GPS recommendations?

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From: shaun_--_ (Original Message) Sent: 11/01/2009 20:01
Hi,
Im looking to buy a GPS (a handheld unit), my Magellan & E-trex cannot be connected to the DSC VHF radio, so it would need to have a data cable. Plus i think it would be nice (& quick) to have charts preloaded on it as a quick back-up reference to paper chart work!.

Anyone got any suggestions...

nswsailor- is your handheld a Garmin 176map? what do you think about it?

cheers
Shaun




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From: Karl010203 Sent: 11/01/2009 23:49
Is DSC actually happening in Australia?

I don't know enough but have heard someone mention before it is a gimmick as it is not really supported - I have no idea though really.

I had the 176 without the map and found it pretty good.

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From: nswsailor Sent: 12/01/2009 01:49
Shaun,

Yes it is the map76, the only reason I have that GPS is that it is the standard GPS for the NSW Rural Fire Service Aviation Section (I'm an Air Observer).

If I were to buy a GPS now, I would ensure that I could load electronic charts as cheaply as possible. That would mean choosing one that could be used on the GPS and your lap top and or home computer. I haven't yet determined which make of chart is the best. Can anyone advise?

Phillip
SEAKA

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From: BCL Sent: 13/01/2009 21:25
Hi Shaun - I have recently bought the Garmin GPSMap 76

It seems good and to have all the features I need; but you will need to purchase the unit ($280ish) - and the Blue Chart map cd (about $230) and if you have a lap top without a serial port - you'll also need a serial/usb converter cable and software ($80-100) - and the mounting bracket for your boat (about $50 i think).

But the unit seems to work well so far and the maps are very handy -

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From: Rob Sent: 14/01/2009 00:46
Hi Guys

I've had the Map76 now for a number of years with the Bluechart CD. The serial-USB converter can be found on eBay for not too much, and the free Shonky maps are very good for non-metro road navigation (cheaper than MetroGuide). I've also used a generic GPS holder (from eBay). The battery life is good - but the 12V cable is worth the money especially if using the light at night. being waterproof is a bonus. I've had trouble in the past with Vista and the Bluechart CD - but it's OK on Windows XP. While there are better models on the market with colour screens etc, the Map76 is great for boat and car. It's paid for itself by not having to repair the boat's log.

Cheers

Rob
Isabella II (Pittwater)

[Shaun]

Thanks for the responses!

While reasearching these GPS units, i stumbled across these little "hockey puck" style gps units, there just a receiver, with no display, so obviously they need to be plugged into a computer or ??.

http://www.gpsoz.com.au/altina_ggm_309.htm

Can they just be plugged into a DSC radio?

As there is a space on my fixed VHF(Lowrance LVR 250) screen for gps lat-long info, if its possible, it would be a major cost saving.

cheers
shaun

[Shaun]

As far as DSC goes..
Just spoke to a local VMR (port macuarie,nsw), & the person i spoke to said they think that they can now receive DSC calls, they received info on it months ago, but hasnt been mentioned since, due in part to less than enthusiastic interest by the public

shaun