Garmin GpsMap 396 - First Impressions (long)

However, if I may point something out -- the 396 runs for a VERY long
time on that relatively tiny and lightweight battery. In order for NiMH
to provide the same energy density, the entire back of the unit would
need to be dedicated to battery storage, and it would weigh a ton. While
I hate the thought of a proprietary battery like everyone else, I'm
willing to trade that off for the higher energy density and lower weight
afforded by the LiIon battery technology.

Yeah, but only if you disconnect the weather receiver/antenna. With it
hooked up, you get 2 hours. At that point, standard batteries in the bag
start looking real good. I checked the Garmin dealers and another
battery is only $40, so I'll shut up and get one.

If you want to talk nits, I'm more ****ed that they used a proprietary
flash card. I mean, com'on! We have 2GB+ SD cards now that could hold
road maps for the entire US...and what do they provide with the auto
kit? 128MB(!) Hey Garmin...1998 called and wants its flash technology
back!

Ain't that a load of crap? There is an outfit selling "compatible"
memory cards, but they did not look much cheaper than Garmin's.

And speaking of the auto kit, I don't want to rub any more salt in that
open wound of yours, but if you had bought the unit by the end of last
year, you would have received the auto kit for "free".

They did bundle the car kit in the deal, but that was at $2499. The new
retail price that I paid is $2195. So, it is just a shell game.

Dunno if you've seen my review of the 396, but you might find it
helpful. Click through Aviation-Articles-Reviews-Garmin 396.

Safe flying,

-Doug

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Doug Vetter, ATP/CFI

http://www.dvatp.com
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