Garmin eTrex Vista HCx
Manufacturer: Garmin Part number: 010-00630-00
- CNET Editor rating: Not yet rated
- Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 12 reviews
- More product information:
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Description:
- Deep foliage, nor canyons phase the rugged eTrex Vista HCx. Its high-sensitivity receiver holds a GPS signal in the toughest environments. Similar to the Vista Cx, this handheld navigator also has a bright color screen, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, microSD card slot and automatic routing for wherever adventure takes you. With its high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, eTrex Vista HCx locates ... Read more
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User reviews
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Relief from the Magellan Explorists
by shinklee on September 20, 2007
Pros: Map Software that does not require ACTIVATION, unlike Magellan
Cons: No antenna port. Map files limited to 2025 units (about 20% of America).
Summary: Pros:
Many Magellan GPS owners are now outraged that Magellan will not allow us to install the over $100 map software we bought only a year ago. Magellan map software ...Summary: Pros:
Many Magellan GPS owners are now outraged that Magellan will not allow us to install the over $100 map software we bought only a year ago. Magellan map software requires the software to be activated online before it can be used. They have taken the position to deactivate all map software in order to motivate us to buy the just recently released new map software. So if this trend continues, the next time Magellen releases a new version, they will deactivate all the old software.
For those of you you wants a full featured GPS for street and forest navigation this does the trick.
Easy grip and human user interface. Only requires one hand.
Antenna is fairly sensitive compared to older GPS units.
Ability to use Micro SD cards. I am not sure what the max size compatibility is, but at least my 2 GB card works. M SD goe as large as 6 GB.
Map software is more friendly and then Magellan.
Screen is visible with out back lighting during the day.
Cons -
Its not really made for marine use (no tides, and does not float).
The software or GPS unit crashes during transfer of map files if the file is large. I had to keep the size below 1 GB to prevent crashing.
GPS will only accept 2025 map units for each file map file. Thats about 25% of the united states. So it will require about 4 files to get the entire country. Combine this limitation with the one above and it simply means that it will require multiple files to capture the entire country.
Very limited control over the file system.
No voice command for warnings or routhing. This would be a VERY NICE limitation if it can be over come. Voice play back would not require much hardware resource or sophisticated software. Why this KEY feature was left out of their top etrex unit is a mystery.
In major cities I walk, take the bus, taxi etc... and hence can not take my mobile GPS unit which has voice navigation.
Given its size and capabilities, I recommend this unit for hiking, but not for street or marine navigation because of its limitations.
If a firmware update gives it voice and tides, I would consider it sufficient for hiking, street, and marine.7 out of 8 users found this user opinion helpful.
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This is the first GPS I've Purchased that Really Works
by woodyman on July 19, 2008
Pros: Fast Lock-In, High-Sensitivity, Great Battery Life
Cons: I can't figure out how to turn off the "turn approaching" warning on routes
Summary: I've been buying the latest GPS for hiking about every two years. After very slow improvements, this Garmin Vista HCx takes a huge jump in performance, and is the ...
Summary: I've been buying the latest GPS for hiking about every two years. After very slow improvements, this Garmin Vista HCx takes a huge jump in performance, and is the first GPS I've ever had that locks in quickly, has a usable display, works in canyons and heavy tree cover. I can stick in my pocket or backpack and it keeps tracking. The battery life is also great.
As an added bonus, this works very well in the passenger cabin on an airplane. You don't have to hold it up to the window as I've done with all previous GPS systems. I just turn it on during the flight, and in a few seconds I know exactly where I am. I love this new Garmin Vista HCx, and highly recommend it for anybody that has had the struggles with previous GPS units as I have had.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Excellent small GPS, few compromises
by af895 on November 26, 2007
Pros: high-sensitivity receiver, tiny form-factor
Cons: MINOR interface bugs being worked out
Summary: I've owned the Garmin 60CSx GPSr for about a year but was looking for something a bit smaller that would more easily fit in my pocket. What stopped me ...
