 Wireless communications are at the forefront of technology in today's world. Garmin has a wide variety of GPS units and accessories that transmit data such as speed, cadence, pace and position wirelessly. Since 2008 Garmin has had handheld models, like the Oregon series, that have had the option to share data without the aid of a computer. The units must be within 10 feet (3 meters) of each other, and can share waypoints, tracks, routes or geocaches. The connection and transfer is quick and easy, usually under 30 seconds. Over the last few years Garmin has introduced accessories with wireless communication, including ANT+. Measuring a mere 1.3" (3.3cm) the Garmin Chirp has changed how geocachers play their game. The Chirp sends out a message to wireless compatible models, with hints for a cache in close proximity. A remarkably similar-looking wireless accessory to the Chirp is the Garmin Foot Pod. It pairs with fitness devices to measure pace and distance when training inside, or in areas of poor satellite coverage. Simply clip it to your shoelaces, sync it with your fitness watch and you're on your way. Athletes using an Apple iPhone can use the ANT+ adapter and the Garmin Fit app to turn their smartphone into a fitness training device. It gathers valuable workout data from your heart strap, cadence sensor, or
footpod and sends it straight to your iPhone! View, analyze, and archive your
workout data on your phone or upload it directly to your Garmin Connect
account.
Other wireless fitness accessories include the Garmin heart rate monitors and cadence sensor. Both of these add-ons pair with; the Forerunner series of running watches, the muli-sport model Forerunner 910XT, the Edge bike computers and the full list of compatible handheld units.
This year Garmin announced the Fenix, a navigating wrist-worn GPS with altimeter, barometer and electronic, 3-axis compass. One of the accessories for the Fenix is the Tempe, an external wireless temperature sensor. This device is again modeled after its predecessors the Chirp and Foot Pod, hardly noticeable if attached to any article of clothing or backpack.
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