SPOT Satellite Personal Messenger [Archive]

rocketbunny

12-13-2007, 08:33 PM

The first of my holiday presents to myself arrived (or rather, was picked up) this evening at my local REI.(Houston, Willowbrook)

http://www.rocketbunny.net/uploads/blog/spot.JPG

This little gadget has gotten a fair amount of notice in the motorcycle touring world. I've been scouring the net for reviews ever since it came out in the beginning of November.

From the manufacturer (http://www.findmespot.com/):

"SPOT. The World’s First Satellite Messenger.
With the SPOT Satellite Messenger, you and your loved one have peace of mind knowing help is always within reach. SPOT is the only device of its kind, using the GPS satellite network to acquire its coordinates, and then sending its location – with a link to Google Maps™ – and a pre-programmed message via a commercial satellite network. And unlike Personal Locator Beacons, SPOT does more than just call for help. Tracking your progress, checking in with loved ones, and non-emergency assistance are also available, all at the push of a button. And because it uses 100% satellite technology, SPOT works around the world – even where cell phones don't."

As a solo tourer, I know that my family worries about me all the time when I'm thousands of miles from home in the middle of nowhere. While cell coverage in the sticks improves every year, I still often find myself in places with no signal.

Because it uses a satellite network, the SPOT works where cell phones don't. With the press of a button, I can automagically notify my family and closest friends not only that I'm ok, but my exact coordinates.

Another button lets them know that I need help. Yet another button (to be pressed only in emergencies) calls 911, summoning Search and Rescue to my exact location.

SPOT also has a tracking function. When I enable it, people that I've given login information to can watch my progress on a map updated every 10 minutes.

Conventional PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) are more powerful and hardened, but basically exist just for emergencies. They can cost $500 and up. Satellite phones are also expensive and make no sense for me to carry around for day to day use.

The SPOTs extra communication features and economical entry cost ($149.95 +tax for the unit, ~$150/year for service) are an acceptable trade-off for beacon power to me. SPOT is waterproof.

The packaging was attractive, lithium batteries were included, and online account set up was super easy. I set the unit outside on my patio in clear view of the sky and pressed the "I'm OK" button. A few minutes later I had an email in my inbox with a link to my coordinates in Google Maps.

I'll do more extensive testing of the non-emergency features this month and report back with a more comprehensive review.

So far, I'm happy. Now, off to educate my parents and boyfriend....

Gilk51

12-13-2007, 08:40 PM

Interesting. I assume that you can set up what email addresses are used.

Looks like a reasonable investment for the way you will be using it.

rocketbunny

12-13-2007, 08:43 PM

Interesting. I assume that you can set up what email addresses are used.

Looks like a reasonable investment for the way you will be using it.

Yup. You can set up two different groups... One for the "I'm OK" message, and another group for the "Help!" message.

Also, you have the option of doing both email addys and phone numbers (which get sent a text message).
All set up is done through an online account.

I can see myself using this with tracking enabled on every ride... If I disappear, at least my family would be able to login and see my last known location.

On a tour, I'd probably check-in in the morning when I leave my hotel, midday at lunch, and then at night when I'm safe in lodging.

My boyfriend is an ex-LEO and a non-rider. He gets VERY worried. I think this will help give him a little peace of mind when I'm out riding.

Rocket_Cowboy

12-13-2007, 09:10 PM

Definitely looks interesting. I just picked up a Star-Traxx L series recently (old school technology compared to the SPOT), so I'll be interested to compare notes in Alpine later.

Squeaky

12-13-2007, 10:37 PM

If I'd known how reasonably priced this was, I'd have asked Santa for it. I think it's too late now...

(Santa likes to keep tabs on me when I'm out riding)

Chirpy

12-13-2007, 11:52 PM

Yup. You can set up two different groups... One for the "I'm OK" message, and another group for the "Help!" message.

Also, you have the option of doing both email addys and phone numbers (which get sent a text message).
All set up is done through an online account.

I can see myself using this with tracking enabled on every ride... If I disappear, at least my family would be able to login and see my last known location.

On a tour, I'd probably check-in in the morning when I leave my hotel, midday at lunch, and then at night when I'm safe in lodging.

My boyfriend is an ex-LEO and a non-rider. He gets VERY worried. I think this will help give him a little peace of mind when I'm out riding.

Pretty cool. Simplify Homeland Security's job as well! ;-)

Tourmeister

12-14-2007, 12:28 AM

That is very cool. Good find! :clap:

CycleCat

12-14-2007, 08:03 AM

Neat gadget. If I was doing a lot of cycle touring I'd probably get one too!

You'll need to do a long bike trip this summer and send us a daily "I am HERE!" link so we can track your progress from TWT!

lddave

12-14-2007, 09:19 AM

I took my spot out for a ride last Saturday .
With analog cell service going away in the future this enables my wife to see where I have been.
I am also using it to record locations that I want to visit again , keeps my GPS from filling up with way-points.
I got mine from mountain technical
$20 off and free shipping.

Red Brown

12-14-2007, 09:55 AM

Chirpy

12-14-2007, 10:41 AM

Does that use the old Motorola Iridium network?

DFW_Warrior

12-14-2007, 11:12 AM

Tourmeister

12-14-2007, 12:02 PM

It's kind of neat, but not for me. I like the whole "adventure" part of the ride, but maybe that's why I don't plan routes, or even know where I'm going most of the time. I usually have a general direction like "Utah" or something, but that's about as detailed as it gets with me.... lol

And that is the benefit of being a single guy that no one cares about losing... :lol2:

j/k ;-) For me, the big draw would simply being able to summon help in a life threatening situation. As much as I like adventure, I do want to come back alive so I can share my pics with you guys :trust:

DFW_Warrior

12-14-2007, 12:13 PM

No, I just don't like electronic "dog leashes".:lol2:

lddave

12-14-2007, 12:35 PM

I have ridden locations where there is no cell phone coverage, short of carrying a satellite phone the spot is my connection to the real world.
I guess it all depends on what a person calls adventure.
Laying on the side of the seldom traveled road, alone with a broke arm and your cell phone shows no service.
You hope someone comes along that can help you or can summon help. I myself do not want to depend on others to get me out my self induced trouble.
No smoke signs for me.
I will be prepared.
As far as it being a leash I have been on one every since I said I do 24 years ago.
.

Quick-Silver

12-14-2007, 12:46 PM

Thanks Becca.

This is a gotta have for me too. In addition to lone riders, it would be great for any senior living alone out in the boonies. It much better than 911 cell because of the coordinates aspect.

It would be neat if it had a rip cord that attached to the bike and would send an emergency signal in the event of a spill where the rider was thrown clear of the bike and severely hurt. For this to work there would have to be an alert cancel procedure built into the device for those times when the rider was OK.

I like to ride the 3's in Leakey by myself, but there is always a chance of an accident and nobody around to offer help. There are many areas out there where cells are dead.

Where can you buy these things?

Becca you did good.

rocketbunny

12-14-2007, 01:13 PM

REI and Cabela's carries them. You might want to call before going to the store to make sure they're in stock.

There are several places to buy them online, including from the manufacturer. LDdave mentioned an online place that sounds like a good deal.

