LPinTheD
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Posts posted by LPinTheD
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On 5/7/2018 at 1:25 PM, kunarion said:
Locus Map allows loading maps, and the pro version includes credits for maps. I loaded maps of a couple of states, something like the Garmin GPS where I've loaded routable street maps of the entire US. It sure beats wondering if a map tile loaded in the App (or noticing it didn't once you arrive).
I downloaded Locus Maps, I haven't had time to really play around with it too much yet, but so far it seems cool! I was even able to load caches to the map easily. Thanks so much!
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1 minute ago, Viajero Perdido said:
Yes. Airplane mode is great for saving battery when you're out caching in the woods. Locus Map (Free or Pro), as mentioned, excels at caching offline. It seems efficient too; I could get a full day of caching with my old skinny Nexus 5, and now get two full days with my fat-battery Blackview.
Thanks! I'll have to look into Locus Map, I've never heard of it.
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13 hours ago, Mineral2 said:
The solution to your first problem is to buy a charging stick and carry it with you. It can be cumbersome, but at least you can charge your phone while you're out and about. Be sure to get one that is quick charge compatible as you might only need 20 minutes to get a significant amount of your battery capacity back.
Yes, smartphones can be used without a phone signal. The official app lets you download caches for offline use and you can store your finds as field notes for logging later. I haven't tried the app with offline caches to see if the map also gets downloaded for offline use, but there are a number of 3rd party apps that can use offline maps along with offline geocaches (Locus Pro is a good example).
So the short answer is yes, you can use your phone for all of your geocaching needs. That said, a GPS can be easier. But you will need a proper computer to install and manage your caches, waypoints, routes, and maps and install firmware updates. For the most part, you can do this from a public computer, so there are workarounds. As far as geocaching is concerned, you could get away without using a computer with an Oregon 700 as it is the only GPS that can directly connect with geocaching.com, but it is out of your budget.
So I think for now, a usb charging stick is the way to go.Thank you! Yeah, a charging stick is probably much cheaper than a GPSr. I was looking at the Oregon 700, it's sweet, but I'm not a hardcore/regular geocacher (yet, haha). When I first started caching 8 years ago, I had an Explorer GC, which I remember was pretty cool, and I almost picked one up from Amazon for under $100 yesterday, but I don't know if the technology is too old, seeing as I had one eight years ago.
I was considering the Garmin 64st as well. I could probably hook it up to my work PC.
I'll give it all more thought. Thanks again.
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13 hours ago, kunarion said:
The GPSs with wireless cache transfer from the web site might be out of your price range. Some can use “OTG” (On The Go) USB connections to a phone or tablet. It may or may not work well for you. I tried it, and it's kind of a chore to send files like that. It's simpler from a PC.
The Official App allows saving Pocket Queries and lists for offline use, including map tiles for the cache spots. If you did that on a phone and then switched to airplane mode, the battery should last longer.
Thanks for the info. I had a feeling that it probably wouldn't be easy to transfer files from a tablet.
Didn't realize I could use offline/airplane mode, the GPS still works then?
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Probably a dumb question, but I can't seem to find an answer.
I've just started back to geocaching, and have been using my Galaxy S7 edge with the Geocaching app. Works great, except that the battery on my phone is horrible, and there's no way I could go more than a few hours before it died - a big reason that I'm considering a regular GPS unit.
The other reason (and this is my question) is that I often go to the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, and if I'm not near a town, I have *zero* phone signal (thanks Sprint). Can a smartphone still be used as a geocaching/GPS device without a cell signal? If not, then I'll have to buy a GPS because I want to cache this summer in the PNW.
Another question - I do not own a PC/laptop computer (I do everything on my tablet and phone) so, how would I connect a GPS to download anything? Can I connect it to my phone or tablet? I know that some GPS units have Bluetooth, would that work.
And my budget for a GPS is about $250, I've been on Amazon for hours reading reviews and frankly, I'm overwhelmed and confused..
Thanks for any and all input
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Bought this, and then decided that I really don't have time to geocache. Includes everything in the box (and the box itself) and will ship for free. $175 via paypal gets it.
