$249.95
& this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.
You Save:
$50.00 (17%)
SKU:
CH_35235
In Stock
Availability:Usually ships in 1 business days
Only 1 left in stock, order soon!
Features
A high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options
Comes with three discs containing detailed hybrid 1:100k topographic
Super-high-sensitivity 32-channel Cartesio chipset by STMicroelectronics delivers near-instantaneous signal acquisition
Includes Topo USA 8.0 PC software for planning before you go
One-year warranty
Description
The Earthmate PN-30 is a high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options including up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA topographic maps; color aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-min. topographic quad maps, and NOAA nautical charts.
A high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options. Click to enlarge.
With its 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and DeLorme ConstantLock technology, the PN-30 acquires satellite signals quickly and retains them in the most challenging GPS environments. Map and imagery displays are lightning-quick thanks to a powerful dual-core processor.
The on-board base map includes major highways and thoroughfares worldwide plus secondary and connector roads in the U.S. Detailed U.S.street and topo maps can be selected from the Topo USA software, which is included in the Earthmate PN-30 bundle.
The PN-30 holds up to 1,000 user-defined waypoints, 50 routes, and 10 tracks. All can be easily received from or sent to the Topo USA software. The device displays both road and trail routes automatically generated using Topo USA. Road routes and direct (point-to-point) routes also can be generated on the PN-30.
Available onboard Flash memory totals 500 MB and the PN-30 also supports high-capacity SD cards (SDHC) up to 32 GB. The 65K-color daylight-readable TFT screen provides clarity in any light conditions including direct sunlight. The PN-30 is WAAS-enabled, waterproof to IPX-7 standards, comes in a rugged, impact-resistant rubberized case, and weighs just over five oz.
Dual-core processor for instantaneous map and satellite imagery redraws, even with large aerial imagery files and multiple maps layers
360-degree raster rotation sets the PN-30 apart from other common GPS handhelds. With a 360-degree rotation road, building, and other images really are on your left or right as you look at the map and walk, bike or drive
WAAS-enabled for accuracy within 3 meters
Supports SDHC high-capacity SD cards (up to 32 GB) for fast and direct map transfer from the included maps discs
Serious Maps
Included. Comes with four discs containing detailed hybrid 1:100k topographic and street maps of the entire USA, highways and streets for Canada and major roads for Mexico. You do not need anything else to hike, geocache, or navigate the backcountry. It's all in the box.
Also Included: Sample Certificate. A $40 certificate is included for downloading sample supplementary datasets. Take a "test drive" with any of the supplementary datasets DeLorme offers: high-resolution aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Map, NOAA Nautical Charts, and more.
And for only $29.95. Subscribe to the DeLorme Map Library. Get all the USGS Quads, NOAA nautical charts and high-resolution color aerial imagery to layer with your topo and street maps. No hidden charges.
DeLorme Map Library on Amazon.com.
Serious Tough
The PN-30 is waterproof to the IEC 529 IPX7 standard
Designed to function in high-humidity environments, including consistent humidity levels over 90%, and in the rain
The PN-30 has been rigorously tested to function in high-vibration conditions such as off-road driving
Operating temperature range for the PN-30 is -20 degrees C to degrees C. The PN-30 should function in extreme cold as well as rapidly-changing temperature environments
Serious Value
No one else offers COMPLETE U.S. hybrid, routable Topographic and Street maps WITH your initial purchase
In addition, subscribe to the DeLorme Map Library of downloads for all the USGS 7.5-minute Quads, NOAA nautical charts, and Hi-Resolution Aerial Imagery you want. All downloads are accessed through the NetLink tab of your DeLorme software
Serious Quality, Service & Support
Renowned DeLorme-Quality Maps
Quality Geospatial Engineering
Quality Hardware Engineering
Quality U.S.-Based Customer Service
Quality U.S.-Based Technical Support and Open Online GPS User Forms
What Else Should I Know?
High-Performance Technology Features STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and updated DeLorme firmware for amazing signal acquisition and retention, map scrolling and redraw--even with multiple layers of imagery, topo and street maps.
Multiple Views of the Same GPS Location On-device data layering lets you select which map or imagery type to see of your GPS location. Switch among data types to gain a comprehensive view of where you are--it's revolutionary and provides a whole new level of geographic detail.
Bright Color Screen Works in bright sunlight to total darkness. Sharp brand screen featuring the latest transflective screen technologies to maximize visibility under a variety of lighting conditions.
