Affordability and Portability with the Garmin Etrex

Once used only by elite groups such as the military, GPS is slowly rising in popularity, doing what computers did over a decade ago. The recent boom in GPS systems built for the car has made the original, simpler handheld GPS systems more of a rarity. Handheld systems can be used for a huge variety of purposes, and many have a low price tag. The Garmin etrex is an example of one such device, combining affordability with easy-to-use features, making it perfect for beginners.

The etrex can be mastered in one afternoon. With the excellent operating manual and easy to use buttons, the etrex won't leave you guessing. Simple operation requires no knowledge of GPS's workings, and I found features and menus very simple to use.

This device can be used almost anywhere-I successfully used it on the train, boat, airplane, in the car, and while hiking. It requires no extra antenna, and because of its small size, can be set up in small nooks and crannies. While driving, it can help you with navigation, despite the fact that it doesn't show street maps.

For first time GPS users, there are more than enough features. The etrex can mark waypoints, record tracks, create routes, and provide you with everything from your altitude to the expected arrival time at your destination. Using Google Earth and Easygps, both free programs available online, you can transfer placemarks of everything from your house to the Eiffel Tower onto the etrex as waypoints.

The etrex is very compact and can truly be operated with one hand. Hardly larger than a cell phone, the etrex can fit in pockets, dangle around your neck, or even be squeezed into a camera bag. Buttons are located on both sides, allowing you to use only one hand while hiking.

The etrex can be found online for less than $100. With some GPS systems costing in excess of $500, the etrex is a bargain, considering the many features it incorporates. It is reliable and waterproof, meaning you won't have to worry about breaking it.

However, the etrex doesn't include many of the advanced features found in more expensive systems. It won't hold thousands of waypoints and routes, and doesn't include maps of any kind. The process of recording waypoints was tedious-typing in up to the 500 it can hold would be a nightmare. The screen s black and white, and can be hard to read in some light.

The antenna isn't top quality, and often had trouble acquiring a signal. Because of the antenna's placement, it was hard to operate the GPS without interrupting the reception. The system also occasionally malfunctions-showing the speed as 150m.p.h. while traveling on a residential road is just one example.

Accessories are expensive, and the device comes with nothing but a lanyard. For example, a PC Interface cable costs over $20, with a carrying case costing almost $30.

Overall, if you've never used a GPS device before, and are looking for an all-purpose, affordable device, the Garmin etrex is for you. If you're looking for a GPS to use as a "navigator" in the car, the etrex is not the right choice. However, for most purposes, the etrex is as much as anyone could ever want.