2 people have reviewed this model.
| About - Delorme Earthmate PN-30 |
|---|
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The Delorme Earthmate PN-30 is part of the GPS test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, handheld hiking GPS models like the Earthmate PN-30 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.
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| Features & Specs - Delorme Earthmate PN-30 | |
|---|---|
Screen size (in.) |
2.1 |
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Battery life (hrs.) |
6 |
|
Topographic maps |
Yes |
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Electronic compass |
No |
| More features and specs | |
Consumer Reports User Reviews
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By from
(6 of 6 customers found this review helpful)
Works pretty well...
9/11/2010
Pros
Accurate
Extensive Base Map
One Hand Control
Reliable Reception
Cons
Buggy Software
Best Uses
Hiking
In Car
Comment:
I recently used my PN-30 on a several week camping/offroad trip in Michigan....mostly in-vehicle use. Found that the PN-30 acquired and kept a signal fairly easily and I only lost the signal maybe 3-4 Xs. For my use...one of the main features of the PN-30 and it's associated Topo 8 software is the ability to create and follow detailed routes...a problem being the accuracy of the provided maps. While the maps are pretty accurate for major highways and larger county roads...when you get down to small county roads, Forest Service roads, and other trails...things can get dicey...with some areas not having good road detail.<br /><br />Another issue is the Topo software which some find confusing...at least it has a steep learning curve.<br /><br />Looks like the PN-30 is now being discontinued...with the PN-40 (built in altimeter and compass) taking it's place at a reduced price from what I paid for the PN-30. Also there is now a Topo 9 with detailed maps of Canada and other improvements....though I'm not sure US trail detail has improved.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By from
(6 of 6 customers found this review helpful)
Get outdoors!
7/2/2010
Pros
Accurate
Extensive Base Map
Quick Navigation
Quick Signal
Reliable Reception
Cons
Short Battery Life
Best Uses
Cycling
Geocaching
Hiking
Hunting
Comment:
This unit functions as advertised. Satellite acquisition is quick and reliable. The loaded maps are accurate, but it would be nice if the terrain contour was more detailed (installing a topo overlay does take care of this, and this is a great feature). The supplied software for the unit takes some time to get use to using, but once you figure out how to navigate thru the system, it works well. Communication between the PC and the GPS unit is seemless. The personalization options are excellent, and the various pages are quite useful and interesting.<br /><br />The main complaint, and really only complaint, is that the battery life indicator is not accurate. Mine will display approximately half life remaining when new batteries are needed. The clue that I need to change the batteries is that the unit will cycle thru the initation procedure in an infinite loop, or the screen will lock and not refresh. The only way to stop it is to remove the batteries. Carry spare batteries!<br /><br />Overall, DeLorme has made a very nice hand held GPS that is accurate, easy to use, and meet my needs and expectations.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
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