I've seen lots of people talk about carrying them in jacket pockets, so if you're separated from your bike, it's still accessible. Of course then you always have the worry of breaking a rib on it during a crash.

Another option is inside a tank bag or non-metal hard luggage.

I'm not sure where I'm going to be carrying it yet, although I'm leaning toward jacket pocket.

Tourmeister

12-14-2007, 04:35 PM

:tab It would be cool if they worked like the ones on the Dakar bikes. These sense sudden deceleration. That sends a signal to the race coordinators. They then have the ability to talk to the rider through the system. Apparently, the speakers are LOUD so that the rider can even hear them if separated form the bike. When activated, the rider does not have to push any buttons to speak. He can yell from his location if he is immobilized. If there is no response from the rider, or another rider on scene, then rescue is dispatched to investigate. I guess it would be kind of like On-Star for bikes.

:tab While it is true that carrying it in a pocket might result in some broken ribs, it is equally true that the unit itself might be severely damaged in a slide or tumble. Also, unless the pockets zip close, I would not put much faith in the unit staying inside an exterior pocket in a get off.

:tab It is really cool to see technologies like this coming down to the price range where they are more readily accessible to the average person.

Mike in Clear Lake

12-14-2007, 04:55 PM

Great multipurpose tool...can also be attached to my daughters car so I can see the route she takes to school :)

BTW, I saw the coverage map and the grey area is a non-reception zone. I thought the GPS technology is available on all points of the earth. The no-service area is near the mouth of the Amazon and bottom half of Africa. I guess they are referring to the non-GPS aspect of the device i.e. relaying the location to Google Maps.

http://www.findmespot.com/bvmodules/themes/spot/images/coveragemap.gif

SEYA

RB

I see they DON'T cover the one part of the world where I could really use this thing (non-riding) the most. Too bad for me.

Mike

hardybaker

12-14-2007, 06:35 PM

Thanks again Becca. I will have one too. Not if I can figure out how to use it.

Squeaky

12-14-2007, 06:42 PM

Hardy, if you get that and the 800Gs around the same time, I'm sure a "learning session" can be worked out with a trade for a ride... :trust:

Rob_S

12-20-2007, 01:26 PM

I just picked one up last night at REI in Plano. Like it so far but I don't quite understand some of their statements about the Tracking service and allowing others see that information. They state that you can let friends and family login and see your tracks. But, it appears to me you are letting them login with your login ID and not only will they see the map but then they also have access to your account information including your credit card info. Also, they would have the chance to change your password or your message text. I'm not too keen on that!! Do they allow you to create child accounts so that others can login and "only" see your tracking info?

.
.
.

Squeaky

12-20-2007, 01:34 PM

According to RB, that's coming (hopefully soon) since it's been the biggest complaint so far. As of now, she only gives the logon info to VERY close family & the SO.

We are hoping to test out the tracking this weekend if our plan to go for BBQ in Llano becomes a reality.

Cruzintexas

12-20-2007, 01:34 PM

Very Cool Becca! It will be fun to track you!! On your adventures. Its even better now that you are a dirt biker.. Safety first

lddave

12-20-2007, 02:13 PM

Used my spot the other day, It worked find in the saddlebag on the ST1100.
There is a thread on Adventure Rider with one of the spot folks commenting on some of the features and what is available in the future.
I made up a email account that I will use only for spot, with the reporting of I am OK so if others want to see where I am without filling up their e mail accounts.
Not quite as good as the 10 minute tracking but it will do for now.

Moose

12-26-2007, 06:37 PM

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=296200

They are putting together a group buy

I guess this should have been on Steve Fosetts wish list;-)

Rob_S

12-26-2007, 07:02 PM

Used mine this week on a trip to Amarillo for Christmas. Pretty niffty!

.
http://rspruell.smugmug.com/photos/236250613-XL.jpg

sparkyphotog

12-26-2007, 07:05 PM

Great multipurpose tool...can also be attached to my daughters car so I can see the route she takes to school :)

BTW, I saw the coverage map and the grey area is a non-reception zone. I thought the GPS technology is available on all points of the earth. The no-service area is near the mouth of the Amazon and bottom half of Africa. I guess they are referring to the non-GPS aspect of the device i.e. relaying the location to Google Maps.

http://www.findmespot.com/bvmodules/themes/spot/images/coveragemap.gif

SEYA

RB

I've been researching this for our upcoming Alaska trip. The "coverage" is indeed for sending messages, not receiving GPS. Their are two systems operating within the unit, a GPS receiver and satellite communications transceiver. I just got an REI gift card for Christmas - guess what I'm gonna get...:mrgreen:

sparkyphotog

12-26-2007, 07:09 PM

Used mine this week on a trip to Amarillo for Christmas. Pretty niffty!

Say Rob, I wanted to ask about the Google maps tracking feature. Does someone have to have a user ID and password to view the Google map? I'm setting up a web site for our trip next summer, and I wanted to embed the SPOT tracking map into the site so my family can track our progress. I've already experimented with embedding google maps, so I know I can do that with maps I create. Any info would be helpful. Thanks!

Rob_S

12-26-2007, 10:37 PM

Say Rob, I wanted to ask about the Google maps tracking feature. Does someone have to have a user ID and password to view the Google map? I'm setting up a web site for our trip next summer, and I wanted to embed the SPOT tracking map into the site so my family can track our progress. I've already experimented with embedding google maps, so I know I can do that with maps I create. Any info would be helpful. Thanks!
.
At the moment the only way to see the tracking map is to login with your account. And I can't see anyway to export the map coordinates to publish it publicly either. But, I did send an e-mail to the SPOT customer service and they replied saying that they are currently working on making the map publicly viewable without a login.

.

sparkyphotog

12-26-2007, 11:09 PM

.
At the moment the only way to see the tracking map is to login with your account. And I can't see anyway to export the map coordinates to publish it publicly either. But, I did send an e-mail to the SPOT customer service and they replied saying that they are currently working on making the map publicly viewable without a login.

.

Cool, thanks for the info. Still going to get it. :sun:

lddave

12-27-2007, 07:58 AM

There is a thread on Adventure Rider that addresses the exporting of your SPOT Goggle map.

Rob_S

12-27-2007, 09:11 AM

There is a thread on Adventure Rider that addresses the exporting of your SPOT Goggle map.

Do you have the specific link? I did a search on ADV Rider and there are many threads that mention SPOT but, I didn't see one that spoke about exporting the map.

.

lddave

12-27-2007, 09:23 AM

I searched the laying down tracks forum using spot in the search this forum.
Came back has anyone seen or bought a SPOT?

