Garmin 010-00658-12 Forerunner 405 with ANT+ Sport Wireless Technology (Green)

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Green Forerunner 405 with USB and ANT+ Sport wireless technology that lets you automatically transfer information back and fourth between the watch and the PC. Innovative patent pending touch bezel interface. Training and motivational features include virtual partner, courses, workouts and goals. Compatible with GSC 10 speeed/cadence bike sensor, monitoring pedaling and wheel speed. Can be used for any type of fitness activity. Includes USB antenna stick, AC adapter, charging clip, owner's manual and quick reference guide.
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Technical Details

- Round 4-Level Gray Fstn, 124 X 95 Pixel Display
- Accurately Tracks Distance, Pace & Calories, & Displays On Easy-To-Read Screen
- Ant+Sport(Tm) Wireless Technology Automatically Transfers Workout Data To & From
- Computer When Device Is Within Range
- Access To Garmin(R) Connect Which Lets User Analyze, Share & Store Workouts
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Customer Buzz
 "First time Garmin watch owner and it works great" 2009-10-05
By NA (Texas)
Being this was my first time I would own a Garmin sport watch, I wasn't sure to either get the 305 or 405 based on some negative reviews of the 405. But I figured there were just enough good reviews, and it being a newer version I decided to take a shot and go with the 404 and I can tell you..so far...it works great! I'm using it to train for a marathon and I've been running with it for the past two weeks. I'm just blown away by all the information it is able to record and then transferring it wirelessly to my laptop and logging into my Garmin Connect account to get the detailed maps of the routes I took and information breakdown of all my runs is awesome. I haven't had trouble locating satelites (takes less than a minute) and I can't say I've had trouble with the bezel acting crazy during my runs. Maybe I don't sweat so much that it gets wet maybe. Not sure. But I've even changed settings during the runs with no issues. But just as the manual tells you, you can lock the bezel after you have your desired settings and display. After that you can touch the bezel all you want and it won't move or change screens. Really not a big deal from my experience. The watch fits fine around my wrists with no irritation or anything. Feels like a normal watch. I think the only thing that I found doesn't record correctly is the elevation. I guess it should work as intended but I don't rely on the elevation data to much. Don't know what else to say about the watch. It's been working great for me. I thought the instructions were pretty clear (such as syncing the watch and laptop) and easy. I'd recommend getting the watch.

Customer Buzz
 "Decent GPS and definite improvement but plenty of issues" 2009-09-29
By NYC Runs (NYC)
I bought this recently after owning the 201 previously. The design on the 405 CX is much better than the rectangular old design but that seems mainly attributable to the decreasing size of technology. I also owned a polar with a footpod recently for comparison and viewed this an upgrade. Overall, my experience has been only OK and echoes a number of comments on here that i didn't see or hear from the running store when i purchased the 405. Had it been a $200 purchase i'd view it as an expensive and heavy watch that sometimes has a useful GPS function but it was ~$400.



Positives:

A little large but not as large as previous devices

Software was relatively straightforward to get installed (but doesn't work reliably - see below)

Finds location faster than prior version but not nearly as fast as others indicate here (i live in NYC so tall buildings can present a problem but it does ok in trails of NJ or other tree covered areas) - i have never had it lock in the '5 seconds' others mention. The best case is 20 seconds and up to a minute or two, which is obviously frustrating since you can't start the timer until it locks



Negatives:

Biggest complaint is that the software worked exactly three times uploading data and has not worked again (despite using multiple computers, turning off surrounding wireless devices, etc)

I emailed customer support, got two responses then no responses after that when i clearly outlined the problem had not been solved

the heartrate monitor is subpar and feels like polar technology from five years ago. the hard plastic definitely will rub you raw if you're not careful.

the bezel is twitchy and i have had problems on longer runs when there is plenty of sweat or rain and i can't get the bezel to recognize the touch.

the menus are hardly intuitive and not designed from a runner's perspective. i wonder who tests this stuff and if they can run around the garmin headquarters but i digress.

the altitude was laughably wrong but since i've only been able to see the elevation changes a couple of times (see software problem above) i can't tell if that was run-specific or a general problem.



As you can tell i'm generally disappointed because i thought i was getting an upgrade but i've gotten a whole new set of issues. unfortunately, i'd still recommend this over the footpod option (notwithstanding the superior heartrate monitor) but if you can hold out you may want to consider waiting for the next version.







