Archive for ◊ February, 2010 ◊

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Garmin nüvi 265W/265WT 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Integrated Traffic Receiver (Factory Refurbished)
 
Manufacturer: Garmin
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $129.99
Sale Price: $129.99
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Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description This is a refurbished GPS. Refurbished generally means that the unit has been returned to the manufacturer, who brings the navigator back to like new conditions. Some GPS may contain cosmetic blemishes.

Garmin's nüvi 265WT improves upon its 200-series predecessors by adding free real-time traffic updates from Navteq (for the life of the device) as well as Bluetooth connectivity to your cell phone. Other significant improvements in the 2x5 series include a predictive technology that provides faster satellite lock, a redesigned screen with more information, terrain maps, and an exciting new photo navigation feature. The 265WT provides complete maps for North America and the handy Text-to-Speech feature, so you get turn-by-turn spoken directions with the real names of streets (e.g. "turn left in 50 feet at Nebraska Way", rather than merely "turn left in 50 feet").

The nüvi 2x5 models all sport the slim design that Garmin introduced with the 200-series last year, so they all fit comfortably in your pocket or purse, and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that makes them convenient for navigation by car or foot. All of the models include useful travel tools like a JPEG picture viewer, world travel clock with time zones, currency converter, measurement converter, calculator and more. The 265WT also offers a wide 4.3-inch (diagonal) screen that displays 70% more of the road around you.

Integrated Traffic Receiver

Steer clear of traffic with an integrated GTM 20 FM traffic receiver designed to receive alerts about traffic tie-ups and road construction that might lie ahead on your route. No subscriptions or additional hardware needed. Just open the box, turn it on, and get instant access to traffic information--the traffic updates are free for the life of the device.

All you have to do is simply touch the screen to view traffic details and you'll be ready to detour around any problem area. And if you end up missing a turn, or you're forced into a detour that is not relayed through the traffic receiver, the nüvi's sophisticated automatic routing will get you back on track in no time.

In most areas, the traffic broadcasts are continuous--there's no waiting for scheduled traffic news updates or random alerts. Because traffic broadcasts are received via a "silent" FM data channel, you can still listen to music or news programming on your car radio without interference from incoming FM traffic data transmissions.

Hands-Free Calling

In more and more places, it is becoming illegal to use cell phones while driving without a hands-free kit. WIth Bluetooth capability, microphone and speaker, you can match your nüvi to any Bluetooth-capable phone to make hands-free mobile phone calls. Simply dial the phone number with the nüvi's touch screen keypad to make a call on a compatible phone. To answer an incoming call, just tap the screen and speak into the built-in microphone. Making and taking calls on the road has never been easier, or safer. In addition, Garmin makes it a breeze to look-up and dial numbers from your personalized phone book or even tap into your cell phone's call history log.

Key Features/Benefits for all 2x5 Series Navigators

  • New -- HotFix (Long Term Ephemeris Prediction) finds satellites faster (Learn more)
  • New -- Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Basemap shows 3D shaded terrain features (Learn more)
  • New -- Faster 333 Mhz processor offers faster, smoother map drawing and vehicle icon motion through turns
  • New -- Redesigned user interface offers more information (Learn more)
  • New -- Photo Navigation lets you upload geo-coded photos from a phone, geo-coding camera or photo site and navigate to them. (Learn more)
  • New -- Add Enhanced MSN Traffic and Content with the optional GDB 55 antenna and charger (Learn more)
  • New -- Send addresses directly to your Garmin from Google Maps or Mapquest (Learn more)
  • New -- Automatic Time Zone Transition
  • Text-to-Speech gives directions with real street names
  • 4.3-inch Widescreen shows you more of what's around you as you drive (Learn more)
  • Memory Card Slots so you can add maps and travel guides, or store photos (MicroSD card slot on 3.5-inch units; SD card slot on 4.3-inch units)
  • Preloaded Maps with Navteq data of North America + Hawaii + Puerto Rico, including 6.5 million searchable points of interest (Learn more)
  • Rechargeable lithium-ion battery for easy portability (up to 4 hours per charge)
  • Custom Vehicle Icons let you personalize your navigator (Learn more)
  • Integrated Antenna for a slim form factor
  • Where Am I? -- instantly shows you all of the emergency services nearby (Learn More)

Which nüvi is Best for You?:
Click here to see a quick, simple comparison of features for all Garmin nuvi GPS navigators

Learn More


New -- Improved Interface

One of Garmin's key product philosophies is to make extremely complex technology easy to use for anyone right out of the box, and perhaps nowhere is that better exemplified than in the user interface for Garmin's portable navigation devices.

Garmin's interface is a key to their success part of what makes their devices such a pleasure to use. Simple controls and sub-screens make it easy to enter or search for destinations and get data about your trip. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you there with turn-by-turn voice directions, 2-D or 3-D maps and smooth map updates as you navigate.

This year, Garmin has redesigned its interface to include much more useful information.

Old Interface

200 series ui

New Interface

2x5 Series UI


New -- HotFix™ – aka: Satellite Ephemeris Data Prediction

hotfix
Your GPS device locks onto transmissions from a dedicated network of Satellites in order to determine its position. Until the device gets a "lock" on three satellites, it can't effectively navigate, so decreasing the time it takes for your device to get "satellite lock" is always a goal of GPS manufacturers. With Garmin's new HotFix technology, your Garmin GPS remembers the position of all satellites it is tracking when you turn it off, and calculates their movements in order to predict where they should be the next time you turn it on. This gives the device an idea of where it should look for satellites, and dramatically decreases the time it takes for your Garmin to get its position and start navigating. HotFix can predict satellite positions for up to 3 days after the device was last turned off.

Using Garmin’s unique Web site — Garmin Connect Photos — users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nüvi for a richer navigation experience using pictures as a guide.

New -- Navigate by Photo


Using Garmin’s unique Web site — Garmin Connect Photos — users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nüvi for a richer navigation experience using pictures as a guide.
  • Choose from Panoramio's collection of photos from around the world.
  • Easy to use interface displays photos on Google Maps.
  • Search for photos by location name or map area boundary.
  • Transfer photos directly from Garmin Connect to device with the Garmin Communicator.
  • View photos in Google Earth.
  • Supports Internet Explorer 6+, Firefox 2+, Safari 3+ on Windows and Mac.



New -- 3D Terrain Maps

Shaded relief terrain maps show you when to expect hills, mountains, forests and other natural features. Topographic terrain maps are viewable when using the 2D "birds-eye" view.




