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I've been trying one out for the past few weeks. You not only have to have it flat, you have to have an UexcellentU view of the sky all around and even then it has struggled to pass a message on.
This thing does not operate well by storing it in your pocket. It didn't work when I worn it on my belt, in my top pocket or lying flat hooked on top of my fannypack.
I think they are a great idea and they have already saved lives, but they are not powerful enough. Given their limitations I would not recommend getting one and relying on it. Thats my opinion after taking it out in the field to different places about 6 times so far.
Happy Hunter - Interesting. From my experiences, I've never had mine fail to send a message. I don't always lay mine flat either, at times it's clipped to my pack and rides upright. And can you please describe, "has struggled to pass a message". How do you know it's "struggling"?
Are you sending the OK signal and no one is getting it? Is that what you are saying by "will not operate"?
Lastly, I'm trying to comment on your statement, "Given their limitations I would not recommend getting one and relying on it". A SPOT should be used an as additional safety aid, not a substitute for skills, knowledge, etc. If you know what I mean? It's a safety net of sorts, but that net has limitations.
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Thanks for the feed-back guys. I read a couple reviews that mentioned the unobstructed view of the sky so that wouldn't be reliable enough. Maybe when their new satellites are in the sky it'll be worth revisiting.
Thanks again. GAJoe
Personally, based off of experience, I don't think you need to perfectly unobstructed view of the sky. A clear view is better, but I'd think a tree canopy wouldn't bother it too much. It is a unit that uses radio freq, no different than a cell phone or GPS. I have used mine in well canopied areas and it has sent a message.
I think you guys are doing a good job of researching this out. I didn't know about GlobalStar and it's satellite issues. Interesting. Very good thread. Good stuff being shared here.
Merry Christmas!
M