I got SPOT to work in tracking mode!
Posted: Apr 05 2010 11:43 am
I don't think I was the only one disappointed with the SPOT tracking mode. The first time I took it out and used it in this mode it sent 23% of the messages it was supposed to (one message every 10 minutes). I had the Spot strapped to the back of my pack on that trip.
Last week I took the top of my pack (mine is removable...most are) down to Phoenix Tent and Awning on McDowell near 32nd St. and had them add a vinyl pocket to the top of the pack. It's not real pretty, but it works! I paid $20 and the SPOT slides into the pocket and then closes with heavy duty velcro. I took the pack out for a test on Saturday and logged about 16 miles, then another 5 miles on Sunday. I haven't done the exact math, but I would say that it was successful over 90% of the time! Getting the SPOT on top of your pack is key...and the vinyl pocket not only does this, but it takes away the risk of the SPOT slipping out for under a strap or otherwise getting lose and falling off.
I will post photos later this week (I am on a business trip this week, and was to tired after all that hiking to get the photos last night).
Last week I took the top of my pack (mine is removable...most are) down to Phoenix Tent and Awning on McDowell near 32nd St. and had them add a vinyl pocket to the top of the pack. It's not real pretty, but it works! I paid $20 and the SPOT slides into the pocket and then closes with heavy duty velcro. I took the pack out for a test on Saturday and logged about 16 miles, then another 5 miles on Sunday. I haven't done the exact math, but I would say that it was successful over 90% of the time! Getting the SPOT on top of your pack is key...and the vinyl pocket not only does this, but it takes away the risk of the SPOT slipping out for under a strap or otherwise getting lose and falling off.
I will post photos later this week (I am on a business trip this week, and was to tired after all that hiking to get the photos last night).