Magellen GPS
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Join Date: May 2007
Location: in the lush pastures
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Magellen GPS
hello, any of you guys know whether the magellen explorist gps works in the air. Recently had a complete electic failure a long way from anywhere and would like a handheld backup
In both Pipers and Cessnas I've had good results with Garmins, but depending on satellite configuration they sometimes can't "see" enough satellites through the aluminium roof.
Usually popping the unit somewhere on the dash where it can "see" better does the trick.
As usual, Murphy's law ensures that you will lose your signal at the most inconvenient possible moment, hence as a precaution, correction, as sensible navigation practice, it is wise to plot your track on your map and mark your position at regular intervals. (legal requirement - position fix every 30 minutes)
Flying outback with a WAC for nav, it's also wise to mark the approximate position of any station strips you see as you pass.....you never know.
Usually popping the unit somewhere on the dash where it can "see" better does the trick.
As usual, Murphy's law ensures that you will lose your signal at the most inconvenient possible moment, hence as a precaution, correction, as sensible navigation practice, it is wise to plot your track on your map and mark your position at regular intervals. (legal requirement - position fix every 30 minutes)
Flying outback with a WAC for nav, it's also wise to mark the approximate position of any station strips you see as you pass.....you never know.
Join Date: Jul 2003
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I know for sure Garmin (and would be surprised if Magellan don't) have external patch antenna's that you can place on the glare-shield or attach to the windscreen. Solves any problems the units have with 'seeing' sufficient satellites.
Personally I have never (ok that's a stretch, but very rarely) had any problem with a stick-mounted GPS dropping out (using only the antenna with which the unit is equipped) -using Garmin 295 and more recently 296 in Cessna singles and BN-2. Always been very reliable, even in mountainous terrain, including descents into steep, narrow valleys.
Personally I have never (ok that's a stretch, but very rarely) had any problem with a stick-mounted GPS dropping out (using only the antenna with which the unit is equipped) -using Garmin 295 and more recently 296 in Cessna singles and BN-2. Always been very reliable, even in mountainous terrain, including descents into steep, narrow valleys.
Last edited by kiwiblue; 29th Aug 2007 at 05:41. Reason: clarification
