1. 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset; dual-core processor for blazing-fast performance
2. 500 MB of available onboard Flash memory; support for high-capacity SD cards (SDHC) up to 32 GB
3. 3-axis electronic compass; Barometric altimeter
4. More detailed onboard base map data for the U.S., now with secondary and connector roads, along with major highways and thoroughfares for the entire world
5. Fast USB 2.0 data transfers to in-device SD card--no external card reader required

Editorial Review :

The Earthmate PN-40 is a high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options including up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA topographic maps, color aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-min. topographic quad maps, and NOAA nautical charts.

With its 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and DeLorme ConstantLock technology, the PN-40 acquires satellite signals quickly and retains them in the most challenging GPS environments. Map and imagery displays are lightning-quick thanks to a powerful dual-core processor.

A three-axis electronic compass can be used with the PN-40 held in any position, while a barometric altimeter provides reliable altitude readings. The on-board base map includes major highways and thoroughfares worldwide plus secondary and connector roads in the U.S. Detailed U.S. street and topo maps can be selected from the included Topo USA software.

The PN-40 holds up to 1,000 user-defined waypoints, 50 routes, and 10 tracks. All can be easily received from or sent to the included Topo USA software. The device displays both road and trail routes automatically generated using Topo USA. Road routes and direct (point-to-point) routes also can be generated on the PN-40.

Available onboard Flash memory totals 500 MB and the PN-40 also supports high-capacity SD cards (SDHC) up to 32 GB. The 65K-color daylight-readable TFT screen provides clarity in any light conditions including direct sunlight. The PN-40 is WAAS-enabled, waterproof to IPX-7 standards, comes in a rugged, impact-resistant rubberized case, and weighs just over five oz.

A Complete Out-of-the-box Solution:
Unlike other GPS receivers that require additional map data purchases, the PN-40 comes with up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA mapping software in the package. This is the full version of Topo USA, with all its desktop and GPS capabilities included. Also in the package: East, Central, and West regional DVDs with detailed U.S. street and topo maps by state or region; a 1-GB SD card--ideal for large map and imagery transfers; a detailed user manual, a Quick Start Guide, and two AA batteries. A $40 certificate is included for downloading sample supplementary datasets and then a new $29.95 Map Library annual subscription plan is offered for unlimited data downloads.

Serious Performance

• New--Blazing-fast, high-sensitivity 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset
• New--Dual-core processor for instantaneous map and satellite imagery redraws, even with large aerial imagery files and multiple maps layers
• 360¡ raster rotation sets the PN-40 apart from other common GPS handhelds. With 360¡ rotation road, building, and other images really are on your left or right as you look at the map and walk, bike or drive
• New--3-axis electronic compass with included accelorometer performs when held in any positionÑwhile in motion or standing still
• New--Sensitive barometric altimeter for reliably accurate altitude readings
• WAAS-enabled for accuracy within 3 meters
• New--Now supports SDHC high-capacity SD cards (up to 32 GB) for fast and direct map transfer from the included maps discs

Serious Maps

• Included. Comes with three discs containing detailed hybrid topographic and street maps of the entire USA. You do not need anything else to hike, geocache, or navigate the backcountry. It's all in the box.
• Also Included: Sample Certificate. A $40 certificate is included for downloading sample supplementary datasets. Take a "test drive" with any of the supplementary datasets DeLorme offers: high-resolution aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Map, NOAA Nautical Charts, and more..
• And for Only $29.95! Then, once you're convinced, subscribe to the NEW DeLorme Map Library for only $29.95 per year. Get all the USGS Quads, NOAA nautical charts and high-resolution color aerial imagery to layer WITH your topo and street maps for only $29.95! No hidden charges.

