Product of the week- Smartphones are GPS-enabled by the XGPS150

by Nancy Knudsen on 22 Nov 2011 As a back-up GPS (back-up only) when you go sailing, the Dual Electronics XGPS150 is ideal and makes a great Product of the Week. As long as you have an iPod touch, iPad 2, iPad, iPhone, any Bluetooth-enabled smart phone or a Bluetooth-enabled tablet or laptop, you'll find it very simple to use, and it'll add just another level of safety to your voyage, whether that lasts a day or a year.

There is a quick set up process that includes pairing your device with the Receiver. Once this is done, the Receiver will automatically connect to the device it was last paired with, and you will be able to use it with hundreds of apps that require location information. Click here for compatible apps ideas for the iPod touch and iPhone devices.

The XGPS150 also comes with a useful GPS Status Tool.app. (Available Free on the iTunes store). The app is a simple utility application for use with the XGPS150.The app shows detailed information from the XGPS150 including:

..Your location (or whether the device is still determining where you are)
..How many satellites the device sees and the signal strength of each satellite
..The battery level of the XGPS150, and whether or not it is charging
..Confirmation the XGPS150 is successfully connected to your iPad/iPod touch/iPhone

The XGPS150 includes a non-slip pad for use in the cockpit. Simply slide the Receiver into the pad to secure it, making sure that the lip of the pad seals over the top edges of the Receiver. The XGPS150 is not waterproof, but it will withstand light splashes when it is seated properly in the non-slip pad.

If you prefer, you can use the two-piece armband without the extension to secure the XGPS150 around any nearby suitable stainless steel bar.

Key Features:
High-sensitivity GPS receiver works with most apps that require GPS
Wirelessly connects to devices via Bluetooth
Rechargeable battery lasts up to 8.5 hours
USB charging via the included USB cable
Includes 12Volt charger so you can recharge through the boat's 12volt system (or plug in permanently - see below)

Technical Specs:
GPS:
65-channel SkyTraq GPS chipset
WAAS/EGNOS compatible
Accuracy: +/-2.5m (CEP)
Fast location acquisition times: under 30 secs (warm or cold start)
Position updates: at least once per second

Bluetooth:
Bluetooth range: 33 ft / 10m

Battery:
Full charge lasts for at least 8.5 hours of continuous use
Recharges in 2.5 hours
Plug in to 12VDC source for continuous use

General:
Supports both NMEA and Apple protocols
Firmware updateable through USB port

Dimensions:
2.25' (57 mm) square, 0.75' (19 mm) deep
1.8 ounces / 51 grams
Operating temperature: 14°F - 140°F (-10°C - 60°C)

If this product is not available in your local marine store, http://www.xgps150.dualav.com/where-to-buy.html!click_here to find out where it is available, or to purchase online.
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