DeLorme AF-8085-201 Earthmate PN Series 12 Volt Power Cable Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased a replacement 12V power cable after accidentally melting the one that came with the DeLorme AG-8097-000 Earthmate PN Series Power Kit (completely my fault... don't ask).It works just as well as the original one, which is OK but not great (mainly problems with the GPS and the battery, not this adapter).It could also be used as a secondary charger to be kept in a second vehicle.

Note that this adapter will NOT recharge non-Delorme rechargeable batteries in-unit.You have to get the "CR-V3 LI-ION Approved Battery" from Delorme or in the Power Kit for in-unit recharging.This fact is well-documented and is a popular topic in the Delorme forums.

The recharge rate is extremely slow (again, problem with the GPS and battery).During an all-day geocaching trip with long drive times (about 3 hours total charging time) between multiple stops and long walking times during stops (about 6 hours walking/non-charging time), the charger couldn't keep up and I had to switch to alkaline.

But even if you don't have the "special" battery, this product is still functional.The unit works entirely off of external power while plugged in, so you aren't burning through expensive and landfill-clogging disposables.If want your receiver on while driving between geocaches or on the way to the trailhead, or want to extend battery life on your ATV equipped with a 12V power-point, this product can help.

The main problem I have with this product, though, is that it turns out that I didn't need to buy it.The GPS receiver will charge off the USB Data Transfer cable that came with the unit (strangely, Amazon does not sell this; you have to purchase a replacement or second cable directly from Delorme for $12.95 + $7 shipping).That cable plugged into my Scosche Dual USB Car Charger means I can charge my cell phone and my PN-40 from only one 12V power point.This is a huge bonus in my wife's vehicle where only one power point is reachable from the dash area.

Pros:
- Recharges the "CR-V3 LI-ION Approved Battery" in the GPS unit.
- Extends the life of any battery (even non-rechargeable).

Cons:
- Expensive for what you get.
- Yet another charger to have in your vehicle.A 12V-USB adapter used with a Data cable is better.
- Does not recharge non-Delorme rechargeable batteries (problem with GPS, not this product)

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Product Description:
Power for the road. Simply plug it into a standard lighter jack to power your PN receiver without batteries while on the go

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Magellan SporTrak Water Resistant Hiking GPS Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I use my unit to log traces of my hikes and runs; so good, continuous reception is my most important criterion for judging this unit.
I originally bought a Garmin eTrek GPS unit, but I had to return it. Reception was fine when properly oriented, but the small size and antenna design caused it to lose the satellite signal even under clear skies while I carried it in my hand. I could get good reception only if the unit was held horizontally. This makes it worthless for logging runs and hikes.
The user interface on this Magellan is OK: it's easy to use on the run and somewhat customizable. It's also not too hard to learn to use. But some simple data isn't displayed, like time elapsed since start of trip, or average pace (though average speed is available.)
Map quality is good, and the CD to download detailed maps is included, unlike the Garmin. Also, topographical data of most of the US is preloaded. But this I've been disappointed with, since it seems far less accurate than the USGS maps available in electronic form from National Geographic. Often, a steep uphill appears on the Garmin map as a downhill, while the data loaded into the USGS maps shows the altitude change correctly.
But again, this is all secondary to the good quality reception of the unit in different orientations. Since this is good, it gives good traces of my runs and hikes, and so I'm happy with it.

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Product Description:
A powerful navigation tool, the Magellan SporTrak Topo offers a built-in 108 MB nationwide topographic map database. This 12-channel GPS receiver is also WAAS-enabled for three-meter accuracy--even in difficult environments such as mountains or dense foliage. The SporTrak Topo also include a 16 MB memory for additional map and points of interest downloads from Magellan MapSend CD-ROMs.

Map screen with cursor mode.
Compass screen.
The Magellan SporTrak Topo packs GPS navigation and topographic maps into a single handheld device. View larger. The pocket-size, lightweight, rugged SporTrak Topo is a great choice for hunters, hikers, mountain bikers, freshwater fishermen, off-road enthusiasts, and other outdoor adventurers. The 108 MB built-in topography database--derived from the U.S. Government Digital Elevation Model (DEM)--features contouring and elevation, as well as highways, major roads, waterways, and coastlines. The SporTrak Topo uses WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) and the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay System (EGNOS) to provide excellent GPS accuracy and reliability, tracking up to 12 satellites to locate your position to within three meters.
Nine customizable graphic navigation screens include a map, compass, and speedometer with text readouts of heading, bearing, speed, direction, ETA, and more. Choose from 12 built-in coordinate systems and 76 datums, including latitude/longitude, universal transverse mercator, and military grid reference system. Plus you can store up to 20 routes, 500 waypoints, and 2,000 track points. The save track-to-route feature allows you to convert complicated track files into easy-to-follow routes. You can expand beyond the capacity of the SporTrak and save hundreds of routes by transferring them to a PC using optional Magellan MapSend software. Other great features include the NorthFinder technology, which shows your direction even when you're standing still. You can even monitor the GPS satellites in view and get information about their status.
Magellan has designed the SporTrak for the outdoors. The large, high-contract backlit display is easy to read, day or night, and the rubber-armored, impact-resistant plastic helps protect the internal components during accidental drops. This device is also meets IEC-529 IPX7 waterproof specifications, and it even floats.
What's in the Box
SporTrak Topo GPS receiver, MapSend Topo CD-ROM, PC cable, 2 AA batteries, and user's manual (English/French).