New -- Send Addresses Directly from Google Maps or Mapquest

tching to try out a new restaurant, or setting off on a road trip to locate the best toffee apples on the east coast? Now, it's easy to search for locations on Google Maps or Mapquest, then transfer the addresses directly to your Garmin GPS navigator.
  1. Hook up your Garmin to the computer via it's USB port
  2. Search for the location you want
  3. Click the Send link in the info window for the address. That will bring up a popup "Send to" form.
  4. Pick GPS, then pick Garmin and hit the "Send" button.
The address will instantly transfer to your Garmin device, The point will be saved as one of your favorites, and you can navigate to it or view it on a map just like with any other favorite.

The process does require a small plugin, which you can get at Garmin's website at http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=3739. You can send business addresses to your Garmin device from these countries: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.

Search for the location you want.


Pick "Send to GPS".


Go!



Traffic-Capable for Either FM Traffic or Enhanced MSN Direct Content

MSN Direct Enhanced Traffic and Content

traffic reports With an optional receiver, you can access enhanced dynamic content from the MSN Direct service. Check the weather, avoid traffic backups, compare local gas prices, get enhanced movie listings, stock information, news and local events when you travel with your unit. Even plan trips from the convenience of your computer, via Windows Live Local, and wirelessly send custom to your nüvi.

Check out a full description of MSN Direct content features, or a coverage map for MSN Direct services.

A 3-month subscription to MSN Direct is included with the receiver. After that, subscription fees are $49.95 per year, or $129.95 for a lifetime subscription.

FM Traffic
TMC traffic service coverage map
With an optional receiver, you can get alerts from TMC Clear Channel about traffic tie-ups and road construction that might lie ahead on your route. All you have to do is simply touch the screen to view traffic details and you'll be ready to detour around any problem area. And if you end up missing a turn, or you're forced into a detour that is not relayed through the traffic receiver, the nüvi's sophisticated automatic routing will get you back on track in no time.

In most areas, TMC Clear Channel traffic broadcasts are continuous — there's no waiting for scheduled traffic news updates or random alerts. Because traffic broadcasts are received via a "silent" FM data channel, you can still listen to music or news programming on your car radio without interference from incoming FM traffic data transmissions.

A 3-month subscription to TMC Clear Channel's Total Traffic Network is included with the receiver. For more information on subscription fees, coverage in individual cities, and traffic data networks in the United Kingdom and Europe, check the Garmin website.


Widescreen -- See More of What's Around

The super-bright, 4.3-inch (diagonal) touchscreen display gives is anti-glare for ease of viewing during the day and automatically changes its color profile for easy viewing at night or in dim light. It offers 2d or 3D perspective views.

The widescreen format gives you 70% more actual screen area than a 3.5-inch screen. Primarily this translates into a better view of the area through which you are driving. This is especially useful in showing you what parks, restaurants, ATM, gas stations, etc. are nearby, or in letting you know whether a detour is a good idea. Also, the device itself is larger, meaning controls on the screen are more widely spaced and somewhat easier to push.
Wider screen lets you see more of what's around. Compare these actual size views of a 3-inch (diagonal) screen

3-inch screen


and a 4.3-inch diagonal widescreen

4.3-inch screen


Where Am I?

On any nüvi (including this one), you can just tap "Where Am I?" to find the closest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations, nearest address and intersection. Also see your exact latitude and longitude coordinates.


First-Rate Map Data


nüvi accepts custom points of interest (POIs). View larger.
The nüvi comes ready to go right out of the box with preloaded City Navigator NT street maps for all of North America, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, including a hefty POI database with hotels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you there with 2D or 3D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions. Garmin gets its map data from NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping.

In addition, nüvi accepts custom points of interest (POIs), such as school zones and safety cameras and lets you set proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs Important note about map updates: Due to our high volume of sales, almost every Garmin portable GPS navigator sold by Amazon.com will come with the most recent map version. If you ever do need a map update, you can purchase one from Amazon.com at our Garmin Store.



Garmin Lock

Garmin's patent pending theft prevention system that disables the unit from performing any functions until the user types in a specific 4-digit PIN or takes the unit to a predetermined secure location


Beyond Navigation

Browse your stored pictures with an easy-to-use JPEG viewer.


Navigation is just the beginning. The nüvi 2x5 models features travel tools including a JPEG picture viewer, world travel clock with time zones, currency converter, measurement converter, calculator and more.

This device is compatible with optional content plug-ins available via microSD card, such as the Garmin Travel Guides and Garmin SaversGuide provide detailed data for attractions and information on nearby merchants offering discounts, so you can customize nüvi for your travel needs. For Accessory Map Cards and Travel Guides the Units Feature: a MicroSD Card Slot on the 3.5 inch Units, and an SD Card Slot on the 4.3 inch Units.

Garmin has also added the ability for customers to add custom points of interest (POI’s) from third parties such as school zones and safety cameras.



Trick Your GPS Ride

custom vehicle icons
Custom vehicle icons let you ride in style, at least inside your GPS.
See more icon option
All Garmin nüvis support configurable vehicle icons. These fun, customized car-shaped icons come in a variety of colors to add a personal touch to your vehicle's position on the map.



What's in the Box?

nüvi 265WT, Preloaded City Navigator NT for North America (full coverage), Lifetime traffic, FM traffic receiver with vehicle power cable, Vehicle suction cup mount, USB cable, Dashboard disc, Quick start manual

Notes

  • Optional software for language translation, detailed travel guides, and savings programs allow you to customize your nüvi to fit your travel needs
  • Like most USB Mass Storage Devices, the nüvi is not compatible with Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me.

Which nüvi is Best for You?

Note: All nüvis come with detailed NAVTEQ maps containing more than 6 million pre-loaded point of interest locations.



