Bluetooth GPS - does it have to warm up?

[anniesdad]

Why does it take my bluetooth so long to pick up satellites after putting in my first destination after starting the software?

[obi]

May not be the bluetooth...different GPS receivers (bluetooth and wired) take different times to lock onto multiple satelites. As i understand it, only when the software can see more than 3 good signals will it attempt to plan the journey or plot your location.

[anniesdad]

I suspected this to be the case actually, it's just it does seem to take a while. Sometimes I'm at my destination before I get satellite lock!

[bigdods]

My TomTom Bluetooth GPS widget can take 4-5 minutes to lock on , but ony if I turn it on when moving. Usually find that it locks on in <1 min if I turn it on then dont drive until it works out where it is. Always locks on quickly if its in the same location as it was when I switched it off. If its moved - usually by me driving around with it switched off - then it can take a few minutes to sort itself out.

[mcflurry]

The newer chipsets lock on a LOT quicker. The Sirf3 average from cold is something like 42 seconds.

Alternatively, let it lock on before you leave?

[uk89camaro]

This obviously depends on the hard/soft ware combo you've got.

My PPC using TT5 and a rikaline bluetooth GPS takes exactly 25 seconds 99.9% of the time, when started in a stationary position.

[selwonk]

bigdods said:

My TomTom Bluetooth GPS widget can take 4-5 minutes to lock on , but ony if I turn it on when moving. Usually find that it locks on in <1 min if I turn it on then dont drive until it works out where it is. Always locks on quickly if its in the same location as it was when I switched it off. If its moved - usually by me driving around with it switched off - then it can take a few minutes to sort itself out.

That's a good tip. My receiver can be a bit sluggish sometimes. I'll give that a try...

[edt]

My Road Angel (mark 1) can take 2-3 mins sometimes.. plus loses it;s signal whilst I drive down nearby leafy lanes; my recent purchase a little bluetooth GPS deely takes about 30 secs from cold & locks on to a load more satellites & hangs on OK down the lanes here


Ed

[Hoover33]

I concur with switching on and setting up when stationary..... seems to take for ever on the move...

Sony Erricson P910i with Route 66