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Delorme Earthmate PN-60 Portable GPS Navigator Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The PN-60 is a much better unit than the PN-40.Battery life is infinitely longer compared to the PN-40 (I had one) this unit will go all day on the Li-ion rechargeable pack.Additionally, the new menu system is far quicker to navigate and the profile view showing elevation is great for hikes.This unit teamed with the new Topo 9 also provides for quicker and simpler map and routing downloads. As far a GPS units this one may not have the biggest screen or smallest size etc...the reason you buy this unit is for the data layering and the Delorme maps- nothing comes close for $29.95 / year.

Check out the Delorme web site for plenty of examples.

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Product Description:
The PN-60 delivers an array of next generation GPS features and capabilites.

Key Features

Intuitive icon-based user interface for easy on-device navigation

Elevation profile cutaway views that pinpoint the user's position

GPX file exchange (waypoints, routes, tracks, and geocaches) to SD card for ease and flexibility in archiving collected GPS data

Latest DeLorme power management system with ambient light sensor for optimal battery life

3.5 GB of user-available Flash memory

Maps
Whatever your preferred activity, you'll never have to settle for just one map. Find your position on up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA 9.0 maps (included). Navigate worry-free with complete U.S. topographic detail, extensive trail coverage, U.S. and Canada streets, roads, and places of interest including campgrounds, boat launch sites, unique natural features, prime hunting and fishing spots.

the PN-60 comes with up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA 9.0 map detail included, both on PN-Series Map DVDs (Mac-compatible) for transfer to the GPS, and in a PC desktop software program.

Outdoor Activities




65K bright-color TFT screen for clarity in any light conditions

The PN-60 supports all popular outdoor activities. Features include a highly-accurate 3-axis electronic compass that works when held in any position, moving on foot or standing still. For traveling in elevation, there is an elevation profile tool that pinpoints your location and a sensitive barometric altimeter for precise elevation readings and the ability to gauge potential weather changes. These elevation features are particularly useful for hikers, climbers, and hunters. The ability to display NOAA nautical charts make the PN-60 a valuable navigator for sea kayaking and coastal sailing.

The PN-60 fully supports paperless geocaching, and offers almanac pages with information on tides, hunting and fishing favorability, and sunrise/sunset and moon phases.

Geocaching
DeLorme has devoted significant resources toward offering a rewarding geocaching experience. In addition to the unique value of available aerial imagery, the PN-60 delivers a wide range of paperless geocaching capabilities.

Individual caches can be downloaded, with all information included, from Geocaching.com. The PN-60 and Topo USA also support imports of high volume Pocket Queries from Geocaching.com, and they allow virtually unlimited cache description character counts, so you'll have all the information you need on the device, including other cachers' log notes.

The optional DeLorme Cache Register download delivers enhanced paperless geocaching functions. Sync your Pocket Query search results directly to the PN-60, and sync your user logs and other cache details to Geocaching.com.

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DeLorme Map Library Subscription Card for Topo USA 8.0 and Earthmate PN Series GPS Navigators Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I ordered the Map Library along with my PN-40 unit. This map library was one of the deal-makers that led to my buying the DeLorme GPSr. I mainly use the aerial images and the 1:24k topo quads.The color images for my area look to have been taken a couple of years ago, while the b&w's look about 6-7 years old. This will vary by geographic area. You can layer the maps in any order, and view hybrids with the Topo 7 data over the aerial (or whichever view you choose).

This annual subscription is just an unbelievable deal. The downloads I've made already would cost hundreds (going on thousands) of dollars if I bought the maps individually.

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Product Description:
The Map LibrarySubscription card provides unlimited downloads for one-year to theDeLorme Map Library using Topo USA 8.0 software (sold separately). This library lets you select U.S.geographic areas of interest and download USGS 7.5-minute topographic quad maps, color satellite maps, and NOAA nautical charts using the NetLink tab of Topo USA. Once downloaded, they're yours to keep. Topo USA software is available separately or included with the DeLorme Earthmate PN-Series GPS. Topo USA contains the blendedDeLorme vector street and topographic maps. The additional map types downloaded from the Map Library are yours to layer on the DeLorme PN GPS, enabling you to switch among map types of your GPS location. It's amazing!

