GPS or no GPS?

[flywrite]

I'm curious as to how many private pilots fly with the help of GPS units. And of those who do, would you feel comfortable flying without one? What happens when the GPS goes out?

I have a handheld unit, but it's not designed for aviation or I'd probably use it more. Unfortunately, where I live is so far north that my GPS doesn't always pick up enough satellites. Also, there are a lot of mountains up here so if I relied on my GPS too much, I'd get squashed.

Still, if I had a big budget, I think an aviation GPS with terrain avoidance would be nice to have, if only for a backup. Any recommendations in case I win the lottery?

[caveman123456]

Garmin 4 and 530 so far are the ones I"m keenest on, they provide moving map and "WAAS-upgradeable IFR GPS, Com, VOR, LOC and glide-slope with color moving map all rolled into one" - (Garmin product desription.) Check them out: http://www.garmin.com/products/gns530/ I haven't had any problems at all with the GNS 430, the 530 is basically the 430 on steroids. They're both pretty decent. Still, keep your old-school skills up to par, that's what'll keep you alive ultimately.

[flywrite]

I agree that I need to not get lazy about being familiar with the old flight computer, map, and compass, even if I have a backup GPS unit.

Sounds like you know your GPSs. Where do you think the future is headed with them?