The Earthmate PN-40 is a high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options including up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA topographic maps, color aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-min. topographic quad maps, and NOAA nautical charts.
The Earthmate PN-40 is a high-sensitivity, high-performance, bright-color-screen handheld GPS that offers an unrivaled selection of display options. Click to enlarge.
With its 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and DeLorme ConstantLock technology, the PN-40 acquires satellite signals quickly and retains them in the most challenging GPS environments. Map and imagery displays are lightning-quick thanks to a powerful dual-core processor.
A three-axis electronic compass can be used with the PN-40 held in any position, while a barometric altimeter provides reliable altitude readings. The on-board base map includes major highways and thoroughfares worldwide plus secondary and connector roads in the U.S. Detailed U.S. street and topo maps can be selected from the included Topo USA software.
The PN-40 holds up to 1,000 user-defined waypoints, 50 routes, and 10 tracks. All can be easily received from or sent to the included Topo USA software. The device displays both road and trail routes automatically generated using Topo USA. Road routes and direct (point-to-point) routes also can be generated on the PN-40.
Available onboard Flash memory totals 500 MB and the PN-40 also supports high-capacity SD cards (SDHC) up to 32 GB. The 65K-color daylight-readable TFT screen provides clarity in any light conditions including direct sunlight. The PN-40 is WAAS-enabled, waterproof to IPX-7 standards, comes in a rugged, impact-resistant rubberized case, and weighs just over five oz.
A Complete Out-of-the-box Solution :
Unlike other GPS receivers that require additional map data purchases, the PN-40 comes with up-to-date DeLorme Topo USA mapping software in the package. This is the full version of Topo USA, with all its desktop and GPS capabilities included. Also in the package : East, Central, and West regional DVDs with detailed U.S. street and topo maps by state or region; a 1-GB SD card--ideal for large map and imagery transfers; a detailed user manual, a Quick Start Guide, and two AA batteries. A $40 certificate is included for downloading sample supplementary datasets and then a new $29.95 Map Library annual subscription plan is offered for unlimited data downloads.
The serious GPS alternative.
Serious Performance
- New--Blazing-fast, high-sensitivity 32-channel STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset
- New--Dual-core processor for instantaneous map and satellite imagery redraws, even with large aerial imagery files and multiple maps layers
- 360¡ raster rotation sets the PN-40 apart from other common GPS handhelds. With 360¡ rotation road, building, and other images really are on your left or right as you look at the map and walk, bike or drive
- New--3-axis electronic compass with included accelorometer performs when held in any positionÑwhile in motion or standing still
- New--Sensitive barometric altimeter for reliably accurate altitude readings
- WAAS-enabled for accuracy within 3 meters
- New--Now supports SDHC high-capacity SD cards (up to 32 GB) for fast and direct map transfer from the included maps discs
Serious Maps
- Included. Comes with three discs containing detailed hybrid topographic and street maps of the entire USA. You do not need anything else to hike, geocache, or navigate the backcountry. It's all in the box.
- Also Included : Sample Certificate. A $40 certificate is included for downloading sample supplementary datasets. Take a "test drive" with any of the supplementary datasets DeLorme offers : high-resolution aerial imagery, USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Map, NOAA Nautical Charts, and more..
- And for Only $29.95! Then, once you're convinced, subscribe to the NEW DeLorme Map Library for only $29.95 per year. Get all the USGS Quads, NOAA nautical charts and high-resolution color aerial imagery to layer WITH your topo and street maps for only $29.95! No hidden charges.
Serious Tough
- The PN-40 is waterproof to the IEC 529 IPX7 standard
- Designed to function in high-humidity environments, including consistent humidity levels over 90%, and in the rain
- The PN-40 has been rigorously tested to function in high-vibration conditions such as off-road driving
- Operating temperature range for the PN-40 is -20 degrees C to +75 degrees C. The PN-40 should function in extreme cold as well as rapidly-changing temperature environments
What's in the Box
- The Rugged Earthmate GPS PN-40 handheld GPS receiver with pre-loaded worldwide highway and major road base map
- DeLorme PN-40 Edition Topo USA 8 software with complete hybrid U.S. topographic and street-level detail
- Certificate for $40 worth of sample supplementary data downloads
- USB data-transfer cable for PC-GPS data exchanges
- A convenient neck lanyard
- 2 AA Energizer alkaline batteries
- Getting Started Guide
- Comprehensive owners' manual
- Serious Tool Sticker
Serious Value
- No one else offers COMPLETE U.S. hybrid, routable Topographic and Street maps WITH your initial purchase
- In addition, for the extremely low price of $29.95 annually, subscribe to the DeLorme Map Library of downloads for all the USGS 7.5-minute Quads, NOAA nautical charts, and Hi-Resolution Aerial Imagery you want. All downloads are accessed through the convenient NetLink tab of your DeLorme software
Serious Quality, Service & Support
And as if the PN-40, Included Topo and Detailed Street Map and the huge values of the MapLibrary Subscription were not enough, you get serious DeLorme quality :
- Renowned DeLorme-Quality Maps
- Quality Geospatial Engineering
- Quality Hardware Engineering
- Quality U.S.-Based Customer Service
- Quality U.S.-Based Technical Support and Open Online GPS User Forms
What Else Should I Know?