Serious Tough

• The PN-40 is waterproof to the IEC 529 IPX7 standard
• Designed to function in high-humidity environments, including consistent humidity levels over 90%, and in the rain
• The PN-40 has been rigorously tested to function in high-vibration conditions such as off-road driving
• Operating temperature range for the PN-40 is -20 degrees C to +75 degrees C. The PN-40 should function in extreme cold as well as rapidly-changing temperature environments

Serious Value

• No one else offers COMPLETE U.S. hybrid, routable Topographic and Street maps WITH your initial purchase
• In addition, for the extremely low price of $29.95 annually, subscribe to the DeLorme Map Library of downloads for all the USGS 7.5-minute Quads, NOAA nautical charts, and Hi-Resolution Aerial Imagery you want. All downloads are accessed through the convenient NetLink tab of your DeLorme software

Serious Quality, Service & Support

• Renowned DeLorme-Quality Maps
• Quality Geospatial Engineering
• Quality Hardware Engineering
• Quality U.S.-Based Customer Service
• Quality U.S.-Based Technical Support and Open Online GPS User Forms

What Else Should I Know?

High-Performance Technology
Features STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and updated DeLorme firmware for amazing signal acquisition and retention, map scrolling and redraw--even with multiple layers of imagery, topo and street maps.

Multiple Views of the Same GPS Location
On-device data layering lets you select which map or imagery type to see of your GPS location. Switch among data types to gain a comprehensive view of where you are--it's revolutionary and provides a whole new level of geographic detail.

Bright Color Screen
Works in bright sunlight to total darkness. Sharp¨ brand screen featuring the latest transflective screen technologies to maximize visibility under a variety of lighting conditions.

Rugged and Waterproof
Conforms to IPX-7 waterproof standard with impact-resistant rubberized housing for a solid grip. Concealed battery compartment with SD card slot. Includes two AA batteries.

Easy Exchange of Maps, Tracks, and Waypoints
Exchange routes, tracks and waypoints between the GPS and Topo USA (two-way transfers).

Extensive On-Device Memory
1-GB of internal flash memory available in addition to the pre-loaded world base map. Holds up to ten tracks (10,000 points per track); 1,000 user-defined waypoints; and 50 routes. SD slot also available.

Don't Forget--Complete Detailed U.S. Street and Topographic Maps Included with ALL PN-40 Purchases

Detailed U.S. Street & Topographic Maps

• Cut & transfer custom map packages of the exact coverage you want
• Detailed vector-based maps created from the USGS topographic data & the latest DeLorme U.S. street & trail network
• U.S. land cover including bodies of water, wetlands, forests, mountains, glaciers, grasslands, rock cover & more
• Contour lines with elevation numbers
• Fully routable when combined with the corresponding Regional Highway map
• By default, saved map packages include data zoom levels 8-17 (which translates to a scale of 4 miles through 40 ft). Saved maps display all roads, land cover, and contours

The DeLorme World Base Reference Map

• Preloaded on the Earthmate GPS PN series
• High-level map includes country borders, highways & major roads
• Displays interstates and major highways at scales of 500 miles to 8 miles
• Created by DeLorme's staff of professional cartographers

Sample Map Library Downloads
Each purchase comes with a Certificate for $40 worth of FREE Supplementary Data Downloads

Use Your FREE Supplementary Data Certificate, or a Map Library Subscription for Any of These Map and Imagery Types:

USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Maps

• Download through the Topo USA NetLink tab--Use your FREE Data Download Dollars
• Transfer from Topo USA to your PN-40, as needed
• The authentic scanned USGS 7.5-minute paper quad maps
• Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features

NOAA Nautical Charts

• The complete set of U.S. waterway available, including the Great Lakes, Alaska, and Hawaii
• Include numerous aids to navigation, water depths, water body names, hazards, and more
• Great for taking along on boating trips, island explorations, and trips ashore

High-Resolution Color Aerial Imagery

• Available for many U.S. States and select U.S. Cities
• Detailed, color, aerial imagery
• Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
• Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features

Sat-10 Color Satellite Imagery

• 10-meter colorized satellite imagery for viewing large geographic areas
• Provides high-level views of vegetation, topography, and large, visible geologic formations on the Earth's surface
• Natural color satellite imagery derived from merging SPOT 10m panchromatic & Landsat 30m multi-spectral scenes

B&W DOQQ (Digital Orthoquads) Aerial Imagery

• Detailed, black & white, aerial imagery
• Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
• View logging & 4WD roads, bodies of water, and other natural features from above

Earthmate GPS PN-40 Screen Images

Customer Review :

GREAT UNIT for GEOCACHING, Compass was iffy!