Customer Buzz
 "Can't live without it for training!" 2009-09-06
By B. Becker (San Diego, CA USA)
Currently training for a marathon. I guess people have trained before without the use of a GPS watch but why not use the technology if we have it. Watch is great for training. I mainly use the watch for miles/time/and pace. Many other features of this watch that I have yet to use but love how I can log on after a run and see the terrain/calories estimated and map of course. Great watch. I agree with the others to lock the bezel prior to running because the sweat will sometimes cause it to move in the menu. Not a big deal.

Customer Buzz
 "Excellent product" 2009-08-10
By Paul Szczepaniak (Long Island/NY, NY USA)


I am very pleased with not only the fast delivery of the watch but also with its performance.The gps enabled feature has really changed my runnings entire dynamic. While it did get some getting used to with regards to use and online support overall I am still, after a few weeks of use, very happy with the watch. Now a few words of advice: always lock the bezel when going on a run to prohibit sweat or rain from messing with the sensitivity of the bezel and be use software updates with caution and be sure to read how to redtart the watch if the update fails and leaves the watch unactive.

Customer Buzz
 "Superior Running Watch" 2009-08-04
By A. J. DiCaprio (New York, USA)
After recently buying this product and taking it for a few runs, on and off-road, I've had none of the difficulties others have. The bezel is adequate, and as there is really no need to be pushing buttons or scrolling through menus while on a run it is completely functional. The software has worked flawlessly for me and has provided me with a plethora of information, making my written training log nearly obsolete. I can't ever imagine using all of the functions provided by the 405. The GPS usually connects quickly, and I've never lost a signal. The shape of the watch does make it a better fit for those with larger wrists, but you can always just wear it higher up on your arm. You're going for a run, how comfortable do you plan on being? Though this is my first Garmin watch, I am willing to bet most issues others have had are due to user error, as I am not the most tech-savvy person.



My only qualm with this product would be the accuracy of the GPS measurements. I've seen the accuracy on my watch jump to +/- 113 ft., and when on a 10-15 mile run, that can really add up.



Furthermore, because of the setup, it isn't very practical for interval training, but let's be honest, it's easier to just stick with a stopwatch.



Other than this, it's totally worth it for someone who, like me, does a lot of running and a lot of trail running (as the mileage on trails can get dicey). I personally plan to take this watch with me on most of my runs.






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Garmin n¿vi 260W Mexico 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator

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GARMIN Nuvi 260W Mexico 4.3 in Auto Navigator. Garmin International is pleased to announce two new versions of the nuvi 200 and nuvi 260W affordable GPS navigators. These two new nuvis take the existing nuvi 200 and 260W and add mapping coverage for Mexico. The new products will also feature bilingual packaging in Spanish and English or Spanish only. With easy to use touch screen displays, both models can route to addresses, restaurants, hotels and more with turn by turn directions and voice guidance. nuvi 200 will say Turn right in 500 feet, while nuvi 260W will include text to speech which will prompt you to Turn right on Main Street. Both the nuvi 200 and 260W also feature voice guidance in Spanish. Nuvi 200 is the most affordable option, with mapping coverage of the lower 48 states, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Mexico. It offers five million points of interest, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs and attractions. nuvi 260W has broader map coverage it comes preloaded with City Navigator NT road maps for North America and Mexico and six million points of interest. The map data for both units is provided by NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium quality mapping.
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Technical Details

- Auto Navigation System w/Mapping Coverage of Mexico
- Turn by Turn Directions, Voice Guidance and Text to Speech
- 4.3 Inch Touch Screen Display
- Six Million Points of Interest
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Customer Buzz
 "Wonderful Product" 2009-10-07
By Susan J. Beeseck
I bought this GPS for my husband for his birthday, and he loves it. He used to be wary of going on trips to unfamiliar areas. Now we go everywhere. This is the greatest little gadget that I've ever purchased. We save a fortune on gas, because we no longer get lost. It's a great time saver too. I would recommend this product to anyone who likes to travel.

Customer Buzz
 "Never lost again!" 2009-10-07
By Linda Irby (Louisville, GA)
I bought this one to replace my husband's that was stolen. It works great, better than the old one.

