Thread: PLB and GPS or just an inReach?

I've found that the magnetic bearing on topo50 to be a bit out, even accounting for magnetic deviation. I've taken the bearing to a land mark on my phone and checked it with a compass and it was a good 20 degrees out.
Any suggestions?

Originally Posted by imaca

I've found that the magnetic bearing on topo50 to be a bit out, even accounting for magnetic deviation. I've taken the bearing to a land mark on my phone and checked it with a compass and it was a good 20 degrees out.
Any suggestions?

20 degrees is just about what the difference is between magnetic north and true north. Your compass will definitely be pointing at magnetic north, I bet your phone is doing true north

Originally Posted by Cigar

20 degrees is just about what the difference is between magnetic north and true north. Your compass will definitely be pointing at magnetic north, I bet your phone is doing true north

I think you are correct. With the NZ Topo50 app (and probably most others) you can select between magnetic or true north.

Originally Posted by Cigar

20 degrees is just about what the difference is between magnetic north and true north. Your compass will definitely be pointing at magnetic north, I bet your phone is doing true north

Yeah I tried adjusting for magnetic North as it was about 40 degrees off initially.
Given how everyone seems to rave about cell phone GPS I will have a look at my calibration, it'll be worth sorting out

Could pay to check if your phone has a mag compass in it. The old mans one doesn't so when he's not moving the bearings are miles out. Start moving and it's fine as the GPS
can work it out.