Just some background I had ordered the PN-40 to try it out since I was not impressed with my Garmin Dakota 20 I had just purchased. I have a review of that unit Garmin Dakota 20 2.6-Inch Touchscreen Handheld GPS Navigator there if you would like to see what I thought of that.

Pros of PN-40
1. The Screen - Even though it is small for the size of the unit and smaller than the Dakota 20 even this screen is great. It really is easy to read in sunlight. I found the more sun you had the easier it was to see. That is the translucent or transductive or some kind of technology it says. lol. But it works great. The screen being small the maps still looked like they were in HD compared to the Dakota 20 and my friends Oregon 300.
2. Construction - This thing just feels rugged. It looks totally water tight. From the screw down battery cover (no screwdriver needed)to the brass contacts used for USB (there is no USB plug it is a true CONTACT connection which adds to the water tightness)
3 Features - This interface is very simple. It is not as snazzy as some GPS I have seen but it does the job. You can route to Geocache via street turn by turn and then switch to hiking directions when you get out of the car. The paperless geocaching is excellent as well. It came with USA Topo maps and Street maps as well as street maps for Mexico and Canada as well. The other maps are available for $29 a year. Very nice compared go Garmin's per map price. I was also surprised this unit came with a 4 gig mem chip extra in the box. I had not expected that. Honestly I do not travel enough to require a larger chip for maps but it does support up to 32 gig.

Cons of PN-40
1. Battery life - This unit is only rated at 14 hours so I expect about 10 to 12 with good NiCad rechargeable. I will see though. So far I have only pushed it to 10 hours. The new Garmin lines (Dakota and Oregon) get 16 to 20 hours.
2. Compass - The unit has a 3 axis compass. The compass is electronic when you are standing still and it is GPS based when you move. I have not had any luck at all with the compass when I am standing still and the electronic compass takes over. It seems like a paper clip would throw it out of whack even. In my car the metal really did a number on the compass, but only when I was not moving. When moving it is very accurate.
3. Keys - I will admit having back lit or lighted keys would be nice. I will get used to button placement soon and will be able to do everything blindfolded but I have fumbled the past few nights looking for some caches.

Overall I am very happy with the unit. I sent the Garmin Dakota 20 back. It was only $20 more than the PN-40 so price was not a deciding factor. I found this unit was just way simpler without a touch screen and the fact the Garmins come with no maps at all gave this one an edge.

Rating :

An Awesome GPS !

Performance and Accuracy in a nut shell. The best GPS anywhere near the price ! Gd quality and does everything it sys it does. I highly recommend it,

Rating :

Too much for too little

I bought this because of all the good reviews I saw. I guess if you want something that is close to accurate, doesn't pick up all that good and is hard to ues it is a good choice.
My nuvi 550 GPS picks up signal faster and is more accurate than this. The maping software is very deep but very hard to use.

Rating :

Delorme gets it right

The screen is a good enough size to be read. The gps unit is fairly accurate and stays within its stated accuracy. The Delorme Topo USA software and Topo Maps of all the U.S. are a great value. This is included with a gps unit that is just as good as the garmin, and better than the magellan ones. With Delorme adding maps all the time to its map library its becoming more usable by international travelers and those who live in other countries. Look for high resolution aerial imagery in May of this year (2010)

Rating :

Difficult to Learn, difficult to use

I bought the DeLorme hoping to use it on hiking trails. I'm a day hiker. I wanted to turn it on at the start of a hike, have it identify where I was and show me what trails/roads were available from that spot. I wanted a "safety net" in case I got turned around on hikes. That ease of use is what I had come to expect from a GPS, because I use a Garmin unit in my automobile and frequently take it with me when I travel, domestically and overseas. For the record, I bought this unit because of the detailed maps, which are clearly superior to what I saw on the Garmin "hiking" units.

It comes with TopoUSa maps, so you have to load them on your computer, you have to learn that software, you have to download the maps for particular areas you plan to travel, you have to figure out how to tell it you're hiking (not driving, boating, etc.) There is no default to limit the device to hiking trails.

The instructions are not adequate for the complexity of the device, and I have not been able to find additional, detailed instructions on line.

