Garmin International recently announced two additions to its popular outdoor GPS handheld series – the GPSMAP 66s and the GPSMAP 66st. The GPSMAP 66 handhelds can log raw measurements in RINEX form. These updated premium handhelds bring expanded wireless connectivity, direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite imagery and a larger 3-inch sunlight-readable color display. The GPSMAP 66st offers preloaded topographic maps for the United States and Canada.
“The GPSMAP 66st builds on the GPSMAP series heritage by adding new and requested features like a bigger screen, weather forecasting and easy direct-to-device access to satellite imagery,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Between multi-GNSS network support and connectivity to the new Garmin Explore app, the new GPSMAP 66s and the GPSMAP 66st are reliable companions for any adventure.”
With direct-to-device downloads via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth of BirdsEye Satellite Imagery (no annual subscription needed), users can see high-resolution photo-realistic views of their route. Easily find parks, trailheads, clearings for campsites, stand locations for hunting and more. Plus, the GPSMAP 66st comes preloaded with topographic U.S. maps so users can see where they’re headed in more detail, like coastlines, rivers, summits, terrain contours and geographical points.
Additionally, users can receive weather updates for real-time forecast information by pairing the GPSMAP 66 series device via Bluetooth to a compatible mobile device. The handheld will also provide predictive maps for temperature and wind speed/direction, as well as live weather radar to keep the user aware of how the weather might affect their outdoor explorations.
With the introduction of the new Garmin Explore™ app, users will be able to access additional tools and features for outdoor navigation, trip planning, mapping and data sharing. When out on the trail and away from a data connection, the Explore app will seamlessly sync with a compatible Garmin GPS device to view current location, plan and navigate routes, as well as set and manage waypoints.
Other new GPSMAP 66s/st connected features include Geocaching Live and compatibility to the Connect IQ platform, giving users access to over 9 million trails through the preloaded Wikiloc app. The devices all pair with the inReach Mini, allowing the user to send and receive messages directly on their 66s/st device via the Mini.
Between the multi-GNSS satellite support and ABC (altimeter, barometer and compass) sensor capabilities, the GPSMAP 66s/st will track the entire journey. The handheld devices have 16 hours of battery life in full GPS mode and can track the user’s position for up to 1 week using Expedition mode on a single set of AA batteries. These devices include an LED flashlight and SOS beacon that can be used to signal for help. In addition to the large 3-inch sunlight-readable color display, it’s built to military standards for thermal, shock and water performance (MIL-STD-810G). Professionals and serious GPS enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of RINEX data logging, which allows for sub meter accuracy of GPS position after post processing.
