Spot GPS for the gadget geeks

[SadieKate]

Very cool new gadget I just saw on TV today. It's a GPS messenger so you can send a 911 request to Search and Rescue, or a simple help message to family, or just messages to family/friends so they can track your progress live through Google maps. Works outside of cell phone range.

http://www.findmespot.com/

I'm thinking of getting one so I can ride by myself with more peace of mind for me and hubby.

Anyone else done any research on the thing?

[jobob]

That looks pretty nifty.

Particularly since a lot of the places I ride are outside of cell phone areas.

[jobob]

Here's a review

http://www.wildsnow.com/?p=967

[Pedal Wench]

I saw this one on the website I work for: http://dvice.com/archives/2007/12/zoombak_gps_loc.php

I think it could be great - I would like to know that my BF or family could see how I'm doing if I ride alone.

[SadieKate]

The Spot is significantly different from the Zoombak in that you can send messages from the device to others - 911, family, etc. - at varying levels of need (emergency, help from family, or just checking in). None of the receivers would need to know that you were out on an adventure until the message was sent.

With the Zoombak, someone would need to know that you are out on your bike and would actively have to be looking for you and keeping an eye on your progress. It's more of a watchdog snoop from afar (maybe great for parents) while the Spot allows the rider to request help.

I can see where the two products might be seen as competition for each other, but they have very different uses and capabilities.

[Pedal Wench]

SadieKate, wonderful observation -- that's what I get for just looking at headlines and not reading the details.

I saw an ad for the Spot on Survivorman last weekend, and forgot about it. I think it's a brilliant product. My BF and I are avid hikers, and we're frequently out in the backcountry in the Grand Canyon. Something like this is a much better alternative to something like a satphone. My parents would love it if we had this. We're planning a long hike on the John Muir trail, and folks at home could track our progress.

Also, my parents are sailors, and I would love to give them something like this when they're out on the ocean.

If anyone has anymore input, let me know. I might have to get this!