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HandyGPS

Thu Jan 4, 2001 - 8:22 PM EST - By James Hromadka


Product Info
Details
» Name HandyGPS
» Company Nexian
» Memory 11 K on Visor when inserted
» Weight 3.4 oz. (w/ batt.)
» Size 2.1" x 2.9" x 1.3"
» Accuracy 25 Meters
» Fact Sheet & User Opinions
Availability
» Unknown
Pricing
» $149.99


HandyGPS module (side)Once my friends and I spent an hour arguing over the semantics of whether one was traveling “southbound on I-45 N” or driving “I-45 South” when driving South while on the North side of Houston.  When you take into consideration confusing arguments like that, and the fact that some people like NSEW directions while others are “left-right” people, no wonder Columbus thought he was in India!  Thank goodness for global-positioning devices like the HandyGPS by Nexian.

The Hardware

First, here are the GPS specifications for the HandyGPS:

  • All-in-one 12 channel L1 C/A Receiver & Antenna
  • Protocol: Navicom ASCII Interface Protocol (default),
  • Flash ROM updateable integrated software
  • Datum: WGS-84
  • 25 meter accuracy (2drms)
  • Power saving mode
  • 2 AAA battery operation with max. 4 hour life

  • Average 45/180 second warm/cold start TTFF

    Now for the details.  The HandyGPS is exactly the same form-factor as the Handspring Modem.  The GPS antenna juts out above and behind the Visor like the Modem and uses two AAA batteries for up to four hours of use*.

    The first time I inserted the batteries, I had some trouble getting the door open -- after that first time I didn't have any more trouble with the door.  Also, the first time you use the HandyGPS after installing fresh batteries, satellite acquisition may take longer as well.

    *Note: I highly suggest you go into Setup (Preference | Setup) and set the Power Mode to something besides Normal (I use Save mode1).  The batteries for the HandyGPS and your Visor will thank you for it.  Otherwise your batteries will last less than an hour.  A battery meter will flash when the internal batteries are low.

    There are two applications for the module: HandyGPS and UbiGoHandyGPS comes with the module and is only installed as long as the module is inserted; removing the module removes the application but not saved data.  UbiGo must be downloaded from Nexian’s website and always remains on the Visor.

    Satellite Acquisition >>

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