Customer Buzz
 "Miles ahead of Magellan" 2009-10-06
By Michael Hayworth (North Canton, Ohio)
I have had a Garmin for almost 2 years. Last November I found a deal for a Magellan on line for $99.00 and bought it for my wife. She promptly gave me the Magellan back and took my Garmin Nuvi 260W. I plead with her to give it back often. Magellan does not stack up. This is a good deal. I paid over 300.00 for my 260W.

Customer Buzz
 "Love my Garmin" 2009-10-06
By Jackie (Los Angeles)
Love the Garmin, wish I had one years ago. Prices have dropped, good time to buy. It's a must have. So easy to use, take it out of the box and go! I bought this one, which is the previous model and is cheaper than the current one and it's great, no complaints. HIghly recommend.

Customer Buzz
 "Awesome device" 2009-10-04
By M. Hugghins (Houston)
Quick, easy to learn. Very reliable. User friendly. We are currently using it on a month long driving trip. Adds security.

Gives you warnings in time to get into the right lane for turns. Makes navigating cities much easier.Love it!Best purchase ever!


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Garmin Suction Cup Mount with 12-Volt Adapter for Nuvi 350 and 360 (010-10935-00)

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Suction Cup Mount w/ 12V Adapter


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Technical Details

- GARMIN SUCTION CUP MOUNT WITH 12V ADAPTER NUVI 350 360
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Customer Buzz
 "Great replacement." 2009-08-23
By Anthony Poe (Dayton, OH)
I got this to replace the original suction cup that had worn out. It works great.

Customer Buzz
 "Got defect one. I needed to replace it. Beside it's good set." 2009-07-12
By C. Panichvatana (King of Pussia, PA USA)
Got defect one. I needed to replace it. Beside it's good set(original from Garmin).

Amazon's replacement system is quick and easy (if you have printer).

Customer Buzz
 "Made Right and A Good Value" 2009-04-26
By Patrick L. Mccabe (Memphis, TN USA)
Exactly as advertised and a good product - just be sure you have a place to mount it that is convenient for the driver and not in the way of other buttons, vents, switches, etc. The product is a solid made, well functioning item.

Customer Buzz
 "gets the job done" 2009-03-16
By 13 sundays (baltimore, md)
bought this set to replace my accessories that were stolen. works great, and it came with an extra charger!

Customer Buzz
 "Solidly built, does what was promised" 2009-02-20
By Erik S. Johnson (Yamhill County, OR)
This is a solidly built product that does a fine job of holding the GPS firmly in place while driving. The suction cup has demonstrated its tenacity in holding fast to my windshield -- it does such a nice job that it can be a little tricky to pull off. I'm very pleased with this purchase, as well as my Nuvi 370 (that attaches to this car mount).


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Garmin GPSMap 76S Handheld GPS Navigator

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If you're a devoted mariner or serious outdoor enthusiast, Garmin GPSMAP 76S is the GPS/mapping unit for you. The "S" in the product name stands for "sensors", because the GPSMAP 76S incorporates a GPS receiver, barometric altimeter, and an electronic compass that deliver precise location, elevation, and bearing information to take adventurers as high or as far as they want to go. The unit also contains a basemap of North and South America, including major highways, thoroughfares, rivers, lakes, and borders, with plenty of memory (24 MB) for downloading MapSource data. It's also waterproof and floats in water - and its larger screen, increased readability, bigger buttons, and rugged design make this unit at home in even the harshest conditions.
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Technical Details

- GPS receiver with integrated barometric altimeter and electronic compass for precise location, elevation, and bearing information
- Basemap of North and South America, including major highways, thoroughfares, rivers, lakes, and borders
- 500 waypoints with name and symbol; 50 reversible routs
- Rugged design and large screen for improved readability
- 24 MB memory for downloading data from optional Garmin MapSource CD-ROMs
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Customer Buzz
 "Great Product" 2008-12-16
By Tissy Knight (Collins, MS)
Garmin gpsmap 76s, bought for my husband. He is loving it. Plenty of memory and very easy to use. he even can look up when deer move and when sun amd moon rises and sets. have not used fishing yet, but he is excited about this item.