High-Performance Technology
Features STMicroelectronics Cartesio chipset and updated DeLorme firmware for amazing signal acquisition and retention, map scrolling and redraw--even with multiple layers of imagery, topo and street maps.
Complete Detailed U.S. Street and Topographic Maps Included with ALL PN-40 Purchases
Click for U.S. Street & Topographic Map samples.
Click for World Base Reference Map samples.
Click for USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Map samples.
Click for NOAA Nautical Chart samples.
Click for Color Aerial Imagery samples.
Click for Color Satellite Imagery samples.
Click for DOQQ Aerial Imagery samples.
Multiple Views of the Same GPS Location
On-device data layering lets you select which map or imagery type to see of your GPS location. Switch among data types to gain a comprehensive view of where you are--it's revolutionary and provides a whole new level of geographic detail.
Bright Color Screen
Works in bright sunlight to total darkness. Sharp¨ brand screen featuring the latest transflective screen technologies to maximize visibility under a variety of lighting conditions.
Rugged and Waterproof
Conforms to IPX-7 waterproof standard with impact-resistant rubberized housing for a solid grip. Concealed battery compartment with SD card slot. Includes two AA batteries.
Easy Exchange of Maps, Tracks, and Waypoints
Exchange routes, tracks and waypoints between the GPS and Topo USA (two-way transfers).
Extensive On-Device Memory
1-GB of internal flash memory available in addition to the pre-loaded world base map. Holds up to ten tracks (10,000 points per track); 1,000 user-defined waypoints; and 50 routes. SD slot also available.
Don't Forget--Complete Detailed U.S. Street and Topographic Maps Included with ALL PN-40 Purchases
Detailed U.S. Street & Topographic Maps
- Cut & transfer custom map packages of the exact coverage you want
- Detailed vector-based maps created from the USGS topographic data & the latest DeLorme U.S. street & trail network
- U.S. land cover including bodies of water, wetlands, forests, mountains, glaciers, grasslands, rock cover & more
- Contour lines with elevation numbers
- Fully routable when combined with the corresponding Regional Highway map
- By default, saved map packages include data zoom levels 8-17 (which translates to a scale of 4 miles through 40 ft). Saved maps display all roads, land cover, and contours
The DeLorme World Base Reference Map
- Preloaded on the Earthmate GPS PN series
- High-level map includes country borders, highways & major roads
- Displays interstates and major highways at scales of 500 miles to 8 miles
- Created by DeLorme's staff of professional cartographers
Sample Map Library Downloads
Each purchase comes with a Certificate for $40 worth of FREE Supplementary Data Downloads
Use Your FREE Supplementary Data Certificate, or a Map Library Subscription for Any of These Map and Imagery Types :
USGS 7.5-Minute Quad Maps
- Download through the Topo USA NetLink tab--Use your FREE Data Download Dollars
- Transfer from Topo USA to your PN-40, as needed
- The authentic scanned USGS 7.5-minute paper quad maps
- Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features
NOAA Nautical Charts
- The complete set of U.S. waterway available, including the Great Lakes, Alaska, and Hawaii
- Include numerous aids to navigation, water depths, water body names, hazards, and more
- Great for taking along on boating trips, island explorations, and trips ashore
High-Resolution Color Aerial Imagery
- Available for many U.S. States and select U.S. Cities
- Detailed, color, aerial imagery
- Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
- Show roads, trails, buildings, large natural landmarks & other unique features
Sat-10 Color Satellite Imagery
- 10-meter colorized satellite imagery for viewing large geographic areas
- Provides high-level views of vegetation, topography, and large, visible geologic formations on the Earth's surface
- Natural color satellite imagery derived from merging SPOT 10m panchromatic & Landsat 30m multi-spectral scenes
B&W DOQQ (Digital Orthoquads) Aerial Imagery
- Detailed, black & white, aerial imagery
- Provide a unique aerial perspective, ideal in off-the-beaten-path environments
- View logging & 4WD roads, bodies of water, and other natural features from above
Earthmate GPS PN-40 Screen Images
USGS 7.5-min. Quads
Wide-ranging USGS quad detail
Geocaching
Hiking in the White Mountains
Color Aerial Imagery
Following a Route to a Geocache
Navigating a Route on Water
On-the-job usage
Color City Imagery
Jefferson Memorial
Jacobs Field, Cleveland
Space Needle, Seattle
Topo USA
Hunting and Fishing
Mountain Bike Trails
Places of Interest
Hybrids
Imagery, Contours, Detail
Cell Tower Location
Pleasant Mountain Summit
Glacier National Park
Functions
Barometric Altimeter
Electronic Compass
Trip Information
Sun/Moon
Tides
Hunting/Fishing
Data Layering
Satellite Acquisition
Driving Directions
Wishlist
Email
Print
Bookmark
I got the PN-40 about six months ago for use in speleological work – that is, hiking what is generally very rugged terrain looking for caves. I got the PN-40 for the topos and aerials, and in that department, it is absolutely great. Unfortunately it falls short in some other areas.
