 |
| Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator |
In a world driven by technological advancements, there's a constant need for devices that can help us explore, navigate, and discover. The Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator is an innovation in this ever-evolving field. Designed to cater to the needs of adventurers, hikers, geocachers, and outdoor enthusiasts, this handheld GPS navigator is a game-changer in the world of navigation technology.
- Rugged handheld navigator with a preloaded worldwide basemap and 2.2-inch monochrome display
- WAAS-enabled GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS support for fast positioning and a reliable signal
- Waterproof to IPX7 standards for protection against splashes, rain, etc.
- Support for paperless geocaching and Garmin spine mounting accessories. Power with two AA batteries for up to 20 hours of use (best with Polaroid AA batteries)
- See high and low elevation points or store waypoints along a track (start, finish and high/low altitude) to estimate time and distance between points
Unveiling the Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator
An Overview of the Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 GPS Navigator
The Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator is more than just a gadget. It's your reliable companion for all your outdoor escapades. Whether you're exploring the deep woods or hiking up a mountain, this GPS navigator ensures that you never lose your way.
eTrex 10 retains the core functionality, rugged construction, affordability and long battery life that made eTrex the most dependable GPS device available. We improved the user interface and added a worldwide basemap, paperless geocaching and support for spine-mounting accessories.
The Key Features that Set eTrex 10 Apart
Find Fun eTrex supports geocaching GPX files for downloading geocaches and details straight to your unit. eTrex stores and displays key information, including location, terrain, difficulty, hints and descriptions, which means no more manually entering coordinates and paper printouts. Keep Your Fix With its high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver and HotFix satellite prediction, eTrex locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover and deep canyons. Go Global The eTrex series is the first-ever consumer-grade receivers that can track both GPS and GLONASS satellites simultaneously. When using GLONASS satellites, a system developed by the Russian Federation, the time it takes for the receiver to 'lock on' to a position is (on average) approximately 20 percent faster than using GPS.
Regarding handheld GPS devices, the eTrex 10 stands out for several reasons. Let's delve into its standout features:
Rugged Durability for Outdoor Adventures
One of the most critical aspects of any outdoor gadget is its durability. The eTrex 10 is designed to withstand the harshest of conditions. It's built to be waterproof and highly rugged, ensuring it can handle the challenges of any adventure.
High-Sensitivity GPS Receiver for Pinpoint Accuracy
What's a GPS device without precision? The eTrex 10 boasts a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, which means you'll get accurate position data quickly, even in dense tree cover or deep canyons.
Worldwide Basemap for Endless Exploration
With a worldwide basemap, this GPS navigator allows you to explore not just your local trails but anywhere on the planet. It's the perfect companion for globetrotters and adventure seekers.
Paperless Geocaching for Thrilling Hunts
If you're a geocaching enthusiast, you'll love the eTrex 10's paperless geocaching feature. It stores and displays key information, including location, terrain, and hints, so you can enjoy the hunt without the hassle of printed materials.
Intuitive Interface for User-Friendly Navigation
The eTrex 10's user interface is designed with simplicity in mind. It's easy to use, even for those who aren't tech-savvy. You'll navigate through its features effortlessly.
Beyond the Basics - eTrex 10 in Detail
Now that we've covered the core features, let's explore the eTrex 10 in more detail.
The eTrex 10's Rugged Build
A GPS That Can Take a Beating
The eTrex 10 is built to withstand the most challenging outdoor conditions. Whether it's heavy rain or a dusty trail, this GPS navigator won't let you down. It's designed to be waterproof, so you can use it worry-free in all weather conditions. It's an essential feature for those who want a reliable device for their outdoor adventures.
Durable and Robust Construction
The eTrex 10 has a robust exterior that can endure the bumps, scrapes, and harsh weather conditions you might encounter during your outdoor escapades. You can trust it to keep working even when subjected to rough handling.
High-Contrast Display for All Lighting Conditions
One of the significant advantages of the eTrex 10 is its high-contrast display. It's easily readable in all lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to low-light situations. This means you won't struggle to see the screen, no matter where you are.
Precision Navigation with High-Sensitivity GPS
1. High-Sensitivity GPS Receiver - The eTrex 10's Powerhouse
The high-sensitivity GPS receiver in the eTrex 10 is its heart and soul. It's what ensures that you get accurate and reliable data even in challenging environments. This is particularly important for outdoor enthusiasts who venture into dense forests or deep canyons.
2. Quick Position Fix
The high-sensitivity GPS receiver provides a quick and accurate position fix, ensuring you're never left waiting for your location to update. This is a critical feature for hikers and adventurers who rely on real-time data to make informed decisions on their journey.
3. HotFix® Satellite Prediction for Faster Start-Up
The eTrex 10 incorporates HotFix® satellite prediction, a feature that calculates and predicts the position of satellites. This means your GPS navigator starts up faster and locks onto satellites more swiftly, so you can get on with your adventure without delays.