Customer Buzz
 "get lost and found!" 2008-11-22
By A. Rojas (Henderson, Nevada, USA)
This is a great product that is easy to use. I gave it 4 stars because the the computer plug is not a USB plug, and the more advanced abilities were a bit tricky to figure out. Overall, a great product.

Customer Buzz
 "Poor maps without additional software" 2008-05-05
By James Frick (Traverse CIty, Michigan USA)
Need additional map software for anything but MAIN highways. Lots of software available, but a bit of a disappointment. Replacing an older Garmin, expected better map built in.

Customer Buzz
 "hand held GPS" 2008-01-19
By Faye Sing
I really like the map 76s, but if i Knew the 76CSX was going on sale within a few days I would hav opted for the latter.

Customer Buzz
 "Very good team" 2008-01-01
By Maria De Sousa Coelho
They handed in time, the product came in good condition, met the time promised, Price mint


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Garmin MapSource TOPO! US 24k West Topographic Coverage for Washington, Oregon, California, and Nevada (DVD)

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MapSource TOPO US 24K West DVD
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Technical Details

- Provides interactive viewing of detailed topographic maps
- User can pre-plan their trip from home, using MapSource on the PC, then download waypoints, routes & tracks to their Garmin GPS
- Provides descriptions for topographic contours, trail names, summit elevations, POIs & much more
- Topographic data is comparable to the 1:24,000 scale paper maps provided by the United States Geological Survey
- Compatible with Oregon series, Colorado series, GPSMAP 60CX series, GPSMAP 76CX series, eTrex HCx series, Rino 530HCx, Rino 520HCx, 500 series & Astro
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Customer Buzz
 "mapsource errors." 2009-10-09
By R. Hamilton (Olympia,Wa. USA)
Ive purchased the 60CSX I love the unit but have many complaints about the mapsource that came with my kit. First off the Pacific Crest Trail 2000 that runs from Canada to Mexico which is to hikers like Interstate 5 is to commuters is only listed as "trail". This is unbelievable! Also, in Washington State near Shelton there is a campground known as Brown Creek. It shows this as being in the National Park! It is not! It is in the National Forest.. This is a big deal if you are a hunter! It is illegal to hunt in the Park but not in the Forest. I have found many areas where the Olympic National Park is listed inaccurately.IF there is a better mapping software compatible that is accurate I would love to know about it.

Customer Buzz
 "Wish I switched long ago" 2009-09-20
By Gary B (Vail, Co)
I have been using the Garmin US TOPO series for years. Wish I had switched to the 24K TOPO series long ago.



I am using the product with a Garmin HCx. The biggest advantage is it supports auto routing, which the other Garmin software cannot. This feature alone makes it worth the price. It has settings capability to follow roads, paths, etc. that you need to adjust depending on your planned use. I have used it for hiking, and as a auto GSP.



I also like the ability to quickly change routs. If the calculagted route needs minor modification, you can "drag" the route with the pointer tool to the preferred road/path, and the software recalculated the route.



Other unexpected advatages are the inclusion of MANY busnesses, government, public sites and addresses, all of which can be searched for. I do not know how often these are updated, but I used the feature to find resturants in Oregon on a recent trip. Basically, in the city, it is like having a full blown car GPS mapping software. Yet, when in the field, with the proper defaults set on your computer AND GPS, it will select hiking or biking paths.



The down sides are poor instructions (need to learn it's capability via trial and error).

Routs set up on a computer and transfered to a GPS may not be the same. The reason for the discrepancies is if the routing preferences on the computer and the GPS are not the same, the GSP will recalculate the route.

Customer Buzz
 "Great Topo Map for Garmins" 2009-09-05
By alohabra (CA, USA)
I must say this is a major improvment over the 100K map. I use this in a NUVI 650 and a eTrex Vista HCx. Don't expect trails and such because that is not in this topo. However, streets and navigation is, on units like the NUVI. Even on the Vista, the contours are such that I can use them for "bushwacking" if necessary. I compared this to the free one that a lot of people use and there is no comparision. That one had no streets whatsoever in my area. I would recommend it if you can afford the price. I got an Amazon discount with a coupon. So, in conclusion, much better than the 100K...great map for Garmins..if the price is OK for you.

