| Reviews : DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 Handheld GPS (1:100k Topographic, Detailed Street Maps & POIs Included) |
DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 Handheld GPS (1:100k Topographic, Detailed Street Maps & POIs Included) Product By Delorme Mapping Available From 20 Sellers |
Technical Details
- 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset; dual-core processor for blazing-fast performance
- 500 MB of available onboard Flash memory; support for high-capacity SD cards (SDHC) up to 32 GB
- 3-axis electronic compass; Barometric altimeter
- More detailed onboard base map data for the U.S., now with secondary and connector roads, along with major highways
- Fast USB 2.0 data transfers to in-device SD card--no external card reader required
Product Description
The Earthmate PN-40 is a high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options including up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA topographic maps, color aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-min. topographic quad maps, and NOAA nautical charts. The Earthmate PN-40 is a high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options. Click to enlarge. |
With its 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and DeLorme ConstantLock technology, the PN-40 acquires satellite signals quickly and retains them in the most challenging GPS environments. Map and imagery displays are lightning-quick thanks to a powerful dual-core processor.
A three-axis electronic compass can be used with the PN-40 held in any position, while a barometric altimeter provides reliable altitude readings. The on-board base map includes major highways and thoroughfares worldwide plus secondary and connector roads in the U.S. Detailed U.S. street and topo maps can be selected from the included Topo USA software.
The PN-40 holds up to 1,000 user-defined waypoints, 50 routes, and 10 tracks. All can be easily received from or sent to the included Topo USA software. The device displays both road and trail routes automatically generated using Topo USA. Road routes and direct (point-to-point) routes also can be generated on the PN-40.
Available onboard Flash memory totals 500 MB and the PN-40 also supports high-capacity SD cards (SDHC) up to 32 GB. The 65K-color daylight-readable TFT screen provides clarity in any light conditions including direct sunlight. The PN-40 is WAAS-enabled, waterproof to IPX-7 standards, comes in a rugged, impact-resistant rubberized case, and weighs just over five oz.
A Complete Out-of-the-box Solution:
Unlike other GPS receivers that require additional map data purchases, the PN-40 comes with up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA mapping software in the package. This is the full version of Topo USA, with all its desktop and GPS capabilities included. Also in the package: East, Central, and West regional DVDs with detailed U.S. street and topo maps by state or region; a 1-GB SD card--ideal for large map and imagery transfers; a detailed user manual, a Quick Start Guide, and two AA batteries. A $40 certificate is included for downloading sample supplementary datasets and then a new $29.95 Map Library annual subscription plan is offered for unlimited data downloads.
 The serious GPS alternative. |
Serious Performance
- New--Blazing-fast, high-sensitivity 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset
- New--Dual-core processor for instantaneous map and satellite imagery redraws, even with large aerial imagery files and multiple maps layers
- 360¡ raster rotation sets the PN-40 apart from other common GPS handhelds. With 360¡ rotation road, building, and other images really are on your left or right as you look at the map and walk, bike or drive
- New--3-axis electronic compass with included accelorometer performs when held in any positionÑwhile in motion or standing still
- New--Sensitive barometric altimeter for reliably accurate altitude readings
- WAAS-enabled for accuracy within 3 meters
- New--Now supports SDHC high-capacity SD cards (up to 32 GB) for fast and direct map transfer from the included maps discs
Serious Maps
- Included. Comes with three discs containing detailed hybrid topographic and street maps of the entire USA. You do not need anything else to hike, geocache, or navigate the backcountry. It's all in the box.
- Also Included: Sample Certificate. A $40 certificate is included for downloading sample supplementary datasets. Take a "test drive" with any of the supplementary datasets DeLorme offers: high-resolution aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Map, NOAA Nautical Charts, and more..
- And for Only $29.95! Then, once you're convinced, subscribe to the NEW DeLorme Map Library for only $29.95 per year. Get all the USGS Quads, NOAA nautical charts and high-resolution color aerial imagery to layer WITH your topo and street maps for only $29.95! No hidden charges.
