2010 CES: New Delorme PN-60w handheld hiking GPS is Spot on

Jan 10, 2010 11:04 AM

Delorme announced the new PN-60w handheld GPS at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). It is similar in form to the previously tested PN-30 (and other PN models). However, the PN-60w does have a redesigned user interface with enhanced graphics and icons, and it is presumably more intuitive. (See our hiking GPS buying advice and ratings.)

The PN-60w includes features one would expect on an upscale handheld GPS, including topographical maps, three-axis compass, barometric altimeter, elevation profiles and paperless geocaching. The real innovation lies in the fact that the PN-60w is the first handheld GPS and satellite communicator package.

Delorme teamed up with SPOT, a satellite communications company. SPOT provides the SPOT Satellite Communicator exclusively for the PN-60w. These two products connect wirelessly and together combine satellite messaging functionality and GPS navigation. The significance of this combination is to provide added safety to outdoor enthusiasts when out of range of cellular coverage.

The PN-60w with Spot Communicator allows a user to create freeform text messages, send updates to family and friends, and let others follow a trip through social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Most importantly, emergency messages can be sent to authorities with the current GPS location.

This functionality can provide peace of mind for the enthusiast, as well as family and friends, when embarking on an outdoor adventure.

The PN-60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator is expected to be available this spring and will retail for $549. It will require a subscription fee for the messaging service.

—Frank Spinelli

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