Customer Buzz
 "This thing is a kick!" 2009-08-21
By Otterman (Seattle, WA USA)
I used this with my Garmin Vista HCx and it works well. If you are deciding between the DVD or the micro SD card that loads into the device, get the DVD. It was well worth it! The DVD lets you look at all of the maps on your computer (Mac for me). You can make routes, tracks, and waypoints and load them into the GPS. Awesome! You do need to buy a blank micro SD card for the GPS though. I got the 2 Gig card for about $7 and loaded topo maps for all of WA, OR, and some of northern CA and I left about 60 Megs open! (This took a few hours!) It is also easier to type in route names on the computer than on my GPS. Another cool feature is the fact that you can right-click your mouse on the map and it will grab the 3-D map and move it around like you are looking at it in your hand. From what I can tell, it does just fine including trails. I did notice one trail so far where half of it was missing. Not sure how many errors there are, but I think there are more things correct than there are incorrect. I am also able to use my GPS to navigate on roads and highways and it will give me turn by turn directions. I mostly use my GPS for hiking and these maps are stellar and are at USGS quality. You can print maps, but I don't think their quality is spectacular. Overall, great product! The only problem I have with Garmin products, in general, is that they have TERRIBLE directions. For example: they don't tell you why you would want to make a route instead of tracks, they just tell you how to make each one. Just use it to figure it out, I guess.

Customer Buzz
 "Must Have for Hikers, Backpackers" 2009-08-20
By Paul Helling (Escondido, CA USA)
Not sure what I can say about TOPO maps, specifically, other than you're going to need them if you spend any time in the back country -- whether you are hiking or backpacking or just bumming around in the woods. The maps are clear and easy to read on my Garmin HCx Legend. They're not cheap, but what can you do? Sure you can look around online for free, compatible, download-able maps from online sources but I found I couldn't always get the coverage I needed from free maps. Simply put, if you're going to be using your GPSr for anything outdoorsy, on the ground, in the western states of Washington Oregon, California or Nevada just suck it up and get these 24K TOPO maps. Not the 50k:1 or 100k:1 ... Get the standard of the realm 24k:1 TOPO maps. Then learn to actually READ a TOPO map if you don't know how.



Garmin provides two, free to download, guides for using a GPSr. One specifically covers using your GPSr in conjunction with a paper TOPO map. These are both good resources and are worth reading; especially if you're unfamiliar with the wealth of information a good TOPO map provides. Get them here:



[...]






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Garmin Lithion Ion Battery for 500 & 550 Portable GPS Navigator

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GARMIN 010-11143-00 Lithium Ion Battery. Every Garmin product is designed to meet the most demanding standard: customers satisfaction. Thats why Garmin equipment is manufactured to give you reliable service for years to come, with intuitive features you can grow into over time all at a price you can afford.
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Technical Details

- Replacement Battery
- Lithium Ion
- Battery Life: Up to 8 Hours Depending On Use
- Compatible Units are Garmin Nuvi 500 and 550 Series
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Customer Buzz
 "If you carry your Nuvi around with you, you will want this battery" 2008-12-09
By Timothy B. Riley (San Antonio, TX USA)
I bought this battery to go with my Nuvi 500. I already own a Nuvi 750 but this battery is one of the reasons that I bought the 500. Unlike most other Nuvi's (and most other automotive GPS receivers) the 500 and the 550 have a user interchangeable battery (the 880 does as well). If you use your GPS primarily in your car this is not a big deal. However, my favorite thing about the Nuvi's is that I can carry them in my pocket as I explore a new city or ever a park or wildlife area. I even have a bicycle mount for it. My 750 only gave me about 3 hours of use before it had to be recharged. Although I am not getting the "up to 8 hours" of power that the manufacturer suggests for the 500 I am getting a solid 5 hours of use with the backlight set at 50%. If I still want more, that's where this battery comes in. A quick switch and I have another 5 hours of GPS guidance. Thank you Garmin for adding this feature to your latest GPS units!



