[NLRS] Rovers & GPS

[Steven H Sawyers (na0ia)]

I also use the Garmin III plus. Only I use it in decimal grid mode most of 
the time to closely watch the grid line.  I like the moving map - lets the 
driver know where he is exactly with out disturbing the operator. We also 
get our GMT log times off the Garmin so we know we are accurate.

Two things I do not like:

The one I have does not let me put the Lat-Long on the same screen with the 
moving map, so we have to switch views to see both. This may be different 
on the newer units. It takes about 4 or 5 page flip button pushes to do it, 
and by the end of the contest, I can do it in my sleep. (and probably am!)

You have to go back to the set up screens to switch between lat-long in 
decimal and in 6 digit grid square modes. It would be nice if you could get 
both on the same screen, but we get pretty goo  at doing the degree level 
lat-long to grids squares in our head - i.e. we tape up the ARRL grid 
square map and it has the lat-long on it, so if the operator is concerned, 
he looks at the Garmin for the decimal read out and a quick glance at the 
map, and he is updated.

We have also had the driver place a 3x5 card with the current grid square 
on it on front of the operator. Really helps late in the contest.

We use a Palm Pilot program to do the decimal to grid square conversions 
and beam pointing duties when we need them.

My need for reading glasses has increased over the years, so I would like a 
bigger screen on both the Garmin and the Palm!!!!

One thought would be to have two GPS units running - one for the operator 
and one for the driver so each could have the info they need. You can some 
time find or borrow an older unit to give you the second one.

Steve


At 05:29 PM 5/20/2003, W0ZQ@aol.com wrote:
>OK rovers, what GPS system(s) are you using ?   Do they provide a six digit
>Maidenhead location ?  What is the cost ?   Do you have recommendations ?
>
>73, Jon
>W0ZQ
>
>
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