View Full Version : GPS Talk
OK
How do we want to start using this Nav forum? What kind of topics can we discuss? Are people willing to share data?
Let's start by posting info on the GPS unit you use, what you like/don't like about it, any questions, etc.
I have a Garmin eTrex Vista. I like the form factor, but it does not get the best reception. I am thinking about upgrading to a rino. I really just carry the GPS for emergency use, but would like to hear how others use theirs for navigation, etc.
I also have a Garmin Edge 305 for my mountain bike. It is a pretty cool little unit that mounts on the bars. It holds all kinds of data that can be uploaded into a program that performs some analysis of the trip. It also has a heart rate monitor that syncs with the trip data. I have thought it would be cool to take it sledding and see how my heart rate goes up and down based on altitude gain/loss. I have been looking for a good place to mount it.
What kind of post-trip data can you get from a Rhino? More than just routes and such? Does it save altimeter data?
Have you seen the new Garmin Colorado?
Ben
Hello,
I have a Rino 530 and it works very well. It is loaded with the MapSource topo software and I have mapped all the trails in our riding area as they correspond to the trail map. It is a breeze to find your location.
Our Trail Groomers carry the Rino 530HCx also and have cell phone and emergency radio access to Search and Rescue. We all monitor channel 15 GMRS for emergencies.
The 530HCx model is a much better unit than the 530. Has upgradeable memory and connects to the ski in minutes even in bad conditions. The 5 watt radio and the ability to locate other Rino users works great when you get separated.
PowderXCR
02-05-08, 08:13 PM
I have a Garmin Vista Cx
I have been very happy with the unit. I bought it primarily to record where I had been, to give myself a better feel for proximity. I haven't had any occasion yet to use it for any real navigation, so dont know how realistic this would be.
I use the Mapsource topo to organize and edit my tracks. I particularily like the ease I can look at my track in Google Earth using this software.
I have interest in compiling .gpx files of all the trail systems throughout the state. I would feel better exploring a new area with the basics of the trail system preloaded.
Roger
PowderXCR
02-05-08, 08:16 PM
I am also curious about dylnn's post about groomers monitoring gmrs channel 15. Is this a statewide idea, or just their club? I think this is a good idea, and could be very useful.
Thanks, Roger
i have a rino 530 as well... i love it... i am still learning everything about it since i just got it not too long ago. but being able to see where everyone in my club is, is pretty amazing...
although the one thing that I need is a handle bar mount for it. anyone know where to get one. i ride a 2006 polaris 600HO.
i have a rino 530 as well... i love it... i am still learning everything about it since i just got it not too long ago. but being able to see where everyone in my club is, is pretty amazing...
although the one thing that I need is a handle bar mount for it. anyone know where to get one. i ride a 2006 polaris 600HO.
A bar mount is my issue as well - no place to really mount it.
Ben
Our Groomer "Moon Country" monitors GMRS 15 along with the Sisters Groomer. This is just what they are doing. This is not an organized situation as I know it.
As for the dash mount for the Rino 530 mine fits to the left of the center gauge (where the tach was mounted on the older sleds) This works well however it is hard to read when moving. I will look to see if I can find the model number of the bracket I use. It has two bolts that bolt directly to the plastic on the dash with a small amount of rubber hose for shock and flex.
Rino 530 mounts
http://www.gpscity.ca/gps-mount/garmin/rino-530
http://www.ram-mount.com/gps_mounts/model_garmin_gps_mount.htm
that is a pretty helpful site thank you!!!. some of the guys i ride with have fabbed up a strictly sled mount ... i think they are going to try and produce them and sell them... i will find out this weekend...
I have a GPSmap 60CSx and a Rino 530HCx. GPS-wise, they are basically the same unit. The Rino obviously has the built in FRS/GMRS radio. I am very happy with both. I have the 2008 topo as well as the 2008 City Navigator data. Both are awesome.
What are people's thoughts on the range of the Rino's 5-watt radio? Seems like the advertised 14-mile range is if you're in outer space or something. I get maybe a mile in a typical terrain.
