handheld Navigation System

Filed under: Magellan — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 11:15 pm

Magellan Magellan Triton 300


First off, I do not own this model. At the time I ordered it, the 300 was backordered, so they sent me a more expensive 400 for no charge. No matter how much a person hates a company’s customer support, you have to admit that’s beyond fair. I’m writing this review for the 300 for a reason…BUY THE 400, NOT THIS ONE!!

There isn’t that much difference in the two. The 400 won’t give you more accuracy, better base-maps, or anything like that. However, the few differences are VERY significant….mainly being that the 400 can use SD Cards….VERY important for replacement high-quality maps. (The other reviewers have told the truth that the included base-map isn’t very good at all.)

Accuracy is right up there with the best of the Garmins. I geocache, a sport in which 1 foot can make a BIG difference. Of course no GPS is accurate to 1 foot, but you can see why I gave that example. And yes, I own Garmins also.

The user interface is pretty decent. It tickles me that some claim to be computer engineers & it took them 3 days to learn how to perform 1 action with this GPS. Well, I’m NOT a computer engineer, nor a rocket scientist, & I had the ENTIRE thing figured out in under 1 day. So maybe it’s just not made for engineers….dunno.

Battery life is decent…not good, not bad. As already stated, the display is hard to see when UNLIGHTED, which tends to happen after a minute or so. With the light ON, it’s about as good as any out there.

I’m not sure why people have had trouble loading maps, connecting to VantagePoint, etc. These things were figured out by me within hours & haven’t failed yet. I even figured out how to take my OWN maps, run them through a 3rd-party program, & import them into the unit….PRESTO, free map upgrades, and decent ones also. But this was very time-consuming when it got down to the really close-up scale maps. So I just searched around, found the best price on the AccuTerra set, & bought them for around -. Haven’t regretted it yet.

The unit isn’t all sherry & giggles however. This unit will NOT sync up wth most of the 3rd-party software which works with Garmins. Magellan hasn’t released their proprietary commo-code yet, which is going to cost them customers soon. Basically, you’ll HAVE to use the free VantagePoint to do any type of adding files, maps, etc. to this unit….other than adding points manually. (Which actually isn’t very hard either, again contrary to what some have said) VantagePoint works well enough, but it does need a serious overhaul. Last I checked, if you have a 64-bit Vista or Win7 OS…you’re pretty much out of luck. 64-bit WinXP & 32-bit Vista is fine however. I think that there are some workarounds for that Vista problem however. That whole issue SHOULD be a NON-event however. Magellan should stay on top of all current OS’s immediately, or release the required code so that 3rd-party programs can do it for them. That’s the biggest boo-boo about this whole Triton line, & it’s a significant one. You also have to remember to have the .Net Framework installed on Windows or VP won’t work at all.

Bottom-line, if you want a GPS which is a skill level zero to operate….the Tritons aren’t for you. If you don’t mind experimenting a bit (which has turned out to be kinda fun for myself), then you’ll get a very decent GPS, which can run ircles around any other one IN THE SAME PRICE-RANGE!! You simply will not find another GPS that offers the same advanced features that these units do, for as cheap of a price.

But that price comes at the cost of a bit of convienience & simplicity of use. So if that’s what you are looking for, then just cough up an extra 75 bucks or so for a comparable Garmin, because in that case, you’ll not be happy with a Triton.

Useless – S. Kajpust – Hancock, MI USA
I got this gps for Christmas 2009, and spent several hours trying to get it working. I’m a computer engineer, so it should be simple, right? Wrong.

The first problem was that the basemap that it came with is useless. Only interstates are on the map, nothing else.

Problem two: it says it is compatible with National Geographic TOPO but when I went to buy the TOPO for the Great Lakes, it said it was not compatible with my device.

The device comes with a cd to install TOPO and comes with a sample map… except that every time I tried to transfer the map to the device the program shut down.

The gps froze and I could only fix it by taking the batteries out.

And the manual? Says NOTHING about how to update the software, add maps, or anything. It’s also annoying that you can only get the manual by pdf.

Oh yeah, the buttons are really hard to push.

Also, there are features that are shown on the gps but not actually available. The manual says they will be available in a later version. So why put them there? And why sell a gps that is not finished?

Several people I know have told me to switch to Garmin, so I’m going to return this and get one of those.

just awful – K. Johnston – Shoshone ID
can’t believe we paid money for this. I got it for my husband for christmas 2007 and it is not worth a penny. we kept it hoping updates would help as time passed, let me tell you that didn’t happen.

Give Magellan Another Chance? – Joseph Murray White – pleasant garden nc
I was trying to upgrade my Magellan Explorist 210 (a discontinued model) with the latest firmware on the website. I wiped out everything on the unit and basically ended up with a brick. I emailed Magellan and asked what could be done. They replied promptly within 12 hours and created a work order for the REPLACEMENT of this obsolete unit with NO WARRANTY.
Here is the amazing part, WITHIN 8 DAYS I had the replacement unit at my door, a Magellan Triton 300 (comparible to the Explorist 210). THE REPLACEMENT WAS FREE!
So far I like the graphics and the ergonomics. For the price this unit promises a lot of value. Battery life is not nearly comparable to my Garmin Etrex Vista Hcx, but that unit costs 3 times more.
By the way, since last year Magellan has greatly improved the performance of the
Triton line with firmware upgrades.
I will see how the map software i ordered from Nat Geo website performs before I give full review.
Has Magellan Customer Service improved? My experience tells me it has.


