alto-pete

I have been using TomTom3 and Memory-Map software on an X30 with a cable connection to an Etrex summit but I've just ordered a new X51v and was thinking of retiring the Etrex and getting a CF card receiver since this will make a neater solution especially when walking in the rain. I'm wary of compatibility problems and wondered if anyone could advise me on a product which should work well with my software on the X51v. To make things more difficult I recently ordered the TT5 upgrade which several contributors seem to think is not an improvement. I'm not planning to install the upgrade based on what I've read to date!

I've tried to answer the question myself (and am heading towards a Haicom CF card receiver - the HI-303) but there seem to be so many potential pitfalls that it made sense to seek advice before committing!

Thanks in advance

Greymane21

I use a Pharos CF GPS with Memory-Map on the x50v. I have had no issues, but can't speak for the x51v. I have also used a Holux CF and an older Crux II unit on the same PPC with Memory-Map.

dlweston

I would personally go with a bluetooth GPS. I use the DeLorme Bluelogger. Not watertight, but I put it in a sandwitch bag and then put it in the belt holder that comes with it. The battery lasts 8 to 9 hours, but the same battey extender I have for my X50v works on it also to charge it if I need power. I am thinking of upgrading to the BT-338 as the battery last about 17 hours and it is more sensative. I have an AquaPac (found it on memory-map's website)I keep the X50v in when hiking. I got the big AquaPac, so if canoeing, there is enough room in it for the X50v, Bluelogger and the battery extender. I normally leave the GPS on all the time, so it is already locked when I turn the X50v on. For shorter hikes and canoe trips, I also leave the X50v on with the battery extender connected to it. I use it with Memory-Map Navigator and OCN5.

Greymane21

I would have to agree with the Bluetooth comments. It is nice to have everything in one bundle, but it also makes it a bit harder to get a good position for satellite reception AND viewing the screen. Bluetooth units solve this easily.

I absolutely love my Aquapac. Can't beat 'em. They keep the dust and the water out. I use one for my Bluetooth (when I use one) and one for my PPC. Since I can use the PPC through the bag, I don't have to take it out and risk getting it wet.

alto-pete

Thanks to you and dlweston for your helpful advice. It sounds like the CF card receivers can be a little fussy, but won't bluetooth drain battery faster. I'm a bit naive on all this but I assume a bluetooth receiver will need its own power but the CF card won't - what are the pros and cons?

I just bought the aquapac so it's good to hear it works!

Peter

Originally Posted by Greymane21

I would have to agree with the Bluetooth comments. It is nice to have everything in one bundle, but it also makes it a bit harder to get a good position for satellite reception AND viewing the screen. Bluetooth units solve this easily. I absolutely love my Aquapac. Can't beat 'em. They keep the dust and the water out. I use one for my Bluetooth (when I use one) and one for my PPC. Since I can use the PPC through the bag, I don't have to take it out and risk getting it wet.

dlweston

All bluetooth GPS units have their own battery. Many have a removable battery, so you can carry a spare if you want. I am not sure if the CF GPS or bluetooth on the X50v/X51v pulls more power. One thing I would look for a bluetooth GPS that has a 5 volt input. The BT-338 does. Go to http://store.yahoo.com/semsons-inc/pdabatexpocp.html and look at the battery extender. They say they do not work on the X50, but it works fine on mine as long as I use NiMh rechargable batteries. I saw it on a thread here on aximsite. The good news is it charges both my BT GPS receiver and my X50v.

I take my X50v with the extended battery installed, BT GPS, battery extender, and a Y cable that will let me charge both units from the extender in my AquaPac normally. Sometimes I will put the BT GPS in a sandwich bag in the case that comes with it and put in on my belt though. I also carry at least one spare set of batteries for the battery extender, a small screwdrive to change the batteries in the extender and my normal X50v battery.

I have never ran out of power yet, but I do not leave the X50v on all the time. I normally leave in the morning and come back in the afternoon, so the longest I have been out is about 14 hours. I also keep the chargers for both the X50v and the GPS in my Van. It is a conversion van, so it has an inverter. I charge them when I get back to camp, so I have a full charge the next morning.

I have been thinking of taking a two or three day canoe trip with my brothers. That might get get me to the point where I run out of power. I have been looking at some solar power chargers to buy when we decide to do that.