I agree Vince....I am sure they base the 14 mile range on line of site. I still carry the old cell phone as the main emergency stand-by.
However when it comes to finding the location of people in your group you still cant beat the RINO.
I agree Vince....I am sure they base the 14 mile range on line of site. I still carry the old cell phone as the main emergency stand-by.
However when it comes to finding the location of people in your group you still cant beat the RINO.
Has anyone done any tests to estimate the practical range?
Ben
Hi Ben,
Sounds like you and I need to go for a ride and test these RINO's for the 14 mile distance. This is very important and could require some time off work. LOL
Ford428CJ
02-18-08, 06:45 AM
I just bought a 60CSX GPS and love it. Its easy to use! I also have Map-Tech Topo for Oregon and DeLorme Street Atlas USA 2008. I also bought a 2GB Micro SD card for my GPS as well. I'm new to GPS world and have to get some time on it (Snowmobile time that is LOL). I'll keep ya posted, if you like???
I just bought a 60CSX GPS and love it. Its easy to use! I also have Map-Tech Topo for Oregon and DeLorme Street Atlas USA 2008. I also bought a 2GB Micro SD card for my GPS as well. I'm new to GPS world and have to get some time on it (Snowmobile time that is LOL). I'll keep ya posted, if you like???
For sure, let us know how it goes and what you find out.
Ben
Ford428CJ
02-19-08, 09:33 AM
You bet Ben. I plan on riding this Sat for sure. I will let ya know how it all works out!!!!
blubyou
02-22-08, 05:13 AM
I've been using a Rhino 120 for almost three years, It's a good compromise for the price and eliminates the need for a radio and a GPS. It's user friendly and get's easier to use every time I go out. We use it when we go hunting alot.
Always knowing where your heavily armed friends are is a good thing.
I'm defintely interested in any kind of custom mount that someone can offer to add ease of use on a sled. I saw a great accessory at the last OSSA convention in Albany it's a weather proof push to talk button and ear piece just like the secret service use.
I think it was called Fire Fox or something like that, anybody use it or know what I am talking about?
The other item is the range question?
It is a line of sight issue. The range is only limited by the power in the batteries and the objects that are blocking the signal.
I have talked from the top of Brown Mountain to the top of Mount Ashland.
The physical distance is way more than the listed 14 mile range.
I have also not been able to talk with someone who is only a mile away because there were too many trees in the way.
Remember that if you can't hear your friends to go to a high unobstructed point and try to call them again.
The other item is that GPS does not work if you do not have a line of sight to the sky. Get out from under the trees.
Hope this is helpful.
My buddies all got the 530 hcx, I will have one too shortly! The range in bad country went 10 miles but not 20. The signal will pick up quickly in buildings that mine cannot get out of. The compass is much quicker. The car charger seems to be the way to go. Lots of other improvenments but they dont matter to me!
maclac85
03-04-08, 04:57 PM
Been using Garmin 76cs for a few years now, using it on our ATV with Ram mount, found a way to mount on m7 a.c on handle bar, so far works great. I guess just a little added security when we go boondocking. found ourself way out at Paulina, GPS worked well to get us back.
maclac85
I agree Vince....I am sure they base the 14 mile range on line of site. I still carry the old cell phone as the main emergency stand-by.
However when it comes to finding the location of people in your group you still cant beat the RINO.
Has anyone done any tests to estimate the practical range?
Ben
We have put the 530hcx to the test. We have been able to get a 26ish mile line of site and up to 10 non line of site.
however for clear and quality communication you need to be around 14 and 7 miles respectively.
I agree with all the rhino users. one of the best tools for a group/family to keep in touch, find and be safe. If you some how wreck or hurt your self, all you need to do is be able to key the mike and you are found.
Ford428CJ
03-19-08, 07:34 PM
That new 60CSX works AWESOME!!! I have been in heavy snowfall and everything else with it. Works flawless and easy....so easy to use. I would recommend one to anyone that's thinking of buying a GPS. Great unit for sure in all weather conditions.