Spatial Dynamics

I’ve been using my Garmin Vista HCx on a daily basis for over 8 months. Although the HCx has been around for a few years and there are newer models available, I’ve been generally satisfied with the device.

Here is a list of 8 things that could be improved with the Garmin HCx.

1. Rubber around the perimeter of the device is starting to separate. It’s more apparent in warmer weather and it’s making the buttons less reactive and the device less waterproof. This problem is the glue that was used in the manufacturing; it appears to resemble rubber cement.

2. The time it takes to acquire satellites is sometimes ridiculous, even on clear days with no obstructions. While walking, it usually takes about 5 minutes. However, this lag time is greatly reduced when it’s being powered by fresh batteries.

3. It appears to be designed to be used in a person’s left-hand. Since I’m right-handed, all the buttons feel as if they are on the opposite side than where they should be.

4. The software is not open-source; the proprietary software makes it very difficult for developers to build custom applications. There would likely be dozens of additional mini-applications available if the software weren’t proprietary.

5. Although there are several ways to extract data from Garmin devices, Garmin provides an application called MapSource with their more expensive GPS handhelds. MapSource is relatively crude, it has only major roads, and it appears not to have any web integration. It’s has no web interaction nor does it assimilate (web-based) satellite images. When using the software, simply zooming in/out seems a bit odd.

6. Google Earth integration is lacking; it’s impossible to export files as kml or kmz in MapSource. However, it is feasible to use .gpx files in Google Earth, but tracks only appear as lines, not points. For me, I use freeware by GPSBabel to convert Garmin/MapSource data into Google Earth. Note: Google Earth Plus allows direct downloading and display from Garmin devices for a $20/year fee.

7. When the device in turned on and acquires initial readings, the first data point to be recorded will often have ridiculously high leg speeds. This quirk seriously alters the average speed, especially for short trips. Unless you’re traveling into space, the software should filter out these illogical numbers out.

8. When the device left on, the battery runs out. It would be nice if it automatically shut off when it’s not receiving satellite transmissions after 15 minutes or so.

I’m looking forward to obtaining a hand held GPS devices that has wireless functionality and open-source software. However, mobile phones will likely cannibalize the GPS market.

Nuvifone, where are you?

Tags:   Garmin · GPS · Vista HCx1 Comment