Screen
Size
inches
(w x h)
Included Maps
Text-to-Speech
(Directions in
Real Street
Names)

Traffic
Bluetooth
Media

3D Terrain
Maps
Photo
Navigation
FM Transmitter
(audio through
car stereo
system)
Multi-
Point
Routing

Battery
life
(hours)
Cont. U.S.,
Hawaii, and
Puerto Rico

AK and
Canada

Europe
nüvi 200 2.8 x 2.1
check




Photos




up to 5
nüvi 200w 3.81 x 2.25
check




Photos




up to 5
nüvi 250 2.8 x 2.1
check check



Photos



up to 5
nüvi 250w 3.81 x 2.25
check check



Photos



up to 5
nüvi 260 2.8 x 2.1
check check
check

Photos



up to 5
nüvi 260w 3.81 x 2.25 check check
check

Photos



up to 5
nüvi 270 2.8 x 2.1
check check check


Photos



up to 5
nüvi 205 2.8 x 2.1 check


MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos check check

up to 4
nüvi 205W 3.81 x 2.25 check


MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos check check

up to 4
nüvi 255 2.8 x 2.1 check check
check MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos check check

up to 4
nüvi 255W
3.81 x 2.25 check check
check MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos check check

up to 4
nüvi 265T 2.8 x 2.1 check check
check Integrated FM
receiver with
lifetime traffic;
MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver)
check Photos check check

up to 4
nüvi 265WT
3.81 x 2.25 check check
check Integrated FM
receiver with
lifetime traffic;
MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver)
check Photos check check

up to 4
nüvi 275T 2.8 x 2.1 check check check check Integrated FM
receiver with
lifetime traffic;
MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver)
check Photos check check

up to 4
nüvi 350 2.8 x 2.1
check check
check FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos, MP3s




up to 8
nüvi 360 2.8 x 2.1
check check
check FM (with opt.
receiver)
check Photos, MP3s



up to 8
nüvi 370 2.8 x 2.1 check check check check FM (receiver
included)
check Photos, MP3s



up to 8
nüvi 650 3.81 x 2.25
check check
check FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos, MP3s



up to 7
nüvi 660
3.81 x 2.25
check check
check FM (receiver
included)
check Photos, MP3s

check
up to 7
nüvi 670
3.81 x 2.25
check check check check FM (receiver
included)
check Photos, MP3s

check
up to 7
nüvi 680 3.81 x 2.25
check check
check MSN (receiver
included;
1-year free);
FM (with opt.
receiver)
check Photos, MP3s

check
up to 7
nüvi 750
3.81 x 2.25
check check
check MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos, MP3s

check check up to 5
nüvi 760 3.81 x 2.25
check check
check MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)
check Photos, MP3s

check check up to 5
nüvi 770 3.81 x 2.25
check check check check MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)
check Photos, MP3s

check check up to 5
nüvi 780 3.81 x 2.25 check check

MSN-enhanced
(receiver inc.;
3 months free)
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)
check Photos, MP3s

check check up to 5
nüvi 850
3.81 x 2.25 check check

MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)

Photos, MP3s

check check up to 4
nüvi 880
3.81 x 2.25 check check check
MSN-enhanced
(receiver inc.;
3 months free);
FM (with opt.
receiver)
check Photos, MP3s

check check up to 4
nüvi 5000
4.5 x 2.7 check check
check MSN-enhanced
(with optional
receiver);
FM (with opt.
receiver)




check check external
battery
only

Basic MSN Direct Content Features
traffic reports Traffic Reports
  • Find the best route through traffic. Your GPS device uses MSN Direct traffic data to select the best route for you to avoid traffic congestion.
  • Check traffic flow. Know at a glance where to expect slowdowns in traffic.
  • Get accident warnings. Receive warnings about accidents, road closures, and construction in the area that may affect you.
Gas Prices Gas Prices
  • Compare local gas prices. See a list of recent gas prices in your area and an indication of how recently the prices were reported.
  • Find your way to the savings. Once you find the best price in your area, use your navigation system to guide you to the gas station.
Weather Reports Weather Reports
  • Stay on top of current conditions. View the current weather conditions in your area, including today's high and low temperatures, chances of precipitation, and more.
  • View the three-day forecast, Plan ahead by checking the three-day weather forecast for your area.
  • Check weather in other cities. See current weather conditions in major cities across the country.
movie times Movie Times
  • Search for a movie. Find the theaters in your coverage area that are showing the movie you want to see.
  • See which movies are playing. View which movies are playing in your coverage area or at your favorite theater.
  • See show times and get directions. Once you find a show you want to see, check the show times and use your GPS device to guide you to the theater.
Enhanced MSN Direct Content
Web Favorites Web Favorites (Send custom destinations to your GPS with Live Search Maps)
  • Powerful trip planning: Use Live Search Maps on your computer to look up an address, search for a business, or plan a trip
  • Choose your favorite location, and then MSN Direct delivers the address, phone number, and more straight to your navigation system.
  • Visit Live Search Maps at http://maps.live.com.
Local Events Local Events
  • See what's happening near you. Find nearby events to see what's happening in your area.
  • Find the events that interest you. Browse events sorted by category.
  • Search for an event. Get details about a particular event.
Stock Quotes Stock Quotes
  • Watch the stocks that interest you. Select stocks that you want to keep an eye on, and then see regularly updated stock prices and daily changes.
  • Get a little more detail. Touch a stock in your list to see daily highs, lows, and trading volume.
News Headlines News Headlines
  • Browse the headlines at a glance. See breaking news and other major news stories of the day.
  • Read more details. Select a headline to read all the details about the news story on your navigation system.


MSN Direct Coverage Map

Get detailed info for your Zip Code at the MSN Direct website
.

MSN Direct Coverage Map

Product Details

  • Factory refurbished
  • Sleek, ultra-thin design fits easily in pocket
  • Preloaded with City Navigator North America NT
  • Supports Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling when paired with Bluetooth-enabled cell phones
  • NOTE: Model number is 265WT; however, the model number on the product itself is 265W

Video Reviews

No video reviews found for this product.

Customer Reviews

Works perfectly
 
Review Date: June 19, 2009
Reviewer: K. W. Ford, Monrovia, CA United States
I was a bit confused at first by the 265w label on the device and on the screen during boot up; however, this unit does have the FM receiver built into the power adapter cable and works exactly as advertised. The routing software is much more intelligent than a previous model I've owned, the interface is notably improved and the text to speech for street names is a very nice addition. Hands-free phone features also work flawlessly.
Quite pleased. Also great Customer Service and Technical Assistance
 
Review Date: July 7, 2009
Reviewer: Jim D., Washington, DC USA
My refurbished 265wt looks and works like new and the features were as I expected. The only thing that I wish it had is the ability to save routes. But you can plan and follow a route by designating a final destination and then again using the "Where To" Feature to add additional locations and then for each selecting the option "Add as Via Point," but you cannot save the route for future use.

I ran into two glitches when attempting to update the map (free within 60 days of first use). Since it was a refurbished unit, the first use date was more than 60 days before I received the GPS and thus I was unable to download the free update. A call to Garmin easily resolved that - the customer service contact person added it to my account for free download. The second problem was that when I tried to install the updated map I got a message indicating there was not enough space and it refused to install. Another call to Garmin and a software expert used "remote assist" (after my giving him permission to take control of my computer from his location) and made live changes to my GPS. After that the map update was successful. In both cases the Garmin personnel were most courteous, very competent, and easy to understand.