Serious Tough
- The PN-40 is waterproof to the IEC 529 IPX7 standard
- Designed to function in high-humidity environments, including consistent humidity levels over 90%, and in the rain
- The PN-40 has been rigorously tested to function in high-vibration conditions such as off-road driving
- Operating temperature range for the PN-40 is -20 degrees C to +75 degrees C. The PN-40 should function in extreme cold as well as rapidly-changing temperature environments
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| What's in the Box
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Serious Value
- No one else offers COMPLETE U.S. hybrid, routable Topographic and Street maps WITH your initial purchase
- In addition, for the extremely low price of $29.95 annually, subscribe to the DeLorme Map Library of downloads for all the USGS 7.5-minute Quads, NOAA nautical charts, and Hi-Resolution Aerial Imagery you want. All downloads are accessed through the convenient NetLink tab of your DeLorme software
Serious Quality, Service & Support
And as if the PN-40, Included Topo and Detailed Street Map and the huge values of the MapLibrary Subscription were not enough, you get serious DeLorme quality:- Renowned DeLorme-Quality Maps
- Quality Geospatial Engineering
- Quality Hardware Engineering
- Quality U.S.-Based Customer Service
- Quality U.S.-Based Technical Support and Open Online GPS User Forms
What Else Should I Know?
High-Performance Technology
Features STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and updated DeLorme firmware for amazing signal acquisition and retention, map scrolling and redraw--even with multiple layers of imagery, topo and street maps.
| Complete Detailed U.S. Street and Topographic Maps Included with ALL PN-40 Purchases |
 Click for U.S. Street & Topographic Map samples. |
 Click for World Base Reference Map samples. |
 Click for USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Map samples. |
 Click for NOAA Nautical Chart samples. |
 Click for Color Aerial Imagery samples. |
 Click for Color Satellite Imagery samples. |
 Click for DOQQ Aerial Imagery samples. |
Multiple Views of the Same GPS Location
On-device data layering lets you select which map or imagery type to see of your GPS location. Switch among data types to gain a comprehensive view of where you are--it's revolutionary and provides a whole new level of geographic detail.
Bright Color Screen
Works in bright sunlight to total darkness. Sharp¨ brand screen featuring the latest transflective screen technologies to maximize visibility under a variety of lighting conditions.
Rugged and Waterproof
Conforms to IPX-7 waterproof standard with impact-resistant rubberized housing for a solid grip. Concealed battery compartment with SD card slot. Includes two AA batteries.
Easy Exchange of Maps, Tracks, and Waypoints
Exchange routes, tracks and waypoints between the GPS and Topo USA (two-way transfers).
Extensive On-Device Memory
1-GB of internal flash memory available in addition to the pre-loaded world base map. Holds up to ten tracks (10,000 points per track); 1,000 user-defined waypoints; and 50 routes. SD slot also available.
Don't Forget--Complete Detailed U.S. Street and Topographic Maps Included with ALL PN-40 Purchases
Detailed U.S. Street & Topographic Maps
- Cut & transfer custom map packages of the exact coverage you want
- Detailed vector-based maps created from the USGS topographic data & the latest DeLorme U.S. street & trail network
- U.S. land cover including bodies of water, wetlands, forests, mountains, glaciers, grasslands, rock cover & more
- Contour lines with elevation numbers
- Fully routable when combined with the corresponding Regional Highway map
- By default, saved map packages include data zoom levels 8-17 (which translates to a scale of 4 miles through 40 ft). Saved maps display all roads, land cover, and contours
The DeLorme World Base Reference Map
- Preloaded on the Earthmate GPS PN series
- High-level map includes country borders, highways & major roads
- Displays interstates and major highways at scales of 500 miles to 8 miles
- Created by DeLorme's staff of professional cartographers
Sample Map Library Downloads
Each purchase comes with a Certificate for $40 worth of FREE Supplementary Data Downloads
Use Your FREE Supplementary Data Certificate, or a Map Library Subscription for Any of These Map and Imagery Types:
USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Maps
- Download through the Topo USA NetLink tab--Use your FREE Data Download Dollars
- Transfer from Topo USA to your PN-40, as needed
- The authentic scanned USGS 7.5-minute paper quad maps
- Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features
NOAA Nautical Charts
- The complete set of U.S. waterway available, including the Great Lakes, Alaska, and Hawaii
- Include numerous aids to navigation, water depths, water body names, hazards, and more
- Great for taking along on boating trips, island explorations, and trips ashore
High-Resolution Color Aerial Imagery
- Available for many U.S. States and select U.S. Cities
- Detailed, color, aerial imagery
- Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
- Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features
Sat-10 Color Satellite Imagery
- 10-meter colorized satellite imagery for viewing large geographic areas
