Apparently Garmin is coming a with new Foretrex called Garmin Foretrex 401. We didn’t think Garmin would continue with this series after coming up with products such Forerunner 405CX and even Forerunner 310XT, but they must have seen the market for it. Specially the DoD market: Militarytimes got their hands on a final prototype and the specs for the new Garmin Foretrex 401 looks quite impressive.
First off Garmin Foretrex 401 is about 20% smaller than the original 201, and 101, but do share the same size (1.4″ x 0.9″) screen. It has a 2-axis digital compass, barometric altimeter, and a USB port to hook up to a computer. It even has some sort of wireless waypoint sharing option.
Up to this point everything is OK. But then you get to some other set of features which makes us think Foretrex 401 was designed for those who regularly jump off planes:
There’s even a “Jumpmaster” function for static, HAHO and HALO jumping that will let you set data points for under-canopy guidance to an LZ. It’s got options for forward throw, windspeeds at altitude and HARP to get you to the right place. Garmin also improved the GPS sensitivity so it will pick up a signal faster once out of the aircraft, but it’s still best as a backup to your backup altimeter.
Garmin Foretrex 401 runs on two AAA batteries which can last up to 24 hours and if you really need this to be with you on a mission you can get the optional pouch that was designed with the help of Navy Seals and will make it easier to mount the 401 to your gear or rifle. Huh.
Really? Did Garmin really design and is about to announce a military grade GPS receiver for only $250? Wow. Expected to release date is June 16th.
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Source: Navigadget
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