I have to run, so I don't have time to answer all of your questions.
However, I do answer them under the Which GPS chapter of my book at
www.cockpitgps.com.

I think that a generic GPS can be very useful when used properly. I have
nothing against an ation specific GPS receiver. If you have the budget for
one, by all means they are great.

Most of the Garmins are good. I don't like the Magellans. However, they do
have a good built in database of airports. The Lowrance iFinder appears to
offer a lot of potential. I have seen these as low as $129 on the web.

John Bell
www.cockpitgps.com