- Provides high-level views of vegetation, topography, and large, visible geologic formations on the Earth's surface
- Natural color satellite imagery derived from merging SPOT 10m panchromatic & Landsat 30m multi-spectral scenes
B&W DOQQ (Digital Orthoquads) Aerial Imagery
- Detailed, black & white, aerial imagery
- Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
- View logging & 4WD roads, bodies of water, and other natural features from above
Earthmate GPS PN-40 Screen Images
| USGS 7.5-min. Quads Wide-ranging USGS quad detail  Geocaching  Hiking in the White Mountains  |
| Color Aerial Imagery Following a Route to a Geocache  Navigating a Route on Water  On-the-job usage  |
| Color City Imagery Jefferson Memorial  Jacobs Field, Cleveland  Space Needle, Seattle  |
| Topo USA Hunting and Fishing  Mountain Bike Trails  Places of Interest  |
| Hybrids Imagery, Contours, Detail Cell Tower Location  Pleasant Mountain Summit  Glacier National Park  |
| Functions Barometric Altimeter  Electronic Compass  Trip Information  |
| Sun/Moon  Tides  Hunting/Fishing  |
| Data Layering  Satellite Acquisition  Driving Directions  |
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Customer Reviews
By Patrick L. Wallin (Enumclaw, WA)
I was looking at the Garmin 60CSx and the PN-40 and was leaning toward the DeLorme because of the maps. Then REI had a sale for Labor Day for $259.00 and end of that story. I read all the horror stories about how hard it was to learn the DeLorme and that the map loading and moving was a nightmare. Hogwash!!!! It may have helped that I already knew the terminolgy from having a Street Pilot III for 9 years and started using GPS in 1998. I am a retired long haul truck driver and not the smartest rock in the box, but I'm doing fine with my PN-40. I was a little bit afraid of it because of all the trash I had read in other reviews, but as I began to play with it I found it to be like any other new toy. You should READ the book-before all ease fails- The owners manual covers mainly the PN-40, READ it, push a few buttons and read it again. Get to know the unit. Topo 8 (the software in the hard plastic case) has it's instructions on the DVD and they are very helpful. A heck of a lot of the map loading and shuffleing is automatic after you start the ball rolling and downloading USGS maps is a breeze. They even send you an email telling you its ready to go. I had my unit all set up for geocaching and on the first cache it started skipping around and then lost all signals. DEAD!!! I exchanged it (No hassels) and set the new one up and boy, does it get a signal. Way more satellites than it will ever be able to use at one time. I have had it for 11 days now and it's still on the first set of batteries, but I use it hooked to the computer (while I learn the how to's.) a lot of the time. I tryed to load my maps on a 2 GB chip and filled it up with just a few maps. I got a 16 GB chip and it is doing OK so far but, I can see I will need another soon. I would recommend you just get a 32 and be done with it. The bottom line is 4 stars. Why only 4? I never give anything a 5 because I don't believe there is anything out there that is perfect. One thing I could pick on about this unit is that, and this is the same with all the units that I know of, You have to remove the batteries to get to the chip. Useing a 32 GB you should not have to do this if you plan before you leave the house and use the right chip, but if you have several chips it could be a hassell. Changing the chip does not do anything to the machine, you are not going to loose you place or delete any info. A second thing I would pick on is that the orange sticker (Serious Tools) is ugly.
Folks, really, if you are looking for a top end GPS and if you have the Patience to learn then go for a PN-40.
If you are a hurry up type of person with no patience and not likely to set down and read the instructions then you should maybe get a compass, but it will have instructions too.
JJ_Snafu
By R. Morris (Greensboro, NC, USA)
This is my first handheld GPS unit. I choose it over Garmin Oregon because of the difficulty of seeing the Garmin screen in the sunlight, the high cost of Garmin maps, and disappointing experience with inaccurate maps on a NUVI 255W.
The DeLorme unit had bad reviews for battery life but mine has been acceptable with alkaline batteries. The unit finds satelites quickly and stays on even under heavy tree cover. Map accuracy has been good in the areas that I have tested. The waterproof USB connection works well so far but I have only 4 weeks experience with it. The screen is readable even in bright light. There are some functions that I have not used yet but what I have used so far work well. Using the alpha keypad is cumbersome and slow. The unit is a little slow in updating imagery files.
My biggest problem so far has been in using TOPO8 software with the unit. Map files and packages are not intuitive and tutorials/help system are spotty. Map file exchange times are slower than I expected. The DeLorme map library subscription works well and gives access to as many maps a you need at a much more reasonable cost than Garmin.
I still have a lot to learn about this system but I am satisfied that it will perform well for my needs.
