Garmin Forerunner 205 GPS Enabled Watch

We borrowed this product from a co-worker who frequently runs long races including marathons. My early impressions are that it is a great product but I have not used it enough to write it up yet so stay tuned. One thing I have to say is I am impressed with how quickly it picks up the satellites and begins operating. Very cool, stay tuned…

Scan Gauge II – Automobile Computer

This is a cool thing to have and could also save some real money along the way. Basically the Scan Gauge plugs in to the OBDII plug in your car/truck and diplays data for you to monitor.

In the case of a problem it will dispaly the error code generated by your vehicles computer. In normal operation it can display digitally the ; battery voltage, throttle position, RPM’s, manifold pressure, speed, fuel economy, engine load, water temperature, intake air temperature, cost per mile, and fuel system loop status. The data can be view real time to help you monitor your driving habits in order to save fuel.

The data can also be tracked for various trips including, current tank, previous day, current day, current trip and resettable segments.

I have used the Scan Gauge for the last six tanks of gas and have been able to improve my fuel economy by about 1 to 2 miles per gallon. At that rate the unit will pay for itself in less than a year, it sells for about $160. It could also produce a real savings in the event of a vehicle malfuction since you would know the error code before visiting the mechanic.

I should point out the savings in fuel is not from the unit modifying the vehicle performance in any way. It simply provides enough real time and trip based data to allow you to see how you are driving and make modifacations to help efficiency. i think all vehicles should display this data but until they do the Scan Gauge is the way to go.