Holux GR-236 GPSlim Bluetooth

The Holux GR-236 GPSlim Bluetooth receiver is an excellent GPS receiver. Its core component, the SIRF III chip, is good at getting the most out of the available satellites, and goes from power on to having a fix in a matter of seconds.

Tested hardware and software

The test was done using a Holux GR-236 GPSlim Bluetooth receiver off the shelf. It was used as the GPS unit for the Navigon software on a PDA for car navigation.

The Basics

The Holux GR-236 GPSlim Bluetooth Receiver has a SIRF III chip. It is capable of tracking 20 satellites simultaneously, and the SIRF III chip has a low power consumption, increasing its battery driven operational time compared to other GPS chips. It can use both Bluetooth and a USB cable to communicate with a PC or PDA, and has a built-in rechargeable battery which is replaceable. There is an on/off switch next to the mini-USB plug on the side of the unit. There are soft rubber pads on the bottom, to keep it from sliding around on the dashboard. The GPSlim part of the name indicates that it is very slim for a GPS receiver, which is a fair and correct description.

Pros

This is the first GPS receiver which is actually cool in design as well as function. Its design is pleasant and not as techie as you are normally used to.

The unit goes from power on to giving a position fix is a matter of seconds.

The Holux GR-236 is so small that you can walk around with it in your breast pocket while it is operating.

The battery capacity and the low power consumption keeps it operating for longer than you're normally used to with gps devices.

The SIRF III chip is so sensitive that it can receive satellite signals through the usual car window filters and screens.

The internal battery is replaceable.

Cons

There is no such thing as firmware upgrades for the GR-236.

Conclusion

This is the best bluetooth gps receiver we have tested to date. It uses little power from its replaceable battery, can track up to 20 satellites simultaneously, gives a fix in seconds, is cool looking and can be used for personal navigation when walking or cycling. Good value for money. Cudos to Holux for this device!

Written by Hans-Henrik T. Ohlsen
March 2007