Perfect Pass Stargazer

I meant to update this post in case anyone else ran into the issue of slow GPS lock.

I received the following message from PP - I will say their customer service is outstanding..

May 2019
Re: Garmin GPS Units Slower to Lock
It became apparent in April of this year that the Garmin 5 Hz GPS units
in circulation are taking longer to “lock” after being powered up than in
previous years.

Initial delay to lock on a new boating day will take one or two minutes,
but after key off & back on they normally take up to 38 seconds.
In previous years, you may have noticed that after a brief key off the
GPS would lock faster than the current time of 38 seconds +/-.

Garmin has advised us that the satellite system changes require new
“Almanac Data” updates to allow for faster starts and this updating is
not happening automatically on older versions.

For most PerfectPass customers, a start time of 38 seconds or less is
more than adequate and is not an issue that would affect their use of
the product. For any customer that performs a lot of key offs in-
between passes or sets and finds the re-lock time of 38 seconds +/-
too slow there is a solution.

Garmin has recently produced a new V4.2 software version which
PerfectPass has acquired which solves this issue and has other
enhancements as well. Your GPS Puck can be updated to this version
which will increase the Lock Speed.

The Puck can be mailed to PerfectPass for this update now or at the
end of the season. The update cost is free, only return mailing charges
will apply.

To Return for Updating:
> Send by US Post only to address below ideally in a padded / bubble
envelope.
> For customs purposes at the post office, state the contents on the
form they provide as “GPS Unit returning for Repair. Value $25”
> Include your full name, address & phone # and a copy of this letter.
> Include a check payable to PerfectPass for $10 to cover return
shipping & handling. (US Post) If not, we will call you for CC #.
NOTE: No UPS Ground or Fed Ex Ground will be accepted due to
additional customs fees. Fed Ex Express or UPS Express is OK.