- Tests Day One

We tested Globalsat GH-601pitting it against its older brother, the BT-338. Both use the Sirf III chipset, with of course different end target uses. The BT-338 was connected (Bluetooth interface) with a Dell Axim X50v, while the GH-601 was connected to a laptop via USB.

We recorded all data for a pre-selected route with VisualGPSce (free edition) and later analyzed it with GPSLog. All tests ran continuously, under the same environmental conditions (night, cloudy , 15° C), installed in an Audi, model A4 2004.

The results showed significant differences, especially in average signal levels. The BT-338 performed better than the GH-601, but that doesn't make its performance was bad by any means. On the contrary, it is sufficient most tasks.

- Tests Day Two

We tested the Globalsat GH-601 against its older brother BT-338. The BT-338 was connected (Bluetooth interface) with a Dell Axim X50v, while the GH-601 was connected to a laptop via USB.

We recorded all data for a pre-selected route with VisualGPSce (free edition) and later analyzed it with GPSLog. All tests ran continuously, under the same environmental conditions (daytime, cloudy , 12°C), all installed in an Audi, model A4 2004.

Again the performance of the BT-338 is better.

- Tests Day Four ( Indoor Sensitivity)

We placed both receivers inside a house, close to a big window and monitored their performance. The BT-338 had a rather quick 3D fix, with 8 satellites in view 8 and 5 in use, where as the GH-601's 3D fix had 7 in view and 4 in use.

- Overall impressions

The strength of the Sirf III chipset shows up in these tests. Both the BT-338 and GH-601 had quick TTFF times and good reception levels. As was expected, the BT-338 has better performance, while the GH-601 is perfect for most common tasks. Certainly, the announcement of the release of the GH-602 which includes a barometer, will further adds to the attraction of this device, especially for hikers.