Rugged and Waterproof Conforms to IPX-7 waterproof standard with impact-resistant rubberized housing for a solid grip. Concealed battery compartment with SD card slot.
Easy Exchange of Maps, Tracks, and Waypoints Exchange routes, tracks and waypoints between the GPS and Topo USA (two-way transfers).
Extensive On-Device Memory 500 MB of available internal flash memory in addition to the pre-loaded world base map. Holds up to ten tracks (10,000 points per track); 1,000 user-defined waypoints; and 50 routes. SD slot also available.
The DeLorme World Base Reference Map
Preloaded on the Earthmate GPS PN series
High-level map includes country borders, highways & major roads
Displays interstates and major highways at scales of 500 miles to 8 miles
Created by DeLorme's professional cartographers
A Comprehensive Selection of Supplemental U.S. Dataset Downloads
Provides users of both Earthmate PN-Series GPS receivers and Topo USA 8.0 software with a full year's worth of unlimited access to the online DeLorme Map Library. Includes unrivaled choices for supplemental maps and imagery. Each adds value by showing specific types of detail.
Map, Imagery and Chart Types Available with the Map Library
USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Maps
Download through the Topo USA NetLink tab--Use your FREE Data Download Dollars
Transfer from Topo USA to your PN-30, as needed
The authentic scanned USGS 7.5-minute paper quad maps
Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features
Wide-ranging USGS quad detail
Geocaching
Hiking in Yellowstone
NOAA Nautical Charts
The complete set of U.S. waterway available, including the Great Lakes, Alaska, and Hawaii
Include numerous aids to navigation, water depths, water body names, hazards, and more
Great for taking along on boating trips, island explorations, and trips ashore
Getting to a fishing spot
Navigating in a Harbor
Following a Route
High-Resolution Color Aerial Imagery
Available for many U.S. States and select U.S. Cities
Detailed, color, aerial imagery
Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features
Locating Geocaches
Navigating a Route on Water
On-the-job usage
Sat-10 Color Satellite Imagery
10-meter colorized satellite imagery for viewing large geographic areas
Provides high-level views of vegetation, topography, and large, visible geologic formations on the Earth's surface
Natural color satellite imagery derived from merging SPOT 10m panchromatic & Landsat 30m multi-spectral scenes
Plotting a course to Beaufort, NC
Search and rescue coordination
New Orleans emergency shelters
B&W Aerial Imagery
Detailed, black & white, aerial imagery
Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
View logging & 4WD roads, bodies of water, and other natural features from above
The Device Setup Page
The Device Setup Page options let you modify the default settings on the Earthmate GPS PN-30 such as the battery type, backlight settings, and more.
System Settings Use to update GPS settings, WAAS status, battery type, and/or USB power setting.
Display Settings Use to update the device's color scheme, backlight intensity, and/or backlight timer.
Connect to Computer Use these settings to change the USB transfer options when sending maps to the PN-30. You can choose to send maps and imagery to the PN-30's internal memory or to an SD card within the SD slot. Please note: waypoints, routes, and tracks can only be sent to the internal memory.
Sound Settings Use to modify the device's button press sound, message sound, power sound, turn alert sound, and/or volume of all sounds.
Time Settings Use to modify the device's time format, time zone, and/or Daylight-Saving Time preferences.
Units Settings Use to modify the primary coordinates, secondary coordinates, the datum, the measures, the bearing.
Page Order Settings Use to change the Page order, add a Page to the Page button sequence, and/or hide a Page.
Owner Information Owner Information can be added to the device.
The Satellite Page
Once you turn on the Earthmate GPS PN-30, the Satellites Page displays. It informs you of your current GPS status, the number of satellites the Earthmate is acquiring data from, the signal strength, and the GPS accuracy (only available when a 2-D or 3-D fix is obtained).
Satellite Constellation and Signal Graph Both the satellite constellation and the satellite signal graph display visible satellites and their number (assigned by the Department of Defense).
GPS Accuracy This screen will display GPS accuracy, in the lower-left corner of the screen, in feet or meters (according to the preference you have set). GPS accuracy is represented on the map by a circle with a radius equal to the GPS accuracy, allowing the user to see a representation of their accuracy in relation to their map scale. The accuracy of the Earthmate GPS PN-30 is 10 meters.
GPS Status Displays No Fix, 2-D, 3-D or 3-D W when WAAS is available. Appears in upper left corner.