Worldwide Basemap for Limitless Exploration
A World of Maps at Your Fingertips
With a worldwide basemap, the eTrex 10 lets you explore beyond your local surroundings. Whether you're hiking in your backyard or trekking through foreign lands, this GPS navigator has got you covered.
Detailed Topography
The worldwide basemap includes essential details such as rivers, lakes, cities, and more. It's an invaluable tool for those who want to explore and discover new places.
Storage for Additional Maps
If more than the pre-loaded worldwide basemap is needed, the eTrex 10 offers additional storage space for more maps. This means you can tailor your maps to your specific needs, whether you're a geocacher, hiker, or camper.
Paperless Geocaching - A Thrilling Adventure Awaits
Geocaching Made Easier and More Exciting
For geocachers, the eTrex 10 is a dream come true. It simplifies the geocaching experience by providing paperless geocaching support.
Store Key Information
The device allows you to store crucial geocaching information like coordinates, terrain, and hints. No need to carry around printed materials – the eTrex 10 has it all in one place.
Logs Your Finds
The eTrex 10 also keeps a record of your geocaching finds. This means you can look back on your adventures and share your achievements with fellow geocachers.
User-Friendly Interface for Smooth Navigation
Easy to Navigate Through Features
The eTrex 10 is designed with simplicity in mind. Its user-friendly interface ensures that you can access all its features without needing a degree in technology.
Intuitive Menu Layout
The menu layout is straightforward, making it easy to navigate through the device's various functions. You won't find yourself fumbling through complex menus while out in the field.
High-Resolution Display for Clear Viewing
The eTrex 10 features a high-resolution display that allows for crystal-clear viewing of maps and data. You won't need to squint or struggle to see details on this screen.
FAQs About the Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 GPS Navigator
Is the eTrex 10 suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The eTrex 10 is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced users. You can start using it right out of the box.
How does the eTrex 10's battery life hold up?
The eTrex 10 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours on two AA batteries. This makes it a reliable companion for long hikes or extended outdoor adventures.
Can I load additional maps onto the eTrex 10?
Yes, you can! The device has storage space for additional maps, allowing you to tailor your navigation experience to your specific needs.
Is the eTrex 10 suitable for geocaching?
Absolutely. The eTrex 10 comes with paperless geocaching support, making it an excellent choice for geocaching enthusiasts. It stores essential geocaching information and logs your findings.
How accurate is the eTrex 10's GPS receiver?
The eTrex 10's high-sensitivity GPS receiver is known for its accuracy. It provides a quick and precise position fix, even in challenging environments.
Top Reviews
This device (the eTrex 10) is a gem. Thus the five-star rating. I've been studying it and using it on bicycle rides for the past two months. I've read several of the Amazon reviews for this product, and few do a good job of informing the consumer. I think this is because the product caters to so many different end users: boaters, kayakers, walkers, hikers, off-road cyclists, and on-road cyclists. My review is written from the perspective of an on-road cyclist. And I'm not going to write a review as much as merely answer a series of questions. 1. Can you charge this device using a USB cable? >>No. The device uses two AA batteries for power. They can be cheap alkaline, or the more expensive rechargeable NiMH or lithium. Alkaline works okay if the weather is warm or hot. If you go the rechargeable route, don't buy cheap ones that have less than 2000 capacity. I didn't know rechargeables came in different capacities. Duh! The rechargeable batteries you need to recharge in a separate recharging device. 2. What do you use the USB cable for that comes with the device? >>To connect your device to your PC or Mac so you can update software or move GPX files on or off the device. GPX files are what tracks and waypoints are stored in. I use a Website called RidewithGPS to create my TCX files. Then I use other software to convert them to GPX files. Think GpsVisualizer dotcom. 3. Can you load maps into this device? >>Not really. There is an almost nonexistent base map that comes with the unit. It is supposedly possible to overwrite it with a different map. However, for you to add maps to this device you would need to be able to insert an SD card which is where you would store extra maps. Since you cannot install an SD card into this device, you cannot add maps. 4. Can you use this device on long bike rides so you don't get lost? Is it good for bicycle touring? >>Yes. This is why I purchased this device. 5. Can this device aid one in navigating a city walk? An outdoor hike? An off-road bicycle ride? An on-road bicycle ride? Yes to all four questions. I use the device for GPX files I create using a free online service called RidewithGPS dot com. The GPX files are the end-product of designing a route. Some of the routes are through city streets. Some are through trails in the various outdoor parks near my home. Some are mountain bike trails. And some are 200k brevet rides on roads. I copy the GPX files into the GPX folder in my device and I'm ready to go. 6. Can an SD card be installed on this device? >>No. Not on THIS device. Pay a little more to get the eTrex 20x or the eTrex 30x and you will be able to install an SD card in those devices. 7. Is it easy to read this device in sunlight? At nighttime? >> Yes. Yes. I have found it easy in both daytime and nighttime. Of course, I have to wear glasses that correct my vision well. The viewing screen is somewhat small. 