navman 550 gps fix problems

jamie72 · Occasional Visitor Joined: Aug 12, 2006 Posts: 3

hi there,

i have just purchased a navman 550 and can't get any gps fix when out driving?? any idea's???

thx jamie

mikealder · Posted: Sat Aug 12, 2006 7:20 pm Post subject:

What car are you using the 550 in? and do you know if it fitted with an athermic glass windscreen, these can attenuate the GPS signal to such an extent reception can be difficult if not impossible without the use of an external aerial for the unit - Mike

jamie72 · Occasional Visitor Joined: Aug 12, 2006 Posts: 3

hello mike

yes i think that's the problem, i have a ford focus with a front heated screen. quick question can i update this gps to a sirf111??

thx jamie

mikealder · Posted: Sat Aug 12, 2006 7:33 pm Post subject:

The only way you can "upgrade" to SiRF-III is to change the device, not a practical answer I know.

The Ford Focus has an electrically heated screen, but it isn't Athermic glass - try moving the unit to the centre of the windscreen just above the dashboard and see if that improves the situation, if you have it in the corner the cars "A" post will create a significant blind spot to the GPS unit.

Finally allways make sure you have achieved a GPS signal lock BEFORE driving off, once you are mobile with no lock it can take ages to acquire the satelites - Mike

darrenwright · Posted: Sat Aug 12, 2006 8:33 pm Post subject:

SiRFstarIII Generation 2 GPS receiver is fitted to the ICN530.
Get yourself an external antenna.
You are stationery waiting for a fix?, if your driving while trying to get a fix it can make it harder to get a fix on the sats.

darrenwright · Posted: Sat Aug 12, 2006 8:35 pm Post subject:

ooppps....just noticed your on about the 550....Sorry

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