I intend starting field experiments on a beach sand and needed to map the location of each point/position. I'm wondering if the ''Memory-Map Adventurer 3500 Handheld GPS Chartplotter- Marine Edition'' can help me plot the locations/routes. I'll like to know from you guys out there who have had some experience with this product. Let me know, please, if this is the right product to buy for my experiments. thanking you in advance...

Hi,

Do you actually NEED any mapping on the GPS? A cheap GPS (e.g. Garmin eTrex H) will allow you to log waypoints/marks (e.g. to get you back to the same location again) and record your tracks, etc.. For (arguably) higher accuracy you might want to consider EGNOS/WAAS which I don't think is supported by the Adventurer (but is by almost all handheld GPSs).

I would have thought that OS maps might be more informative than sea navigation maps for beach sand, but those maps can be accessed freely via various internet apps.

Cheers, Alan.

Hey Alan, thanks. I'm not actually familiar with GPS types and their capabilities. I was hoping the product can serve as a chartplotter, so I can retrieve the info into a PC and overlay on a site map, as a reference of where the data was taken. you thnk I should rather use the Garmin eTrex H, then use the waypoints and other info to plot reference positions?

Hi,

Well, the eTrex is a far cheaper solution and can do all that you have described so far. IMHO, all "mapping" GPSs have limitations, such as reduced battery running time, screen clarity in bright sun, or just the cost of the maps!

The eTrex H uses a serial interface to a PC, which requires an extra, moderately expensive cable (at least £10) most of the eTrex range (and other GPSs) have a direct USB interface, probably with a (standard) cable in the box.

Take a look at some of the "customer reviews" on Amazon.co.uk (IMHO "poor" reviews can be the most useful because they don't just reveal bad products but also users' unrealistic expectations !) for devices such as Garmin's eTrex H/Legend HCx, GPS72H, etc. and more expensive devices like the Adventurer and Satmap.

If you suggest a "short list" then I (or others) may be able to offer further advice.

Cheers, Alan.