[gps-talkusers] Voice Sense Questions

As most of you might know, I am planning to hike the Appalachian Trail using GPS to demonstrate the independence of persons with disabilities and the value of GPS to the blind community and rehabilitation professionals. Please visit http://www.blindhiker.com for more information about my plans.
I currently use Loadstone and Wayfinder in combination. I am not committed to using these products if a better alternative is available.
I understand Sendero will shortly be released on the Voice Sense. I have read some good things about the Voice Sense.
There were three reasons I did not look at Sendero earlier. First, the size of the Braille Note was not as attractive to me as a cell phone. I understand the Voice Sense is smaller than the Braille Note. I will be backpacking. Weight is a factor. The small size of a cell phone also makes it easier to keep dry in rain.
Second, I believe the Voice Note and Braille Note did not have batteries a user could change. Given the time I will be away from sources of electricity, the ability to change batteries is essential. I believe a user can change batteries in the Voice Sense.
Third, Sendero was expensive enough to make it relatively unattractive. If the first two drawbacks can be overcome, price is not as much of an issue.
I have eight questions. First, when will Sendero be released for the Voice Sense? I heard it should be released this week.
Second, what is the expected battery life of the Voice Sense when Sendero runs on it? 

Third, how easy are batteries to change out and charge?
Fourth, I have read that batteries need to be specially made for the Voice Sense. Is that correct? If so, how much do they cost?
Fifth, what format does Sendero use? I heard it uses degrees, minutes, and seconds. If that is true, are programs available to convert decimal degrees to degrees, minutes, and seconds?
Sixth, is it possible to upload files of points of interest or would I need to enter individual points?
Seventh, I live in Minnesota. Where in Minnesota could I get a demonstration of this product?
Eighth, how does Sendero deal with highways? It is very difficult to get Wayfinder to completely avoid highways in pedestrian mode. 

Thank You,


Mike Hanson

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