Jack Giesecke

12-27-2007, 10:04 AM

I saw Les Stroud (survivor man) hawking this thing in a commercial last night while watching all my gun shows on Outdoor Channel. If I still did a lot of back packing and hunting out in the New Mexico mountains, I just might get one, but I can't really see it for motorcycle touring even though I never know if the old Wing will make it...:rofl: If I duck hunted the land cut much (2 hours by boat into the most remote area on the Texas gulf coast) I'd have one for sure. If I did a lot of off road out in desert areas or such as that, I'd have one. That guy who got caught in a grotto out in Utah and cut his arm off to get free could have used one. :eek2: This could literally save lives for outdoor types and even motorists that travel a lot in winter up north. I'm just old and broke and don't get out in the wilds much anymore. :tears:

Texfire

12-27-2007, 04:44 PM

At $150 it's kinda hard for me to justify not getting one. It doesn't appear to have the radio locater beacon that PLBs have, I imagine it's why the cost is so much lower. But still, just having the ability to transmit GPS coordinates with a call for help seems invaluable. After all, they have to know that you need help before trying to find you. The non-emergency uses are icing on the cake.

Rocket_Cowboy

12-27-2007, 06:31 PM

It doesn't appear to have the radio locater beacon that PLBs have, I imagine it's why the cost is so much lower.

I think that's the difference right there. Some PLBs have GPS receivers integrated in order to encode specific location, others just rely on triangulation of their broadcast signal. Most PLBs work an a could different distress frequencies, and that may well be part of the extra cost as well ... integrating transmitters on different non-adjacent frequency spectrums. With the SPOT, since it transmits directly back to them, can possibly get away with a much simpler transmitter design.

Since the SPOT is transmitting at a fixed interval, where the PLB is silent until activated, it might even prove to get help to you quicker if it is destroyed in an accident ... just because it transmitted it's known location minutes before an accident.

sparkyphotog

12-27-2007, 11:41 PM

I got mine this evening. :trust: Activation was a snap and it worked as advertised right away. Tested a check-in message and tested the tracking function while out running errands. Everything seems to be in order.

By the way, the lengthly thread that lddave referred to earlier is located here (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=282391). There is some really good info there, and one of the engineers who designed the SPOT is posting on that thread as well. His screen name is SpotMaker.

A lot of people are comparing the SPOT to a PLB. You really can't compare the two, since they are different technologies and serve different needs, although the SPOT can function as a "poor man's" PLB. A PLB is strictly for emergency use only, but the SPOT can be used that way, along with the Check-in and Tracking features, and the ability to signal for help from your friends an family in a non-emergency situation, such as a breakdown.

I think it can be best described as a device that fits a communications niche that bridges the gap between cell phones and satellite phones, and can be used in emergencies as well. I think it's a great bargain for what it can do.

Squeaky

12-27-2007, 11:51 PM

I think it can be best described as a device that fits a communications niche that bridges the gap between cell phones and satellite phones, and can be used in emergencies as well. I think it's a great bargain for what it can do.

+1
And for those of us who need it, it can be the mom/dad/spouse/kids "peace of mind" without taking time away from your travels. ;-)

Simmons1

12-28-2007, 07:47 AM

I have decided to buy one.

I may even try to get it today so I can try it out on the End of Year Pie run this weekend.

Gilk51

12-28-2007, 09:10 AM

I have decided to buy one.

I may even try to get it today so I can try it out on the End of Year Pie run this weekend.

:thumb: Send me an email! I'll keep track of ya! :lol2:

Simmons1

12-28-2007, 09:36 AM

:thumb: Send me an email! I'll keep track of ya! :lol2:

I figured I might need it if you get us hopelessly lost, or your bike dies in the middle of nowhere. After all it is a Strom:rofl:

Do you have GPS route available yet?

Gilk51

12-28-2007, 11:06 AM

I figured I might need it if you get us hopelessly lost, or your bike dies in the middle of nowhere. After all it is a Strom:rofl:

Do you have GPS route available yet?

:thpt:

Yeah - I'll post it up for your approval...

Simmons1

12-28-2007, 11:12 AM

:thpt:

Yeah - I'll post it up for your approval...

I don't need to approve it, just need it to load in my GPS, in case you decide to loose me on the way down.

Gilk51

12-28-2007, 11:20 AM

I don't need to approve it, just need it to load in my GPS, in case you decide to loose me on the way down.

You can get loose anytime you want! I won't deliberately try to lose you... :lol2:

I'll put it over on the Pie Run thread in the next few minutes... :yawn:

Simmons1

01-02-2008, 07:10 PM

My Spot worked great going to the EOY Pie Run and back. I am very impressed with it so far.

dixonduke

01-02-2008, 07:26 PM

My Spot worked great going to the EOY Pie Run and back. I am very impressed with it so far.

Are you going to bring it to the Geneva run? I would like to talk to you about it if you do. I have many questions... just not where to start.

Simmons1

01-02-2008, 07:35 PM

I will have it with me to show you.

I haven't tried it with heavy canopy yet.

Squeaky

01-02-2008, 07:37 PM

Duke - Some very technical speak and some real-world users in this thread, including input from one of the designers/testers:
http://advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=282391

Possible group buy discount (if time is not of the essence):
http://advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=296200

dixonduke

01-02-2008, 07:44 PM

Squeaky

01-02-2008, 07:48 PM

I think I have an understanding that the answer is yes, but they have to log into my account as me. Does anyone know if they can just go to a web page and view it without logging on to any accounts?

The answer is still "not yet, but soon". Nobody can get a company rep to fess up as to how soon "soon" is to them, but they are very aware of the need and they say it's still in the works.

If there's one person that you trust to log in AS YOU (including, as I understand, seeing credit card info) they can get the info and/or copy the map image and post it up somewhere publicly on your behalf so that others can see what you're up to.

rocketbunny

01-02-2008, 09:14 PM

The answer is still "not yet, but soon". Nobody can get a company rep to fess up as to how soon "soon" is to them, but they are very aware of the need and they say it's still in the works.

If there's one person that you trust to log in AS YOU (including, as I understand, seeing credit card info) they can get the info and/or copy the map image and post it up somewhere publicly on your behalf so that others can see what you're up to.

Just to clarify, no one logging in sees complete credit card info, just billing address, last 4 digits of card, validation number (from the back), and expiration date.

You should certainly be careful who you give login info out to, but noone is going to be able to take the info shown and make purchases.

rocketbunny

01-02-2008, 09:19 PM

I guess what I just haven't gotten my head around yet it. Will my family be able to view where I am when I am off on one of my 3 week summer disappear tours. (This year I am heading up to New Foundland).

I think I have an understanding that the answer is yes, but they have to log into my account as me. Does anyone know if they can just go to a web page and view it without logging on to any accounts?

One thing you might do very easily is set up a blogspot.com blog with a "post via email" option. Set the spot's check-in button to email your location to the blog. Anyone who goes to your blog will be able to see where you are whenever you check in.

As a solo female traveler, I can't imagine ever wanting my realtime location information to be on a publicly viewable (ie non-login required) website. I don't even like people to know where I've stayed a night until I'm about to leave.

dixonduke

01-02-2008, 09:31 PM

One thing you might do very easily is set up a blogspot.com blog with a "post via email" option. Set the spot's check-in button to email your location to the blog. Anyone who goes to your blog will be able to see where you are whenever you check in.

As a solo female traveler, I can't imagine ever wanting my realtime location information to be on a publicly viewable (ie non-login required) website. I don't even like people to know where I've stayed a night until I'm about to leave.

What a cool concept. I did not even think of utilizing the SPOT in such a fashion. Thanks for the Idea.