Perhaps if this weren't my first "hiking" GPS I would be more forgiving, but it's complexity makes it essentially useless for a day hiker.



Rating :

More reviews...

1. 50 sheets of 8.5-by-11-inch waterproof paper for outdoor, marine, and field use
2. Coated, porous synthetic film base absorbs ink in almost any situation, including underwater
3. Works with standard ink pens, highlighters, permanent markers, and some inkjet and laser printers
4. Bonds well with printer ink and toner to produce highly defined, richly colored images
5. Prints beautifully on both sides; can be folded, glued, embossed, and laminated

Customer Review :

Perfect for Geocache Logs

First off my initial impression came up as two words. "Simply Awesome!" After getting over my giddiness I decided to do a few print tests and from my Samsung laser printer I got excellent results. I then proceeded to boil some water to put this thing to the test and it held up beautifully. Then I did a tear resistance test and while I couldn't get a tear I got some stretched weatherproof paper, no biggie as I doubt any cacher would actually try to destroy a log but if they do this stuff will hold up admirably. I even held it over an open flame and while it burns it took quite a bit longer than average paper (smells of plastic which is what I expected).

I recommend this paper for anyone needing a weatherproof and tear resistance paper.

Rating :

Perfect for my needs

I use this paper primarily to (1) print out trail maps for hiking trips and (2) make log pages for geocaches that I place. This paper has worked perfectly for both uses. It's rugged and definitely waterproof, but still runs through my printer easily and can be written on with pen (although pencil is a little tougher). Great stuff overall, and a great value compared to Rite in the Rain products I've used before.

Rating :

great stuff

We are using this for labels on our yarns. Works great. Won't have to redo if labels become damp.

Rating :

Amazing Stuff

I just got through testing this paper for use creating topo/hiking trail maps with a very inexpensive Canon Pixma IP 2600 inkjet printer. The cartridges used were OEM Canon PG-40 and CL-41 (not refilled). Print results are good and durability outstanding. I didn't have ink absorption problems that were reported by another Canon user whose printer uses different Canon cartridges.

After printing my first test map, I placed it under the faucet and ran water over it then rubbed it dry using a dish towel. It still looked good so I went onto an abrasion test. I scrubbed it with a wet Scotch Brite green. No problem! At lunch time I started my counter cover test by smearing peanut butter and grape jelly over it when making a sandwich. After washing the map with my dishes in detergent, it was good as new.

Evening time it became my cutting board when I cut meat and vegetables for a stir fry. Washed with the dishes again and the map looks fine. This mornings test did it in. Although I was able start the fire in my wood stove with the 8 1/2 by 11 map, I can no longer read it.

Rating :

Great Paper, Great Deal

I purchased this paper to print star maps for our cub scout pack. I had printed a few copies on weatherproof paper that my husband bought at our local office supply store. I purchased this paper for less than 1/2 of what he paid, and the quality is just as good. I didn't test the weatherproof aspect, but durability is apparent. Great deal.

Rating :

More reviews...

1. Suunto Observer Elastomer 2004 Stainless Altimeter Watch
2. Suunto is brand new, first quality and authentic with all original parts.
3. Brand new, never worn watches
4. 30 day money back guarantee

Editorial Review :

Time - 12/24 hour clock - Calendar pre-programmed to the year 2089 - 3 daily alarms - Dual time - Stopwatch with lap and split time measurement; stores up to 99 laps and split times for 1 run. Altimeter - Altitude range up to 9000 m / 29,500 ft. - Resolution to 1 m / 3 ft - Ascent/descent rate in m/min or ft/min - One-button access to intermediate information about total vertical ascent/desent, and number of runs skied - Logbook stores total ascent/descent, average ascent/descent rate, number of runs skied duration of log - Altitude alarm - Altimeter use: unique feature to deep sea level pressure from changing when unit is used as altimete. Barometer - Absolute pressure range 300 - 1 1-hPa/ 9.90 - 32.40 inHg - Sea level pressure range 921 - 1080 hPa / 27.25 - 30.80 inHg - Resolution 1hPa / 0.05 inHg - Temperature compensation - Automatic 4-day memory stores pressure information in one hour intervals for the last six hours, then in six hour intervals - Temperature range -20 degrees - +60 degrees C / -5 degrees - +140 degrees F - Barometer use: unique feature to keep altitude from changing when unit is used as a barometer. Compass - Shows bearing in degrees and cardinal or half-cardinal point - North-South arrow - Bearing tracking function displays locked bearing, actual bearing and difference between these - Declination adjustment - Resolution: bearing 1 degree, North-South arrow +/- 5 degrees. Other Features - Different housing and strap options available - Backlight, electroluminescent - User-replaceable battery - Low battery indicator - Waterproof to 100 m / 330 ft.

