As part of my
GetOutside Champions work with the Ordnance Survey, I have the chance to do various exciting things. There are various outdoor events which the Ordnance Survey is represented at this year, such as
Countryfile Live last week.
I've been sent an OS Trail model GPS to check out. This can be seen here.
The device has a rugged rubberised case, with finger grips moulded into it, making it easy and comfortable to hold. The screen is smaller than an iPhone or typical Android device, but is bright and clear.
The device needs to be connected to WiFi to set up (and download any updates) This was the first thing thing my device did, and it took a while to get up and running.
The touch screen is fairly responsive, although sometimes requires a slightly harder 'press' than a smartphone screen, although it is designed to be tougher, and water and dust resistant, and also to be seen in bright sunshine. The on-screen keyboard is a little small, and needs a little care to select the correct letter.
Battery life seemed to be very good and one charge lasted for quite a few days of light use.
Some users will be particularly requiring some of the additional features.
There is a feature which will guide rescuers to the device should there be a need to do that, which might give some users reassurance. This is called SeeMe - see details below.
Map tiles can be downloaded to a device using a free piece of software which needs to be downloaded for Mac or Windows.
Trail also includes advanced features through FullConnect™, including Ant+™, Bluetooth® Smart, GPRS and Wi-Fi, so you can easily connect accessories and share your location and performance with friends in real-time.
You also get exclusive access to SeeMe along with a 6-month free subscription to get you started. Use SeeMe to broadcast your location with up to 20 people and share with them your routes and stats including distance, altitude, heart rate, power and more. You can also send your exact location via email and SMS should you get into trouble, with I.C.E (In Case of Emergency).
On top of all this, you get OS 1:250k base mapping for the whole of Great Britain, 6 x OS 1:25k free map tiles, a 6-month free subscription to SeeMe and a 3-year free subscription to our award-winning OS Maps.
A great option for those wanting a hand held GPS device.
A new blog from Caiti Walter, has launched with an invitation to get involved in a Big Geog Litter Pick.