As other reviewers have said, the Topo USA software is not user-friendly, but if you mess with it long enough, you figure it out. I recommend taking notes so you’ll have a step by step guide to follow when you want to do it again – since they don’t provide a coherent one.
It is a fairly accurate gps unit, but not strikingly so. This was a replacement for a Magellan 310 I have had for over 10 years, and I don’t see that it is any more accurate, or that it works any better under a canopy of leaves – so that is a bit of a disappointment. I generally look for technology to improve more than that over a 10 year time span. Still, I won’t complain too much about that. It is accurate enough to do what I want it to do, and I love the topos.
My primary problem with this is simply that it is not made for rugged hiking. If you want it for fishing or easy day hikes, go for it, but I wouldn’t recommend the PN-40 for anything involving off-the-trail hiking, climbing, whacking your way through brush, etc. Maybe my Magellan spoiled me, but I used to hang it around my neck and go anywhere – and in 10 years it never gave me a problem. I tried to do the same with this, and after my first use, it had two large scratches on the screen. I didn’t recall hitting it against anything, so I was rather upset. I resolved to be more careful in the future – but no matter what I do, the screen seems to pick up a new scratch or two every time I use it. After six months, even after I started carrying it in a case, the screen is scratched up to the point that it is irritating. It’s not just the screen. One time after I got home, I noticed that one end of the in-out button had broken off. It still works, but it doesn’t seem to me that an outdoor hand-held gps unit should break like that. Once again, I couldn’t recall hitting it on anything.
The most irksome problem is the fact that when it gets jiggled around too much, it shuts off. The problem is in the battery holder – that is, the batteries are not held in the holder tightly enough to withstand the jiggling I give it. When I am doing something strenuous, it shuts off, and I have to turn it back on. It eventually reaches a point where it shuts off and it won’t come back on. When I take the cover off, the batteries are just laying in there making no contact. I have to bend the negative battery contacts a little to get them to grip the battery. Then I’m back in business – for awhile, until it happens again. This thing is way too expensive for it to have a battery holder like something out of a cheap flashlight.
Take notice of how people have used this when you read the positive reviews. My experience has been that, although it looks pretty rugged, the PN-40 does not appear to have been designed for off-the-trail usage. It will be fine for fishing, boating or tourist use, and those folks will give it a good review – but if you plan to do any rough hiking, I would recommend a Garman or Magellan.
My unit is much faster then my PN-20 but the one complaint is the random dithering it jumps all over the place
I thought I was buying a GPS that I didn’t have to buy specialized SD chips for. Wrong. The TOPO 8 is nowhere as detailed as I need. Instructions are 100% useless. I had to get on the Delorme forum and beg for help. Someone felt sorry for me and gave me some youtube links. That helped. I suppose if you’re into geocaching(?) it will work. It seems that is what the instructions refer to the most. I needed a GPS for boating….this ain’t it.
We bought this for geocaching and it has been great. It’s easy to download the locations off the site to this gps. When using it, it’s easy to mark the ones you find. This is a great gps for anyone who is looking for a handheld gps for geocaching.
We researched several GPS devices before purchasing the PN-40. We were concerned about some of the negative comments indicating that this device is not user friendly. I can only say that I don’t consider myself to be very tech savy and have had no problems learning how to operate this GPS. We have been using it to geocache and have absolutely loved it!
My only complaint is that the battery life could be better. We bought the rechargeable battery pack, which serves us if we can plug it into the car between caches, but it only seems to last 4-5 hrs of continous us.
This is a great GPS!