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I just got a Magellan Explorist GC, and I love it. Very easy to use, and newbie-friendly (I'm a very green newbie, lol) Transferring PQs to your device is a snap with the Vantage Point program (free download from Magellan), and uploading your field notes to GC.com is just as easy. I spent about a week researching GPS devices and this one suited my needs best as far as price and paperless caching. It's dedicated to geocaching, so if you want a unit that does "more", than you might want to look at something else. Since I'm only using it for geocaching, it's perfect for me.
Happy shopping :-)
Laurie
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Happy Birthday!
I just ordered a GC, too... should be here Mon or Tues, can't wait
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My sister is a die-hard geocacher who uses a PN-40 and she has nothing but raves for it. I just ordered a Magellan GC (doesn't have some of the features you are looking for, though), because it seems perfect for my needs as a newbie. Happy shopping
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I just ordered a GC today, can't wait to get it! I'm sure I will be back asking questions, too...
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The Kindle has been sold... thanks for your interest. Now I get to go GPSr shopping
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Hi again, CachinNurse.
First, make sure you [save changes]. Then you should exit the forums and re-enter. Your avatar should be there when you return.
It worked! Thank you!
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Hope I'm asking this question in the right place...
Anyway, I uploaded my avatar/profile pics in the "edit profile" section on the site. They are not showing up at all, and I get a message that states that the forums are separate, and need to re-register on the forums and to click the registration link in the forums... I do that, and I don't get a page to do that.
Help... thanks!
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Congrats. Good thinking, to call your "pro" sister.
Why not cache with us. My wife says I need a nurse along! The trip a while ago, had a friend veterinarian along. Put her to good use after smashing my thumb (yes, that is a different story)! I just hope that you don't carry Mickey Mouse bandages in your pack!
LOL... nope, I carry SpongeBob
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I've been using my smartphone for geocaching, but there are limitations to that. Want a nice GPS, but don't have the $$ to buy one, so I am offering a gently used, second-gen Amazon Kindle e-reader for trade. The Kindle is about 6 months old, in like-new condition, and comes loaded with a lot of books that I've purchased as well (will provide list on request). I have the original box and instructions. It comes with the USB/power cord, and a protective Belkin case (retail $25). The Kindle itself retails new for $259.
I'm especially interested in a Delorme PN40, Magellan Explorist GC or similar that is in nice condition.
PM me if you are interested. If no one bites, the Kindle will go on eBay (yuk), and I'll buy my GPS. Just wanted to offer it here first.
Thanks
UPDATE: Just listed the Kindle on eBay...
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Hi -
I am a newbie also. My husband and I have found 3 and love it. How old are your children? I can't wait to take some of my grandchildren with us.
2lablovers
My boys are 10yrs and 7yrs old... perfect age for it, I think - they love the idea of a "treasure hunt". Great way to spend time and bond with them
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On my first attempt, I went out on Monday... on my own, total noob, clueless... and had my little guys w/me. I wound up with a "DNF", two disappointed little boys, and me thinking that either something was wrong w/my GPS (there wasn't) or it was just me (it was).
My sister is a caching "pro", so I called her up and went out with her yesterday. She taught me some "tricks" - like what I should be looking for and other useful tips - and I wound up with three smileys
I found one that I didn't find on Monday - I had been practically right on top of it that day, but never thought to look in the spot where the cache was located because of my inexperience. Apparently it helps to go out w/a seasoned geocacher your first time, lucky me to have one in the family!Loved being outside in the beautiful spring weather and doing something fun while getting exercise. I used to tease my sis about geocaching... honestly, I didn't "get" it - why would someone hike thru the woods to find a container and maybe some little toy? Then I decided that instead of knocking it, I would try it. Now I "get" it...
Laurie
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Never mind, I figured it out. Thanks anyway :-)
Newbie with a question
in GPS technology and devices
Posted
Update: First, I want to thank everyone for your input! I wound up buying a dedicated GPSr, picked up an eTrex 30x on Amazon for $180. I LOVE it! Easy to set up and use, and scarily accurate. Very glad I made the move!