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I have purchased the Vista HCx for my wife for Christmas. I plan on adding the Topo USA 2008 map CD. Now, I am wondering what other accessories make sense, and are compatible, with this unit.

I need a micro-SD card. What is the max size and most reliable brand that will work with the Vista HCx? Garmin's website lists a 256MB card, but I would imagine a larger card would be better.

My wife will be using the GPS unit primarily while on horseback. A holster of some sort would be helpful. Garmin lists a carabiner stretch holster. Has anyone used this? If so, can you recommend this product? Or, something better for this application?

Anything else come to mind?

Get a 2GB card. You will hit up against the segment limit with loading the TOPO maps long before you fill the card. (Although there is a way around this if you want to try it. http://forums.groundspeak.com/GC/index. ... 170615&hl=) Then you will have space if you decide you need other maps or if you want to load Custom POIs. I have had good luck with Kingston cards.

Shop around as Garmin's prices are high. You can use any brand of card with your Garmin



12 volt (cig lighter) power cable if the unit will be used in the car a lot. If not some NiMH rechargeable batteries and a charger would probably be better.

Any problem buying accessories from REI? They have SanDisc cards and the other items, too.

Edited to note: All purchases complete. Now, just need to continue monitoring this site to learn how to use this technology so I can explain it all to my wife when she gets the gift!