Also a good safety topic for all travelers. Might not be the biggest risk out there, but I can sure see how we can become targets to the less than honest.

Gilk51

01-02-2008, 10:14 PM

As a solo female traveler, I can't imagine ever wanting my realtime location information to be on a publicly viewable (ie non-login required) website. I don't even like people to know where I've stayed a night until I'm about to leave.

What might be useful is a way to designate who gets real time updates (family and friends) via a login. Any unknown "Guests" would get info that is a day or two stale - hopefully not enough to track you down.

Red Brown

01-02-2008, 11:17 PM

No, I just don't like electronic "dog leashes".:lol2:

Yes and I think others don't like the idea either. Eventually there will be extensive data-sharing including search engine searches, GPS tracks (in cell phone devices etc.) across national borders in a very pervasive way.

RB

--

Big Brother gets bigger, says global privacy study

Posted by Elinor Mills to news.com blog

According to a new international privacy report, governments around the world are increasingly invading the privacy of citizens with surveillance, identification systems, and archiving of private data.

Driven by concern over immigration and border control, countries have been quick to implement database, identity, and fingerprinting systems, according to the 2007 International Privacy Ranking report.
Surveillance cameras

There was also an increase in the trend of governments archiving data on the geographic, communications, and financial records of citizens, as well as enacting legislation intended to increase the reach into individuals' private lives, the report found.

"At the same time, technological advances, technology standards, interoperability between information systems, and the globalization of information have placed extraordinary pressure on the few remaining privacy safeguards," the report says. "The effect of these developments has been to create surveillance societies that nurture hostile environments for privacy."

Specifically, governments have implemented or proposed use of fingerprint and iris-scanning biometrics, real-time tracking and monitoring through communications channels, geographic vehicle and mobile phone tracing, national DNA databases, global information-sharing agreements, and the elimination of anonymity in cyberspace.

The lowest-ranking countries in terms of privacy protections continue to be Malaysia, Russia, and China, with Greece, Romania, and Canada ranked highest.

In terms of statutory protections and privacy enforcement, the United States is the worst country in the "democratic world" and is outranked by both India and the Philippines on overall privacy protection. The U.S. has fallen into the "black" category reserved for countries with "endemic surveillance."

In the European Union, the worst-ranked country is the United Kingdom, particularly with regard to surveillance. Specifically, councils in England and Wales continue to spread surveillance policies, including RFID, CCTV, ID and data sharing, and road user tracking, according to the report.

Pooc

01-03-2008, 02:21 PM

It would be money well spent just to see where Squeaky has gone with your bike!:rider:

Simmons1

01-03-2008, 03:14 PM

Dosen't have to be used as a "dog leash". You can also turn the power off and only turn it on to tell people where you are when you want to let them know where you are, just like with a cell phone.

taminator

01-03-2008, 10:07 PM

I just have a comment to make regarding:

"Yet another button (to be pressed only in emergencies) calls 911, summoning Search and Rescue to my exact location"

I'm a 911 communications supervisor. When I saw this I was like "Oh no..." I had my tech-savvy computer whiz co-worker do some research on just how this works:

According to the website:

ALERT 9-1-1: Use this function In the event of a life threatening or other critical emergency to notify emergency services of your exact location and that you need assistance.

How It Works:

Once activated, SPOT will acquire its exact coordinates from the GPS network, and send that location along with a distress message to a GEOS International Emergency Response Center every five minutes until cancelled. The Emergency Response Center notifies the appropriate emergency responders based on your location and personal information – which may include local police, highway patrol, the Coast Guard, our country’s embassy or consulate, or other emergency response or search and rescue teams – as well as notifying your emergency contact person(s) about the receipt of a distress signal.

Important Note:

Even if SPOT cannot acquire its location from the GPS network it will still attempt to send a distress signal – without exact location – to the Emergency Response Center, which will still notify your contacts of the signal and continue to monitor the network for further messages.

........So, apparently it calls their response center who would call us (on non-emergency)... kind of like Vonage Voice Over IP phones without the Enhanced 911 capability... or kind of like OnStar handles their emergency calls.

Just wanted to make sure folks know exactly how this works and clarify what I guess they're meaning by "calls 911". Because there is no way the device could send a signal directly to the nearest 911 answering point.

Does seem like a great deal considering the price and it's capabilities, especially for people who travel off the beaten path.

Thanks
Tam

Gilk51

01-03-2008, 11:05 PM

Squeaky

01-04-2008, 01:09 AM

Looking at Rich's unit, I really think that the 911 button should have some sort of guard on it to keep from getting pressed accidenatlly while in a pocket or somewhere where an object could push against it.

IIRC, the 911 button needs to be pushed in unison with a second button. I don't remember the specifics but I had the same thought.

Simmons1

01-04-2008, 11:54 AM

Looking at Rich's unit, I really think that the 911 button should have some sort of guard on it to keep from getting pressed accidenatlly while in a pocket or somewhere where an object could push against it.

It has to be pushed and held down for a couple seconds. Incidental contact with the 911 button shouldn't set it off.

See page 10 of manual:

http://www.findmespot.com/downloads/SPOT_UsersGuide_2007_10_16.pdf

dixonduke

01-04-2008, 07:18 PM

Well after reading this thread and the threads over on ADV... I got the idea of e-mail the SPoT people. Below is my email and answer! I am starting to fall from the fence I am sitting on.

From: Customer Care Customer Care [mailto:customercare@findmespot.com]
Sent: Friday, January 04, 2008 4:55 PM
To: Duke Dixon
Subject: Re: Tracking Question

Hi Duke,
Our develoepers are currently working on a solution that will allow you to make your messages public without someone having to access your account. We plan to release it later this month.

Regards,
Stephanie

SPOT USA Customer Service
866-OK1-SPOT
www.findmespot.com

>>>
From: "Duke Dixon"
To: <sales@findmespot.com>
Date: Wednesday, January 02, 2008 9:18 PM
Subject: Tracking Question
Hello,

I am very interested in the SPoT, and considering purchasing one in the very near future. I do have a question regarding the tracking feature. I see on your web page that for others to see my progress (track) they must log into my account.

Is there a way where my track can be viewed online without having to ask friends and family to log into my account?

Thanks & Regards,
Duke Dixon

Rocket_Cowboy

01-05-2008, 11:15 AM

There was also a post yesterday to the LDRider list. The folks at Star-Traxx have gotten the SPOT to work with their system, and are reselling it with full public tracking available now.

Here's the email that went out:

---------------

Ron Mozer to LD

In addition to the original Star-Traxx INMARSAT product we also support the
Spot and have it integrated with Star-Traxx. As an example of what can be
done, I just got back from a trip down through the Baja and used Spot to
send back position reports every 5 minutes to the rally.star-traxx.comserver.

Take a look at the detail it provided:
http://rally.star-traxx.com/rallyview.asp?Rally=79&Rider=51643303

Ron

Janet

01-05-2008, 11:24 AM

Squeaky

01-11-2008, 01:42 PM

SPOT units saved lives over the holidays: (quoted from ADV member and SPOT employee)

SPoT saved 4 lives over the holidays. 3 in one incident and one in another.

