[pct-l] SPOT - 2nd generation model

[Scott]

Jim.  I've been interested in the Spot.  Have you tried the 1st gen?  Do you
consider it a toy because it lacks good coverage?  I'd like a good way to
relay my info of where I am so that my family will feel better and so that I
can get help if necessary.  If the Spot is not good for this, why and what
have you used that worked well?

Thanks for any info.

-- 
-Scott
-Trailcat if this message is hiker related.

Disclaimer: Trailcat should be taken to imply no actual cat-like ability
including but not limited to the ability to land upright or show any kind of
grace in motion whatsoever.  Scott should be taken to be my name and no
ability to play the bagpipes should be inferred.


From: enyapjr at comcast.net
To: pct-l <pct-l at backcountry.net>
Date: Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:34:58 +0000 (UTC)
Subject: [pct-l] SPOT - 2nd generation model
FYI...  Might be 'old news' to some, but I haven't seen any posts regarding
this on pct-l...

SPOT will be releasing a 2nd generation model "this fall"...

The new unit differs from the original model in the following important
ways:
smaller & lighter ( by "30%", now only 5.2 oz.);
enhanced antennae (should improve performance in tree cover);
better GPS chipset (faster acquisition);
separate "GPS Acquisition" and Message Sending" indicator lights;
a second "message" button (in addition to the "check-in/okay" button);
protective covers over the "Help" and "911/SOS" buttons;
illuminated buttons;
dedicated "Tracking" button (for the optional additional-fee 'tracking'
service)...

See SPOT's website 'news' at  http://tinyurl.com/mtta5q...

BackpackingLight did a write-up on it during the Outdoor Retailer Summer
Market 2009,
but one must be a member to read it (and why I didn't post earlier; waited
for it to be on SPOT's website)...

I still consider it more a 'toy' to share my hike with family/friends,
staying in 'contact', than as an emergency device...

Happy trails!!!
Jim (PITA)