Magellan Triton 300 Handheld Navigation System

  • Pre-loaded base maps and compatible third-party maps identify major rivers, lakes, cities, and other geographical boundaries
  • 2.2″ (5.59 cm) full-color display delivers vivid imagery in the field.
  • Extremely rugged and waterproof to IPX-7 standards
  • AA batteries provide a readily available power source
  • SiRFstarIII¿ delivers the fastest GPS position acquisition in the industry

The Triton 300 is so easy to use that its user manual may never make it out of the box. It reinvents handheld GPS by combining exclusive compatibility with National Geographic TOPO!® maps, new Magellan VantagePoint¿ content management software, a rugged, waterproof design, and the essential feature set that outdoor enthusiasts need and expect.
Amazon.com Product Description Magellan Triton reinvents handheld GPS. Triton 300 is amazingly easy to use with a smartly designed interface and simple menus that make navigation fun and effortless. The full-color crystal clear display shows all your maps and navigation information in brilliant, easy-to-view graphics. Instantly view all your maps, locations and saved tracks and waypoints using the intuitive scroll pad and direct-access buttons. Unlike other complicated devices that require you to scroll through screen after screen, Triton 300 gets you to the information you want in two or three clicks.

The next-generation handheld GPS for precision outdoor navigation. Click to enlarge.

Simple menus, instant access buttons, intuitive scroll pad and crystal clear graphics let you navigate with ease. Click to enlarge.

See your direction of travel, distance and position of destination, heading, bearing, speed and more on the beautiful graphic compass screen. Click to enlarge.

Ready to guide you on any adventure. Click to enlarge.

Add detailed maps and applications to the available memory and further enhance your navigation experience. Plus, Triton is the first handheld GPS to offer compatibility with National Geographic TOPO! State series and Weekend Explorer 3D maps. These highly detailed nation-wide topographic maps based on USGS 1:24.000 series quads, offer seamless scalability, multi-layer overlays and much more.

Exclusive VantagePoint software enables easy management of maps, user generated content, updates and upgrades on your PC. View saved routes and tracks. Customize them for future trips or create new ones.

Triton is designed for precision navigation, offering the fastest GPS positioning acquisition in the industry with the SiRFstarIII chipset. An integrated high-sensitivity antenna provides reliable signal reception even in heavy cloud cover, canyons or deep woods. Built-in signal augmentation reception (WAAS/EGNOS) provides 3-meter accuracy.

Rugged and waterproof, the Triton 300 is built to withstand intense use, accidental impact and immersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes (IPX-7). It’s ready to guide you on any adventure.

The advanced features are also easy to use. View the elevation profile for the trail ahead (or any route). See the precise time of sunrise/sunset any day of the year. Get a calculation of the best hunting and fishing time. And much more.

Triton is built on the experience of GPS users over nearly 20 years of precision positioning technology from Magellan: the first name in navigation.

Magellan Triton 300 Features

Amazing ease-of-use
Reinventing handheld GPS, simple menus, instant access buttons, intuitive scroll pad and crystal clear graphics let you navigate without the need for a Ph.D.

Full-color 2.2″ display
The large display shows maps, simple menus, navigation screens and other data in brilliant color.

Built-in maps
Basemap of the 48 contiguous United States, Alaska, and Canada (major highways, city centers, bodies of water and more) plus worldwide geographic boundaries.

Access exclusive VantagePoint software
Lets you easily manage user generated content, updates and upgrades on your PC. View saved routes and tracks. Customize them for future trips or create new ones.

Add detailed maps
Upload marine cartography and topographic maps, including the highly-detailed and feature-packed National Geographic TOPO! state series and Weekend Explorer 3D Maps.

Compass screen
See your direction of travel, distance and position of destination, heading, bearing, speed and more on the beautiful graphic compass screen.

3-meter accuracy
SiRFstarIII chipset and integrated multidirectional antennae offer superior GPS accuracy using the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS).

What’s in the Box
Triton 300 GPS receiver, Quick reference guide, manual on CD-ROM

Shop Magellan Triton 300 Handheld Navigation System Online, Shop Magellan Magellan Triton 300 Online

March 5, 2010

Magellan GPS 315

Filed under: Magellan — Tags: — admin @ 8:15 am

Magellan 990437


After nearly getting lost with the family last month I decided to get a GPS unit. It’s 2008 now and there are lots of expensive and high tech units, especially for cars. I thought I’d start with what was considered good enough when people were getting lost back in 1999 – this model. I recommend it for someone who in interested in:
- learning about GPS
- using for casual hiking
- not spending too much
- eventually making this the ‘emergency backup gps’

The thing is that it doesn’t have maps built in to it, which is what we eventually will all get in cheap units in a few years. For hiking this unit can be quite good, because it’s battery use is okay (12+ hours on 2 rchargeable AAs), it actually draws a little map for you as you hike even though it doesn’t have an internal map of your trail or any geography – although it does come with US and world large and medium sized cities. Using the little map, if you got lost you could retrace your steps using its back track feature. Of course it tells you compass coordinates, your speed, your expected time of arrival etc. Lastly it is available on ebay and craigslist and amazon used for the price of a meal. A data/12v cable is available on ebay and amazon for you to hook up to a computer, but that might be overkill for this unit.