Press releases here (http://www.findmespot.com/downloads/SPOT08_SPOT_Inc_PR_Alaska_Rescue_Wire.pdf) and here. (http://www.findmespot.com/downloads/SPOT08_Spot_Avalanche_Rescue.pdf)

:clap

sparkyphotog

01-13-2008, 10:17 PM

Well, I gave mine it's first good test this weekend. Rode with DFW_Warrior and Calgary-Yogi all over east Texas and into Louisiana and southwest Arkansas. Did just under 1,000 miles, and had 104 SPOT tracking points logged. My wife was able to track where I was the whole weekend. I also sent 4 check-in messages with it when we reached our campsites, which was real handy, because I had no cell service at either campground. I sent a check-in in the evening when we arrived, and another one in the morning before turning on the tracking. I have the account set up to send text messages to my phone and my wife's, along with e-mails.

I'm glad to hear that the SPOT makers have some rescues under their belt. It sure gave me some peace of mind while riding this weekend knowing that if one of us got hurt on a remote dirt road and we couldn't call, then we could at least summon help.

Tx Rider

01-21-2008, 04:25 PM

Cool little gadget, about time someone made this.

Over $10/month for service though? Seems a bit much for bouncing the occasional signal for me on the occasional trip.

Then again I think XM is too much for what it is too.

macktruckturner

01-24-2008, 10:06 PM

very interesting. I might have to pick one of these up for my Lap Around America.

Gilk51

01-24-2008, 10:15 PM

I might have to pick one of these up for my Lap Around America.

Perfect for what you are planning. However, I'm sure your folks wish that you had one where you are now, pressing the "I'm OK" button several times a day... ;-)

I hope to see you on your bike the next time around. Maybe also at DFW again if you don't route to Atlanta or something.
:rider:

macktruckturner

01-24-2008, 10:30 PM

We'll probably fly right into LAAF, but I'm sure I'll be in the DFW area a time or four once I move back to TX.

Gilk51

01-27-2008, 07:07 AM

Squeaky asked if I wanted to receive her SPOT messages and I sent her my email so I could get them. I got 5 updates ("I'm OK") yesterday while she was travelling to east Texas.

Here is an example of the message:

Rebecca checking in. All is well.
Unit Number: 0-7347342
Latitude: 31.0615
Longitude: -94.043
Nearest Town from unit Location: Unknown Distance to the nearest town: Unknown Time in GMT the message was sent: 01/26/2008 21:06:40
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=31.0615,-94.043&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

That was an intermediate stop. The link sends you to Google Maps and "pins" the position.

This one is the last one I received and apparently is where they stayed last night (I deliberately waited until this morning to post it so all her fans would not mob her :-P )

Rebecca checking in. All is well.
Unit Number: 0-7347342
Latitude: 31.4091
Longitude: -93.782
Nearest Town from unit Location: Milam, United States Distance to the nearest town: 7 km(s) Time in GMT the message was sent: 01/26/2008 22:47:03
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=31.4091,-93.782&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

I also created the 5 locations as waypoints in Garmin mapsource and was able to get an idea of her route by having it calculate one.

Overall, pretty cool.

macktruckturner

01-27-2008, 03:48 PM

way cool.

Squeaky

01-27-2008, 07:18 PM

This one is the last one I received and apparently is where they stayed last night (I deliberately waited until this morning to post it so all her fans would not mob her :-P )

Well, I was in very good company with the DS guys so there was nothing to worry about. On a solo trip, it'll be a little different.

The first link there was the lunch stop at The Stump.

I had the tracking feature on, which sends back pinpoints every ten minutes - but that's only available by login and, as was previously said, there is no guest login yet so only mom and sis have my info to get that.

In order to send a check-in message like you received, I have to turn tracking off, opt for check-in, then let it sit ~20 minutes to make sure the message gets out (it sends three times with five minute intervals). I used stopping points for it - lunch, gas, campsite/cabin. Then once we were ready to get back on the road, it was done sending and I turned tracking back on. Easy as long as I remembered, which I only slipped up on once.

My sister was very pleased with the results, so this was a good test run for me with the SPOT. :mrgreen:

Squeaky

01-29-2008, 11:51 AM

Ok, the geek results of this weekend's check-in points. I kept it in tracking mode most of the weekend for my mother and sister to "keep and eye on me" as a test for an upcoming solo trip, but at stopping points I sent out a Check-In message for a few people (like Chuck) that wanted to see how we were progressing.

Here are the images of the check-in locations. I can't think of any that it missed, so it was a pretty good test.

Staging area in Moscow at the Post Office on Saturday morning
http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248766342-M.jpg

Fuel stop just before lunch near the Sam Rayburn Dam
http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248766373-M.jpg

Departing from lunch at The Stump just down the road
http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248766412-M.jpg

Arrival at Harborlight
http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248766434-M.jpg

Departure the following morning
http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248766455-M.jpg

Fuel & lunch at the gas station in Etoille
http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248766488-M.jpg

dixonduke

01-29-2008, 12:41 PM

Can we see how they see your "track"? No I don't want to log in to your account but a screen shot of what they see would be cool.

Squeaky

01-29-2008, 12:56 PM

Can we see how they see your "track"? No I don't want to log in to your account but a screen shot of what they see would be cool.

Sure. The only issue is that with a full (zoomed-out) view and ten minute intervals on the pinpoints, they tend to cover up a lot of the map detail. I'll zoom in on a section or two as an example. Gimme a min...

Squeaky

01-29-2008, 01:10 PM

Data exported to GPX

Spook

01-29-2008, 01:15 PM

Very Cool :eek2:

Squeaky

01-29-2008, 01:16 PM

The interface is nothing fancy, but has most of the basics covered (sort by column headers, etc.)

http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248790308-O.jpg

Overview of the two days. You can see that I forgot to turn the tracking back on when we left Harborlight in the morning on Sunday, but turned it back on after a break.

http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248790405-O.jpg

Zoomed-in view of a few points after leaving The Stump and heading towards Harborlight Saturday afternoon.

http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/248790348-O.jpg

dixonduke

01-29-2008, 01:21 PM

So all your family has to do is "check" a log entry selection and then click "show on map". Is that right?

Squeaky

01-29-2008, 01:52 PM

So all your family has to do is "check" a log entry selection and then click "show on map". Is that right?

Yup. Select as many or as few as you want then "show on map".
On the map itself, you can click on each pinpoint and get a little bubble that pops up with the date/time/location for that entry.

Simmons1

01-29-2008, 02:43 PM

Gee, my tracks looked almost identical to Squeaky's on Saturday and Sunday. I wonder why? LOL

Squeaky

01-29-2008, 03:11 PM

Gee, my tracks looked almost identical to Squeaky's on Saturday and Sunday. I wonder why? LOL

Identity theft! Identity theft! :eek2:

:lol2:

I even identified the mud/clay hill by the multiple track points while we were stuck there.

Well, Ken was stuck... I was standing there watching... :mrgreen:

macktruckturner

01-29-2008, 05:10 PM

yup, I think I might just have to get me one of them thar thangs.

piglet

01-30-2008, 05:22 PM

Gee, my tracks looked almost identical to Squeaky's on Saturday and Sunday. I wonder why? LOL

Because you are always riding rear guard!:rider:

CBAT

01-30-2008, 05:25 PM

That is pretty cool.

