Satmap Active 10 GPS unit plus Dublin & Wicklow Mountains Mapping

This is a bundle package for both the Satmap Active 10 GPS plus the EastWest Mapping/ Satmap SD Card. Full detail of the mapping can be found on the product page for SD Card itself.

What’s in the Active 10 Bundle Package?
- Active10 GPS unit
- Standard carry case
- Lanyard
- USB cable
- Set of 3 Energizer lithium AA batteries
- Documentation including a Quick-start user guide
- EastWest Mapping Dublin & Wicklow Mountains SD Card

Click on the thumbnails opposite for more detail. A more detailed image can be downloaded below.

Postage is free for Ireland and at cost price for overseas orders.

The Satmap Active 10 GPS device is similar to several other handheld GPS (Global Positioning System) map units on the market. It is essentially a durable, waterproof electronic device that displays a map with your current position. Unlike car satnav type systems. The Active10 is a little wider and a touch heavier than similar units but this is compensated for by the large screen, measuring 5cms x 7cms. Since the purpose of the unit is to display mapping, this is a reasonable trade off. Apart from the above detailed mapping of Wicklow, SD Cards with standard OSI 1:50,000 maps can also be purchased separately. There are many features on the Satmap Active10 GPS unit. However the two principal features from the ordinary walkers point of view are 1) Navigation and 2) Route Planning.

1) Navigation. A good GPS unit with a good map revolutionises hill navigation. There is still a requirement to understand how to read a map - to pick a route from the map and to relate the map features to the landscape around. However the GPS chip in conjunction with the detailed map gives you an instant update on your position as you move across the map and landscape. You can see quickly if you are following the route you intend and judge how far away adjacent features are. If in mist, you encounter say, a large boggy or rocky area, it is simplicity to walk around by most suitable route and check your position on the far side to get back on course. You can of course use the inbuilt electronic compass, but I don't see the point - it works best to simply read the map and use the GPS to update your location on you move across the terrain. The electronic compass is useful to orientate the map when you are stationary.
2) Route Planning. This function is intended more for 'home' use, prior to heading out. It enables one to draw a route on the map, by setting a series of waypoints. When finished, the Active10 GPS unit will then generate useful data such as a) length & height to be climbed b) route profile of ascents & descents and c) a route card if desired. This function will be useful for those finding their feet in terms of assessing walks and time etc.

Battery power needs thought - the unit takes 3xAA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack which is an optional extra. Using AA batteries, I'd recommend rechargeable AA Ni-Mh type batteries, sold for cameras and high end devices. These last several years and you will need 6 batteries - 3 in the unit and 3 spare in your rucksack. For a full days walking, ensure the batteries are fully charged before you set out and set one of the power saving options on the unit. These turn off the screen display after a set time and conserve power when you don't need to consult - the unit continues to track your location and pressing any button restores the screen display. This unit uses buttons rather than touch screen technology - there is a logic in this for outdoor use, particularly in poor conditions. Gloved hands can operate the buttons and there is no opportunity for the screen to be set off accidentally as say when you stuff the unit back inside your jacket. Finally you do need to allow the unit a minute or so in a stable position to acquire an initial fix - just turn it on before you put on your boots and it'll be ready when you set off.