Ron,
Thanks for your input. I'm aware of the limitations of the audio compass
but I think it will be adequate for my needs. As in many cases, I wish
there were something more accurate but I think I can make do with what it
provides. Thanks again for your thoughts. Lou
----- Original Message -----
From: "Ron Miller" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, June 16, 2008 10:54 PM
Subject: Re: OT compasses
> Hi everyone,
> I'm just catching up on my email, I hope this is still apropos and of
> interest, though you've probably already made a decision about a compass.
>
> I've found that the audio compass is okay for general use but inadequate
> if
> you want to be very precise regarding finding and maintaining an accurate
> heading. For instance, there are only 8 compass headings available: north,
> northeast, east, southeast, south, southwest, west and northwest. The more
> accurate 16 compass headings are not provided so you cant get your heading
> refined to less then 45 degrees. Also, heading by degrees is not provided
> either.
>
> GPS devices will be able to provide your travel heading in degrees, so you
> can maintain the heading you choose but will only be useful while you are
> moving. You cannot use a gps device to determine the direction you are
> facing while standing still like you can with a compass. So you won't be
> able to use a gps device to stand in one spot and pivot in place until you
> find the direction in which you wish to travel. Also,neither device will
> help you keep from veering while traveling, you will still be facing in
> the
> direction you wish to travel even when you veer and a gps device will not
> provide the resolution necessary to provide immediate warning as you begin
> to veer. You will have veered at least several feet off course before a
> gps
> device will begin to "notice" that you are drifting.
>
> 73
>
>
> Ron Miller
> N6MSA
> Clearwater, Fl. U.S.A.
> SKYPE arjay1
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