SysOnChip vs eTrex Vista

[TheSquare]

Having been in the Lakes for a fornight, I can pass on my comments on these two new acquisitions for anyone's interest.

The SysOnChip and PocketPC (HP iPAQ 2210) are fine for in-car navigation. I get good reception and quick location fixes. As the battery only lasts 3 hours without recharging, an in-car charger is essential for long journeys. I have used TomTom RoutePlanner and Anquet maps successfully. For walking, it is necessary to turn the unit off when not in use to conserve the battery. However, when you turn on the unit for an updated fix, I get a very quick response. The only area I did not get a good response was in heavy tree cover. Reception is much better than the Garmin eTrex Vista which did not get any reception down Little Narrowcove off Scafell Pike!

Being able to see where you are on an OS map is really impressive and is a real advantage over the Vista. I am very impressed by the way the correct map is automatically loaded on the PocketPC.

The SysOnChip is nice and small and easy to use.

The main limitations of the PocketPC and SysOnChip are (1) it is less easy to use out walking, but an Aquapac makes it acceptable, (2) the screen is not very easy to read in bright sunlight, (3) you cannot use other useful GPS functions, the most important of which is to track where you have been.

We see you’re using an ad-blocker. We’re fine with that and won’t stop you visiting the site.
Have you considered making a donation towards website running costs?.
Or you could disable your ad-blocker for this site. We think you’ll find our adverts are not overbearing!