Time Displays current GPS Time in upper right corner.
Elevation Elevation appears in the lower right corner based on current sensor settings.
Battery Indicator The battery indicator is a graphic representation of the current available battery power.
To Disable GPS There are many features on the Earthmate GPS PN-30 that do not require a GPS fix. You can turn off the GPS connection using the Disable GPS option in the Satellites menu.
The Map Page
If a 2-D or 3-D fix is obtained, the Map Page displays the map data available for your current GPS location. If a GPS fix cannot be obtained, the location of your last GPS fix displays on the map.
Map Data Earthmate GPS PN-30 comes standard with a base map showing high-level world and mid-level U.S. coverage. The base map cannot be removed from memory.
There are several data types compatible with the Earthmate GPS PN-40:
Topo USA Maps (blended topographic and detailed street-level maps)
USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Maps
High-Resolution Color Aerial Imagery
NOAA Nautical Charts
B&W Aerial Imagery
Sat-10 Color Satellite Imagery
The Compass Page
The Compass Page provides a graphic representation of a traditional floating needle compass. It displays differently depending on if you are navigating (following a route) or tracking. The compass rotates so that the heading is always up. If you are navigating, the compass displays a bearing arrow, which points in the direction of the next stop in the route.
The Trip Info Page
The Trip Info Page contains eight information fields that occupy the entire screen (three information fields display if the Earthmate is in large-text mode). Each field is customizable with one of the many available information field options.
The Find Page
You can use the Find button (the button that displays with a magnifying glass) to search for Waypoints, Points of Interest, Natural Features, Addresses, Coordinates, Streets & Trails, Cities, and more. There are two Find search options:
Find Near Map Center Use the Find Near Map Center search option to search for categories of information (such as geographic features, waypoints, points of interest, etc.) near your current map center. The number of search results returned is based on the amount of search results available (not on distance).
Find By Name Use the Find By Name search option to search for a specific location, such as a specific address, point of interest, etc. To narrow your search results, you can choose either the Contains or Begins with option to search for results that contain or begin with certain character(s).
The Waypoints Page
You can use the Mark button (the button that displays as a push pin) on the Earthmate GPS PN-30 to mark a waypoint at your current GPS location (or at the current cursor position if panning). Once a waypoint has been added, you can customize the waypoint name, coordinates, symbol, and comments. The device will store up to 1000 waypoints in internal memory.
The Routes Page
There are many ways to create routes on the Earthmate GPS PN-30. You can create a route:
From your current GPS location to a waypoint
From your current GPS location to a Find search result
Between two waypoints
Between two Find search results
Between a waypoint and a Find search result
Once you have created a route, view it on the map with the View option. The device will store up to 50 routes in internal memory.
Routing is possible for both walking and in-vehicle situations, using either the direct or road routing settings. On-device routing for road routes should be used for fairly short routes, with longer routes best generated on the desktop in advance and transferred to the GPS. The on-device road routing is fine for cross-town and in-state routes and includes an audible beep warning before each turn, as well as the ability to recalculate routes when you stray off course.
The Tracks Page
Earthmate GPS PN-30 is set to record GPS tracks by default. That means that the device will create a track ("breadcrumb trail") of your travels until you turn recording off. The Tracks Page lets you save, clear, or follow the current track, or view/follow an existing track. The device will store up to 10 track logs (with a 10,000 point limit each) in internal memory.
The Sun-Moon Page
Use the Sun/Moon Page to view the sunrise/sunset and moonrise/moonset information as well as the moon phase information for your current GPS location. The current date and time also display at the top of the screen. Additionally, you can adjust the date and time to view sun-moon information for other times.
The Tide Page
Use the Tide Page to view high and low tide information based on a specific time, date, and tide station.
Drawing & Symbol Sets
DeLorme includes an extensive set of symbols within Topo USA. These include symbols from the DeLorme Atlas & Gazetteer series, survey symbols, cartographic symbols, as well as the ability to create your own custom symbols using the included XSym tool. Complete geocaching symbols included.
PN-20 Draw Symbols
Draw Symbol Categories
Measuring
The on-device measuring tool lets you measure individual legs or cumulative, multiple legs. Measurements can be made on any of the available data types, including the imagery layers, which allow for precise measurements of property boundaries or for measurements between waypoints. Closing a measurement polygon will report the area of the measurement.
