Tricks to using the GPS without assist?

[qwavel]

I don't have access to mobile data so I'm trying to use the N95's GPS without the 'assist' feature.

I'm finding that it is very poor at finding satellites. Usually I will wait for 5-10 minutes and then give up if it still hasn't got a lock.

Does anyone have any tips for me? Which way to hold the N95? Should the slider be open?

thanks,

[Mr G]

Slider open most definately and by a window too would be good.

[The.Terrabyte.Pirate]

Slider open, Yes
Outside, Yes
Clear view of the sky, Yes.

It's not just about connecting to the satellites, but it's about the phone being able to pick up a continuous stream of data from them for about a minute to narrow down the position.

Also, it takes a lot longer the first time.

[Hayabusa]

I carry my phone in my pocket when running or cycling so i find that putting a rubber band around the keypad stops the slider from fully closing.

[The.Terrabyte.Pirate]

Originally Posted by Hayabusa

I carry my phone in my pocket when running or cycling so i find that putting a rubber band around the keypad stops the slider from fully closing.

I hope you used a Nokia approved OEM rubber band, as those generic ones have been known to snap, and possibly put your eye out.

[dani2xll]

it does look a bit odd trying to follow your route with the slide open, it looks like a thiefs birthday to me when i am trying to find my route. I wish it could be operated with the slide closed.

[baseballfanz]

GPS will work without A-GPS. A-GPS jsut make it a little faster to lock onto sat. If you remember the N95 with older firmware did not come with A-GPS.:D
First time can take a long time, after that GPS should lock on faster.

[Geoffers]

I've never used the AGPS 'cos I'm not on a data call plan. But, today i noticed that I got a lock within 30 seconds from the car! In fact, it locked in less time than it took me to find the ciggie lighter lead.
Testing from within the house is always hit and miss, with more misses than hits for me. ;)

Maybe that's due to a software update from Garmin for Mobile XT?

[Bartmanekul]

Possibly, but doubtful. Technically, the program shouldnt make a difference on locktimes, but it does. I know that I already had a lock today, as I was going to record a trip back from work, but while sports tracker was happy with a lock, navigon took flipping ages, I gave up in the end. Only for it to suddenly come to life as I was driving to the end of the lane.

Generally, I get locks in under 15 seconds if Im outside. Anymore than that and I start looking to see whats wrong