I also found the Garmin MapSource program very helpful. It can be downloaded at no charge if you already have another Garmin program, and if you don't, you can first download and install the free Garmin Training Center program and then download and install MapSource at no cost. Working in MapSource to create, to view and to edit waypoints and tracks and other features and then using MapSource to transfer the data to the GPS is far easier than trying to do this directly on the GPS.

Apart from mapping, the "Points of Interest" feature can lead you to unexpected places. After using the GPS "Where To", then "Points of Interest" in the Germantown, Maryland area I selected "Food" to look for lunch. The first two addresses ended up being residential addresses in townhouse developments. Out of curiosity I learned that one house was unoccupied according to a neighbor and at the other house no one answered the door. On my 3rd try I selected the chain "Subway" and that address was right on. Clearly the Points of Interest contains some unreliable information. However, this would likely be true for all Garmin GPS models.
Can't tell it's refurb
 
Review Date: June 23, 2009
Reviewer: R. Anderson, Texarkana, TX
My Garmin 265WT looks and works great. I cannot tell it was refurb. All functions work as promised and registering with Garmin was a breeze. Dont be confused by the 265W marking on the unit, this is a 265 WT.

The only thing that I could not do is update my maps. It did not come with the most current maps but when I tried to update them the only option was to buy them. Garmin made it quite clear that you have up to 60 days to register and get a map update for free, even if you purchase a refurb. I had to email Garmin to request a free update. Their records indicated I was past the 60 day mark even though I had purchased the Nuvi less than a week before. I sent them my Amazon reciept and they gladly provided me with my free map update.

I couldn't be happier with the unit!
Such a deal!
 
Review Date: June 19, 2009
Reviewer: Scott Kenan, Stone Mountain, GA USA
My refurb Garmin 265WT arrived looking and acting like new. Intuitive, easy to use. Fast connection to satellites. Bright screen. Don't miss free extras you can add: Points of Interest (POIs). Databases of Kroger, Trader Joe's, Home Depot and many other chain stores to find them fast. Highway rest-stops, National and State parks. Diners, offbeat tourist attractions, and hundreds of others--free.

Most practical: Red-light and speed limit camera traps. These cost a couple bucks, but work great, sounding a warning about 15 seconds before you get to one. Google "POI Factory". Register for free. The site will send you to Garmin's website to download a small Garmin program that imports and installs the download from your computer to GPS. Google for reviews of POI Factory if you don't trust it.

I wasted $120 last year getting my car's butt caught by red-light cameras, so in 18 months, this GPS will more than pay for itself.
Garmin Nuvi 265wt
 
Review Date: July 14, 2009
Reviewer: Steve Novy, Manitowoc, Wi. USA
I already own an older, yet very reliable, C320 street pilot that performs very well. I wanted to see if the newer models were any better.I found that some of the features are a nice touch and some of them are just fluff. What I found is that the unit itself performs very well, and the traffic feature helped me stay informed pretty well,although not always in a timely fashion.The 265 does pick up signals very fast and very accuratly in my neck of the woods,(East central Wisconsin) and have no problems keeping a signal.It updates quickly, but does get annoying if I decide to travel off it's intended path. It could have a feature to limit how often it wants to tell you to reroute.The picture viewer is handy for me as I like to take a lot of pictures and viewing them on my camera is a bit too small. The garage feature for changing the icon for the pointer is one of the "fluff" features, but kinda cool in it's own way.I do use this on my motorcycle and putting an icon of a motorcycle on it is silly but fun. It is difficult to hear and see on a motorcycle, but fits better than my C320 unit.Since this is a refurbished unit from Amazon it had been already activated and when going to the Garmin sight it told me that there was a map update but didn't fall under their 60 day guarantee map update because of the previous activation. I wrote and explained the situation and all they asked was that I send a copy,( via fax or scanned email) of the reciept from Amazon. Very quickly Garmin add the option for a free map update on my registration page at the Garmin sight and I had my free map update to the new 2010 maps. Thanks to Garmin. I would recommend this product. I have bought other items from Amazon by the way, new and refurbished and have yet to be disappointed.
Just as good as new with a few bucks savings
 
Review Date: October 8, 2009
Reviewer: Croppled1, Tampa , Usa
Since there are some negative reviews I just want to reafirm that this unit did arrive in basically open box condition . All the paperwork was with it ,usb cable- charger - They repackaged it . It came with NT 2010 maps .. it even had the eco route update on it . You get the FM power cord . You get the window mount / dash disc . You probally will want to buy a bean bag and a case . Myself as I have usb ports everywhere I go I do not see needing a AC charger . There is no SD card of any kind so if you want to add more data and use the provided slot just grab a cheap card . I have some from old cameras that I have upgraded . I took the advice of most and to be safe let it charge overnight before trying it . It didn't get a lock in my home until I sat by a window and I am now learning how to program it this is nice and easy to work with . This is my first GPS . I am very relieved everything sent was perfect . The only feature this doesnt have that I noticed is multi destination routing . At the price to get one with all these features and lifetime traffic I figured the compromise was fine for me . I cannot think of anything this doesnt have otherwise it covers all North America . The warranty is the same as new 1 yr .

I will comeback later and add how it performed . However the main thing is the maps are up to date and it came with every thing . You can get the last update avaiable up to 60 days after your unit arrives but I figured if it aint broke dont fix it . If yours doesnt have NT 2010 then ask customer service to reset your device when you registrar it if there is a problem you may have to show proof of recent purchase but it is doable if your polite and somebody else is still shown as using it . They can fix that situation . Otherwise this arrives the same as new other then it may of been handled and repackaged . Very Pleased . I apologize for not testing more first but I am currently disabled and drive very infrequent When I do this will be a very important tool for me to stay safe . Lane assist , bluetooth hands free phone and where am I emergency locator was a big factor in buying this unit .
Great deal on a great device
 
Review Date: June 23, 2009
Reviewer: Essensia,
At first the unit wouldn't start and I feared it was DOA, but I discovered that I had to do a reset by holding the power button to the left for 8 seconds. After that, no worries! I love this little device, my first GPS, and now I don't leave home without it. Like other reviewers, at first I was thrown off by the fact that the unit is a 265W rather than a 265WT, but it comes with the Garmin GTM25 traffic receiver that's built into the 12V power cable. A USB cable is also included.

