Thank you all for the info and quick replies!
Much appreciated!
I'll be sure to check out your tips page Stinsonddog, and Saua, you bring up some good thoughts as to why us BB holders are still awaiting pre-loaded SD-GPS to be fully developed.
Quote:
Originally Posted by tomtheguitarguy
Keep your BB and purchase a small handheld/pocket size GPS unit like the Mio Digiwalker, the new Michelin Unit, or other full GPS unit. If you want, you can ditch the external receiver (or use it for GPS mapping with you BB when you're in coverage areas).
I don't see why you need to change phones.
tomtheguitarguy
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I see what you are saying Tom, and I considered this option before I went ahead with the purchase of my 8100.
The main reason why I decided not to go this route is because I wanted to simplify and reduce what I carry on me while working. I already need to wear a flashlight, id-acess card, multi-tool, keys, and a Motorola radio on my belt.... plus my BB.
Thank god when I wear my suit jacket, it covers most of these items up...
Adding a small handheld/pocket size GPS on top of this would just be too much... I already dis-like wearing my BB in it's holster and would rather carry it in my pocket, however, I have found with past phones they do tend to get banged up a little (from helping in the baggage car or leaning on them while performing certain duties) or even slightly damp (from helping in the dining car).
Why would I need to carry it on me at all times and couldn't just place somewhere and get it when needed?
Our trains are between 18-32 cars long... 1/3rd to half a mile long and carry a few hundred passengers. I"m always on my feet walking between these cars, performing my job duties and each trip is 4-5 days on the road.
The main reason why I took up this project is because we are constantly looking at improving safety upon our trains as well as improving our passengers experience.
Lets say we are in an unfortunate accident and are unable to communicate with the engineers due to them being injured. I need to know exactly where we are located so first response teams know where to find us and don"t loose precious minutes "trying" to locate our position (as mentioned earlier, we travel through various remote areas). Specialized topographic maps with the railway and mile markers would be key for this.
Or we are travelling around some body of water, point of interest, etc. and passengers would like to know what said feature is, where we are, you name it.... I'd be better positioned to provide an accurate answer.
Having a single, handheld device with topographic maps, GPS capabilities, voice, web-acess, e-mail (plus some MP3's/a movie to enjoy during my rest period included to boot
) would be just perfect, instead of having to carry 3-5 separate ones in my grip.
Dlpisgreat, thank you for the insight. I'm going to check it out.
Once again all, thank you for the replies and info!
C