--- In picpac@yahoogroups.com, Mike Whorley <mikewhorley15@...> wrote:

> What are the advantages/disadvantages of using a microtrack vs a
> beeline? What type of antenna should be used with the microtrack.
> What else do I need to Know
>  
> Thanks,
>  
> Mike Whorley
>  
>

Hi Mike,

+ The BeeLine GPS integrates the functionality of the MT-300, GPS and
battery into a single unit, so it's smaller and lighter with no
cables. The enter thing easily fits into most 54mm nosecones as well
as a 38mm coupler tube.

+ The BeeLine uses a Trimble GPS that is better than many consumer
grade GPS units at tracking rapidly changing altitudes present in HPR
rocketry (don't even think of using SiRFstarIII based GPS units, we've
got side by side data to show that there are some severe problems).

+ The BeeLine GPS records the flight, and the downloaded data can be
viewed via Google Earth.

+ The BeeLine runs on 70cm, so a 1/4 wave whip is smaller (~6") than
the 2 meter version (~19"). If you're using a Yagi on the ground as a
receive antenna, you'll appreciate the smaller size even more.

- The MT 300 has a higher output power (but the BeeLine works from 20+
miles line of sight).

- The MT 300 has more options when it comes to programming the device
parameters.

- The MT 300 + external GPS is cheaper than a BLGPS.

For the MT300, I'd recommend an antenna similar to the ones used for 2
meter handheld radios.

What else??? Oh -- A 5 watt 2 Meter version of the BLGPS is also
available for tracking your car, your balloon, your dog, whatever ;)

Greg TRA 7960, K7RKT, BigRedBee LLC
http://www.bigredbee.com