Basic Functions
The Earthmate GPS PN-30 is a battery-powered device. It can be powered by one rechargeable Lithium-ion battery or two AA batteries (NiCd, NiMH, alkaline, or lithium). Two AA batteries are included.
On-Off The Power button is located at the bottom-right corner of the button area. To turn on the Earthmate, press and hold the Power button for 1.5 seconds. The Satellites Page is displayed by default. To turn off the Earthmate, press the Power button and then press the ENTER button to confirm you want to turn the Earthmate GPS PN-30 off.
Button Use The buttons on the Earthmate GPS PN-30 provide you with access to all of the functionality on the device. Each button has a unique purpose:
In/Out The IN and OUT button lets you zoom in or zoom out on the map.
Page The PAGE button lets you scroll through all of the enabled "Pages."
Menu The MENU button provides access to a multitude of functionalities. Page Menus are divided into top and bottom sections that are separated by a line. The items in the top section are specific to the Page that is currently active. The items in the bottom section are standard menu options, which are available from any Page.
Find The FIND button is labeled with a magnifying glass and lets you search for a waypoint, address, coordinate, and more. You can search for a location based on its name or its proximity to the current map center.
Mark Waypoint The Mark button is labeled with a push pin and can be used to mark a waypoint at your current GPS location or the cursor location (if panning).
Arrow Keypad You can use the ARROW keypad to:
Move the map cursor left, right, up, or down
Pan the map by moving the cursor on the edge of the map
Highlight options in menus or lists
Highlight characters in the keyboard screen
Enter You can use the ENTER button to:
Select a menu entry or on-screen button/field
Get information about a point on the map
Power Use the Power button to turn the Earthmate on and off, to change the backlight settings, or to reset the device
Transferring Map Data to the Earthmate GPS PN-30
The Earthmate GPS PN-30 comes equipped with an overview-level base map showing world and U.S. coverage. While this provides a great view of a large area, chances are you will want a highly detailed view of topographic and street maps for hiking, geocaching, and other outdoor activities. Those can be transferred to the Earthmate GPS PN-30 directly from the four map data discs (West, Central, East U.S. Regions, Canada & Mexico).
Storing Data on the PN-30
The Earthmate GPS PN-30 stores tracks, routes, waypoints, and the base map data in its internal memory. Maps that are transferred to the Earthmate can be saved in internal memory or on a removable SD card (even high-capacity up to 32 GB) located under the battery compartment.
What's in the Box Green Earthmate GPS PN-30 handheld GPS receiver with pre-loaded worldwide highway and major road base map, DeLorme PN-30 Edition Topo USA 8 software with complete hybrid U.S. topographic and street-level detail, Certificate for $40 worth of sample supplementary data downloads, USB data-transfer cable for PC-GPS data exchanges, 1-GB SD card, convenient neck lanyard, 2 AA Energizer alkaline batteries, Getting Started Guide, Comprehensive owners' manual, Serious Tool Sticker.
Average Customer Review: ( 34 customer reviews )
Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers.
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
34 of 34 found the following review helpful:
Good GPS with lots of features and a STEEP learning curve Oct 26, 2009
By Janizary Was looking at several alternatives for a hiking GPS when I noted Amazon's excellent price on the PN-30 ($199 as of 10/23/09). With the faster dual-processor setup, fixed WAAS bug, and higher sat tracking count, the PN30 is a great little GPS for that price.
Using a SDHC 8GB card I was able to quickly load the supplied base topo maps for NV, AZ, CO, NM, UT, CA, and OR. At first cold turn-on it took about 10min to lock in several sats to get a fix. However, all cold starts since then have taken about 30 seconds to get a 3D fix. Very nice. That was the 'easy' part about setup.
If you want color map overlays, aerial image overlays, etc. you have to use the Topo8 software and the netlink feature. There is a learning curve here and while it is not cliff-like, it is somewhat steep (particularly compared to a Garmin GPS, for example). I was able to get a few different areas of aerial image overlays and color maps for a couple of hikes I was going on, however, the download link failed on the 2nd set of maps and continued to fail. As a prior reviewer stated, you can still get them via email, which ended upworking fine. Still feel like I've only barely wet my feet as it were with the Topo8 software. I'll keep digging (luckily there is a wiki and a support board), but it is like slogging through a swamp getting around in there.