I had no problem registering at my.garmin.com and installing the updated map. (Be sure to follow the instructions in the Quick Start pamphlet and acquire satellites BEFORE you try to register. The registration process will not work unless you have acquired satellites.)

Note that a full manual is not included but can be downloaded from Garmin. The device is very intuitive, but I did learn a lot from skimming the manual. An experienced GPS user probably wouldn't need the manual.
User Reviews Send this to a friend
Navgear ME201133 Universal Dashboard Mount for Portable GPS Units
 
Manufacturer: navgear
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List Price: $39.99
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Product Description

Universal dash mount for GPS systems, cell phones, satellite radios, and PDAs.

Product Details

  • Securely holds GPS systems, cell phones, satellite radios, and PDAs to vehicle dash
  • Works with any section cup mount bracket
  • Weighted, anti-skid bottom
  • Flexible to fit any dash

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Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor
 
Manufacturer: Garmin
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $299.99
Sale Price: $157.41
Availability: Not yet released
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Product Description

Amazon.com Review Just when you thought Garmin had cornered the market on powerful, affordable, and effective wrist-mounted GPS devices, here comes the Forerunner 305. The release of this device is a major achievement from a design and technology perspective. This isn't just marketing-speak; the Forerunner 305 is the most accurate, most reliable wrist-mounted performance and GPS tracking tool we've ever tested. Yes, it's that good. While no device this compact can do everything (yet), the 305 pushes the boundaries of what is possible from something strapped around your wrist. The 305 model includes wireless heartrate monitoring and it can also be connected to Garmin's wireless bicycle speed and cadence sensor. If you don't need these features, consider the lower-priced Forerunner 205.

View Garmin's Forerunner demonstration video.



Choose from 12 data fields to display on the 305's screen. View larger.


The design cleverly integrates the GPS antenna and aims it towards the sky when you're running or walking. View larger.


The Virtual Partner function makes your workouts more competitive. View larger.


Choose from three workout modes that help you target your training goals. View larger.


The 305 features rudimentary mapping and location marking functions. View larger.
Design
The 305's design is a radical departure from Garmin's previous generation of wrist mounted GPS devices, which reached a pinnacle with the Garmin Forerunner 301. While the 301 delivered accurate heart rate monitoring, good performance tracking, and decent GPS reception, it didn't quite deliver in the design department. The form factor was bulky and wearing it wasn't much different than duct taping a full-sized GPS device to your wrist.

Not so with the 305. Garmin's engineers obviously burned the midnight oil and have come up with a waterproof design that, while certainly not as small as a sports watch, feels just as comfortable. The curved casing allows the unit's antenna to face the sky when you're running, while the widescreen display is perfectly positioned for viewing when you need it. And the display certainly deserves a few kudos. While it's smaller than the display found on previous Forerunners, its resolution is far higher, offering incredible clarity and crispness.

Garmin has smartly given the 305 a simple button layout and the buttons have a nice tactile feel with good pressure response. The right side houses the menu selection and enter buttons, while the left houses a power/backlight button and a mode button. This simple and elegant solution is a big improvement over the sometimes confusing button functionality of previous Forerunners. View button layout.

The underside of the 305 is pretty nondescript, except for a row of contacts that interface with the included charging and data cradle. The cradle is small and unobtrusive and its single mini-USB port connects to either an included AC adapter, or a USB cable that connects to your PC. In addition to data transfer with the USB cable, you can also charge the 305's embedded lithium-ion battery via a powered USB connection from your computer.

GPS Performance
The big news about the Forerunner 305 is that it features an integrated, high-sensitivity SiRFstar III GPS receiver. What does this mean? It means that the 305's ability to both track, and maintain a lock on, your position is better than anything before it. After an intial battery charge, the tester had the 305 on his wrist and was tracking speed and distance with GPS satellites within 3 minutes. The next time we used the 305, satellite acquisition was nearly instantaneous. A run through dense trees didn't faze the unit either; tracking remained true and steady. Performance on a bike was equally impressive. Whatever witchcraft has been cooked up by the designers of the SiRF technology, we like it!



The simple docking cradle makes charging and data connectivity a snap.
While the Forerunner 305 isn't billed as a GPS navigation device, it does have some rudimentary mapping, waypoint marking, and routing capabilities. In addition to marking locations along your journey, you can zoom in or out of a simple map that displays your current direction and path. There's also a "go to location" feature that routes you back to your starting location, or to any location you have defined. Once you have defined several locations, you can save this information as a route, allowing you to travel the same path in the future. As you'll see below, the 305's new "Courses" feature gives you new levels of control over how you define your favorite runs and rides.

Training Functions
The 305 is first and foremost a training tool, and its ability to organize a ton of data types into a user experience that is intuitive and simple is no small feat. Whiz-bang technology aside, if you can't use it and make it a natural part of your exercise routine, it's worthless. When it comes to these factors -- and here's the take home message on the 305 -- this device is successful where many other devices fail.

The heart and soul of the 305 can be found on the data screens, which give you real-time information about all aspects of your workout. In fact, the 305 can display a dizzying array of data, such as calories burned, distance, elevation, grade, and heading, as well as multiple lap and pace modes. The 305 adds the ability to track heartrate, lap heartrate, average heartrate, and heartrate zones via the included coded heartrate chest strap. With the purchase of a separate wireless cadence and speed meter, you can also track bike performance data.

Thankfully, the device makes it easy to define how much or how little data you want to view during a workout. You can arrange the data that's most important to you and then make that data appear front and center on the device. Indeed, within a few minutes of skimming the manual and fiddling with the device setup, you'll have your most important data displaying just the way you like it. The ability to display heartrate is a big plus, too, as it's a fairly good indicator of excercise output, fatigue, and fitness level. The 305 has all the heartrate functions you'd expect from a full-function monitor, including the ability to set target zones and alerts to maximize the effectiveness of your workouts.

Garmin's Virtual Partner function was cool feature of previous Forerunners and they've decided to keep a good thing going with the 305. If you're the type that performs best when you've got a competitor egging you on, you'll love this function, as it allows you to set up virtual running or biking companions that compete against you.

If you're looking for an complicated workout with a variety of intervals and intensity levels, or just a quick three-mile jog against your best time last week, the 305 has you covered. Navigating to the Workouts menu on the device yields three options: Quick Workouts, Interval, and Advanced Workout. A quick workout is just that; set the distance and time, distance and pace, or time and pace of your planned workout and off you go. Interval workouts are just the same, but they allow you to add repetitions and rest between them. When you really want to get fancy with your exercise, you can step up to advanced workouts, which include goals for each workout step, as well as varied distances, times, and rest periods. You can use the Garmin Training Center software to set up these workouts and then upload them to the device.