Squeaky

02-10-2008, 10:50 PM

Well, unfortunately I got to test the help function on the SPOT.

This happened while pulling a trailer.

http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/252692083_Xucam-M.jpg

It was 5am. I was nervous just being out there on the side of the freeway, so I got as far off to the shoulder as I could and stayed in the truck. I had cell phone coverage, but also sent out a distress signal since it seemed fitting.

http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/252692123_eKzvp-M.jpg

Before too long, help had arrived. :clap:

http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/252692162_XaLDY-M.jpg

The SPOT was dead-on accurate.

http://squeaky.smugmug.com/photos/253147605_ejFuJ-M.jpg

I hope to never have to test the 911 feature, but I know it'll work if that time ever comes... :giveup:

Hotair

02-10-2008, 11:11 PM

Squeakey, what help responded to the signal??? How long did it take?

Squeaky

02-10-2008, 11:17 PM

Squeakey, what help responded to the signal??? How long did it take?

A friend that I had set up to get the "help" message - Stinky93071 - who, although me being 200 miles from home, was less than 30 minutes from where the blowout happened.

I'm lucky in so many ways - for being that close to help when it happened, for being able to pull of the road as quickly and safely as I did (considering I was pulling a trailer and at full highway speed when it blew), and for friends that will not only come rescue me at 5am, but will hook my trailer up to their (already loaded) truck so I can still play at the dirt park later that same day.

THANK YOU CHRIS! :sun:

Hotair

02-10-2008, 11:20 PM

THAT is what friends are for!!!!!!!!!:sun: :sun: :sun: :sun: :sun: :sun: :rider: :rider: :rider: :rider: :rider: :rider: :rider: :eat: :eat: :eat: :eat: :eat: :eat: I am going to get a spot tommorow!!!!! Will be in BB this next week!!!!18 to 25th!!!!!!!:clap: :clap: :clap:

Gilk51

02-24-2008, 04:48 PM

Rich (Simmons1) used his during the Pie Run yesterday. He put me on his email list & I got 5 emails during the day.

I got this message at 12:52 (well, my email did - I got home much later myself):

Greetings from the road!

Just checking in from another adventure. Click Link to see my location.

Rich Simmons
Unit Number: 0-7356043
Latitude: 29.7671
Longitude: -96.1541
Nearest Town from unit Location: Unknown Distance to the nearest town: Unknown Time in GMT the message was sent: 02/23/2008 18:53:38
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=29.7671,-96.1541&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1

Guess where he was? http://www.texasarlingtoncs.us/pics/smilies/vpsingles/ccake.gif

This is a very handy gadget.

macktruckturner

02-24-2008, 05:05 PM

I'm definitely going to have to get one of these.

dixonduke

02-24-2008, 05:11 PM

Me Too!

sparkyphotog

02-25-2008, 06:14 PM

I am going to get a spot tommorow!!!!! Will be in BB this next week!!!!18 to 25th!!!!!!!:clap: :clap: :clap:

This is a very handy gadget.

I'm definitely going to have to get one of these.

Me Too!

You will be assimilated...:borg:

macktruckturner

02-26-2008, 03:41 PM

As long as Seven of Nine does the assimilating, I'm perfectly OK with that ;)

sparkyphotog

02-26-2008, 04:20 PM

As long as Seven of Nine does the assimilating, I'm perfectly OK with that ;)

I am Six of Eleven, I will pass message to Seven of Nine. :borg:

Simmons1

04-23-2008, 09:42 AM

WoodButcher

04-23-2008, 10:54 AM

Cool, I've been waiting for the shared info option.

Squeaky

04-23-2008, 11:28 AM

Their timing couldn't be better! :rider:

Ok, Try This: http://share.findmespot.com/shared/gogl.jsp?glId=0WxzRJeHt53QPWmdLx1dE3loh9iK5O9Dk

Gilk51

04-23-2008, 11:50 AM

Ok, Try This:

"No Data Found" :shrug:

Please go somewhere! :-P

Squeaky

04-23-2008, 11:51 AM

"No Data Found" :shrug:

Please go somewhere! :-P

Ok Pops!
I've got errands to run before work so I'll put the SPoT up on the dash so we can test the new feature.

DFW_Warrior

04-23-2008, 12:38 PM

I can see two track points.... is that what I'm supposed to see?

WoodButcher

04-23-2008, 01:07 PM

Their timing couldn't be better! :rider:

Ok, Try This: http://share.findmespot.com/shared/gogl.jsp?glId=0WxzRJeHt53QPWmdLx1dE3loh9iK5O9Dk

Looks good. The first page I created was for the family and it shows all messages and has a password. I think I'll create a second no pw with tracking and okay messages.

You having a long lunch or at work? Last 3 are by a mall.

DFW_Warrior

04-23-2008, 01:10 PM

She goes into work at 2, so I think she's getting some errands done before she heads in. It's about time they made this update.

Squeaky

04-23-2008, 01:56 PM

Yup, I was over at the mall picking out new glasses, and now I'm at work. I love this - now y'all can track me on my trip! :rider:

scar04

04-23-2008, 01:59 PM

http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/ka50/images/ka50_6.jpg
Could just get one of these to follow you.

Squeaky

04-23-2008, 02:00 PM

Could just get one of these to follow you.

Yeah, but with the cost of fuel these days it's not a very economical way to keep friends & family updated. :mrgreen:

Rob_S

04-23-2008, 02:04 PM

So what is the time frame that it shows.? Is it the last 24 hours? Or all track points since the page was created?

rob

Squeaky

04-23-2008, 02:17 PM

I'm not sure, but it didn't show the points from over the weekend before I created the page. The default when you log into the site on your account is 24 hours, so I would assume it's the same.

I guess we'll have to just wait and see... :shrug:

WoodButcher

04-23-2008, 02:21 PM

So what is the time frame that it shows.? Is it the last 24 hours? Or all track points since the page was created?

rob

good question. mine didn't show the messages from last week, so I had to go outside and turn the unit on with tracking for a while. I'm guessing 24 hours.

scar04

04-23-2008, 02:21 PM

Yeah, but with the cost of fuel these days it's not a very economical way to keep friends & family updated. :mrgreen:

Yeah but its a GREAT way to screw with tailgaters.

WoodButcher

04-23-2008, 02:23 PM

In the instructions it says that if you deactivate a shared page, it doesn't go away, it just stops updating. I'm wondering if that means we only get the data points starting from the time we created the page. Also, in this beta form you can't delete a page...or edit settings.

Gilk51

04-23-2008, 02:27 PM

Yup, I was over at the mall picking out new glasses, and now I'm at work. I love this - now y'all can track me on my trip! :rider:

I have 6 messages now - 3 are kinda clustered together. If I select one from the left side list, the map zeroes in on it. Very cool! :thumb:

Squeaky

04-23-2008, 02:34 PM

Texfire

04-23-2008, 03:20 PM

Sold.

