[pct-l] Digital maps

[Dan Kronstadt]

You can do this with most middle to high end GPS devices. But - I know 
Garmin can only use their own maps, so getting coverage for the entire 
PCT might cost a couple of hundred bucks. I think some of the other 
brands can use free maps.

I would probably go with one of the larger screen sizes - touch screen, 
so no buttons taking up space on the front of the gps. My Garmin 60csx 
has a fairly small screen, and I find the topo maps hard to use generally.

Some other possible advantages of a GPS over a smartphone - std 
batteries so you can replace them easily if they get drained (and maybe 
use rechargeable batteries if you can work out some way to recharge them 
on the go), and better battery life - 20-25 hours per. Also, better 
signal pickup strength, I think - better antennae.

If you do use a smartphone, make sure the app can download maps ahead of 
time - because you wont get a signal for on-the-fly downloads on the trail.

Dan

Adam Parker wrote:
> Has anyone used their camera or similar electronic device as a map display?
> I think topo maps of the entire PCT could easily fit on a memory card, and
> then be displayed on screen if it has enough resolution/zoom/pan.
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