OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE | GADGETS
Electronic devices for the ultimate hiker
THE ULTIMATE PHONE
Iridium 9505A Satellite Phone
Weight: 13.2 ounces.
Features: GSM dialing, 30 hours standby power, 3 1/2 hours talking.
Cost: Handsets $1,200 to $2,000. Many service plans are available, priced at about $1 to $3 per minute. Weekly rentals start at around $35.
THE MAPPING TOOL
Garmin Colorado 400t GPS
Weight: 7.3 ounces
Features: pre-loaded topographic map data, 3-inch color display, 3-D map view, wireless sharing of routes, way points, geocaching, 15-hour battery life (two AA NiMH batteries, not included).
Cost: about $500.
THE PANIC BUTTON
ACR Microfix 406 MHz GPS Personal Locator Beacon
Weight: 10 ounces
Features: waterproof, self-testing, five-year limited warranty, 24-hour transmission at minus 20 degrees centigrade.
Cost: about $625.
THE SUN KING
Solio Portable Hybrid Solar Charger
Weight: about 5 ounces.
Features: stores charge from wall outlet or three-leaf photovoltaic panels, includes a complete set of charging tips to fit multiple devices, works with most mobile phones, iPods, cameras and other devices.
Cost: about $70.
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