The unit itself has a small but VERY VERY visible screen for daylight use. I can barely see the screen on my friend's Garmin Colorado 400T, but the PN30s screen is super easy to read outside in bright light. Yes, compared to some other units out there the PN30s screen is quite small, but you get a damn good screen for quality and daylight visibility. I'll tell you, it is not fun trying to read my friend's Garmin 400T in bright daylight...there's quite a bit of cursing going on at times! (Don't get me wrong the 400T is very NICE, but that horrid screen just does not work in the daylight)
Interal setup is not particularly user-friendly, but it is doable without the manual if you want to go that way. Pages are straightforward, and layering easy to figure out (though learning what Level of Detail to use in Topo8 BEFORE you download is a good idea since my aerial images are not visible at all until you get down to about 640' scale).
Phsyically, it is a bit 'fat' at the bottom, but tolerable and fits the hand well. I have a few gadget pouches and it does not fit in a normal camera pouch due to the thickness at the bottom (~2.5"). The little metal dots for the USB interface connection are okay, though getting the plug in the first time was struggle. It was tight and I thought I was going to break the unit. I understand the use of the metal dots to keep the unit sealed, however, I wonder about connectivity and conductivity over the life of the unit. I guess we'll find out. Same with the memory card location. To keep the unit water-tight it is located under the back panel, beneath the batteries. Get a big SDHC card so you don't have to swap out the card.
I looked at the PN40, but with nearly all of the same features, the PN30 was the best 'bang for the buck'. I am quite happy with the unit thus far. I'd have rated it a 5 if it was not for the less-than-user-friendly setup and Topo8 software (and really out of date road maps for Vegas!)
27 of 27 found the following review helpful:
Great Little GPS Nov 07, 2009
By D. Davis
"hiker/kayaker"
Just got this Delorme PN-30 about a week ago. I extensively researched handheld GPS units before buying this one. I was leaning towards the Garmin Oregon, but I need to actually see the screen in very bright light...like when I'm kayaking out on the open water...so that unit was out...as well as all their other similar offerings. So despite the reviews about the Delorme PN units being a bit hard to use, I decided to get it.
First off, it is NOT hard to use. Anyone with even the slightest ability on a computer can get this unit up and customized to their liking. The complaints about the non-functional link to their on-line map library must have been heard, because mine worked like a dream. I only had one download not go to completion (using my free $40 worth of maps, satellite and aerial images#...and that could have been my connection to the internet...which is sometimes less than optimal. Everything else went like a dream. You select which sections of the grid you want...for me it was around a lake I like to kayak in and some hiking areas...you ADD those to a list...which you accept and then download. A little menu box pops up with a list of maps you've downloaded and a list of what is on the GPS. You simply click on the map you want to install on the left column...which is what is now on your computer...and click on the destination folder you want on your GPS...either the internal memory or SD card. Then just click button to load it in, and it is done. Large files...like entire states take longer when using a USB connection, so it's best to just pop the SD card into a card reader or slot on your computer to speed things up.
The quality of the maps that come with the unit are superb. And...if that wasn't good enough, you can overlay things like satellite images right over the regular map. So, for instance, when I'm kayaking at my favorite lake, when the GPS is in that geographical area, automatically, it switches to a very detailed and accurate sat map so what I'm kayaking in looks exactly like where I really am. I have noticed with the rise and fall of the lake level...older topos show peninsulas and other features that are no loner there...and are now islands. This is kind of frustrating. Even google earth's image is not correct. But the sat images from Delorme which I got for free, (due to their $40 worth of free images that come with the unit)were right on..and very clear. Any of these additional maps can easily be switched off if you do not want them to automatically come up when you're in the relevant geographical location.
Other nifty features are things like the unit's ability to switch to night-mode automatically, based on when it knows sunset occurs. I was driving out of a labyrinth of roads in a housing development, and the night mode made it very easy to retrace my route out, without messing up my dark adaptation...very nice feature.
So, all in all, I would say Delorme has a real winner with the PN-30. It blows my eXplorist 500 right out of the water! The maps are superb, the ability to customize is amazing, and it is just a solidly built, great little unit. And, it is obvious that Delorme has made its online map downloading feature function correctly and quickly.
