hand held gps

[Moose1am]

I agree that you have to read the manual. But some of the things that I use my gps for everday are not that hard to figure out. Like making a new waypoint. That and zooming the map view in and out.

I have yet to figure out how to use the Routes or how to use the trackback feature. But then again I didn't read the entire manual.

I would highly recommend getting the VCR tapes that explain how to use the unit. The "GPS Outfitters" Video Guide series VCR tapes are pretty good and will show you how to use thing that I didn't even know existed on my unit. But they don't give you info on how important the map datums are. Those things you have to talk to more advanced users to help figure out. So the tapes are ok for showing the general stuff but they don't cover everything.

It's complicated but if can read and really want to learn how to use them it's doable. It will take a bit of effort though. The videos help ease the learning curve but it still pays to read teh manual. Take your time and learn things one step at a time.

Regards,

Moose1am

[fishincreek]

Moose is correct, between the manual, the cd/tape, and the good ol' trial-and-error it is indeed doable. My only gripe was really the surprise at the cost involved in the map-making endevor. It took me about two weeks of everyday involvement to get the hang of it. I'll not have to worry about finding my way back to the dock on my next nighttime striper trip.

[apb]

I use the Garmin 76map that fishincreek mentioned. I believe they have had an update since I got mine. Also got the HotSpots map CD with it. You get to unlock one region, or pay more to unlock another region. The region I picked has portions of KY and TN on it. The unit is pretty easy to use. The maps allow you to track your position on the map. If you zoom in, you can see the contours on the map. I read portions of the manual when I first got it, then went out on the lake and played with it. I recommend getting familar with the unit before you really need it (i.e., you get fogged in). Try it out on a slow fishing day. Easy to set way points and backtrack on a route. As fishincreek mentioned, it can save you from spending a cold night on the lake! I also find it usefull for setting way points on areas that look good during the day so I can find them real easy again at night. The unit also has highway maps preloaded. Usefull for when you travel. Probably other maps that can be added to the unit.

Andrew