Sure I’ll eventually upgrade to a unit that comes with maps, but for now at least if I get lost on a hike I can safely get out. For such little money, everyone who is prepared to take a couple of days to understand how GPS works should have one in his/her backpack. The Model 320 is the same thing but comes programmed with US coastal buoys and navigation aids. One last thing, the manual is so-so; the kind that makes more sense only after you’ve figured it out already. I’d recommend taking on a “Easy GPS” book from your local library written in the late nineties or early 00s.

not bad, but maps are better – gmr2048 – DC
Liked the reception of this vs. the Garmin unit I had previously. But soon learned that maps are the way to go. I upgraded to a Map330 soon after trying the 315.

Does not hold up – Jesse L Robinson – Ocean Springs, MS United States
After about six months of use it started using batteries even though it was turned off. A few months later it quit working completely. I sent it in to be repaired under warranty. They sent me a new one along with a power cable. It worked fine for about four months (it only had a 90 day warranty), before it did the same thing. I turn it on now and the whole screen goes black. It worked very well and I liked the GPS and functioanlity, when it worked. I am now stuck with a non-working GPS and the accessories that I won’t be able to use with the Garmin I plan on buying. Everyone I have talked to told me I should have bought a Garmin as they are the best.

Great device – R. Newberry – Alma, AR United States
This is my first GPS unit and I could not be more pleased. It is simple to use and easy to carry. I have used it to mark Civil War battle sites and to find bench marks. It takes me right to the bench marks. If you are looking for a good unit, the 315 is the one you are looking for.


Magellan GPS 315

  • Powerful 12 parallel-channel receiver and super sensitive quadrifilar antenna for superior tracking in any environment
  • Built-in database displays worldwide cities and user-entered landmarks
  • High-contrast, high-resolution backlit display with 2 levels of brightness
  • Rugged and weatherproof with a rubber grip
  • Upload/download capability for additional points of interest and for use with PC mapping software

GPS 315 12 Parallel channel, hand held receiver with wrist strap and user guide.
Magellan’s GPS 315 doesn’t have a lot of advanced features, but it does provide positional and directional readings accurate enough to help you find your way back to base camp when you’re out in the woods. This portable global positioning system is one of the most compact we’ve ever tested, and it features a crisp display for the pages of information it throws at users.

The GPS 315 is designed more for outdoor use than car navigation and doesn’t display road maps. It does have a database of over 15,000 cities and the capability to accept up to 500 user-defined waypoints, so it still works fairly well for giving you bearings to the next town or point of interest. We used the tracking features extensively, which let us leave a “bread crumb” trail as we traveled. This was especially helpful when we were backtracking along the same route, as we were able to easily compare our current position with the trail on the display.

The display has two levels of backlighting, a feature that drains the unit’s two AA batteries at a frightening rate. However, without the backlight on, we got more than 12 hours of use from the unit.

The GPS 315 uses simple controls that let users page through its numerous data screens. As long as we were moving the compass, the screens worked well; we especially liked the graphical compass that pointed out our current direction of travel and the bearing to a waypoint at the same time. The device can also serve as a full-fledged trip computer, measuring distance, average speed, and providing an estimated time of arrival. Perhaps the best thing about the GPS 315 is that all the data screens are fully customizable, letting users create their own data pages containing only the data they want to see.

Although Magellan doesn’t include a lot of goodies in the box, the GPS 315 has many optional accessories that increase its capabilities. For example, you can get a PC cable to upload topographical and street map data. Without all the extras the GPS 315 is better suited for hikers and boaters than highway travelers, but it’s an accurate and inexpensive way to keep your bearings. –T. Byrl Baker

Pros:

  • Clear, high-resolution screen
  • Customizable data pages
  • Great accuracy
  • Relatively inexpensive

Cons:

  • No road maps or other detailed data included
  • No built-in routing ability

Shop Magellan GPS 315 Online, Shop Magellan 990437 Online

February 24, 2010

Magellan Sportrak

Filed under: Magellan — Tags: , — admin @ 4:00 pm

Magellan




Magellan Sportrak

  • IDEAL ENTRY LEVEL GPS
  • LARGE HIGH-CONTRAST
  • 1 MG MENORY FOR POINT OF INTREST DOWNLOADS
  • LIGHTWEIGHT RUGGED AND WATERPROOF 6.1 OZ
  • ACCURATE TO 3 METERS

SPORTRAK INCLUDES SPORTTRAK GPS RECEIVED SPORTRAK USER MANUAL WRIST STRAP

Shop Magellan Sportrak Online,

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