15 of 15 found the following review helpful:
Nice unit, but not new Dec 28, 2009
By Chad Dean I purchased this for my daughter for Christmas because my entire family is into geocaching and I have a similar model, the PN-40, that I purchased last year. There is a bit of a learning curve for this device, but it is much nicer in my opinion than some of the other GPS units used for geocaching. I have compared it to several Garmin products, and really like the PN-40 and PN-30 a lot more. One person I know has to carry a Palm for to store cahce information on and his 60-CSX to locate them. The PN-30 stores all that information on one device. While it used to be true that it was easier to load up a Garmin with geocaches from the [...] website or from GSAK, this is no longer the case as the Delorme PN-series are now included in both and load just like the Garmin units do. In addition to that, the PN-30/PN-40 also includes street maps, which the Garmin units do not, unless you pay an additional fee for them. This is nice because it allows me to drive to get close to a cache and then get out and search for it while walking all with one device that has everything you need to do so included with it. I have nothing against Garmin, in fact, I own a Nuvi that I use for trips, it's just that I honestly believe that the PN-30/PN-40 are better and nicer devices for geocaching.
I was a bit surprised and disappointed that the unit my daughter received was clearly a refurbished unit, even though Amazon did not advertise it as such. If it was being sold as a refurb, then it should have been advertised that way. What I eneded up with was paying a new price for a refurbished device, although Amazon did make this right with me by refunding a portion of the cost. The unit appears to work just fine (we haven't thoroughly tested it, but it loaded up maps just fine), but it is scuffed up considerably, especially on the back. The front and screen look fine though.
Overall, I'm not too concerned that it is a refurb though because this will work very well for her. I also know from owning a PN-40 that had some issues with it that Delorme's support is second-to-none and that if there are any issues with it that Delorme will take care if them. It is nice to work with a company that actually cares about it's customers, and Delorme sets the standard that others should try to achieve in customer support. Amazon does as well! I had to send in my PN-40 twice, and on the second time requested a new unit and Delorme did that for me even though they did not have to. Turn-around was quick both times I had to send it in and I have had no trouble since getting the new unit. The first unit I had was bought as soon as the PN-40 was released, and the issues with those early models have been worked out now. Also, the PN-30 appears to run faster than the PN-40 does.
Since my daughter is using this for geocaching she doesn't have to deal with the Delorme software other than to load the maps onto the device. This is very easy to do. All you do is select the maps you want, broken down by regions and states, and let them copy onto the device's SD card. I would recomend getting a 8 - 16 GB card for it, though a 2 GB card is included. If you do need to use the software, I do agree that it can take some time to learn. For Geocahing, just use GSAK and the tools available on the [...] website and you'll be set. No need to use the Delorme software.
This unit is just like the PN-40 except that it does not have a compass that works when standing still or barometric altimeter on it, neither of which we use for geocahing anyway. If you need a compass, a real one would work better than an electronic one anyway. I think the compass on the PN-30 works if you are moving, but I have not verified this. If you want what I view as the best device for geocaching or hiking, then look no further. The PN-30 is definitely it!
9 of 9 found the following review helpful:
Great handheld GPS!! Feb 22, 2010
By S. Hoover
"sghoover"
I purchased my PN-30 about a month ago, and I have been finding every excuse to pull it out and use it. I'll start out with what I have found out about its ability and functions so far.
1.First Look: I was looking for a GPS unit for use in the military primarily. I studied a lot of reviews, prices and versatility. I came to the conclusion that I would end up either getting a Garmin model or the Delorme. I was looking for a gps that was under $300.00, ample memory (or at least upgradable), and good mapping software. I know there are alot of GPS units that you can purchase pre-programmed memory cards with maps already on them, but I'd rather prefer to put what I want exactly on my unit. and be able to switch them around.
2.Mapping software: The Delorme PN-30 (and apparently all Delorme PN series gps) come with the latest TOPO USA map software, and DVD software containing street and trail maps of the entire US, as well as streets, roads and POI's in Canada, and main roads in Mexico. (I have not looked at all of it yet). It is true that it takes a little bit extra to learn how to use and upload the maps to the unit, however, once you get it figured out it is very remarkable. I was also pleased that the unit came with a 2GB SD card, which can hold quite a bit of maps. The maps are very nice to look at on the unit, from black&white to color aerial imagery, as well as topographical and standard street maps. I also like the ability to layer various maps on the unit so I can see the "drawn" streets and trails over the aerial images. One thing some people complain of, or boast of, is regarding the maps that you can get online from delorme's site. You do have to pay a subscription fee of about $30.00 for a year, but you can download any of their maps and as many maps as you want. That is well worth the price considering what you get, or can get. Because you can bet I'll be downloading that $30.00 worth and then some. I would have to probably pay about $200.00 anywhere else just for the maps I have already downloaded. (Another plus to the unit was the $40.00 credit you get to purchase maps from their site just to try them out). I contacted Delorme to ask if I could use the credit for the purchase of the year subscription, but they won't let you. But, using the $40.00 credit to download some of their maps shows just how much you would spend elsewhere for such stuff. No, their maps are not overpriced just to make you think they are cutting you a break with the subscription. If you check, you'll find that Delorme has been about the best map publisher in the world. They have always produced some of the best around. Now you can get them on the web and your GPS. The Delorme maps you download are also yours to keep. they don't just disappear. Any changes made on the maps may make any you download somewhat obsolete, but having a $30.00 yearly subscription can easily fix that.