Summary: I've owned the Garmin 60CSx GPSr for about a year but was looking for something a bit smaller that would more easily fit in my pocket. What stopped me from getting an eTrex model previously was the lack of a highly sensitive receiver such as the one found in the 60CSx or other units. With the "H" series eTrex units, Garmin has corrected this oversight by adding the powerful MediaTek receiver.
The limited number of buttons on the eTrex units makes navigating screens and functions slightly more circuitous than the 60CSx which has a button for everything, however, with time, users of the eTrex will adapt.
I would give this unit a 10 except there are still some interface bugs Garmin has to sort out such as an annoying "tip" that pops up EVERY TIME one goes to the compass page. (yes, I realize calibration helps, I don't need to be told this every time I want to use the compass) Garmin calls this a "feature" but call a bug a bug.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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The best portable device out there
by sevort on January 2, 2008
Pros: Fast satellite lock, portable, full-featured
Cons: Got to buy expensive maps to take full advantage, minor problems with early firmware
Summary: This is the best portable GPS device. Period. Should stop right there. Others already commented on its features; I will just add that the tide tables ARE available for this ...
Summary: This is the best portable GPS device. Period. Should stop right there. Others already commented on its features; I will just add that the tide tables ARE available for this device despite what Garmin's own site says. The tide data are avaialble in both TOPO USA, TOPO USA 2008 update, and BlueChart but you have to pay for it, of course.
1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A Total Piece of "ART"
by pfw_dfw on September 25, 2011
Pros: I have nothing good to say about the unit as it will not even START!
Cons: It is a $300 paperweight purchased 120 miles form the house. Returnig it will WASTE AN ENTIRE DAY!
Summary: GARMIN HAS SOLD ME A USELESS PAPERWEIGHT for MY birthday. THere is no amount of customer support they can provide to return my two lost days of time. What a ...
Summary: GARMIN HAS SOLD ME A USELESS PAPERWEIGHT for MY birthday. THere is no amount of customer support they can provide to return my two lost days of time. What a piece of "ART" this unit is.
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Great and terrible for geocaching
by KaylaSlays on October 10, 2010
Pros: I have owned this GPS for about 3 years. It is great to geocache with.
Cons: THe MicroSD is only useful for a map update. It cannot be efficiently used to store extra geocache waypoints.
Summary: I thought the Micro-SD would allow me more space to use for geocaching entries. It does not, other than for a map update. You need to carefully manage your caches ...
Summary: I thought the Micro-SD would allow me more space to use for geocaching entries. It does not, other than for a map update. You need to carefully manage your caches on it, I discovered this recently. We did a road-trip from Tx to Fl and back. The GPS can only have 500 waypoints stored on it at a time. I did not expect this to be a problem as I have a Micro-SD, and placed batches of our trip (500 each) on the SD. Well, you cannot see the waypoints on the SD, so I had to have the files saved on a laptop, and erase and load the next leg of our journey each night. This did not end up happening, and all I got from 3500miles was one virtual cache that I knew about. We do at least one significant road trip each year (2 this year) and go camping somewhere when we can. All of these activities can easily be combined with geocaching along the rout, but this is complicated/limited by the 500 cap on the GPS and the inaccessability of files on the Micro-SD.
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Great product, a must have for any adventurer or driver
by Grahamh8808 on October 19, 2009
Pros: Great product. Had mine for 6 months. Its like the swiss army knife of GP'S. Has all the features like barometer, waterproof, altimeter etc just to name a few. Mine is loaded with TOPO and has every little detail about Australia (mountains lakes etc
Cons: A little hard to learn at first, screen could be a bit bigger, other than that, a must buy. If you have this and you're lost, you'll find your way out for sure!
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Great multifunction GPSr with stellar GPS reception!
by VeggieDelux on June 11, 2009
Pros: High Sensitivity Antenna is Wonderful! Great accuracy even inside! Turn by turn directions, pocket sized, geocaching mode, electronic compass, long battery life, works with 3rd party mini USB car chargers, etc. etc.! Mac and PC capable.
