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Erratic GPS performance (speed and position)

PeteTollan
over 3 years ago

I recently started using a new Edge 830, and am experiencing very poor GPS performance. It happens worst in the opening 10-15 minutes of a ride. Very erratic speed reading (I can cycle at a constant speed and the reading jumps like crazy from high to low and sometimes results in the auto pause activiating), and GPS all over the place. Eventually it seems to settle down, however the response remains very slow (i.e., changes in speed can take several seconds to record on the display). I have the latest firmware installed, I've tried every GPS setting, I've tried resetting the device... nothing works. I always ensure that GPS is fully acquired before setting off. 

Does anyone know what is going on? Do I have a faulty device? I've used 3 previous Garmin Edge devices and never expeirenced such bad GPS performance.

  • 0 over 3 years ago

    IDK about your 830, but I always use a speed sensor.  It makes up for GPS position noise and error when it comes to speed/distance and auto-pause function.  It's particularly beneficial when riding tortuous routes as often encountered mountain biking. 

  • 0 over 3 years ago

    That is not normal behavior. If it is within the return window I'd return it and get another one. If you let it settle that shouldn't happen unless you are starting out in a difficult to see the sky area, tall buildings, canyons , dense tree cover. That said I use a speed sensor most of the time and always on the mtb. 

  • 0 over 3 years ago

    I have the pretty much same problem and what is crazy is that my Garmin 945 watch and my iPhone can both use simple GPS to determine speed. My head unit is way off at the start of a ride - even though it says it is acquired GPS and settles to 0.5 to 2 mph below the actual speed (as compared to other GPS devices and an actual old fashion cycle computer).