

Garmin now has a GPS to keep track of your (hunting) dog... Interactive demo here.
Garmin introduces a completely redesigned GPS dog tracking collar for use with the Astro GPS Dog Tracking System. The new collar is more rugged and its antennas are positioned differently for optimal tracking."The new DC 30 collar is designed to stand up to the torturous abuse of hunting dogs. Whether it's hounds crashing through thick and swampy woods, or bird dogs bounding through dense CRP fields, the DC 30 is made to take the beating that working dogs dish out daily," said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of worldwide sales. "And the new configuration also makes mounting the collar a cinch -- while improving reception."
The DC 30 collar's main housing is weighted to sit below the dog's neck, while a small, low-profile GPS antenna is integrated into the collar strap and positioned on top of the dog's neck, providing a clear view of satellites with minimal rotation. The transmitter antenna originates from the lower housing, and has been redesigned for more flexibility and ruggedness. No counterbalance or harness is needed. The weight for the transmitter plus antenna is 4.1 ounces, and the entire DC 30 weighs just 8.7 ounces.

Funny, we did a GPS dog project in March of 2005!





































I was trying to do something similar to this for RC Plane tracking using a GPS but I was having a hard time finding a good transmitter to work for long range tracking. I have debated using an FRS radio with some kind of APRS encoder but so far have not found a good small light weight solution. I have considered using the WhereAvr project ( http://garydion.com/projects/whereavr/ ) but I'm still investigating.
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I need something small enough for cats to wear. But, even then I am not sure I could justify the purchase at those prices, my cats love to ditch their collars.
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I used to have a Garmin GPS, which I've since destroyed, but I remember that it was struggling to receive signal under trees...
I'm therefore wondering how this would affect the efficiency of this gadget...
I'd love to know what my dogs are up to when they stray...
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