Here's an observation from a low-timer for what it's worth.

I'm a relatively new cross-country pilot. I have a 302/303 in my ship.
That equipment has been absolutely perfect for my transition from
local flying to cross-country flying. I did fly a bit with a PDA/PNA
connected to it, but for my purposes (non-racing), the 303 simply
blows away the PDA/PNA. The 303 is super-simple to use, easy to read
(even in sunlight) and quick to get the info you need. Flying with the
PDA required too much "eye time" for my comfort level. Not to mention
the horrible readability in sunlight (I use SeeYou Mobile). The
302/303 gives me secure flight recording, glide computation, wind,
navigation, landing options and an excellent vario. It's small and
fully self-contained with a built-in GPS receiver. The fact that it's
"expandable" is a big plus. It was nice to be able to try out the PDA/
PNA even though I didn't care for them. I could certainly add on a
ClearNav or other similar "high-end" moving map device if I wanted.
Just plug it in and go. I just don't really have the need for a moving
map in the cockpit at this point.

One other thing regarding PDA compatibility. I don't need a laptop at
the field to download my flight logs or upload tasks/waypoints. I
simply connect my PDA, upload or download and take the PDA back home
with me. Very convenient.


Good luck in your search,
Dave



On Dec 4, 12:53*pm, Itsaplane wrote:
I'm looking for a ship to buy and find that I don't have much
perspective in evaluating various glide computers. *Is there an
existing and comprehensive glide computer review?

My doubtlessly flawed view of the glide computer universe divides
things into two main groups - panel mounted and PDA-based. *Another
way to divide things might be between moving map and non-moving map
systems. *I'm sure the type of flying is an important in this choice -
contests vs. general XC flying for example.

At the least, I'm hoping for some guidance to distinguish the
Cambridge 302 and the Ilec SN-10B. *What else deserves to be
evaluated? *Also, are things moving in a particular direction -- like
large super bright (vs. PDA's) built in displays? *Having components
that would be useful for doing that later would be plus.

I value: ease of use, readability in sunlight, the ability to monitor
multiple landing options simultaneously, no 250 turn point limitation
(L-Nav), and reliable wind data. *I like to fly into areas I've never
been to before and haven't done contests - but might.

Thanks to all who will take a crack at this,

Eric
ER