~ Captain Paul's Response to Davie W. ~

First the easy part of your question. Yes, almost any GPS unit can determine distances as you described the problem. Some can even do so by simply using the map screen and mark two locations. These units would allow you to determine the distances, but remember that the distances will be in a straight line. It would NOT take into consideration the elevations and additional obstructions and course alterations that may prohibit a straight line course. It is a very primitive function for a GPS unit.

Now for what unit is best for you. This is a tough question to answer. It is almost like you picking out a dress for your wife or mother. Yes the dress will cover the necessary parts, but how does it fit, where will it be used and how long do you intend to keep the outfit. You can see what I mean!

There are several units that should suit your needs WHEN LOADED with the proper accessory mapping software and an accessory or two. What ever unit you decide on, be sure to get the 12 volt remote power cable and a marine mount that can be installed on your console or dash of your auto. This arrangement will give you a hands free, unlimited operation time, when connected to the cigarette adapter on you boat or auto. It will save you money in the long run on batteries.

I would be hard pressed to recommend a specific unit. There are a lot of considerations that would affect your choice. Foremost would be the cost of the unit or rather the dollar amount you want to or can spend.

Most users who get a very basic unit usually upgrade to a color mapping unit within a few months of seeing what a GPS unit can really do. I suggest that you save the upgrade costs and get one that has more features and an internal mapping program.

So, in order to at least give you a starting point, let me express some of my findings about different GPS types and styles.

First, as I said, I have found that most GPS owners eventually upgrade to a mapping GPS unit sooner or later. So spare the cost of additional units and get a color screen mapping unit at the start.

The mapping features really bring the GPS into a realm that allows the user to take full advantage of all of the functions of a GPS unit and to have maps of the area. Remember though that a Mapping unit requires the same manufacturers mapping software. This is usually sold as an option accessory and usually runs +/- $100.

Most manufacturers have a web site that comprehensively covers their line of receivers as well as the mapping software that is available. I suggest that you begin by looking at each of these sites for an understanding of what is being offered in today’s market. There are others, but I would START with the largest companies that sell hand held GPS receivers to the consumer market.

Lowrance, Magellan, DeLorme and Garmin have a very impressive line of hand held units. These units that are available for your perusal on the same web site. Check them out at Garmin @ www.garmin.com/ , Lowrance @ www.lowrance.com/ www.Delorme.com and Magellan @ www.magellangps.com/.

Yes, It know there are others and you may want to consider them also, but start with these brands to get an idea of what is available from the top three sellers.

These units when loaded with the OPTIONAL mapping software, offer a very versatile package that will more than accommodate your needs.

Narrow down your choice and get back with me. I would be happy to discuss your choice.

~ Captain Paul ~