WoodButcher

04-23-2008, 03:34 PM

Well, for this test I left it in tracking mode while I was in the store and it was still on the dash in the truck. On a ride, I'd have stopped, sent an OK message, then left it off until I got back in motion.

Or should OK messages along the way even be needed anymore? I was thinking they'd be a heads-up that I stopped on purpose (gas station, fuel, break) so that stagnant tracking wouldn't frighten my mother.

I'd stick with the original plan. I'm thinking that I'll use okay for end of riding day stops. Or if I'm trailering the bike out somewhere I'll send an okay when I arrive...if I can't phone like what happened in BB.

MartyDallas

04-23-2008, 04:31 PM

They have added now a link page/trackable to non-account members, both password or account password protected

I just stumbled across it myself, it is amazing, very very very good!

Still trying to figure out how all it works right now it's saying I do not have any postings and I know I went on a trip last week. It may be just for those postings once it was initiated. I am making mind public or linkable

Simmons1

04-23-2008, 08:37 PM

Well, for this test I left it in tracking mode while I was in the store and it was still on the dash in the truck. On a ride, I'd have stopped, sent an OK message, then left it off until I got back in motion.

Or should OK messages along the way even be needed anymore? I was thinking they'd be a heads-up that I stopped on purpose (gas station, fuel, break) so that stagnant tracking wouldn't frighten my mother.

I actually hardly ever use track. So far most every time I have used the Spot I have been riding with someone else. I hit OK when I leave the house and then at every stop and again when I get home. That way people know where I am with out knowing my exact location and that I am ok.

I guess, if I was traveling alone I would leave it on "Track".

I have been messing with other profiles and such tonight and it looks they have made the software a lot more powerful/useful.

MartyDallas

04-23-2008, 08:45 PM

I actually hardly ever use track. So far most every time I have used the Spot I have been riding with someone else. I hit OK when I leave the house and then at every stop and again when I get home. That way people know where I am with out knowing my exact location and that I am ok.

I guess, if I was traveling alone I would leave it on "Track".

I have been messing with other profiles and such tonight and it looks they have made the software a lot more powerful/useful.

but what your missing is that with the Share part they have now you can post it on a web page and or anyone can go to it and see if you want

also with it they way it is now you can only have 10 people on it with the link you can have as many as you want and if your riding you can send somone to it where if you use it like your saying only the people you put on it before a ride can see or know your ok.

Also with the way it is know they have to paste all your locations together. with the new way they can see all your locations at one glance.:rider:

Simmons1

04-23-2008, 08:52 PM

I understand what it will do with the new software.

In fact I have a share page set-up for my dual sport ride in Arkansas this weekend.

ndmiller

04-23-2008, 08:58 PM

So 7 pages of coolness and we all love it. My question is anyone putting together a group buy from the manufacturer or store?

Noah

MartyDallas

04-23-2008, 09:09 PM

I understand what it will do with the new software.

In fact I have a share page set-up for my dual sport ride in Arkansas this weekend.

Great :) I think it is great :) I put a link to my spot location at the bottom of my Smugmug page :)

Squeaky

04-23-2008, 09:15 PM

So 7 pages of coolness and we all love it. My question is anyone putting together a group buy from the manufacturer or store?

Noah

They tried that on ADV and it fell through. Some folks are finding deals as low as the $130s with free shipping, but the service is a set rate.

Gilk51

04-23-2008, 09:30 PM

In fact I have a share page set-up for my dual sport ride in Arkansas this weekend.

Rich - you need at least one data point - go turn on your SPOT and punch the button! :-P

Gilk51

04-25-2008, 06:50 AM

Rich (Simmons1) provided his shared SPOT site - here is the tracking data for yesterday. It also has the "OK" points:
http://www.texasarlingtoncs.us/pics/mc/twt/rich-spot/ark080424q.JPG (http://www.texasarlingtoncs.us/pics/mc/twt/rich-spot/ark080424.JPG)

this shows the start (bottom) - the most recent points are at the top

When you select a point, the map centers on that point - you can also display the details.
http://www.texasarlingtoncs.us/pics/mc/twt/rich-spot/arkstop080424q.jpg (http://www.texasarlingtoncs.us/pics/mc/twt/rich-spot/arkstop080424.jpg)

A higher res picture is available by clicking on these two.

This update really shows the value of this device - this screen can be seen by anyone that Rich sends it to. Cool stuff! :thumb:

busarider1

05-05-2008, 05:40 AM

SPOT released a new software upgrade last night that appears to have addressed the customer's feedback.

You can now safely share your account with other people and set up mulitple profiles for different trips.

I am still glad I purchased one.

That's good news. That is the main thing that has been holding me up from buying one (plus being in the desert and nowhere near my bikes).

Slovak

05-22-2008, 10:33 AM

For those wondering about a group buy, check out thread 416534 (http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?p=416534)

It also includes discount on the service.

Peter...

Squeaky

05-22-2008, 07:59 PM

RAM has stepped up to the plate and is going to produce a mount for the SPoT. It's said to have a release date of July sometime.

http://www.ram-mount.com/index_files/spotmount2.jpg

Simmons1

05-22-2008, 08:37 PM

RAM has stepped up to the plate and is going to produce a mount for the SPoT. It's said to have a release date of July sometime.

http://www.ram-mount.com/index_files/spotmount2.jpg

Interesting

I have had great luck just keeping in my tank bag map pockets.

lddave

05-22-2008, 09:45 PM

I made my own using a plastic wrist band, some aluminum I sheared and broke plus some ram stuff I had in the toolbox. I will take some photos tomorrow and post them this weekend.

Texfire

05-22-2008, 10:01 PM

I made my own using a plastic wrist band, some aluminum I sheared and broke plus some ram stuff I had in the toolbox. I will take some photos tomorrow and post them this weekend.

What did you do with the duct tape, bailing wire and bubblegum? :trust:

Squeaky

05-22-2008, 10:03 PM

What did you do with the duct tape, bailing wire and bubblegum? :trust:

Left them on the Strom so I could make it home in one piece. :lol2:

lddave

05-23-2008, 04:52 AM

What did you do with the duct tape, bailing wire and bubblegum? :trust:

The neighbor down the the street on the harley needed them.

DasRonin

06-12-2008, 09:24 PM

I wish there was a model or an adapter to power it from a 12 volt source. In that case if it could be setup to power on the the bike was started and do the 10 min reports, it would be a totally transparent safety net.

Hmmmm. With such a setup if your bike was stolen you would know where it was every 10 minutes assuming the thief did not power it off. Not what it was made for... but a side benefit. A lojack kind of version that had a concealed installation, auto power on, and a remote nondescript "OK, "help" or "911" button would be ideal!

The only thing I do not like about the current unit is that it is battery operated. Me, Murphy's law, and battery operated devices have been less than ideal equipment!

Squeaky

06-12-2008, 09:30 PM

My batteries haven't gotten low yet, and I've had the unit on for more than a few weeks in tracking mode so far. I carry a spare set on the bike, but that's "just in case" and whenever I install those I'll just buy a new set as the spares. No need for multiples spares with this thing.

Slovak

06-12-2008, 09:39 PM

I've used my unit over the last couple of months, and haven't changed the batteries yet.