8. Is this device good for long-distance bike rides like brevets? >>Yes. GPS navigational devices designed for cyclists typically have internal rechargeable batteries that will die after 10 to 12 hours of constant use. Since the eTrex 10 uses two AA batteries, when they die they are easily replaced while riding the bike. As long as you have extra AA batteries along during your rides you will never be without a functioning eTrex 10. 9. How long does it take to find satellites before it starts working? >>Depends. It always cranks up quickly (within a minute) for me. However, I have both kinds of satellites enabled in my system setup. Uses more power this way though. 10. Is the user manual instructive? >>It is OK. The problem with the manual is the uses the device can be put to are so broad: boating, walking, hiking, biking off-road, and biking on-road. There really should be a manual for each type of user – and there just isn't. Furthermore, do you want to use the device to mark geocaches? To merely be a navigation tool? Or to record where you have gone so you can retrace your steps? I'm really only interested in using the device as a navigation tool. 11. Does this device track pace and distance traveled? Can it double as a bike speedometer? >>Yes. Yes. You can configure the view screen to tell you how far you have traveled at any point in time. And you can configure it to tell you how fast you are going in mph or kph. 12. How relevant are street signs when using this device? >>Street signs are not really relevant because maps are not really relevant. With this device and your GPX file, you will have a track (breadcrumb trail) and waypoints (usually along the trail). I created my GPX file so the names of the waypoints are street names. When the device is functioning a cursor shows up in the view screen indicating where I'm actually planted on the earth. As it moves along the track and I approach a waypoint I know it'll be time to make a turn. I can make the turn without even knowing the name of the street. And when riding in the middle of the night I rarely look for street signs to verify a turn. Of course, it is nice to see a street sign that matches the waypoint title. Waypoint titles show up in my view screen as I ride. 13. Does the view screen easily scratch? >>Yes. This is a problem. Invest in a $10 screen saver. 14. Does this device provide turn-by-turn instruction when being used? >>No. You only get turn-by-turn instructions when a GPS device uses an installed map to "calculate" your route. This device doesn't even have a map. But the eTrex 20x and eTrex 30x models do have maps. However, those units don't use the maps to calculate routes. The maps are just background images of the tracks and waypoints that appear on the respective view screens. All three units allow you to create proximity warnings around your waypoints. And when you get within a certain proximity of a waypoint you can be warned. This function works kind of like turn-by-turn instructions. Unfortunately, I have found them not to be too helpful. They tend to clutter up my view screen. 15. Can you insert a pre-loaded route? >>Yes. See answer to Q12. 16. What kind of battery life can one expect? >>With two rechargeable NiMH AA batteries with a capacity of 2600 each you'll probably get more than 20 hours. This has been my experience while having both types of satellites accessed and leaving the backlight on constantly. 17. Does this device have touchscreen features? >>No. If it did you wouldn't get 20 hours of battery life. See answer to Q16. 18. What memory does this unit have? >>Only internal. This device does not let you install SD cards. The eTrex 20x and eTrex 30x does allow for SD cards. Those units cost more. 19. What kind of batteries does this device use? >>AA batteries. See answer to Q1. 20. When the batteries die do you lose your current track and any waypoints? >>Nope. This is because information is saved as you go along, and the route is not “calculated” during your ride. The track is static information, as are the waypoints. When you turn the device back on after changing the batteries the cursor in your view screen shows your current location just like when the power went out. 21. What file formats does this device read? >>Only GPX files, which are XML text files with a .gpx extension. Won't read TCX or FIT file formats. To create GPX files I download my routes from Ridewithpgs and then use one of a few free online converting Web sites to convert the TCX file to a GPX format file. 22. Does this device have an audio component? >>Nope. If it did, then you wouldn't get 20 hours of battery life. However, pay a little more and get the eTrex 20x or eTrex 30x and you will have some audio capability. For example, the proximity alarm in the eTrex 10 will not produce any bells or beeps, but the other two units do. 23. Does this device have a mapping function? >>It will record where you have gone if you want it to. Save the file when you are done, and you can upload it to RWGPS, Garmin Connect, Strava, or MapMyRide.
I've owned four previous handheld GPS units. All would warn me when the batteries were getting low but warned me before the batteries were completely dead. Thus, I was never stranded/lost because of losing battery power. I was always able to get to fresh batteries before they died completely. That is not the case with this unit, at least with the one experience I've had with low batteries. I got the low battery warning and two minutes later the unit died completely. I was 3/4 of a mile from my vehicle in the middle of the forest on a brook trout stream an hour before dark. I made it back using my compass (lucky), but I now carry extra batteries when using this unit.
What I can say, is you get what you paid for. Accuracy is not the best. The user interface is old and it is hard to get into it. But it's working just fine.
.jpg)