3.GPS unit: I purchased the "realtree" camo version and I quite like it. (Just a quick note: the Realtree version is unique to each unit made. that is no other realtree unit out there looks exactly like mine--I know useless info but hey...).
The unit does take a couple of minutes or so to find the satellites the first time, or if the unit has been moved a ways from the last time it was on, or if you are moving, say in a car and you just turned it on. However, I found that the unit picks up satellites within seconds, (I mean 10 to 30 seconds) if you turn it back on in the same spot, within 20 feet, from the last time it was on. I personally don't understand how some people seem to have, (or at least they say) a hard time getting satellites and tracking them. I have turned mine on in my house, (and I live in a two story house), and I can pick up satellites very quickly and with at least 10 to 12 feet of accuracy. I've done this on the first and second floor. I have also used it to geocache and my gps got me within 2 feet of the geocache. Another thing I find great is the screen. many people talk about the screen being small, but compared to many gps units, and most older ones, it is just fine. I guess if you compare it to the type you use in your car, then yeah it has a small screen, but it is a handheld unit. It wasn't designed for mounting on your dash and sitting way back in your seat and using it to navigate somewhere on the road. That being said, it does work great for road navigation, however it doesn't give you voice directions, just a subtle "whistling" like beep/s. (In my opinion I get tired of some voice telling me to turn somewhere I don't want to go or telling me in several sentences to make a u-turn). The Delorme will also ask if you want to re-calculate your route because you may have turned somewhere it wasn't telling you to turn, and therefore create a new route rather quickly. You can also tell it to get you "Back on Track" in case you have to go around some blocked road or trail and you want to return to the road/trail you started on to your destination.
4. Computer interaction: I found that my gps is very easy to link up with my PC and download, or upload any maps, routes, tracks, or waypoints. I also like how easy it is to go to the "NetLink" tab and get more maps from Delorme. I found that the unit will also act as a GPS antenna for the TOPO USA program while it is running, so if you are in some vehicle and you have your pc and gps linked and running it will show your movement on both a overhead view and 3D like view on the pc screen. Now with something like my mini pc in the car, that will give you a screen that no other gps can beat. I can't really go into all the details of the program, but believe me, it has alot to offer. You just need to check it out and learn to use it. If you're something of an avid computer user, you should be able to have some real fun with the program.
5. Contents and final thoughts: The Delorme PN-30 comes with PN series maps on DVD's (with both Topography, streets and roads, points of interest-and there are alot of them, bodies of water, public lands and much more).
A certificate for $40.00 credit to try out any maps you wish from Delorme's website. ( Their customer service is excellent by the way. They will answer any and all questions).
A USB data transfer cable for PC/GPS data exchange. (The data cable will also power the gps unit while it is attached so you won't run down the batteries. Also if you insert the appropriate re-chargeable batteries, the data cable will charge the batteries as well).
Two AA batteries.
A neck lanyard.
A 2GB SD card. (The GPS unit can handle up to a 32GB SD HC card).
A Quick Start guide.
Comprehensive User manual. (Although I will say that you need to play around with the unit for awhile to really get to know it and learn how to use it well.
TOPO USA Software.
I am really enjoying my gps unit. One other thing I forgot to mention was the battery life. I have heard several people complain of a short battery life. I don't know why that is. Perhaps they are in areas that makes it more difficult to track satellites or they have been running their units for 10 or 12 hours over several days, or they are using cheap batteries, I don't really know. I have only recently changed my batteries after over three weeks of usage consisting of three to four 20 minute road trips each week. A trip out geocaching that lasted almost 2 hours, and several times playing around with it in my house. Compared to some older units I have owned (Garmin Rino 110, 120 and eMap, Garmin 196, and a Magellan, Michelin road GPS) the battery life in this Delorme has been way better. So, my understanding is that even these people stated that using good rechargeables the power lasts much longer than standard alkaline batteries. Whatever the case. I always take an extra set with me on 1 day trips. Next time I head overseas, I plan to use this GPS unit quite extensively.
