Money no object - what's the best CF GPS unit for my iPAQ?

[MadMaxMel]

Hi Guys

I am no expert on GPS, in fact although I have had a Garmin eTrek Vista for around 4 years, I've only just started using it in conjuction with my PocketPC (iPAQ H221) with Memory-Map 2004 (OS mapping / street mapping) and TomTom 3.0 (rout planning) via cable.

My question is which is the best CF GPS card to go for.

These things it must have:

- Quick accquisition
- Strong / reliable signal (preumably 12 channel with SiRFXTac?)

These thins are not issues:

- Battery drain (as I have a 3700mAh battery) or it's on mains
- Cost - although I'm not wanting to get a mortgage for it, I am willing to shell out up to £250 for it
- Loss of CF slot - as I have 1GB SD card with TomTom and Memory-Map maps on

Now I know that some of you might say "read the reviews", however, I don't mean to be critical, but the reviews on CF card GPS units are extremely varied in their approach - some give summaries, some give pros/cons, some give conclusions, some give recommendations others give alternatives, and frankly I find the minefield of differing information confusing, so I would much rather take a personal recommendation from you guys that know best and have used units.

Also, do you think it is worth my waiting for TomTom5 to come out bundled with a CF GPS unit and buy that instead of buying an upgrade from TomTom3 to 5 and a seperate CF GPS unit?

Any advise well recieved.

Thanks

MadMaxMel

[Darren]

My first point would be to query why you wish to use CF rather than BT?

There are many reasons why Bluetooth is a far better solution.
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Darren Griffin

[MadMaxMel]

Hi Darren

[Darren]

I had an enquiry regarding much the same intended use recently.

A BT one means you can stuff it in a backpack or pocket and leave it running (good models have 10hr + battery). Then you need only pull your PDA out of your pocket when you need to check a position, bearing etc.

With a CF GPS you'll need to walk with PDA/GPS extended at arms length all the time! If you put it in a pocket and lose fix then when you take it out you'll need to wait for a minute or so before the satellites are reaquired again.

As for size, the best BT units are little larger than two packs of matches.
_________________
Darren Griffin

[MadMaxMel]

Darren

Thanks, that's really helpful :D

What about coverage/signal on a BT unit?

Is it as good as using say my eTrek Vista (possibly even better?)

I can see the advantage of using BT (especially in the car) - can you leave a fixed aerial permanently in place and just hook it up to the BT unit every time you take it into the car?

On the basis of what you have recommended, would you then recommend obtaining TomTom 5 with BT GPS unit?

Again, thanks, and any more advise gratefully received.

MadMaxMel

[Darren]

[MadMaxMel]

Darren

One thing though, if, as I sometimes do, only have my jacket with me (sometimes only a suit jacket), and I am roaming the streets of London on foot (no bag - to place said BT unit in), what then?

I have often envisaged using my PocketPC complete with CF GPS unit and Memory-Map Street Atlas (A-Z London) to find my way to where I need to get... a bit poesy/poncy, but nevertheless, a worthwhile use of technology? - In this scenario, what would you recommend?

GlobalSat BT338 in a pocket (not practical?) or a CF version of the same unit?

Thanks again.

MadMaxMel

[Darren]

[MadMaxMel]

Darren

Thanks, I'm convinced :D

I'll now wait and see what TomTom5 brings, and got from there, but I can now see that BT is the only sensible option (perhaps one perminantly left in the car - descretely hidden - is also an option).

Thanks for all your assistance.

Cheers

MadMaxMel

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