Robust Mapping and Imaging: DeLorme Earthmate PN-20

(Price: $200 - $250)

Pros:

• Sharp and bright color display.
• Ability to "layer" aerial and satellite photos.
• Extensive map availability and control via included software.

Cons:

• Takes some practice to master features of the included mapping software and the handheld unit.

The DeLorme Earthmate PN-20 is an outstanding handheld GPS receiver, and when coupled with DeLorme's Topo USA mapping software and downloadable datasets, it becomes a very robust and useful resource for those who work or play outdoors. The Earthmate PN-20 features a sharp and bright color mapping display, sturdy construction, quick signal acquisition, and a logical and easy-to-use button layout.

There are a number of good color screen handheld GPS units on the market, but a few things set the DeLorme Earthmate PN-20 apart from the pack. First, is its ability to accept downloads of satellite and aerial imagery, and to show and pan these images as one of the map layer display options.

Next, its tight integration with DeLorme's Topo USA software for the personal computer and DeLorme's extensive, downloadable map selection extend its usefulness and help you plan and analyze trips in detail, and from multiple perspectives.

Also setting it apart are DeLorme's bundling options, which include additional maps, separate chargers, a rechargeable lithium battery pack, and other travel goodies at a lower cost than separate purchases.

The PN-20 is so integrated with its included personal computer software and DeLorme online, that it is really part of a system. DeLorme acknowledges that by selling the PN-20 receiver as part of one of three bundles.

The lowest price bundle is called the Earthmate GPS PN-20 with Topo USA 7.0 National, and has a suggested retail price of $369. This bundle includes:

• The Earthmate GPS PN-20 handheld GPS receiver.
• DeLorme Topo USA software with full U.S. topographic and street-level detail.
• Pre-loaded worldwide highway and major road base map.
• Certificate for $100 worth of data downloads.
• USB interface cable.
• Neck lanyard.
• Two AA batteries.
• Comprehensive user's manual with usage scenario tips.

The Earthmate GPS PN-20 with Topo USA 7.0 National & Power Travel Kit bundle ($409 retail) includes all of the above plus a travel power kit recharger and rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery.

The Earthmate GPS PN-20 Deluxe bundle ($449 retail) includes all of the above plus a 1GB SD Card and reader.

The PN-20 has a long list of functions that can be reviewed on page two of this review. Highlights of the unit include a color moving map display; high-sensitivity receiver (picks up GPS satellite signals in heavy forest cover or steep terrain); a slot (under the sealed battery case and away from water and dirt) for a removable SD Card for quick transfer of large amounts of data, and a rubberized, heavy-duty waterproof case.

The PN-20's display sets are organized by "pages" that can be changed by pressing the "page" button. These include a satellite page to view satellite reception status; the map page with plenty of options; a compass page that shows the simulated compass; trip info; "find" waypoints, address, etc.; waypoints; routing; tracks; sun/moon; hunt/fish, and setup.

Overall, I found the page, control button, and feature accessibility to be logical and well organized. Like any advanced handheld GPS with many features, the PN-20 requires that you spend time reading the manual and exploring how the buttons control the pages and options.

DeLorme made its name in maps, and as you would expect, the included and optional maps, control of maps with the included Topo USA software, and import and export of maps are well done. The PN-20 can also display satellite and aerial images as a map display "layer" and these are available online as well.

The PN-20 comes pre-loaded with a simple basemap set that is of limited use. However, after you have installed Topo USA on your computer and made the connection with your PN-20, you may select from enhanced topographic and street maps for the entire USA from the included Topo USA 7.0 DVD. You also receive with any PN-20 bundle a certificate number that entitles you to $100 worth of data downloads including: USGS 1:24,000 quad maps; NOAA nautical charts; High-resolution color aerial imagery - U.S. States; High-resolution color aerial imagery - Select U.S. Cities; Black-and-white aerial imagery, and 10-meter color satellite imagery. As an example, $100 of USGS quads covers 386 square miles.

Once you have selected the maps you would like to download to the PN-20, you may transfer them by included USB cable or (more quickly) by SD card.

The Topo USA software is more than a map database. It is the most full-featured and sophisticated map management program on the market for consumers. If you are a map enthusiast, or a serious outdoorsperson or geocacher, you will find plenty of functions to help you plan routes and precisely select and manage the maps you'll need.