Cons: Navigating through menus and advanced features can take some getting used to, but easier than DeLorme or Magellan models. Pricey Garmin maps- go to GPSfiledepot.com for free topos!
Summary: Have been to spots where my original b&w Vista wouldn't get reception, and the HCX gets 10 ft accuracy! Love the display and accessories that are easy ...
Summary: Have been to spots where my original b&w Vista wouldn't get reception, and the HCX gets 10 ft accuracy! Love the display and accessories that are easy to find. Even came with the bike mount tab that fit my old bike mount. I use it for biking, skiing, driving, and geocaching! Never lets me down! Easy to load maps from Garmin or free sites like GPSfiledepot.com.
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Garmin Vista HCX
by z71forme on June 10, 2009
Pros: I like the compass for sure. I like the sight and go function and also how accurate the gps.
Cons: I don't like that there are not any detailed maps on the gps and also if you search for a city and route to. It takes you as a crow flies and not on the roads.
Summary: I would refer tihis product to a friend, but would for sure make them aware of the mapping detail. The clarity is excellent. It would be better if you could ...
Summary: I would refer tihis product to a friend, but would for sure make them aware of the mapping detail. The clarity is excellent. It would be better if you could read the screen without having to turn the light on to save battery.
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When it works, it's awesome
by gearguru411 on August 21, 2008
Pros: Electronic compass, and geocaching waypoints that tell you that it is found.
Cons: Locks up at the most awkward time
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Garmin
- Part number: 010-00630-00
- Description: Deep foliage, nor canyons phase the rugged eTrex Vista HCx. Its high-sensitivity receiver holds a GPS signal in the toughest environments. Similar to the Vista Cx, this handheld navigator also has a bright color screen, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, microSD card slot and automatic routing for wherever adventure takes you. With its high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, eTrex Vista HCx locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover and deep canyons. The advantage is clear - whether you're in deep woods or just near tall buildings and trees, you can count on Vista HCx to help you find your way when you need it the most. The Vista HCx has a built-in electronic compass that provides bearing information even while you're standing still, and its barometric altimeter tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude. You can even use the altimeter to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions. Adding maps is easier than ever with Vista HCx's microSD card slot. Conveniently plug in optional preloaded microSD cards with MapSource data for your land and sea excursions. Just insert a MapSource card with detailed street maps, and Vista HCx provides turn-by-turn directions to your destination. The card slot is located inside the waterproof battery compartment, so you don't have to worry about getting it wet. Like the rest of the eTrex series, Vista HCx is lightweight and compact - the perfect size for all your travels.
General
- Recommended Use Hiking
- Card Reader microSD
- Interface USB
- Functions & Services Altimeter ,
Electronic compass ,
Bearing ,
Local pressure - Included Software MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager,
Garmin Americas Recreational Basemap - Compatible Software MapSource BlueChart
- SBAS WAAS
- Antenna Built-in
- Features Games,
Barometric altimeter Display
- Type TFT - Color
- Resolution 176 x 220
- Features Anti-glare
Navigation
- Waypoints 1000
- Navigation tracks 20
- Tracklog points 10000
- Navigation routes 50
- Trip computer Sun/moon positions,
Sunrise/sunset times Connections
- Connector Type USB
Battery
- Type AA type
- Required Qty 2
- Run Time (Up To) 25 hour(s)
Miscellaneous
- Design Features Rugged case
- Protection Waterproof
- Waterproof Standard IPX7
- Included Accessories USB cable,
Wrist strap Dimensions & Weight
- Width 2.2 in
- Depth 1.2 in
- Height 4.2 in
- Weight 5.5 oz
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Garmin products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Garmin
- Address:
1200 E. 151st St, Olathe, KS - Phone: 913-397-8200
- Fax: 913-397-8282
