SeattleFJs
Observer
Wondering if anyone has real world experience with the InReach SE or Explorer sat devices from Delorme. They look like a pretty good (and inexpensive) satcom device.
Delorme InReach questions
- Thread starter SeattleFJs
- Start date
dstock
Explorer
I have one, works very well. Tracking, messaging, etc. all work as advertised. Also, Delorme has been constantly releasing firmware updates with new features.
There was a review of all these devices in Overland Journal a few issues ago, it's a good read. There are also a couple threads on here as well.
There was a review of all these devices in Overland Journal a few issues ago, it's a good read. There are also a couple threads on here as well.
SeattleFJs
Observer
Sounds pretty good, thanks! One thing I can't figure out is if you can share a plan if you purchase multiple devices for your family. I've emailed Delorme but haven't heard back.
mhiscox
Exp. Leader Emeritus
This matches my experience as well.
I consider having this sort of communication to make a big difference in how safe you are and how secure you feel when headed into an isolated area. I highly recommend it, or something equivalent. It's not a fail-safe device to excuse stupid decisionmaking, but it's nice to have should you run into a batch of misfortune. And if the emergency doesn't happen, it's still useful as a "stay-in-touch" device when the cell service goes away.
crismateski
American Adventurist
I just picked one up last week to replace a spot 2. Only used it 1 weekend so far, but I like it
SeattleFJs
Observer
Going to get one and see how it goes. I did get hold of DeLorme through their Facebook page and they do not offer a shared plan; each device has to have its own.
A
agavelvr
Guest
If you haven't read these....
Review of InReach Explorer
Review of InReach Original w/Ipad
...you might want to before making a purchase. The new InReach Explorer has some pretty serious issues if you intend on using it as a GPS replacement, seems to work very good as a communication device.
Review of InReach Explorer
Review of InReach Original w/Ipad
...you might want to before making a purchase. The new InReach Explorer has some pretty serious issues if you intend on using it as a GPS replacement, seems to work very good as a communication device.
pugslyyy
Expedition Vehicle Engineer Guy
Agreed - the real missing piece is NO BASEMAP. I'm really surprised that they launched the product without it. As it stands, not useful as a navigation tool - but I would use it in the same way I use my GPS watch, mainly to track progress, direction, etc and be able to look at the breadcrumbs to see how close I am getting.
Despite the shortcomings it will probably still be worth it to me to get the Explorer not the SE.
Matt_OCENS
Observer
The inReach SE has done very well in our testing. I haven't had a chance to play with the Explorer yet.
Matt_OCENS
Observer
You can't pool airtime unfortunately, however, with an enterprise plan, you can integrate multiple units in the same portal. The enterprise plans are generally designed for corporate/fleet users. The downside of the enterprise plans is that you have a monthly allotment of usage bundled into the subscription with any of the plans, whereas some of the consumer plans have unlimited usage.
Christophe Noel
Expedition Leader
Thank you for saying that. I spent a considerable amount of time on that piece really scrutinizing the claims, technology, and honestly trying to make sure that piece wasn't old tech the day it went to print. Fortunately, it's still quite up to date.
To keep this thread current, last week I took delivery of the new inReach Explorer. I still think it's the best game in town. I'm fairly new into the evaluation phase, but so far my initial impressions are thus:
- It's definitely an improved inReach SE which still makes it the best two-way communicator in the mix, with Iridium adding greatly to the reliability and efficiency of the unit.
- As a communicator and link to real-time tracking paired to phones and tablets....pretty awesome.
- The new navigation features which are designed to bridge the gap with a traditional GPS are perhaps, a work in progress. It is really not very adept with the stand alone navigation features. Not really at all. It currently can't import GPX files. That...is a deal breaker for some.
Stay tuned for a full length, and perhaps overly detailed evaluation of the inReach Explorer on the ExPo home page next week.
Just picked one up via amazon, they had an instant $25 off coupon (SE model). I believe Delorme is offering a $50 off mail in rebate (SE Model) which has an activation deadline closing in fast. REI didn't have any in stock where I live and I'm impatient and also procrastinate so I jumped on the immediate $25 off. Just got it today so I'm of no use for any added hands on information but wanted to pass along the current savings on the SE model.
A
agavelvr
Guest
The App does not do nav, but has nice maps. The device does nav, but has no map. Paired together, app, device, and smart phone and 3rd party gps App..... You have nav and maps. Delorme missed the boat with the InReach Explorer.