Garmin nüvi 500 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator



Garmin nvi 550 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator


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Garmin eTrex Vista H Handheld GPS Navigator

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The Vista H will include a high sensitivity receiver and will also support USB interface enabling high speed map downloads. An electronic compass and barometric altimeter are also included with the Vista H. The Vista H includes 24 MB of internal memory which will enable free space for downloading new map data. Software will include Geocaching capabilities with a14 hour batter life.
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Technical Details

- High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver in a rugged waterproof case for peak performance in any environment
- Built-in basemap shows lakes, rivers, cities, roads coastlines, marine navigation aids and landmarks
- USB interface for faster map downloads; 24 MB of internal memory offers plenty of room for plenty of room for maps, waypoints, routes and saved tracks
- High-contrast, backlit 2.4-inch LCD display; four-way cursor for smooth, one hand operation
- Includes an electronic compass for continuous bearing information and a barometric altimeter for precise altitude
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Customer Buzz
 "Nice unit, but poor documentation and worthless basemap" 2009-07-17
By Reviewer
Being new to GPS, I was excited to see what all I could do with this thing and how to make it do it. Unfortunately, the instruction manual is very vague. Many of the menu features are not even listed and the functions are not explained. It's basically, "to get to here, press this button". How about some examples? If you already are familiar with GPS, I suppose this would be fine, but it has been countless hours of experimentation to figure out some of the funtions.



Also, the basemap that comes with this is very basic - just major roads. There are also limited maps that you can purchase for this, and in fact I don't think the Garmin site accurately lists all that are available (I would think that the Vista H would support all the maps the Vista supports, but the site says no). Expect to pay $120 for a map disk. I'm thinking the 100K topo map would be the best since it shows detailed streets and items of interest in parks. It's pretty lame as a topo map though from the demo on the Garmin site.

Customer Buzz
 "Solid GPS unit for the price" 2009-05-22
By Michele Mattix (Sedona, AZ)
I bought this GPS unit to prepare for a Garmin GPS class I was asked to teach. I own several GPS units and I am a GPS/GIS professional focussing on training and consulting. I usually restrict my GPS usage to professional grade mapping equipment (Trimble, specifically) but I recently branched off into the world of recreational GPS to expand my training offerings. I've used the eTrex series GPS before and this Vista H unit is another nice addition to the line-up. Let me say that if I were buying an eTrex to use as my sole GPS unit, then I definitely would have opted for the color screen (Vista HC or HCx). The color screen adds a lot more bang for the buck.



Garmin has done a good job with these little units. The Vista is small, light-weight, and quick to respond. The new high-senstivity (that's what the 'H' stands for) receiver locks onto satellites very quickly. The internal compass and altimeter work very well and are easy to calibrate and turn on/off. On the negative side, something I find to be true for all of the eTrex models is that the operating system a bit clumsy to learn and I usually need to spend a good 5 minutes re-orienting myself to it when I use the eTrex in the field. I find that the buttons on the unit are not intuitivey laid out so it is hard to remember which one does what. Once I'm in the flow of using the eTrex, however, I can navigate through the pages/settings fairly easily -- it just requires those first few minutes of reaquainting myself each time. I would definitely recommend a bit of training before you use the unit -- especially if you plan to collect tracks. A common problem that Garmin users have is that their track log shows a long, continuous line on the map that connects -- with a straight line -- your new location to your last one. This can leave a long straight line on your map if, for example, you used the unit in Phoenix on your last hike and are now starting it up in Los Angeles. It's all about managing the track log.



The unit costs under $200 which is a great price. I like that I can collect points and lines (waypoints and tracks) that I can then add to Google Earth (directly) or to ArcGIS. The workflow for adding to ArcGIS is a bit convoluted as the GPS file format has to be converted first and that requires third-party tools. There are many of them out there, it's just a matter of trying them out and finding what works for you.



As a GIS professional, I find the Garmin model of buying base map data unuseful. The eTrex comes with a very basic base map. If you want more detail (topo maps, for example) then you must purchase these from Garmin. The base map you buy is only good for 1 GPS unit. So if you own multiple eTrex, for example, you must purchase the same data multiple times. In the world of GIS, once you acquire data -- such as topo base maps -- then it is yours to use as you want. With Garmin, you are not free to load your own data onto the GPS unit.



For the sake of comparison, I usually use my Trimble Juno SB unit for GPS hiking. This unit costs more (starting at $750) but it offers a professional workflow. This is not something that is important to most hikers, but it can make a world of difference to those using GPS for search and rescue, fire management, etc. The Juno is designed to collect GIS-ready GPS data which means you can collect points, lines, and polygons as well as attributes then export the data directly to shapefiles. Best of all, you can load your own data onto it -- imagery, existing shapefiles, CAD, and other file formats. The unit might cost more initially, but you are free to load whatever data you can acquire onto it and it allows you to quickly bring your GPS data into a GIS without having to manually enter attributes. You get to collect all of your user-defined attributes in the field while logging your GPS positions.



