John_P
08-29-2006, 01:04 PM
Model: Etrex Ventura
Manufacturer: Garmin
Price: $120-150
Purchase location: REI
The Etrex series represents the tried and true entry level GPS unit for Garmin. The inexpensiveness and intended use were the determining factors in making my choice to purchase the unit. My goal was to have something capable of receiving a decent signal, have good aftermarket support in terms of accesories, be PC compatable, easy to use and mobile.
Uses: Jeeping and Hiking.
Signal: The Etrex, and more specifically the Venture model, features Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). This is essentially, from what I understand, and adjustment factor that increases accuracy. From what I can tell, using waypoints I have entered, the unit is fairly accurate. The only problems I have had with a signal, have come in deep canyons, a factor one might consider in deep washes such as Box Canyon.
Aftermarket: In terms of accesories, I have found some nice belt clips and dash holders for the unit. I was also able to find a car charger for the unit failry easily.
Screen: Unlike the higher end models, the Etrex series does NOT feature a uploadable map, but rather a display that can be confusing if you are not familiar with the area. Basically, you have two display options: You can pick and choice from numerical data such as speed, direction, altitiude, GPS coordinates, OR a graphical view which displays "bread crumbs" and way points. Bread crumbs display where you have been, whereas waypoints represent "places" of interest. If you have a map, or idea of where you are, the graphic view is quite helpful.
PC compatable. This was the feature I liked most. With the Venture, i was able to uplaod a significant number of waypoints and pre-established routes. That is, if you have "tracked" a trail, you can download and share it with others. Also, you can enter waypoints, such as mines, water, crossings, trailheads, etc...
Mobile and tough. I have droppped mine several times, and like the ability to take it with me when leaving my vehicle.
I give this unit and overall 4 out of 5. Sure some of the more graphical units are better if you like pictures, but if you just need location, the Etrex is hard to beat for the price. Another factor, is battery life. My etrex has lasted up to 3 days with some considerable use, verifying the accuracy of Garmin's suggested 22 hour battery life (two AA's).
Manufacturer: Garmin
Price: $120-150
Purchase location: REI
The Etrex series represents the tried and true entry level GPS unit for Garmin. The inexpensiveness and intended use were the determining factors in making my choice to purchase the unit. My goal was to have something capable of receiving a decent signal, have good aftermarket support in terms of accesories, be PC compatable, easy to use and mobile.
Uses: Jeeping and Hiking.
Signal: The Etrex, and more specifically the Venture model, features Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). This is essentially, from what I understand, and adjustment factor that increases accuracy. From what I can tell, using waypoints I have entered, the unit is fairly accurate. The only problems I have had with a signal, have come in deep canyons, a factor one might consider in deep washes such as Box Canyon.
Aftermarket: In terms of accesories, I have found some nice belt clips and dash holders for the unit. I was also able to find a car charger for the unit failry easily.
Screen: Unlike the higher end models, the Etrex series does NOT feature a uploadable map, but rather a display that can be confusing if you are not familiar with the area. Basically, you have two display options: You can pick and choice from numerical data such as speed, direction, altitiude, GPS coordinates, OR a graphical view which displays "bread crumbs" and way points. Bread crumbs display where you have been, whereas waypoints represent "places" of interest. If you have a map, or idea of where you are, the graphic view is quite helpful.
PC compatable. This was the feature I liked most. With the Venture, i was able to uplaod a significant number of waypoints and pre-established routes. That is, if you have "tracked" a trail, you can download and share it with others. Also, you can enter waypoints, such as mines, water, crossings, trailheads, etc...
Mobile and tough. I have droppped mine several times, and like the ability to take it with me when leaving my vehicle.
I give this unit and overall 4 out of 5. Sure some of the more graphical units are better if you like pictures, but if you just need location, the Etrex is hard to beat for the price. Another factor, is battery life. My etrex has lasted up to 3 days with some considerable use, verifying the accuracy of Garmin's suggested 22 hour battery life (two AA's).