It is no secret to some that I'm a gear freak.  And a few also know that I use a SPOT device when in the back country ... especially important IMO when traveling solo.

A newly announced product will finally eliminate many of the weaknesses of the initial implementation of the SPOT by coupling a smart phone with (You need to Login or Register to view media files and links).  So, not only will you now be able to transmit your location, but short text messages as well.  So, for example, if you want to let someone know that you want to be picked up at such-and-such a location at a specified time, that will now be possible.  (More likely ... I'm having so much fun, I think I'll stay for another day!)

dd

DD --

Have you ever thought of offering a seminar (series?) on your use of hi-tech mapping, communication, and related equipment? 

You could offer the seminars remotely, using a web conferencing system, or somehow tie it into the QJ website???  (I'm probably writing nonsense, but that has never stopped me in the past...) 

I'm in the dark ages when it comes to this world of wilderness canoeing, but I'd tune in. 

prouboy

Was wondering, How much the SPOT connect cost and how much is the usage fee?

For the sake of this discussion, I'll play Devil's Advocate and ask, When is enough, enough?
I'm not a tech-guy at all. I don't have a problem with others being that way, as long as their tech-gadgets don't interfere with MY quite and solitude
We had a recent discussion about keeping electronic gear charged on long trips. Seems the more tech-gear you have, the more batteries/chargers etc you need to keep it up and running.

We all talk about trimming the load, so at a certain point isn't having all the toys adding to that problem.

We hear about all kinds of things people do to lighten their loads. A few ounces here and there without sacrificing utility/reliability is the goal. But batteries are heavy for there size. Extra ones, plus chargers plus dry-boxes etc would seem to add weight faster than you could lose by cutting ounces here and there?

Now for the people who are dropping serious body weight, I guess you could have your high-tech cake and eat it too. PJ's recent 80 lb / PX90 weight loss is a good example. Theoretically he could add a significant amount of tech-comfort gear, still be way under previous tripping weight and with his increased strength/cardio, have it both ways if he wished.

I'm just wondering what is the tipping point IF there is one, with all these new gadgets?

I guess if you could have a GPS/Fish Finder/Spot/Sat phone is one small package and with low battery consumption, then everyone could have their cake and eat it too?

Then the question would be, " How can you decompress/disconnect, if your available 24/7"  

Interesting.  I haven't solo tripped yet, but when I do I'm sure my wife would like for me to be able to check in with her.  Sat phone is probably the best option, but very expensive last I checked.

I don't begrudge others who bring lots of electronics into the backcountry, as long as they don't interfere with me.  I've run into groups using 2-way radios up and down the lake who were very noisy and inconsiderate, but most people are generally polite.  My camera and headlamp are the only electronic device I bring on trips these days.  I used to bring a watch, but now I find I'm much happier without one, and adjust to the natural ebb and flow of things.  You can have your fish finders, bug zappers, GPS, weather radios, telescopes, iPods, or whatever else you want to carry in.  Just carry it out too