Computer Connectivity and Software
Garmin has been outfitting their devices with USB connectivity for some time now -- a welcome move for those who struggled with serial port connections in the days of yore. Thanks to USB, the 305 integrates seamlessly with the Training Center software and we quickly had workout history uploaded and stored on the computer. Not only does Training Center--which is compatible with both PC and Mac--make it easy to track your performance, you can graph data such as heartrate alongside your speed and distance. Over time, this is a great way to view your fitness levels increase, and it also helps you see what types of workouts are necessary to strengthen your weaknesses. For instance, if you see your heartrate begin to spike after a certain distance, you know you need to increase your endurance workouts to train that area of fitness.

In a first for the Forerunner series, the Training Center software also lets you define courses on your computer that you can upload to the device. When course information is combined with uploaded workout information, the Forerunner becomes a complete guide, telling you where to go, when to make a turn, and what kind of workout to do when you're on the road or path. Back on the computer, the software's ability to overlay workout data on maps of the course makes it easy to see where the course offers up the tough hills and the easy recovery spots. Plus, the ability to track historical performance on a given course is a great way to measure your improvement.

The 305 is also fully compatible with Garmin's MotionBased service, which takes your training to another level by connecting your data with the Internet. While we weren't able to use the service, the promise of sharing courses, maps, workouts, and performance data with other users is intriguing. And if you're a serious endurance athlete, you'll be glad to know that the 305 is also compatible with TrainingPeaks.com, an easy-to-use web based training system designed to help athletes train for any event.

Pros

  • Radically new design is better in every way
  • Amazing accuracy and fast satellite acquisition time
  • So simple to set up and use, you will actually use it
Cons
  • Okay, it's bigger than a sport's watch -- but so much more powerful
What's in the Box
Forerunner 305, Garmin Training Center CD-ROM, heart rate monitor, docking cradle, expander strap, A/C charger, USB cable, owner's manual, quick start guide.

Product Details

  • High-Sensitivity, Watch-Like GPS Receiver That Provides Exceptional Signal Reception
  • 1 Piece Training Assistant That Provides Athletes With Precise Speed, Distance & Pace Data
  • Includes Training Center Software, Which Allows Users To Download Workout Data For A Detailed Analysis
  • Used For Multiple Sports Such As Cycling, Cross- Country Skiing & Windsurfing
  • Data Acquired May Also Be Analyzed With Motionbased, Which Provides Online Mapping & Route Sharing

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TomTom One Third Edition Auto Navigation System (Factory Refurbished)
 
Manufacturer: TomTom
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $149.99
Sale Price: $224.99
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Product Description

TomTom ONE Auto Navigation System. The latest version of the popular TomTom ONE GPS navigation unit includes an improved user interface with new options for customizing the navigation screen and more information with easier access to other functions. The MapShare feature allows you to edit maps instantly on your device and report map errors easily using your device with TomTom HOME. The Help Me Main menu option allows the user to navigate to and find information on assistance hospitals, gas stations, etc. Available as an optional accessory not included, is the RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver as a Plug and go traffic solution with traffic incident data available in 68 markets. Previously Road Tested.

Product Details

  • 3.5 inch full color TFT LCD touchscreen 320x240 pixels
  • 1GB Internal Memory
  • Turn-by-Turn Voice Instructions/Millions of Points of Interest
  • Highly sensitive GPS chipset
  • Includes Windshield Mount Adhesive Disk for Mount, USB Car Charger, USB Cable, Warranty Card

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TomTom XL 340 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator
 
Manufacturer: TomTom
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $229.95
Sale Price: $115.53
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Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description The TomTom XL 340 is complete navigation in a widescreen device. Switch on and go right out of the box. Spoken turn-by-turn instructions will guide you to any address in the United States, Canada, and Mexico--including more than 7 million preloaded points of interest.

Complete navigation in a widescreen device. Click to enlarge.

The Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds flat against the device, making it easy to take it with you from car to car. Click to enlarge.

IQ Routes Technology* gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel on your route to calculate your trip rather than only posted speed limits, so you'll always travel the smartest route. Advanced Lane Guidance* uses photorealistic images to bring even more clarity to complex multi-lane exits so you can be more confident on the road.

TomTom has the most accurate maps, and with TomTom Map Share technology, you instantly can modify street names, street direction, POIs, road speeds, and turn restrictions on your own device. With the "Help Me!" menu, added safety features enable you to easily access local emergency providers.

The Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds flat against the device, making it easy to take it with you from car to car.

The XL 340 is complete, widescreen navigation.

*Features only available in the United States and Canada.

XL 340 Features

  • Maps of United States, Canada, and Mexico with TomTom Map Share
  • 7 million POIs
  • IQ Routes Technology
  • Advanced Lane Guidance
  • Fold & Go EasyPort Mount
  • Spoken Instructions
  • 4.3-inch Touchscreen

All TomToms Feature

Plug & Go--Works right out of the box.

Preloaded Points of Interest--Easily find millions of gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and more on your route.

30-Day Latest Map Guarantee--Up to date, off the shelf.

TomTom Map Share--Modify your own map and benefit from others' verified changes with TomTom Map Share.

Help Me! Emergency Menu--Easily access local emergency providers, such as police, fire stations, and hospitals.

TomTom HOME--Always up to date.

Traffic Ready--Optional RDS-TMC traffic receiver accessory keeps you up-to-date on traffic events to minimize potential delays.

Fuel Price Service (optional)--Know more, pay less.

Why TomTom?

TomTom believes that personal navigation should be as easy and safe as possible. TomTom develops smart technology that gives you straightforward solutions, innovations to make life easy.

Easy to Use

  • Award-winning navigation software
  • Plug & go

Best Maps

  • 30-Day Latest Map Guarantee
  • Modify your own map and benefit from others' verified changes with TomTom Map Share

Best Routing

  • QuickGPSfix
  • Traffic ready

Leader in Safety

  • Help Me! emergency resources menu
  • Safety preferences menu

About TomTom

Founded in Amsterdam in 1991, TomTom has established itself as a global leader in navigation by being an innovative company with a strong brand, clear customer focus, and high-quality products and services.

TomTom is a leading navigation solutions provider with navigation products sold in 30 countries and in over 20 languages. To further its commitment to car navigation, TomTom acquired Tele Atlas maps in 2008 so that the company can continually provide the most up-to-date maps and intelligent routing.