Customer Review :

Great watch, terrible strap.

I've had this watch for four years and it's taken a real beating across the world. I've dropped it on tile, concrete, and asphalt from heights up to 10 feet and it still works fine. The only problem I've had it the strap, rather the clasp keeping the watch band closed. It's gotten to the point where a mere movement of my hand will spring it open leaving the watch dangling at an odd angle. I'm reluctant to shell out the $120 for a new band because all I need is a new clasp.

Rating :

Good features, poor execution

The watch looks great and has all the features I wanted in a sleek size (for the features it has at least). All the features seemed to work as advertised, though the temperature only works well when you aren't wearing the watch.

I had two reasons for the low review. First, the user interface seems overly complicated. I rarely could figure out how to do anything other then switch screens on this watch without the manual. I've owned other feature full watches before and this was the hardest to use. Second, the band sucks. The first two years I had it the band broke twice and it uses a custom band so you have to pay $$ to get another one, just to have it break again. After the 2nd time it broke I threw it to the back of the drawer in digest. I will not put more money into it.


Rating :

Disappointing

I bought this in the Fall of 2003 to be able to have a quick compass/elevation check on unfamiliar trails. It handles those tasks well.

However, the strap breaks too soon compared to other watches. And band replacement is far too difficult compared to other watches. A slightly shorter replacement pin (or slightly bending a replacement pin to make it shorter) may be the only practical solution to a replacement problem if you're trying to do this in the field. Also, the back is difficult to remove (over the years) compared to other watches (a 1 Yuan coin seems to be the best fit for the slot on the back).

The alarm is useless as it simply cannot be heard. The product manual is poorly written, which is odd because the Finns have great language skills.

So, although I like the watch, the on-going maintenance issues make it less than highly recommended.

Rating :

Gary

I returned this Suunto Observer ST Digital Sport Watch 2009 - Stainless-Steelroduct because the ease of use was an 11 on a 1 to 10.

I will never purchase a Suunto again.

Thanks / Gary

Rating :

Does the job of a casual hiking wrist-top computer but poor strap

I owned several of these. The watch is works fine for hiking etc. The overall durability of the watch is decent but not rugged enough for intensive outdoor use, and within 1-2 years the strap breaks without any cause (the strap is mostly plastic pierced with holes on all versions- stainless steel or titanium). The durability of the strap is very poor and Suunto must know it since it is only under warranty for 1 year as opposed to 2 year warranty for the watch. Strap replacement by Suunto out of warranty is almost $100 so you'd better find a better strap after breaking the first time! I haven't found yet whether non-Suunto straps can be adjusted on it.
The decision is yours whether it is worth the money...

Rating :

More reviews...

1. Altimeter, barometer, and electronic compass in one
2. One-third smaller than earlier Suunto models
3. Stylish stainless-steel housing with durable stainless steel elastomer wristband
4. Altimeter with improved logbook displays and records simultaneously; 3 alarms, stopwatch, and countdown timer
5. Shock resistant, waterproof; Electroluminescent backlight

Customer Review :

Disappointing

I bought this in the Fall of 2003 to be able to have a quick compass/elevation check on unfamiliar trails. It handles those tasks well.

However, the strap breaks too soon compared to other watches. And band replacement is far too difficult compared to other watches. A slightly shorter replacement pin (or slightly bending a replacement pin to make it shorter) may be the only practical solution to a replacement problem if you're trying to do this in the field. Also, the back is difficult to remove (over the years) compared to other watches (a 1 Yuan coin seems to be the best fit for the slot on the back).