I have another batch of units coming next week at the same price - $150 with a $15 instant rebate applied. Sorry, you'll have to do a little math as the manufacturer has strict rules on the minimum advertised price. That price covers the SPOT unit, PayPal processing fees, and USPS Priority Mail shipping - usually delivered within a couple of days.

As mentioned before the 50% discount for the upgraded tracking service is still available. Order it at www.MyLiveTracks.com or just check out the web site for some useful tips & tricks.

If anyone here has questions, I'd be glad to answer them.

Peter...

Simmons1

06-12-2008, 09:42 PM

I have had mine since December when they first came out and I am on my orginal batteries as well.

DasRonin

06-12-2008, 09:46 PM

I only work to support my motorcycle habit!

Yet another farkle for the R1200R! I do get reward points for using my BMW Visa card! I have kept a promise to myself that it is to be used only for motorcycle related purchases.

dixonduke

06-12-2008, 09:48 PM

SPARKYPHOTOG / MOOSE / CALGARY_YOGI / DFW_WARRIOR

Do either of you have a spot, and if so will you share the page with us so we can live vicariously through you on your coming adventure?

Squeaky

06-12-2008, 09:50 PM

Gilk51

06-12-2008, 09:52 PM

I have had mine since December when they first came out and I am on my orginal batteries as well.

What type of batteries does it use? Readily available ones?

Slovak

06-12-2008, 09:55 PM

What type of batteries does it use? Readily available ones?

From their web site:

Battery Life
Includes 2 AA 1.5V lithium batteries; under normal usage a full battery charge should meet or exceed the following

* Power on, unused: Approx. 1 year
* SPOTcasting tracking mode: Approx. 14 days
* 9-1-1 mode: Up to 7 consecutive days
* SPOTcheck OK/√: 1900 messages

Squeaky

06-12-2008, 10:03 PM

What type of batteries does it use? Readily available ones?

Lithium is preferred my the manufacturer because it won't lose operating power as it's life diminishes, but in a pinch alkalines will work.

dixonduke

06-12-2008, 10:07 PM

I know Sparky has one, but I'm not sure if they've decided to be tracked or not :shrug:

I am buying one soon for each of my employees and make it a condition of employment that they keep it turned on and in tracking mode all day long.

Ok... that is a joke, really, I got more things to worry about than micro-managing employees.

I am buying one soon so my family can track me on rides during my summer vacation. And... Psst... your to blame. Following you on your ride to the north east sold me on the unit......:clap: :trust:

Texfire

06-12-2008, 10:43 PM

I wish it had some kind of mechanism for a switch that activates automatically without human intervention. Maybe some kind of lanyard that attaches you to it that will get activated if you rapidly dismount. Might be annoying to constantly have to strap yourself into the bike, but it would answer that thrown and knocked unconscious scenario. And an audible alarm would answer concerns about accidental activation, maybe a cancel alarm signal also.

sparkyphotog

06-12-2008, 11:04 PM

SPARKYPHOTOG / MOOSE / CALGARY_YOGI / DFW_WARRIOR

Do either of you have a spot, and if so will you share the page with us so we can live vicariously through you on your coming adventure?

I have one, and plan to have it tracking for the entire trip. You can get to the SPOT tracking from our web site (see url in my sig). I have not set up the tracking page yet, but will be doing that next week just prior to departure. There will be a link on the home page of the site. Only 8 more days to go! :rider:

JLS1126

06-12-2008, 11:25 PM

Just returned from 4000 mile trip (TX/NM/AZ/UT/CO) and it worked great. Family able to track me the whole time...great peace-of-mind for them, especially since I travelled alone. Also, helped drive down the feeling/necessity of calling in a couple times a day to say I was still alive...glad I made the investment.

dixonduke

06-12-2008, 11:46 PM

Simmons1

06-13-2008, 06:08 AM

What type of batteries does it use? Readily available ones?

The Lithium batteries that came with it.

sparkyphotog

06-13-2008, 06:55 PM

You can use AA batteries, but the manual specifically says to use only lithiums - I use Energizer e2 lithiums. The specs say you should get about 5 days worth of tracking use, or about 9 days of 911 transmissions per set of batteries. Since all I've ever done with it so far is tracking and OK messages, that jives with what I've experienced.

Slovak

06-26-2008, 07:04 PM

Since the group buy I've been keeping a list of FAQs on the web site at http://www.MyLiveTracks.com/faq.shtml

It includes many of the points from the discussions in various threads from here, MTF, ADVrider (yes, including the 54 page thread), discussions from other forums and web sites, as well as communications with SPOT employees.

Let me know if you have other things I should include there.

Peter...

busarider1

07-25-2008, 08:59 AM

I just ordered and rec'd my tracker from Slovak. Very promptly I might add. I took it on a test run yesterday. Worked pretty well but my help message never got sent. I guess I need to fiddle with it some more. I'll be using it on the pie run this weekend. Looks like a great investment for next years trip to Alaska!!!

dixonduke

08-28-2008, 11:27 PM

OK... I bought one tonight on the way home from work.... Been meaning to do it for a while now, just kept forgeting to.

I am heading up to the Idaho/Canadian border tomorrow, will be gone for 10 days of exploring between here and there and back.

Squeaky

08-29-2008, 01:44 AM

Don't forget to create a shared page and put the link in your sig!

dixonduke

08-29-2008, 02:07 AM

Don't forget to create a shared page and put the link in your sig!

Done (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=08gymnNs6XPzopBgni0bNWuMHOg3MBM oq) :thumb:

dixonduke

02-18-2009, 09:45 PM

Just drove in from OKC & Bridgeport. Got to my Office around 3pm this afternoon and forgot to turn off the SPoT until I left several hours later. I just thought this an interesting observation.

http://r1200gsa.smugmug.com/photos/476481440_DGTDo-X3.png

Now, does anyone know how to save the track messages? I just left it in tracking mode, and never did send an "OK" message in my travels these past few days. :LINK: (http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0qMmTStLkFSXL9bpBKhnqdVgnsBMTes Og)

Janet

02-19-2009, 08:52 AM

That is cool. Looks like you were busy after you got to work. What is the deal with 40 out to the east by itself?

JVRx7

02-19-2009, 09:19 AM

For long term storage of tracking info I use SPOT Trip Manager (http://jasonjonas.org/spot/index.jsp)

Unlike the SPOT web site which deletes the messages after a week or so, the SPOT Trip Manager site allows you to be "creative". Give it a look, it might be what you're looking for... I have a single "trip" setup for 2009, and here's a trip (http://jasonjonas.org/spot/tripViewer.do?id=830) I set up "after the fact", for a single day's ride.

JVRx7

02-19-2009, 09:31 AM

Just drove in from OKC & Bridgeport. Got to my Office around 3pm this afternoon and forgot to turn off the SPoT until I left several hours later. I just thought this an interesting observation.

Positional biasing, happens as satellites come in and out of view of the GPS receiver. Since the SPOT only does position fixes every 10 minutes or so in tracking mode (the "on demand" help & 911 usage are more "instant") you'll see more drifting of the position fixes when stationary. You should have seen the plots back in the days when SA (selective availability) was turned on!