eXplorist x00 FAQ
 
 
Q: Is my eXplorist compatible with SporTrak or Meridian basemaps?
A: No it is not.
 
Q: How do I properly connect my eXplorist 400/500/600 to USB and power?
A: Attach the USB connector to the back of your eXplorist GPS receiver prior to connecting AC power and the USB connector into your PC. You must connect your cables and power in this order:
  • Connect your eXplorist USB connector to your eXplorist unit
  • Connect your USB connector at the end of the cable to your PC
  • Connect AC power to the eXplorist USB cable
 
Q: How many Geocache points can I save on my eXplorist 400, 500 or 600?
A: A Geocache point is just a POI (point of interest). You can save up to 500 Geocache points or POIs on your eXplorist 400, 500 and 600. However, if your Geocaches or POIs include text notes or hints, a maximum of 200 can be stored.
 
Q: Why do I sometimes not see my Geocache Hints when I've downloaded them from a .gpx file?
A: Your eXplorist 400, 500 or 600 supports Hints up to 50 characters. If the Hint exceeds 50 characters, you will only see the first 50. Refer to the Hint on the Geocache Website to read it in its entirety.
 
Q: How does the Track log work in my eXplorist 100, 200 and 300?
A: Your eXplorist 100, 200 or 300 is pre-set on auto detailed track mode. This mode sets track points automatically as you navigate, whenever you make a significant change in speed and direction.
 
Q: How many track points can be set per track in my eXplorist?
A: A maximum of 2000 track points can be set per track, whether they are set manually or automatically.
 
Q: What happens when I exceed 2000 track points?
A: Once your eXplorist has recorded 2000 track points, it will continue to set additional track points. However, the oldest track points will be automatically deleted to make room for the new ones.
 
Q: What is the difference between the 200 and 300 eXplorist units?
A: The eXplorist 300 includes some additional features not found in the eXplorist 100 and eXplorist 200.
  • Barometric pressure altimeter, barometer, and thermometer: The 300 includes an advanced barometric and thermostatic sensor, providing accurate barometric and temperature readings in all conditions.
  • Altimeter: The built-in altimeter incorporates readings from the thermometer and applies an algorithm to estimate elevation, accurate to within 100 feet. The barometric altimeter is a redundant system so that even if you temporarily experience GPS signal loss, you will still receive an accurate altitude reading.
  • Electronic compass: The eXplorist 300 has a built-in electronic compass, which does not depend on satellite reception to display your direction. It shows your direction even while standing still, no matter how you hold the unit. In contrast, the eXplorist 200 (as well as the 100, 400 and 500) has a GPS compass, which relies on satellite reception and a minimum speed of 2 mph to display an accurate reading of direction.
 
Q: Is a record of altitude saved when navigating? Where can I find it?
A: Yes, your altitude is recorded along with your track point files. You can access this information by saving your active track log to your SD card or internal memory. Elevation is recorded in meters and can be found in the track log file just above the letter “M.” If you are using an eXplorist 400, 500 or 600 you can also open this file with Note Pad on your PC.
 
Q: I received a message during installation indicating that the eXplorist driver had not passed Windows Logo Testing. What does that mean?
A: Windows Logo Testing is a Microsoft method for determining compatibility with Window operating systems. Your eXplorist software has been designed to function with Windows, but has not been registered with Microsoft. Simply click "Continue" and the device will operate normally.
 
Q: Will my PC charge my eXplorist 400, 500 and 600 through the USB cable?
A: Yes, but only if your eXplorist is turned off. Power is provided by your PC to your eXplorist 400, 500 or 600 through the USB cable, but it is minimal.
 
Q: How long does it take to completely re-charge the eXplorist 400, 500 or 600 battery using the AC adapter?
A: Approximately 3 hours
 
Q: What is the largest SD card I can use with my eXplorist 400, 500 and 600?
A: SD cards up to 2GB have been successfully tested with the eXplorist 400, 500 and 600. Although larger cards have not gone through testing, any size SD card should work.
 
Q: Do I need an SD card to use MapSend mapping software in my eXplorist 400, 500 or 600?
A: No, there is approximately 6MB of internal memory available for map data. An SD card is necessary to hold more extensive MapSend map data.
 
Q: How long should I expect the rechargeable battery of my eXplorist 400, 500 or 600 to last with the backlight on and off?
A: A:A fully charged battery will last up to 8 hours using the full backlight. With the backlight off, the battery will last up to 17 hours of continuous use.
 
Q: What are the minimal requirements to use the eXplorist Wizard with my PC?
A: eXplorist Wizard requires Windows 2000 or higher.
 
Q: I connect my eXplorist 400, 500 and 600 to a USB hub?
A: Yes.
 
Q: Why can't I use my older MapSend Streets and Destinations with my eXplorist 400, 500 and 600?
A: MapSend Streets & Destinations was designed for use with Magellan Meridian and SporTrak series GPS receivers. These products use a different central processor. They do however work with MapSend DirectRoute software.
 
Q: Can I use a preprogrammed SD card for a Magellan RoadMate 300 in my eXplorist 400, 500 and 600?
A: No.
 
Q: Can I get preprogrammed SD card with MapSend DirectRoute?
A: Not at this time. MapSend DirectRoute is a great way to add turn-by-turn guidance of city streets to your Magellan eXplorist 400, 500 or 600. If you are interested in DirectRoute on SD card, please email us at: MagellanSupport@ThalesNavigation.com and we may make it available in the future.
 
Q: I use my MapSend BlueNav XL card in my eXplorist 500?
A: Not at this time. If you are interested in receiving MapSend BlueNav charts configured for use with the Magellan eXplorist, please email us at: MagellanSupport@ThalesNavigation.com and we may make it available in the future.
 
Q: How can I receive the greatest elevation accuracy from the barometric altimeter of the eXplorist 300 and 600?
A: For the most accurate results, calibrate often and accurately. Use a government-placed elevation marker or sea-level for the most accurate calibration.
 
Q: What might make my altimeter read incorrectly on my eXplorist 300 or 600?
A: High temperatures may change the elevation accuracy. The altimeter uses temperature to help provide the most accurate elevation readings. Because air density changes at higher temperatures, the altimeter may become less accurate when it get very hot.
 
Q: Will my eXplorist become less accurate if I don’t use it for long periods of time?
A: Long periods of storage without calibration will decrease vertical and horizontal accuracy. It is a good idea to recalibrate after storage and before every use to receive the most accurate readings possible.
 
Q: I left my eXplorist 300 on my dash and now my altimeter is inaccurate.
A: Leaving an eXplorist 300 or 600 exposed to high heat or direct sunlight can affect altimeter and thermometer accuracy. Keep your eXplorist covered or inside a Magellan Clip Case for best altimeter and thermometer accuracy. Once the unit has cooled sufficiently, readings should greatly improve, but repeat exposure to high heat will damage it beyond repair.
 
Q: Why did Magellan decide to use a rechargeable battery in the eXplorist 400, 500 and 600?
A: Per customer requests for a rechargeable hand-held solution.