The unit needed a firmware update which proved difficult for some people. It looked like other people didn't know what they were buying, expecting a car navigation device.

It acquired satellites in about 20 seconds.

My biggest gripe about the Magellan was the map. It was very basic, only containing major highways and roads. One of the original selling points was you could download topo maps from National Geographic. As far as I can tell, they're no longer available.

I assume it's the same with all manufacturers, but Magellan sells detailed maps you can download. $150 for continental US or $50 each of 4 US "regions". What a racket...

As an aside, I have a 20yr old friend who lamented he has a poor sense of direction. I don't think he's ever been without a smart phone and uses the internet to get directions. He doesn't understand the value of landmarks.

I told him he needs to study maps of our entire area to learn his place in his surroundings. He informed me that most of his generation can't read an analog watch.

In my opinon they've been denied a richer life experience by not knowing where they are at any given point in time.