GPS

geoguy

Expert Expediter
I've heard alot about Delorme's Street Atlas and the Earthmate GPS sensor that goes along with it. Purchased one today and was disappointed on it's accuracy. When i first turned it on at my house it said I was on a street that is about a quarter of a mile from my house. There was a strong signal. I drove into town and there were times when it had me on the road and sometimes it had me out in the fields. How accurate is this going to be trying to find a location?
Is anyone having this kind of problem or do I have a bad GPS?
 

Mudflap

Expert Expediter
Like you, I purchased the Delorme GPS system about a year ago. Like you, was not very happy. To get a reading you have to pickup a minimum of three of the satellites. When you are in a truck cab you immediately lose 50% of the sky because of the box behind you. Satellite signal will not penetrate buildings or dense trees, etc. So for the most part you are limited to the tunnel of sky directly in front of you. Seems yo work great on a Interstate crossing the Kansas Prairie but poor elsewhere. By the way Qualcom uses the GPS satellites and notice where their antenna is mounted. You got it - where there is a 360 degree shot of the sky. Qualcom also doesn't work when the truck is in Manhattan, etc. or other places where there isn't a decent hunk of sky to view.

My conclusion is that GPS is great when you aren't lost ie. between exits on a Freeway, but won't work when you are lost.

Hope this was some help.
 

dieseldiva

Veteran Expediter
Hi Guys,
We have used the Garmin Streetpilot III Deluxe for about a year now and we love it. It not only tells you where you are but will give you information as to what is at the next exits, anything from fuel to Walmarts to Vet's offices. It's a little pricey but well worth the investment.

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MILITARY MOM AND PROUD OF IT
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