APRS with Nuvi 550

[Prdufresne]

Has anyone had any success using the Garmin Nuvi 550 with APRS? If so, did you use the Garmin Serial adapter cable, or the GTRANS cable?

Any comments on how well it works?

ThanX

 

[AK9R]

Does the nuvi 550 get its power through the USB cable or through a separate power cable?

I have a nuvi 1450 which is powered through the USB cable. I bought a GTRANS2 from Argent Data. The GTRANS2 is not mentioned in the Argent Data store, but Scott will build you one if you ask. The GTRANS2 provides power through the USB cable. I've used the GTRANS2 with my nuvi 1450 and a Kenwood TM-D710 for APRS and it seems to work OK with data going to-from the GPS receiver.

The problem with most of the nuvi line is that they don't handle waypoints coming from the APRS device very well. The trick is getting the waypoints to move on the map as updated waypoints are received. About the only nuvi that seems to work properly in this regard is the nuvi 350.

 

[Prdufresne]

Thank you Joe,

I appreciate the feedback. I had heard that the Nuvi 350 worked well, I just wasn't sure what success people had with other models. I purchased the 550 because it's waterproof before deciding to get involved with HAM radio. I don't want to have to replace it.

I'll have to wait until I pick-up my radio and see.