SlashGear

The X9i is not a wrist watch. It is a precision instrument panel on your wrist. As a result, you’ll need to become familiar with the device and read the extensive manual to get the most from this unit. As a professional navigator and trainer I found the GPS especially challenging to operate at first. But, with a full read of the instructions this function became easier to understand. The unit is well made and despite the size fits comfortably on the wrist. Battery life is much less than for a wrist watch due to the many instruments involved. Fortunately, the versatile X9i can be re-charged by 110-220 volt AC, 12 volt DC, USB through a PC, or even with a 9 volt battery.

The integration of these instruments is a special feature of the X9i. For example, the altimeter and barometer features link to the GPS. This allows the barometer to be updated automatically with GPS on. Time can also be brought in sync using GPS signals. So, what can the Suunto X9i do for you?

Time – dual time zone feature to keep track of where you are and where you traveled from. Ideal for pilots and sailors who need to track UTC (Greenwich Meridian Time) for aviation.

Altimeter – track where you are on a topographic map to know how far along the route you have traveled. Monitor vertical rate of ascent and descent.

Barometer – a weather station on your wrist. Track approaching fronts and predict the passing of storms and severe weather. A thermometer function is also built in.

Compass – take bearings on landmarks from a chart or map. Follow an accurate course using the tilt-compensated digital readout.

GPS – verify your present position, follow a route, find a place, or follow a “bread crumb” trail back to Home where you started. Estimate the time to your destination, track sunrise and sunset, and more.

Activity – use all of these features in sports training and other recreational activities like geocaching. (for more information on this popular sport visit www.geocaching.com).