The alarm is useless as it simply cannot be heard. The product manual is poorly written, which is odd because the Finns have great language skills.

So, although I like the watch, the on-going maintenance issues make it less than highly recommended.

Rating :

Does the job of a casual hiking wrist-top computer but poor strap

I owned several of these. The watch is works fine for hiking etc. The overall durability of the watch is decent but not rugged enough for intensive outdoor use, and within 1-2 years the strap breaks without any cause (the strap is mostly plastic pierced with holes on all versions- stainless steel or titanium). The durability of the strap is very poor and Suunto must know it since it is only under warranty for 1 year as opposed to 2 year warranty for the watch. Strap replacement by Suunto out of warranty is almost $100 so you'd better find a better strap after breaking the first time! I haven't found yet whether non-Suunto straps can be adjusted on it.
The decision is yours whether it is worth the money...

Rating :

Gary

I returned this Suunto Observer ST Digital Sport Watch 2009 - Stainless-Steelroduct because the ease of use was an 11 on a 1 to 10.

I will never purchase a Suunto again.

Thanks / Gary

Rating :

Good features, poor execution

The watch looks great and has all the features I wanted in a sleek size (for the features it has at least). All the features seemed to work as advertised, though the temperature only works well when you aren't wearing the watch.

I had two reasons for the low review. First, the user interface seems overly complicated. I rarely could figure out how to do anything other then switch screens on this watch without the manual. I've owned other feature full watches before and this was the hardest to use. Second, the band sucks. The first two years I had it the band broke twice and it uses a custom band so you have to pay $$ to get another one, just to have it break again. After the 2nd time it broke I threw it to the back of the drawer in digest. I will not put more money into it.


Rating :

Great watch, terrible strap.

I've had this watch for four years and it's taken a real beating across the world. I've dropped it on tile, concrete, and asphalt from heights up to 10 feet and it still works fine. The only problem I've had it the strap, rather the clasp keeping the watch band closed. It's gotten to the point where a mere movement of my hand will spring it open leaving the watch dangling at an odd angle. I'm reluctant to shell out the $120 for a new band because all I need is a new clasp.

Rating :

More reviews...

1. Watch, altimeter, and barometer in 1
2. Stylish design, waterproof to 100 feet
3. Altimeter with 24-hour memory and log book
4. Barometer with 4-day memory
5. Dual time display, 1-button access to altitude information

Customer Review :

Go Hiking

Good product according the price, wolud be perfect if the temperature is exact no matter you are wearing the watch, good delivery and good user guide.


Rating :

"Close to perfect" outdoor companion

I bought Suunto Vector after reading the raving reviews but the face was not impressive, also it got scratched in the 1st day of regular use :(. Luckily I could return it back.
I exchanged Vector for Altimax and so far it is completely awesome. Here are my thoughts after wearing it for a few months:
+ve:
- great style, the yellowish orange/amber dial looks great
- lot in a watch ... barometer, altimeter, dual time, alarm, etc
- changing the battery will be a breeze (havent changed it yet)
- the manual is very extensive and it needs to be
- the 4 buttons have a lot of controls, which is easy to use once you get used to it
-ve:
- a bit big (but I still looks nice and rugged)
- the night light is very dim (can hardly see till I strain my eyes)
- the temp is not even close (it is probably my body temp as the sensor is below .... it should've been above)
- alarm is weak (can hear it fine in vacuum, but that is not real life)


Rating :

Nice and Solid Watch

This is very nice and good quality watch but I had to return it because of its size. It is too large and I didn't feel like wearing daily.

Rating :

Poor showing

I previously owned a High Gear Altimax, and switching to this was a nightmare...difficult to operate, confusing buttons. The mode button hits my wrist all the time time changing modes, the rubber guard keeping the strap tight come loose very often, and visually, the digital display is confusing when unless looking directly on it, as the numbers blend making it difficult to see what time it is. Poor selection. High Gear was not much more $ and easier to use.

Rating :

Suunto Altimax

Great Watch, this is my fourth, I have bought other models for different purposes and they are accurate and deliver all the performance I have required of them.

Rating :

More reviews...