Hello Outdoor Adventurers



Today, I wanted to highlight some of the myths I encounter when spreading the word about BackCountry Navigator.



Those of you have used BackCountry Navigator successfully may have moved past these myths long ago, but you will encounter friends, family, and strangers who still have these misconceptions.

The Chicken and the Eggs If you have ever kept egg laying birds, you will generally get two, rather opposite suggestions from those who have never done it themselves: "You should get a rooster so you can get some eggs from those hens"

"You need to get rid of the rooster so you can eat those eggs" Both are misguided. No rooster is required to get eggs from hens, and fertile eggs (that haven't been incubated) pose no health risk when eating.



Similarly, myths about GPS and Smartphones tend to run in opposing camps.

Myths about GPS and Smartphones

Myth 1: Smartphones can't find your location without cell coverage

Nope. Modern day smartphones and most tablets have GPS hardware to get location from satellites.



Myth 2: GPS Satellites transmit maps to your phone.

Nope. The signal from GPS Satellites is read only and pretty basic - consisting of mostly numbers like longitude and latitude.



Myth 3: GPS Satellites can give you internet access

Nope. See Myth 2.



Myth 4: Then an app for GPS Navigation would not be able to get maps.

Nope. Smartphones also have file storage, allowing you to save maps in advance.



Myth 5: So I should be able to get this app and go straight out into the wild.

Almost. Spend a little bit of time downloading maps for your expected area while you still have internet.



Myth 6: Its not worth using a smartphone because the GPS would wear out the battery in a few hours.

At one time, the GPS may have been the biggest drain on the devices battery, but that isn't the case anymore. Users report six hours of recording a hike with only 25% battery drained. Phones have come a long way. The screen, if used often, can drain power faster. Use airplane mode to avoid constant search for a signal, which also drains power.



Myth 7: Smartphones are too delicate to be used in outdoor situations.

While this myth is still mostly true, it is also solvable. Inexpensive cases are now available to make your phone both waterproof and bonk resistant.

Galaxy Note 4 Waterproof, Dust Proof, Snow Proof, Shock Proof Case for Samsung Galaxy Note (Blue-) Recent Comments Recent comments from Google Play, helpdesk, or email.



You cannot enter a waypoint or POI and have BCN navigate you to the destination

Yes you can. It is called GOTO in the app and is available from long click and many other places.



Doesn't auto record date stamp. .

You can actually configure this now in settings.



Best one available. Period



See links at the right or below to rate or comment on BackCountry Navigator. You can also rate other comments based on their helpfulness. Have a great day in the outdoors



Nathan Mellor