TomTom has its own mapping company!

Did you know that every year, roads change by up to 40% in high-growth areas? Tele Atlas manages this by using the world's most comprehensive systems to identify and incorporate these changes into our maps with unprecedented levels of speed and accuracy. All TomTom devices benefit from the Tele Atlas advantage--more coverage, more points of interest, and more freshness and accuracy.

What's in the Box

XL 340 Device, Fold & Go EasyPort Mount, Adhesive Mounting Disk, USB Cable, Cigarette Lighter Adaptor, Documentation Pack

Product Details

  • Complete widescreen navigation with the most accurate maps in a compact, portable GPS device with a 4.3-inch WQVGA touchscreen
  • Spoken turn-by-turn instructions and 3D graphics will guide you to any address in the United States, Canada, and Mexico
  • IQ Routes Technology gives you the fastest route every time by using actual average speeds of travel on your route
  • Advanced Lane Guidance uses photorealistic images to bring even more clarity to complex multi-lane exits so you can be more confident on the road
  • With TomTom Map Share technology, you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, road speeds, and turn restrictions on your own device

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Bracketron UFM-100BL Nav-Mat GPS Friction Dash Pad [Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging]
 
Manufacturer: Bracketron
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $29.95
Sale Price: $13.08
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
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Product Description

Bracketron and Amazon.com have teamed up to offer this item in Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging, a recyclable, easy-to-open alternative to traditional packaging. Products in Frustration-Free Packaging are exactly the same--we've just streamlined the packaging. A Frustration-Free Package comes without excess packaging materials such as wire ties, hard plastic "clamshell" casings, and plastic bindings. It's designed to be opened without the use of a box cutter or knife and will protect your product just as well as traditional packaging. This item ships in its own box, without the need for an additional shipping box.

The Nav-Mat is an extremely convenient mounting accessory for your portable GPS. Using the physics of weight distribution along with high tech anti-skid materials, it creates a solid mounting base to turn your windshield-mounted GPS into a dash-mounted GPS.

The Nav-Mat conforms to the contours of your dashboard, allowing it to work on uneven or textured surfaces while the anti-skid underside keeps the device from sliding. Designed to work with devices up to several pounds using the stock windshield suction mount sold with most popular GPS units, the Nav-Mat requires no tools for installation and can easily be moved from vehicle to vehicle or put out of sight when leaving the vehicle.

Also works well with other Bracketron Windshield Mounts for mounting devices such as Satellite Radio, Cell Phones and MP3 Players.

What's in the Box
Bracketron UFM-100BL Nav-Mat GPS Friction Dash Pad, User's Manual

Product Details

  • Ships in Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging
  • Easy to Install and Remove
  • Advanced Weight Distribution Technology Prevents Sliding and Promotes Stability
  • Non-Skid Base
  • Keeps a Low Profile

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Garmin nüvi 250 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator (English/French Version)
 
Manufacturer: Garmin
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $199.99
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Product Description

Simple navigation at an affordable price--that's nüvi 250. This entry-level Personal Travel Assistant comes with preloaded maps for North America, including all of the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For added flexibility, choose nüvi 270 with preloaded maps for both continents or save more with nüvi 200 which offers less map coverage at a lower price. Like all nüvi 200-series members, the 250 features an easy-to-use colorful touchscreen and ultra-slim design--perfect for everyday navigation.



The nüvi 250 comes preloaded with maps for North America, and features an easy-to-use touchscreen and ultra-slim design.


Configurable vehicle icons let you select car-shaped graphics.


nüvi 250 accepts custom points of interest (POIs). View larger.
Smart, Powerful Design
The nüvi 250 is built with a high-sensitivity WAAS-enabled GPS receiver for extreme accuracy, as well as an SD card slot for storing your media and additional navigation tools, and a USB interface for loading data. All this is wrapped up in a package that measures 3.8 x 2.8 x .8 inches (W x H x D) and weighs just 5.2 ounces. The nüvi 250's 3.5-inch (diagonal) display is touchscreen-enabled, making it a cinch to control the device with your fingertips. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to five hours of battery life depending on use.

Navigate with Ease
nüvi 250 comes ready to go right out of the box with preloaded City Navigator NT street maps, including a hefty points of interest (POIs) database with hotels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you there with 2D or 3D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions. In addition, nüvi 250 accepts custom points of interest (POIs), such as school zones and safety cameras and lets you set proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs.

Go Beyond Navigation
Navigation is just the beginning. nüvi 250 features many travel tools including JPEG picture viewer, world travel clock with time zones, currency converter, measurement converter, calculator and more. It also comes with Garmin Lock, an anti-theft feature, and configurable vehicle icons that let you select car-shaped graphics to show your location on the map. Optional plug-in SD cards for our line of Garmin Travel Guides and Garmin SaversGuide provide detailed data for attractions and information on nearby merchants offering discounts, so you can customize nüvi for your travel needs.

Note: Like most USB Mass Storage Devices, the nüvi is not compatible with Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me.


What's in the Box
nüvi 250, preloaded City Navigator NT for North America (full coverage), vehicle suction cup mount, vehicle power cable, dashboard disk, and set up and go guide.

Product Details

  • Personal Travel Assistant comes preloaded with maps for U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico
  • Easy-to-use colorful touchscreen and ultra-slim design
  • High-sensitivity WAAS-enabled GPS receiver offers extreme accuracy
  • Built-in travel tools include the Garmin Lock anti-theft feature, JPEG viewer, world clock, currency converter, and more
  • Measures 3.8 x 2.8 x 0.8 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 5.2 ounces

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Garmin Forerunner 205 GPS Receiver and Sports Watch
 
Manufacturer: Garmin
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $267.99
Sale Price: Too low to display
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
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Product Description

Just when you thought Garmin had cornered the market on powerful, affordable, and effective wrist-mounted GPS devices, here comes the Forerunner 205. The release of this device is a major achievement from a design and technology perspective. This isn't just marketing-speak; the Forerunner 205 is the most accurate, most reliable wrist-mounted performance and GPS tracking tool we've ever tested. Yes, it's that good. While no device this compact can do everything (yet), the 205 pushes the boundaries of what is possible from something strapped around your wrist. While the 205 doesn't offer heart rate monitoring, or connectivity with Garmin's wireless speed and cadence sensor -- for that, you'll need to step up to the Forerunner 305 -- but it's a great way to get basic GPS location and performance data.