I don't want to bash other GPS units, because I believe many are really good, it just depends on what you want out of it. I will say that although I have heard that you can download 3rd party maps onto many Garmin units, I have'nt seen where it has been done. Besides, I dont know that I would trust the accuracy of the maps on the system. With the Delorme, you're getting great maps at a very reasonable price and much easier to install with accuracy that is nearly perfect.
Another nice thing is the base map of the world on the unit. Now not every road is in there, but main roads, and several cities are there as well in about every country. At least what I can see. (I've looked to see a few places in Afghanistan and Haiti).
I currently don't own or use a "vehicle" type gps, because the roads tend to change over a short time, and it seems any gps unit out there requires a rather high price to update the software at least once a year. I figure at the $30.00 a year rate, I can keep updating my maps all the time without paying anything more.
I do often use my iPhone google maps to navigate with and it works great for that. Although my phone doesn't give any voice, beeps or anything else to remind me of any upcoming turns. My PN-30 does alert me. Given that, and the nice accuracy of my gps, the Delorme does work quite nicely in my car, (even though I did state earlier that it isn't really made for that kind of usage ;-)
I think I can say that at a price of about $200.00 (plus $30.00 for the subscription), I got a great, reliable, accurate and fun to use handheld GPS. I'd say it definitely beats many units costing $100.00 and higher out there.
12 of 13 found the following review helpful:
Good, but annoying software and setup Nov 21, 2009
By ScubaBob
"scubabob"
The receiver hardware functions very well, probably latest GPS chipset, nicely wrapped in HW function. However, the setup, data download, web-based database, etc is painful: slow, not intuitive (your first reaction on how to do something is often wrong), and seems like a bunch of software hacked together instead of being designed and coded as a coherent project of several modules. It does work, and, eventually, after a steep learning curve, it will make some sense to you. Mine came with a useless 1GB SD card, so buy a 32 GB SD card right away and probably a box of alkaline batteries, too. I am going to Death Valley with my wife for few days, and doing some modest day hikes in well- separated areas, and suspect I will need two 32 GB cards to get the full resolution and satellite views of the various hikes I might or might not take. (I dont need it, but it is fun) If you just downloaded the coarse map for one or two states and the details for a few 7.5 minute topos sized area at a time, then one 32 GB should be fine. The data downloads to your PC HDD, and it is so slow that you dont want to erase it, and then download again, so you may need 100 or more GB free on your disk drive if you travel to many places.
I got the PN 30. The PN40 has barometric altimeter and electronic magnetic compass, which I deemed unnecessary ( the electronic compass in most items doesn't work well, and you can get a heading from GPS if you move, and the PN40 doesnt provide an additional backup over the PN30in event of device failure -- bring an old fashioned compass and a paper map as backup if you doing something where you might need help if the GPS device fails.
I recommend this for people who enjoy working with computers, but temper your expectations on the "out-of-box" experience and be patient as you learn to use it. I haven't tried it for marine navigation, and I don't use it for auto travel. This unit is really best for hiking and probably geocaching..
The Netbook computer is amoong the hottest trends in computing. Netbooks are an alternative to buying over-priced laptops. Netbooks are affordable, lightweight, ultra-portable mini-laptops. A mini netbook makes sense as a second computer or starter computer. We offer the lowest priced netbooks anywhere. Netbooks are perfect for web surfing, traveling, business, learning or just for fun! Looking for the Best Netbook Computers? You can buy cheap Acer NETBOOKS, cheap Asus Netbooks or cheap HP netbooks on sale. Read Netbook Reviews of the largest selection of 2011 "netbooks" and NETBOOK computers, including the best selling netbook, Acer Aspire Netbook computers. Review Asus Netbooks, Dell Mini Netbooks and HP Netbook computers. "Grab a netbook and go!" at NetbookComputer.com
based on 34 reviews
Good GPS with lots of features and a STEEP learning curve Oct 26, 2009
By Janizary
Great Little GPS Nov 07, 2009
By D. Davis
"hiker/kayaker"
Good, but annoying software and setup Nov 21, 2009
By ScubaBob
"scubabob"