By Feral (Indiana)
After my second Magellan GPS quit, I was looking at a Garmin GPS, primarily because that's what my hunting buddies use. However, I was reluctant to purchase a Garman because I already had Magellan mapping software. When I researched the DeLorme, and saw that it came complete with all topographical and detailed street maps, plus downloadable maps, AND it was much less than a similar Garmin (PN-40 less than $250), it was an easy choice. I've used it extensively on my Harley (12,000 miles this summer) and can highly recommend it as a street mapping GPS. It handled the vibration (the demise of my first Magellan) and weather extremes quite well. Creating routs on my computer then downloading to the device is straightforward. Following a highlighted rout while touring on the bike eliminates the need to watch for street signs/turns. The screen is bright, and usually easy to see. Battery life was 5-6 hours. I've not used it hunting yet, but I'm leaving tomorrow for a black powder elk hunt in Colorado. I've downloaded DeLorme's aerial photography for our hunting area ($40 worth of free downloads comes with the unit, which is roughly 2-3 square miles), and transferred to the GPS; it seems like a great idea - I'll field test and update on my return. There's an option to purchase an unlimited aerial maps download annual subscription for $30.
I would recommend replacing the SD card that comes with the unit with at least an 8 gig card. My 8 gig card will hold about 10 average states transferred from DeLorme's detailed DVD maps. I would also recommend an SD reader; transferring data directly to the GPS takes hours, while transferring via an SD reader takes minutes.
There is a software glitch with TOPO8 (DeLorme's mapping software) - their NetLink download program simply wouldn't work. Technical support was ready with answers however, and I was soon able to manually download the aerial photography from their site. Hopefully, an update to fix this problem is in the works.
By Vailmac (Edwards, CO USA)
When the PN-20 came out I thought that, "now there's a perfect GPS for hiking." It was never a happy marriage. Slow to do -- anything -- the PN-20 was a perpetual disappointment. A couple of weeks ago we planned one of our summer 14er trips (there are 54 peaks in Colorado over 14,000' and the best site for learning more is the amazing web site: www.14ers.com). Many of Colorado's tallest peaks have pretty easily determined routes, but sometimes trails get sketchy and a GPS is very helpful. After pouring over all of Amazon's reviews and those of other GPS sites, I nervously put a PN-40 in my shopping cart, clicked buy and hoped.
Simply put, the PN-40 delivers on the initial promise of the PN-20 -- and then some. For me, I found the map display page to be the most useful and (finally!) fast. You can easily customize the display to set the map display to show both total distance and altitude (there's now both barometric and GPS altitude choices). I decided to write this review as I was at 13,700' starting to ascend the second 14er summit (descending off of Redcloud and traversing the ridge to Sunshine) of the morning. The PN-40's map and altimeter gave me a clear sense of the 300 steps it would take to get to the top.
And in the "who knew?" department, I took the PN-40 with me to Denver (we live near Vail) where, as we were walking through some lower downtown neighborhoods, it was very handy to have for navigating. Having the street layer and POI's built-in really make it a great traveling companion (and leaves my iPhone charged up for quickie GPS tasks that don't drain the battery).
A five star review would be warranted if Delorme would break down and realize that a lot of us use Macs. I run their TOPO software in Windows using Fusion on a Mac and it works fine, but that's a poor compromise. On the bright side, a new feature Delorme now includes, is that you can bypass their sometimes puzzling software and simply download the map files to an SD memory card. ALL of the Colorado maps fit onto a single 1GB chip. This new feature was an outstanding timesaver for me to simply dump all the maps onto the included SD card.
So, think of the PN-40 as a great 2.0 product. Delorme clearly has fixed past problems and, if you have a PN-20, don't hesitate to click the buy button.
By Aaron Bland (Carrboro, NC)
This is my first GPS of my own. I use it mainly for geocaching but also for hiking and camping, just as a fail-safe.
I have used my father's Garmin Vista HCx and he and I both agree that the PN-40 is a bit better than the HCx in every way except for one (rather important) regard. The PN-40 will jump around and loose accuracy under heavy tree cover. Patchy clouds don't seem to mess me up, but lots of leaves overhead will. Now, this doesn't happen under any and every tree, it needs to be a real canopy of cover, but in some places this is the norm so it is an issue. That said, it has never let me down in these conditions, it just doesn't perform as good as usual. For example, typical accuracy is +-12 feet; under heavy cover it goes up to about +- 25 feet.
Otherwise, this is a first-rate product. Great interface, intuitive buttons, quick map draws, waypoint averaging is pretty fast, and the turn-by-turn directions are pretty good too (for a hand held).
The reason to get this GPSr is for the mapping bundle. The maps you get with it are GREAT and you can really make that $40 of supplementary downloads go a long way. The mapping software is a tad confusing, but it is no big deal, you don't need to use it.
Bottom line: I love the PN-40 and would highly recommend it. It is a solid GPS and with all you get with in the box it is a terrific deal!
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