SPOT 2 Messenger Order

[deschutes]

We'll be making an order for the new SPOT 2 Messenger for those that want to participate in the next few days. Units will ship form SPOT on November 7th. Thanks to those that have placed orders already. Shipping is free to the US and Canada. See the following thread for more info on what we are doing:

http://www.snowest.com/forum/showthread.php?t=175466

 

[Tuesday]

Website is pretty vague about what the difference in performance of the old unit to the new unit. Is it any faster or get better coverage/reception.

Some of my biggest complaints are 1 way communication, dont know if the message was sent and the length of time to send a message. Regardless I still carry one and glad to have some sort of communication device but there is still alot of room for improvement.

I wonder if the new unit has addressed any of these concerns? I overheard at the snowshow that they where exactly the same in performance just slightly smaller and different button lay out.

Tues

 

[deschutes]

Good questions. They have addressed many of the concerns you raise, to some degree. Here are some of the things they are saying are new:

* 30% smaller and lighter than the original model at 5.2 ounces
* New enhanced satellite antenna for improved performance in foliage
or canopied environments
* Advanced GPS performance chipset
* GPS Acquisition light
* "Message Sending" indicator light
* Dedicated GPS Tracking button
* New, dedicated pre-programmable Custom Message button
* Protective covers over S.O.S and Help button to prevent inadvertent
message transmissions
* Illuminated buttons
* Choice of orange or silver
* Included case and neoprene fastening band

While no PLB type device is perfect, as you mentioned they are better than nothing.

Website is pretty vague about what the difference in performance of the old unit to the new unit. Is it any faster or get better coverage/reception.

Some of my biggest complaints are 1 way communication, dont know if the message was sent and the length of time to send a message. Regardless I still carry one and glad to have some sort of communication device but there is still alot of room for improvement.

I wonder if the new unit has addressed any of these concerns? I overheard at the snowshow that they where exactly the same in performance just slightly smaller and different button lay out.

Tues

 

[Tuesday]

I wonder if the company will allow upgrades to the new model for a small charge? Mine is only 6 months old but I would gladly take increased coverage for a small price.

Any real world testing units side by side comparisons?

 

[deschutes]

I wonder if the company will allow upgrades to the new model for a small charge? Mine is only 6 months old but I would gladly take increased coverage for a small price.

Any real world testing units side by side comparisons?

No side-by-side yet. I will ask about upgrades, but I am doubtful. They are still selling the "classic" unit.

 

[Tuesday]

No side-by-side yet. I will ask about upgrades, but I am doubtful. They are still selling the "classic" unit.

That is what I would expect. Luckily 6 months ago I got to pay full price for the unit and full price for the service......yippie!

Testing would be nice. Set them both outside see who sends faster, then place both under some cover (inside) or some restriction and see who fails first and who can still transmit.

GL

 

[deschutes]

Thanks for the orders. I can still do a few more 1 year of free tracking coupons, and will be working with the company to see if I can get more. I will post here when they are no longer available. Please let me know if you want orange or silver/gray when you order.