GPS handheld review

Sunday, December 6th 2009 - 18:30 CET - Comments: 0

S atmap launched its first product, the Active 10, at the end of 2007. The launch in itself was a good initiative, while there are not that many suppliers for this type of GPS devices, and it is always good to have a bit of a competition. Reading on the Internet about the Active 10, particularly at the time the business was just taking off, we find many complaints, partially correct and partially caused by the greater comfort other devices offer. Gradually through time, the tone of the comments has changed, although this did require several updates and a price cut.

• Read our full Satmap GPS handheld review.

 

Satmap GPS handheld design

The exterior of the device makes a fairly decent impression, with only very few protruding parts and a good seal on the USB connector. The battery compartment on the back can easily but solidly be opened and closed. If we are to believe the stories on the website, the device is able to withstand heavy attacks. The removable protective cover seems to be the odd one out, as it is a fairly lightweight construction and I do not quite understand exactly what it does. If I look at the scratch-proof glass of my watch, still without damage after 5 years of daily use, I consider the cover an unnecessary accessory. We need not doubt the waterproof feature either.

 

 

Satmap GPS handheld review - Route planning
When it comes to this device, the term navigation raises false expectations. This kind of equipment makes us believe it features the option to have a route set out to a certain location by the device. However, the Active 10 does not do this. The cards simply do not offer route information. The only lead is a straight line to the point we want to reach. Route Planning however, is an option. In this case, it means that the user places several way points, whereupon the system combines these with direct lines. The advantage is that we don't need a PC. If the distances are not too large, this can be done relatively quickly by using the joystick. Navigating means we then follow the way-pointed line.

 

 

Satmap Active GPS handheld review
The Active 10 is the first GPS device made by Satmap, which was founded in 2005. The device is subject of many different opinions when it comes to its users. After having worked with the Active 10 for a while, I must say I do understand the arguments coming from both sides. On some points, this handheld really beats its competitors, yet on other points, learning from those competitors certainly wouldn't have hurt. Read our full Satmap GPS handheld review to find out more about the contradictions.

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