GPS

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Steve Gray S
Steve Gray Oct 2, 2005 19:35:54
Replying to Mr Hamhead

"PS has anyone made one yet that is also a mobile phone?"

Yes. You can get a Pocket PC that functions as a mobile phone and there are also "Smartphones" that will run GPS software. Even if GPS is not integrated you can usually plug it in via a card slot or link via bluetooth (wireless).

My GPS is a bluetooth unit, a tiny little thing that runs for about 8 hours on a single charge. I usually put it in the top pocket of my rucksack and wear the pocket PC around my neck in a little waterproof case on a lanyard. With full mapping software you just glance at the screen and it shows you exactly where you are and where you've been. It shows grid coordinates in whatever style you choose and also height above sea level.

I know that you CAN do everything with a map and compass or by following walls or streams (I did it myself for many years), but that's like saying you can write a letter and post it rather than using the telephone.

L Lubin
Lubin Oct 2, 2005 20:11:58
Replying to Steve Gray

But it is an electronic piece of equipment that can stop working at anytime without warning. I hope you don't rely on it alone.

Peace Lubin.

F fitzcoraldo
fitzcoraldo Oct 2, 2005 20:27:35
Replying to Steve Gray

Steve your technology sounds wonderful but it also sounds expensive. A map costs about eight quid and you can get a fairly decent compass for four or five quid ....no batteries required, ever!
Maps have a simple magic about them.
Can you roll a really big cigarette on top of a computer in a force 9 gale?
Can you swat an attacking horsefly with a computer?
What about the simple pleasure of sitting on top of a Cumbrian Fell with your map spread out in front of you whilst you identify the distant peaks, you can't do that with a computer.
Given a choice betwen a paper map and compass and the latest state of the art all singing, all dancing gadget. I'd take the map & compass every time.