View Garmin's Forerunner demonstration video.



Choose from 12 data fields to display on the 305's screen. View larger.


The design cleverly integrates the GPS antenna and aims it towards the sky when you're running or walking. View larger.


The Virtual Partner function makes your workouts more competitive. View larger.


Choose from three workout modes that help you target your training goals. View larger.


The 305 features rudimentary mapping and location marking functions. View larger.
Design
The 205's design is a radical departure from Garmin's previous generation of wrist mounted GPS devices, which reached a pinnacle with the Garmin Forerunner 301. While the 301 delivered accurate heart rate monitoring, good performance tracking, and decent GPS reception, it didn't quite deliver in the design department. The form factor was bulky and wearing it wasn't much different than duct taping a full-sized GPS device to your wrist.

Not so with the 205. Garmin's engineers obviously burned the midnight oil and have come up with a waterproof design that, while certainly not as small as a sports watch, feels just as comfortable. The curved casing allows the unit's antenna to face the sky when you're running, while the widescreen display is perfectly positioned for viewing when you need it. And the display certainly deserves a few kudos. While it's smaller than the display found on previous Forerunners, its resolution is far higher, offering incredible clarity and crispness.

Garmin has smartly given the 205 a simple button layout and the buttons have a nice tactile feel with good pressure response. The right side houses the menu selection and enter buttons, while the left houses a power/backlight button and a mode button. This simple and elegant solution is a big improvement over the sometimes confusing button functionality of previous Forerunners. View button layout.

The underside of the 205 is pretty nondescript, except for a row of contacts that interface with the included charging and data cradle. The cradle is small and unobtrusive and its single mini-USB port connects to either an included AC adapter, or a USB cable that connects to your PC. In addition to data transfer with the USB cable, you can also charge the 205's embedded lithium-ion battery via a powered USB connection from your computer.

GPS Performance
The big news about the Forerunner 205 is that it features an integrated, high-sensitivity SiRFstar III GPS receiver. What does this mean? It means that the 205's ability to both track, and maintain a lock on, your position is better than anything before it. After an intial battery charge, our product tester had the 205 on his wrist and was tracking speed and distance with GPS satellites within 3 minutes. The next time we used the 205, satellite acquisition was nearly instantaneous. A run through dense trees didn't faze the unit either; tracking remained true and steady. Performance on a bike was equally impressive. Whatever witchcraft has been cooked up by the designers of the SiRF technology, we like it!



The simple docking cradle makes charging and data connectivity a snap (Forerunner 305 model shown).
While the Forerunner 205 isn't billed as a GPS navigation device, it does have some rudimentary mapping, waypoint marking, and routing capabilities. In addition to marking locations along your journey, you can zoom in or out of a simple map that displays your current direction and path. There's also a "go to location" feature that routes you back to your starting location, or to any location you have defined. Once you have defined several locations, you can save this information as a route, allowing you to travel the same path in the future. As you'll see below, the 205's new "Courses" feature gives you new levels of control over how you define your favorite runs and rides.

Training Functions
The 205 is first and foremost a training tool, and its ability to organize a ton of data types into a user experience that is intuitive and simple is no small feat. Whiz-bang technology aside, if you can't use it and make it a natural part of your exercise routine, it's worthless. When it comes to these factors -- and here's the take home message on the 205 -- this device is successful where many other devices fail.

The heart and soul of the 205 can be found on the data screens, which give you real-time information about all aspects of your workout. In fact, the 305 can display a dizzying array of data, such as calories burned, distance, elevation, grade, and heading, as well as multiple lap and pace modes.

Thankfully, the device makes it easy to define how much or how little data you want to view during a workout. You can arrange the data that's most important to you and then make that data appear front and center on the device. Indeed, within a few minutes of skimming the manual and fiddling with the device setup, you'll have your most important data displaying just the way you like it.

Garmin's Virtual Partner function was cool feature of previous Forerunners and they've decided to keep a good thing going with the 205. If you're the type that performs best when you've got a competitor egging you on, you'll love this function, as it allows you to set up virtual running or biking companions that compete against you.

If you're looking for an complicated workout with a variety of intervals and intensity levels, or just a quick three-mile jog against your best time last week, the 205 has you covered. Navigating to the Workouts menu on the device yields three options: Quick Workouts, Interval, and Advanced Workout. A quick workout is just that; set the distance and time, distance and pace, or time and pace of your planned workout and off you go. Interval workouts are just the same, but they allow you to add repetitions and rest between them. When you really want to get fancy with your exercise, you can step up to advanced workouts, which include goals for each workout step, as well as varied distances, times, and rest periods. You can use the Garmin Training Center software to set up these workouts and then upload them to the device.

PC Connectivity and Software
Garmin has been outfitting their devices with USB connectivity for some time now -- a welcome move for those who struggled with serial port connections in the days of yore. Thanks to USB, the 205 integrates seamlessly with the Training Center software and we quickly had workout history uploaded and stored on the PC (Sadly, Training Center is not Mac-compatible).

In a first for the Forerunner series, the Training Center software also lets you define courses on your PC that you can upload to the device. When course information is combined with uploaded workout information, the Forerunner becomes a complete guide, telling you where to go, when to make a turn, and what kind of workout to do when you're on the road or path. Back on the PC, the software's ability to overlay workout data on maps of the course makes it easy to see where the course offers up the tough hills and the easy recovery spots. Plus, the ability to track historical performance on a given course is a great way to measure your improvement.

The 205 is also fully compatible with Garmin's MotionBased service, which takes your training to another level by connecting your data with the Internet. While we weren't able to use the service, the promise of sharing courses, maps, workouts, and performance data with other users is intriguing. And if you're a serious endurance athlete, you'll be glad to know that the 205 is also compatible with TrainingPeaks.com, an easy-to-use web based training system designed to help athletes train for any event.

Pros

  • Radically new design is better in every way
  • Amazing accuracy and fast satellite acquisition time
  • So simple to set up and use, you will actually use it
Cons
  • Okay, it's bigger than a sport's watch -- but so much more powerful
What's in the Box
Forerunner 205, Garmin Training Center CD-ROM, docking cradle, expander strap, A/C charger, USB cable, owner's manual, quick start guide.

Product Details

  • High-sensitivity, watch-like GPS receiver that provides exceptional signal reception
  • One-piece training assistant that provides athletes with precise speed, distance, and pace data
  • Includes training center software, which allows users to download workout data for a detailed analysis
  • Used for multiple sports, such as cycling, cross- country skiing, and windsurfing

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