Using Navi GT11/GT31 gps inside Aquapack

Navi GT11/GT31 is a nice GPS unit that has many useful features, such as good accuracy and the ability to log the track data to removable SD card every second for a long time (days) - just to mention a few.

However, using GT11/GT31 inside Aquapack (a waterproof vinyl enclosure) is very difficult.

The GT11/GT31 joystick sticks out and is easily pressed down by accidental contact. I hesitated using my Navi GT11/GT31 during sailing, because every time I looked at the screen it displayed not what I expected, after the joystick has been pushed an unknown number of times.

Navigating through the menus is almost impossible in Aquapack, because it is far easier to push the joystick in than slide it across.

Since my attitude is never to stop thinking how to make the most of the limited resources that I have available - I developed a "high-tech" solution to make using Navi GT11/GT311 in Aquapack really easy.

The solution is to use a well-dimensioned nylon washer around the joystick, as illustrated in the photo below.

The washer height is approximately equal to the height of the joystick.

The washer serves two purposes when GT11/GT31 is put inside the Aquapack:

1. Allows separation of push and slide motion of the joystick. Navigating through Navi menus becomes as easy as without Aquapack, even when using gloves as shown in the photo below.

2. Minimizes the possibility of accidental push of the joystick, due to accidental contact or tensioning of the Aquapack vinyl due to limb muscle tension.