By adding the device to BIND, it doesn't actually keep the connection open all the time (and it doesn't try looking for the device, either).

....

So, it won't drain your battery unless you leave Maemo Mapper on (without the cover on the display).

Using rfcomm this way may, in fact, be the (unfortunately) ideal solution to the dropout situation, until Nokia (or whoever) fixes the bug that causes the dropouts.

....