Geko 301 Issues

[Aushiker]

Hi
<p>
This is a copy of an email just sent to Garmin. While waiting for a reply from them, I thought I would see if any Geko uses are having similar issues and if anyone has possible solutions. I am using the latest software from Garmin, v. 2.60
<p>
"Have two questions. First is in relation to the compass. My understanding from reading the documentation, is that the compass should point my heading when I am standing still. My unit does not appear to do this, in fact it seems to point in random directions, often not even getting north correct. Can I correct this?
<p>
Second, relates to loosing signal. If I get a weak signal and the signal drops off and then I return to an area of good coverage, it can take a very long time to get the signal back if at all. Even if I manage to get the signal back without turning the unit off and and on, I can get the satellite page showing "ready to navigate" but the compass page showing "hold level" and giving an incorrect reading. This can occur even when the unit is clearly level, e.g., on a flat surface. Thoughts?"
<p>
Thanks
<p>
Andrew

[Ebenezer]

Second, relates to loosing signal. If I get a weak signal and the signal drops off and then I return to an area of good coverage, it can take a very long time to get the signal back if at all. Even if I manage to get the signal back without turning the unit off and and on, I can get the satellite page showing "ready to navigate" but the compass page showing "hold level" and giving an incorrect reading. This can occur even when the unit is clearly level, e.g., on a flat surface. Thoughts?"

I have a similar problem to this with my eTrex Venture. e.g. Satellite display shows a satellite directly overhead. No tree cover, but you can't get a signal from it. Power cycle, and everything is fine.

I have not contacted Garmin about this, but I am quite sure that the previous Venture I had (which had an earlier ROM revision) did not have this problem.

Can't help with your compass issue. I assume the Geko 301 has a magnetic compass?

[Aushiker]

Hi Ebenezer
<p>
Yes it does have a maganetic compass. My day pack which I use geocaching has metal stays as part of its frame. I oftenrest the GPSr on the frame to level it, so that maybe part of the problem, however, yesterday it was sitting on a log, level, for about 10 minutes and I had the "hold level" comment for the whole time.
<p>
I have had a reply from GME which follows:

"Hi Andrew
<p>
Your email has been forwarded onto us from Garmin Asia.
<p>
You may need to calibrate the compass, please refer to this section in the owners manual. You also need to hold the GPS level to get an accurate reading. Please note that it will be affected by magnetic fields.
<p>
If you are not holding the GPS level it will give inaccurate readings. you will know when it is level as the warning 'Hold Level' will disappear.
<p>
regards
Andrew Barry<br>
Technical Specialist<br>
Technical Support Department<p>
<p>
Cheers<br>
Andrew

[Aushiker]

Hi Ebenezer
<p>
Yes it does have a maganetic compass. My day pack which I use geocaching has metal stays as part of its frame. I oftenrest the GPSr on the frame to level it, so that maybe part of the problem, however, yesterday it was sitting on a log, level, for about 10 minutes and I had the "hold level" comment for the whole time.
<p>
I have had a reply from GME which follows:

"Hi Andrew
<p>
Your email has been forwarded onto us from Garmin Asia.
<p>
You may need to calibrate the compass, please refer to this section in the owners manual. You also need to hold the GPS level to get an accurate reading. Please note that it will be affected by magnetic fields.
<p>
If you are not holding the GPS level it will give inaccurate readings. you will know when it is level as the warning 'Hold Level' will disappear.
<p>
regards
Andrew Barry<br>
Technical Specialist<br>
Technical Support Department<p>
<p>
Cheers<br>
Andrew