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DeLorme AF-7852-000 Earthmate PN Series RAM Bicycle Mount Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)It aint that hard to figure out without directions. There's only four bolts, two nylok nuts and four plastic molded pieces. I don't know what kind of plastic this material is, but without too much effort I had no problem prying apart the handlebar clamp. But I can see where it might be too tough for some. Believe me, if this clamp got stressed to the point of snapping you would know about it. The handlebar bracket was a sloppy fit, but wrappng a few turns of black electricians tape around the circumferance of the handlebar between it and the clamp took up the slop.No slop after I tightened it. Solid as a rock. Now, my handlebars are only 22 mm diam. close to the brake cable mounts and then it flares up to 25mm in diam. towards the gooseneck. So now you know what to expect. I agree they should offer a larger diameter handlebar clamp and print a diameter spec to go along with it.

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Product Description:
This mount is created specifically for the Earthmate PN series shape, for easy and secure attachment. EZ-On attachment fits multiple handlebar sizes. Low profile, won't obstruct rider's hand movement.

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DeLorme Earthmate PN Series Carrying Case Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Used it sheep hunting in MT.Attaches easily and securely to backback strap - good there.Case is too tight though, hard to get GPS out.Forget about using the battery storage built in - if you do, you can' get the GPS out of the case.I ended up tying a short loop of cord throuh the top loop of the GPS to be able to quickly extract the unit from the case. Other issue with hunting is the large velcro secured flap that covers and stows the GPS.It's LOUD when opening - I'm considering modifying it with a snap-lock buckle.Really, you don't need the velcro strap - the unit fits snug enough not to need it.

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Product Description:
Designed exclusively for the Earthmate PN receivers. Protects receiver, provides easy access

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DeLorme AG-8097-000 Earthmate PN Series Power Kit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I received a new Delorme PN-40 for Christmas (thanks, Santa!) and immediately ordered this travel kit from Amazon.While waiting on the order I used both Energizer "Industrial" alkaline batteries (one set, lasted probably 12+ hours but I didn't time it) Ray-o-vac el-cheapo batteries (lasted about 8 or so hours, again, didn't time it).But I usually use a GPS receiver while geocaching, and I'm very often in a vehicle, on an ATV, or on a bicycle.My truck and the ATV have 12V power points, so why not use them for power?

[Edit: corrected mAh comments]
When I got the kit I immediately installed the batteries, plugged in the 110V charger, and let it sit overnight.The next morning I unplugged it and turned it on, seeing 4 green bars.Unfortunately, this had dropped to 2 yellow bars within 20 minutes, so I start checking things out.That's when I notice that the battery was only rated at 1400mAh, which is on the small side, but still should be adequate.An average rated alkaline battery can have a much higher mAh rating, and high capacity batteries can have well over 2000mAh.So possibly the battery capacity bar is based on the highest capacity battery, so even when fully charged it's slightly over half of maximum.

This was disappointing, and worth a deduct of 2 stars (from the battery life rating), but I could deal with it.I always keep several spare AA batteries to feed my flashlight and headlamp, so I'd just throw a couple extra batteries in the pack if I needed more thanextended outings.

About three days after getting the kit I go on an extended geocaching outing.A little less than 300 miles driving with about 8 miles walking/biking over 26 stops.Maybe 8 hours in-vehicle and 7 hours out.While driving, the receiver was always plugged into a 12V power point.I assumed the battery would last me all day; any amount discharged while walking SHOULD have been recharged while driving to the next destination.Wrong.About 1/2 through the trip, I got a low battery warning while walking (meaning it was down to 1 bar).About 3/4 through the trip, I got a critical battery warning while walking and the receiver shut off.I replaced with a pair of alkalines from my pack and kept walking.Back at the truck I kept it turned off and let it charge to the next stop.I had enough power to last for one geocache, then it shut off again.It turns out that just because it's plugged it, the receiver is running on external power, and the battery type is set to "rechargeable", that doesn't mean the batteries are actually getting charged.They aren't running down, but they aren't filling up either.I had to work a bit to make sure the status said "charging", usually requiring shutting the unit down and re-starting.This is a more serious problem.I would have deducted far more than 1 star from the "convenience" rating, but I feel this is more of a receiver problem than of a battery/charger problem.

Ultimately, though, this is a good purchase and worth the money.It's much cheaper than buying each item individually, and if you use it a lot, it's much cheaper than buying lots of alkalines to throw away.

Pros:
- allows the use of external power while driving, even if using alkaline batteries
- reduces waste having to throw away dead batteries

Cons:
- low capacity battery
- battery sometimes doesn't charge when the receiver is running and plugged into the 12V adapter

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Product Description:
The PN-Series Power Kit provides a complete Lithium-Ion rechargeable power solution for the Earthmate GPS PN-Series device

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