Customer Reviews

Magellan Meridian PC Data Cable with Cigarette Lighter Adapter

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Having data and power in the same cable is VERY useful. Considering the advances in cabling, however, I would think that having ONLY a DB-9 serial data cable is a limitation. For example, I'm now looking for an adaptor from the DB-9 to USB. That being said, it's a very useful connector, and it DOES work with the SporTrak Pro, not just the Meridian. A data cable is included with the SporTrak Pro, but not an external power cable. There is a less expensive power cable, but if you want to have both power and data, this is the only way to go, since there's only one connection on the GPSR.

The Data Cable and Lighter Adapter provides an easy way to connect to the computer and manage data points (waypoints and routes) as well as providing a 12 volt lighter socket source to power the Magellan Meridian GPS unit. I use it in the car and out on the boat.

Should have bought it years ago... Very happy with my Magellan GPS, and this allows me to use my PC and GPS when I'm on the move without worrying about keeping fresh batteries on hand. Power and data cables are long enough to reach anywhere in my truck, and it works with a KeySpan adaptor to connect to a USB port.

I just ordered my third one of these. The first two just quit working. I called Magellan tech support (clearly handled from Asia, by the way) both times and after a lot of diagnostic work was told my cable was no good.
Another irritation: why use a serial port connection? My laptop does not have a serial port so I have had to buy a cumbersome adapter (not cheap) that is itself finicky. Why not USB?

The item works just great. I can now hook up my computer in the car and use it with my GPS without spending a large amount of money getting one just for the car. I have checked around and this is a good price.

I was really happy with how this product worked. Even with batteries in, it is smart enough to use external power when plugged into my dashboard. I only found one thing I didn't like... the cords could be a little shorter so they don't get in the way so much. But that's a small price to pay for a product that works.

The only question I have is why *only* the cigarette lighter adapter? Very few cars (I know there must be *some* out there) have CD-ROM capable computers installed in them and hard as I may try, my car won't make it up the 2 flights of stairs (without damaging the banister or carpet) to get to my home office.

The only way I could use both power and data connectors at home was by purchasing a 3rd party 110v to 12v adapter to use with household current. It's a cheesy and unattractive solution to Magellan's lack of foresight.

Other than having to explain to everyone that Magellan's too cheap to provide an adapter of their own, the cable works fine.

I use a swivel mount as a desk cradle and so the cable connector snaps onto the back of the mount removing the need to mess with the ridiculously small connector screw (guess their designers all have extremely thin and dexterous fingers -- not to mention 12v power sources built into their homes). The swivel mount is excellent.

It's a cable and it does the job but, really, how many people are able to use a serial port connector and auto lighter adapter plug at the same time?

The cable is expensive but since the GPS connector is proprietary you have no other option.