Best GPS?

[Ron]

Getting Pinpoint sonar/trolling motor combo. What is the best GPS, and why? I would want it to have the mapping feature only, not a combination unit with sonar. Thanks.

[bob oh]

The "best" GPs is really a very personal thing. You need to decide what features are most important to you and then select a unit that best fits your needs. There are a lot of really good units available. Finding people who have the units you are interested in and having them give you a demo and picking their brains is a good place to start.
Bob

[Boatnut]

I'd lean towards the Lowrance global map 2000. why? simple...it's got a numeric keypad! Similar to the lms350's. Trust me, its a LOT easier entering data/waypoints etc. with a numeric keypad then with one of those "rocker" buttons. It's a lot easier and less chance of making an error to use a numeric keypad vs. the rocker switch when you are out on the water, rockin' and rollin'.
I'd go to a dealer and try entering data with both, then make the decision.
my 2 cents.
Mike(boatnut)

[Ron]

LAST EDITED ON Apr-11-00 AT 02:08PM (CST)[p]Mike - With 2 Pinpoint 7520 sonars on board, I was
thinking of a Globalmap 1600 since I couldn't see a compelling reason to have a third sonar on board. The way I read it, the 2000 comes with sonar - correct? I need to order the boat today or tomorrow and have no way of seeing at a dealer or
a friend. Thanks. Ron

[Drift'r]

No,the GM 2000 doesn't come with sonar. You have to add the SAM-1 to it. I have a GM 2000 & wouldn't think of sacraficing my screem with sonar. I use a Pinpoint 7520 for my sonar.
Good fishin......Drift'r

[hagar]

If you have a PC at home I would look at the GM1600 for the upload and download cabibilites. It really makes managing your waypoints very easy. There are some other great software options out there that you can add on too. I have had both the GM1600 and the GM2000. I loved the screen size on the 2000 but I really like the interfacing with the PC, my preferance, GM1600.

[Ron]

How do you do the upload/download from the unit to the computer? CD ROM or cable, or what? What program do you use with it to manage your waypoints? Thanks.

[MedicineMan]

I don't fully understand GPS and DGPS. DGPS will
soon be available in my area. Should I wait to
buy a unit until then or will GPS units work for
DGPS? Will there be a significant price
difference?

[hagar]

The GM1600 comes with all you need to upload, download and connect to the PC. The software and the cable comes with the unit. I also have ChartView Planner that works with NOAA navigation charts for the Great Lakes. It is very user friendly and is a fun way to spend the non fishing days.

[Boatnut]

Hagar,
I'd say it depends on how many areas you fish. The global map 2000 can be fitted with a c map card reader to display charts. If you fish one area, like Lake Erie, this would be my preference. If you trailer to a lot of differnt areas, then the 1600 might be a better way to go. I still prefer the numeric keypad on the 2000 vs. the rocker button on the 1600.
Mike(boatnut)

[Boatnut]

MedMan,
Most all gps units are "differential" ready. Which means you can add the differential capabilitie at a later date. It's an expensive option though, probably between 300 and 400 bucks.
Only a few of the high end units like Simrad or Furuno come with built in differential gps.
email me if you need explanation dgps vs gps.

Mike(boatnut)