The Corsa X441 features three modes--basic compass, clock, and timer. Switching between modes and making settings changes are performed via the Corsa X441's two buttons--the device's only controls. It will return to clock mode when the compass mode times out, which is set at a default 5 minutes. You can change the settings to up to 90 minutes, or turn off this feature so that it never times out.

Before using the Corsa X441 for the first time, you'll need to calibrate it. Calibration allows the device to separate the earth's magnetic field from the magnetic fields generated by external influences, such as gear you may be carrying, and thereby provide accurate heading information. Calibrating is a rather simple procedure, requiring you to slowly turn yourself around twice as you hold the compass.

You can choose from two compass rose arrow orientations: directional arrow and north-pointing arrow. The directional arrow points to the direction you are heading, while the north-pointing arrow will always point to the north as on a mechanical compass. (With both orientations, North is always at the top of the display.) A magnetic distortion flag will alert you should any external magnetic interference compromise the compass heading accuracy.

The timer has very basic functionality, featuring pause and restart from the pause point, reset to zero, and a maximum measurement of 99 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds.

The Corsa X441 is a rugged device; it's able to sustain drops to the ground and is resistant to water up to 10 feet deep. It also features ruler markings on its back (both inches and centimeters) for measuring map distances, and an average 500-hour battery life using one lithium battery. To change the battery, you'll need to remove the back with a small Phillips screwdriver.

It comes with a one-year limited warranty and includes the lithium battery installed in the device.