Tablet for navigation

[PatSea]

OK, need your help. I've read so much on this topic my head is spinning and I'm still confused. I want to buy a tablet for navigation and for using Active Captain and Locations. So I need one with a built in standalone GPS. I'm looking at a Samsung Galaxy Tab S2. Will this work for me? I went into Best Buy last night and talked to someone who appeared to be a Samsung employee. She said this tablet has GPS but it only works when it has a cell signal. Is this correct?
Thanks for your help.

[jeanathon]

The tab 2 does have a standalone gps. I use GPS status to be able to control the gps. I would check to see if the tab 2 has a compass though if you want to use it for navigation. My tab 4 does not.

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[PatSea]

Thanks jeanathon. The specs for the Tab S2 do not list a compass. But, why does the tablet need a compass? If the tablet is moving the built in GPS will compute direction based on change of position, right?
Just did more research. The Tab S2 lists a geomagnetic sensor which I believe serves the compass function.

[CapnSparky]

I use an Ipad air2 with wifi and cellular which has the built in GPS. The application is stand alone so doesn't need any connection offshore to work. I chose the Apple application "iSailGPS" which has worked well and provides me with all the navigation aids I need. Good luck!

[StuM]

I've use a 10in Galaxy Tab S2 hundreds of miles form the nearest cell signal with no problems.

And compass apps work fine using its built in sensors.

[Fluffflinger]

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 has a compass sensor and has built in GPS A-GPS and Glonass capability, no cell coverage required. Think the lady at Best Buy doesn't quite know her stuff.

[pcmm]

be carefull with Ipads. I use one for navigation and had it overheat on me twice in the same day. rendering me without that the chartplotter for at least 30 minutes each time while it cooled down.

[barnakiel]

Originally Posted by pcmm

be carefull with Ipads. I use one for navigation and had it overheat on me twice in the same day. rendering me without that the chartplotter for at least 30 minutes each time while it cooled down.

Maybe stick a sink on it?

What material is the back plate? Poor luck if plastic. But even then you can give it a shot.

BTW if you use ribbed material, the ribs fall vertical, not horizontal.

b.