Review: QSTARZ GPS Sports Recorder

This year's "must have" sports gadget.

By Dr. K. C. Wilder

The tagline on the QSTARZ BT-Q1300ST product is: Beyond Navigation. They got that right. And, they scored well beyond a grade of "satisfactory" on this ultra sleek GPS-enabled Sports Recorder key chain.

Without a doubt this is the coolest key-chain that I have ever owned. It took me a little longer to get through the quick installation guide than anticipated, but once through the process I started to get more excited about my new super-small gadget for outdoor sports recording, and Geotagging. 

Now, I understand how to power on the QSTARZ to:

a. Plot my exact route ridden on my bicycle, and

b. Geotag my photos.

For cycling or trail running, it is especially useful for me to be able to plot the exact track that I have taken. It is summer here in Bucks County, PA but I look forward to using it on family ski trips this winter so that I can synchronize my photos with the GPS coordinates or ski slopes traveled. I especially like the Geotagging capabilities for a family ski trip (we have to be patient for that one) so that I can have an accurate record of where we were say, on Beaver Creek, when my six year old son skied his first black diamond. I will be able to accurately match the photos, and tag them automatically with their GPS coordinate.

The box design of the QUARTZ SportsRecorder 5HZ is translucent so that you can see the actual GPS unit which is an appealing lime green shade. The description of the product on the back of the box is in 8 different languages, which I like, even though I really only need English. I also liked the idea that I could have a "SportsMate" for health control. Especially, a "SportsMate" that was so light, easy to carry, and low maintenance. On the outside of the box, I also learned that this mini-gadget had multiple capabilities. With QSTARZ software, I would be able to analyze track, calculate calories, monitor personal health, and project a training plan.

First step: Discover What is Inside the Box
Now, I was really excited. What next? I opened the box, and found that the standard package included: 1. GPS Unit-BT-Q1300ST, 2. mini USB Cable. 3. Software CD+Warranty Card+Quick installation guide. 4. Sports Armband. A scan of the Quick installation guide familiarized me with the unit. The GPS is pictured with arrows pointing to indicator lights, Power Button, Power Jack and internal antenna on the first page of the manual under the header Appearance.

Second Step: Charge the QSTARZ

On the side of the unit is the Power Jack (mini USB type), and Power Button. The hardware function of the Power Jack is straight-forward. Take the Power Cable and connect to the Power Jack to charge the unit. The QSTARZ charged for me in about an hour. Once charged, I followed the Quick Guide instructions, and disconnected the unit from computer so that I wouldn't have to deal with battery drain. There is also Bluetooth connectivity, which I did not use, but it is good to know that it has that capability, especially when traveling.

Third Step: Download the Software
Time to download the software. I have a PC, so the software was compatible with my Microsoft Windows XP (also compatible with Vista , and Win7 according to the manual). Next, I entered the product key that is located on the cover of the software CD. I connected the GPS to the computer, and opened QTravel/QSports, and selected "Turn on 5Hz log" and checked on the box. Even though this feature uses more power, it is an excellent option. Next, I set up my personal profile which included: height, weight, date of birth. It is a relief that, so far, there are no problems with the instructions.

Fourth Step: Figure out What all of the Lights Mean
It took me a couple of minutes to understand the functions of the GPS, and differentiate between the four indicator lights on the bottom of the unit. From left to right, the lights are flashing as follows: The first light is: Green, and it is the Log status LED. The second light is: Orange and it is the GPS status LED. The third light is: Blue, and it indicates Bluetooth status LED. The meaning of the lights is not marked on the GPS logger, so it is best to lock the above information into your memory, or risk confusion out on the road. Perhaps, there could be a sticker on the back with the meaning of each light. That simple change would alleviate some on-the-road confusion for many.

Fifth Step: Adjust The Neon Orange Armband
I adjusted the armband so that it is almost snug (it could be a little smaller to fit my arm), and secure. The recorder is so tiny that this "bonus item" sports armband is needed. The neon orange color of the sports armband screams safety, and the neoprene design boasts practicality. I am not one who usually likes to wear an armband, but this armband worn on my upper arm did prevent the QSTARZ from shaking, and it wasn't a victim of too much of my sweat. I didn't even consider using the QSTARZ without the armband because the directions state that excessive shaking of the unit could make the GPS signal unstable. That's just something that would be a major hassle--to lose data due to shaking.

Sixth Step: My On-the-Trail Adventure
I decided to test out my new gadget on a trail run for which I am the Race Director. We are in our Third Year of the Buckingham Friends School Run/Walk for Peace, and the course changes slightly each year! Thus, the need to re-trace the course using my GPS year after year! I did not bring my camera along because after a day of writing, and researching I really needed my trail run without the disruption of searching for the perfect shot. Actually, it is a shame that I did not bring my camera (not just to test the geo-tagging capabilities of the QSTARZ) because at one point on my trail run I was about 10 ft. from a magnificent fox. So small, and agile. He looked more like friend than foe, as he seemed more interested in standing still than running away. Darn! I really could've captured wild animal picture for this review. Another day, another time. I covered approximately 5 miles on my undulating, fox-sighting trail adventure.

Seventh Step: Download the Data, QSports
Next, I downloaded the data. It is interesting that I have so much data on a 5 mile run. A summary of my time, distance, speed, and elevation was shown on QSports. Latitude, and longitude were even displayed. QSports breaks it down by sport, and it can record running, cycling, climbing, and skiing. I can see how this would be a useful tool for goal setting, and getting the visual display on Google maps of the route taken. I like the calendar view presentation, and how the route is mapped out on activity view. As a sports psychologist, I know this can be very motivating for someone especially if they log in their goal weight, and make specific, incremental weight goals. I set my default sport to running, but I like that it is easy to change the sport activity when appropriate.

Eighth Step: QTravel
If I had taken photos, I can see how QTravel would integrate my activity or travel track with my photos easily. The track list, speed/altitude view, photo view, photo list, and media view are displayed. What a fabulous way to have a Geotagged photo journal online that lets you see your tracks in Google earth. The Geo data also uploads to Flickr, locr maps, and FaceBook which are all engaging options for sharing with your friends, or traveling companions.

Summary
Overall, I would highly recommend the QSTARZ. It exceeded my expectations on quality, performance, and relative ease of use. If you are looking for a jumpstart to either plan your healthy future, or want to have a light, portable GPS system that has Geotagging capabilities, then go ahead, and invest in this cool gadget. Have fun on your adventures!

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Dr. Kathryn C. Wilder is a renowned Sport Psychologist and Adjunct Professor with a doctorate in sport psychology, and a supporting area in counseling. She is a well published author, national champion athlete, and applied performance educator.