That different models
work interchangeably is no surprise. Almost certainly both use a Prolific RS-422 to USB bridge chip, and although they may be different models they probably use the same driver. The output from the
GPS module is
NMEA 0183 sentences on all non-Garmin modules AFAIK, so no changes there.
Fresh
water usually doesn't hurt a solid-state circuit, particularly if it is not operating at the time.
Salt water is another issue entirely. While wintering in Gothenberg
Sweden a friend
lost his
cell phone into the marina (on a river); he recovered it a week or two later, dried it out and replaced the
battery - worked just fine. Not something to count on. And I wouldn't have
scuba dived in that freezing
water even with a dry suit, but that is another issue also.
Greg