I would definitely recommend this unit as a basic mapping GPS unit though I would suggest spending a bit more to get the color screen. Also, if this is your first foray into GPS, invest in some basic training -- it will save you a lot of frustration and help you get the most out of your GPS unit. You can usually find a half-day Garmin training class by searching around the state parks and community college non-credit programs -- there are also online training courses you can find by doing a Google search.



Happy trails!

www.GeoMattix.com


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Garmin 010-11023-00 Colorado/Oregon Series Bike Mount

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GARMIN 010-11023-00 Bike Mount. Snap your GPS unit into this secure handlebar mount and its ready to ride. Mount fits up to a one inch diameter bar and is perfect for your bike, motorcycle or ATV.
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Technical Details

- Bike Mount
- Fits Up to a One Inch Diameter Bar
- Perfect for Your Bike, Motorcycle or ATV
- For Colorado and Oregon Series Handhelds
- 0.3 Lbs (WxLxH) 4.0" x 4.0" x 4.0"
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Customer Buzz
 "Tenacious hold on my Oregon" 2009-07-15
By Attacken
I attached this to the handlebars of my dual sport motorcycle. The mount is basically held on with zip ties. The ties appear to be of good quality, and I only used two of the four provided. I tugged on them hard with pliers to get them as tight as possible then snipped off the excess. Despite that, I can rotate the mount a bit, but that has turned out to be a good thing because it allows just enough slack to adjust the angle of my Oregon to prevent glare or optimize it for my riding position, but it's still tight enough that it doesn't move from where I set it. However, I can see how the mount would not work well with a bar that wasn't around 1" in diameter. I've driven with my Oregon mounted on the freeway at 75 mph and down bumpy dirt roads with no problems. I always make sure the GPS unit is firmly attached and seated in the mount. Without exercising that care, I can easily see myself failing to engage both grooves on the back of the GPS unit and having the unit drop off on the first bump encountered. I'm guessing that the ties might deteriorate over time, especially if exposed to a lot of sun, so it would probably be wise to inspect them frequently. Very happy with the purchase, which lets me navigate on my motorcycle.

Customer Buzz
 "Pretty good, could be better" 2009-06-18
By N. Carroll (LA, CA)
I used this to attach my Oregon 300 to my mountain bike. That is one thing that should be explained in the description, is that this will work with either the Colorado or the Oregon.

It was very easy to set up and it works pretty well. I would trust it on a trail even though I have not done any really serious trails with it yet. It does feel secure, but with zip-ties you can only get it so tight and it tends to shift slightly. It would be better to have a version that didn't just attach with zip-ties. When I went to REI they had various Garmin mounts for their older GPS units which look more stable. I don't know why they decided to shift to this type for the Colorado and Oregon.

But, that being said, until a better one comes out, I am fairly happy with it.

Customer Buzz
 "Handy little bugger!" 2009-06-08
By Slik (Arctic Alaska)
I bought two of these, with low expectations, for my snowmachine and ATV. I was worried it would easily break in the cold and not hold up well enough on bumpy terrain. To date I've used it only on my snowmachine for several long day trips, and was impressed that it held the GPS unit so securely. At no point was the unit slipping around the handlebars, shaking, or able to easily bump out of the holder. Much cheaper than the Ram mounts, you can't beat the price. The zip ties work well, but I have to get more to move the mount to machines I use for work.

Customer Buzz
 "Garmin Colorado Series Bike mount" 2009-06-02
By Joseph H. Banning (NorthEast)
Received product 2 days earlier than estimated. Mounts easily and as described. Zip ties could be a little stronger but I have a good supply of them.

Customer Buzz
 "Works great" 2009-01-21
By John Bengtson (Central Valley, California)
Works great on my mountain bike. Holds the Oregon securely, doesn't weigh a lot. Tried to use it on a motorcycle as well, but it wouldn't fit because of clearance issues (the Oregon is of course very close to the handlebar with this unit).


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