CNET product brief
Description: The Garmin GPSMAP 478 is a 12-channel, maritime global positioning device.Compared to other marine GPS receivers on the market, it is relatively inexpensive at around $760.
Pros: Provides verbal navigation instructions.Utilizes WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) technology to achieve an error margin of 3 meters or less.Share information, update database maps, and add programs using this receiver's USB computer connection.Tracklog function automatically creates a record of the path traveled and stores it as a series of points for later use.Safe in all weather, this unit is waterproof.System includes MapSource city navigator North America NT and MapSource trip & waypoint manager.
Cons: Has a 3.8 in screen size, which is less favorable than some similarly priced GPS receivers.For example, the Lowrance Globalmap 4900m, a 12-channel GPS receiver at around $740, has a 7 in screen size.
Suitability: A maritime GPS receiver, suited for water-based adventures.This GPS device offers special features and functions needed for boating and other marine activities.Designed with detachable antenna which is ideal for receivers that will be used both in the car and outdoors.
Value: In general, this GPS receiver's features are in line with its price.This unit is able to store up to 3000 waypoints.This is significantly more than the average GPS device.Device is covered by a 1 year warranty.
Suggestions: This GPS device has only internal memory.If you plan to store many trips or add base maps, you may wish to consider a unit that has removable storage media.
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