gps reciever which plugs into usb port

Submitted: Monday, Apr 26, 2004 at 12:55

ThreadID: 12384 Views:4691 Replies:9 FollowUps:6

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Sparkie

Has any1 purchased or seen a gps reciever which plugs straight into computer or pda via a usb connection?
I have found one which works with Oziexplorer. I am curious as to how well it works and is Oziexplorer any good???
I have a Discover Aus(streets and tracks) cd from magellan and it has lots of tracks on it but by no means all. I think it only accepts signal from a com port(and only works with magellan equipment?). I cannot see how I can use the gps reciever with Discover Aus so I am thinking I may have to purchase Oziexplorer.

I am trying to set up an incar navigation system on a budget so if any1 knows of a way please share that knowledge with me

Thanks in advance
Sparkie (IE not Y) ;-)

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Reply By: Member - Bob L - Monday, Apr 26, 2004 at 13:21

Monday, Apr 26, 2004 at 13:21

Sparkie.
The Garmin GPS Map 60C has USB connections but at RRP$969 a bit on the expensive side unless you want all the features.

You can use a USB to Serial Adapter but this can be tricky ie. with my Compaq I need to start it up with the adapter fitted before connecting GPS. Some Ipac PDA's ( Ive got a HP2210) have a y lead connector which allows both Serial and USB.

Oziexplorer is a great program, you can try it with out registering- WWW.oziexplorer.com - plenty of commercial maps available also.(Natmap covers the whole of australia at 250,000 to 1 at about $100.00).

Do a search for Trackmaker which is another good program from Brazil.

Also GPSOZ is a good starting place for info.

Cheers
Bob L

AnswerID: 56003

Follow Up By: Member - Bob-h(QLD) - Monday, Apr 26, 2004 at 21:12

Monday, Apr 26, 2004 at 21:12

Sparkie
The Garmin GPS Map 60C has a color screen and USB. I bought mine from Johnny Appleseed GPS www.ja-gps.com.au at Annerley Qld for $780. add a bit more for 12v cable and dash bracket.
Get your software package here from ExplorOz Shop. The MapSource software that comes standard with the GPS is fairly basic, but you can also get some good 'street level' software.
OziExplorer is easy to use and set up, althoughI haven't yet used it in anger on the road. I am planning a trip Brisbane-Alice Springs via Birdsville, Oodnadatta, return via Plenty Hwy in August/September,and am presently playing with route setup etc.
Bob

FollowupID: 317910

Follow Up By: howie - Monday, Apr 26, 2004 at 21:51

Monday, Apr 26, 2004 at 21:51

my latest laptop came without serial ports, just usb's.
use a usb/serial adaptor all the time time at work & play.
used it seriously recently with oziexplorer and raster 250k, very impressed.
agree with bob L, the usb port needs some tweaking after losing coms, not quite worked it out yet, could be a virtual port vs physical port thing.

FollowupID: 317916

Follow Up By: Niko - Friday, Apr 30, 2004 at 02:22

Friday, Apr 30, 2004 at 02:22

Holux GPS have the choice of USB, for instance the GM-101 has USB connectivity. It is over the top but I can organise any cable connection you want to one of the standard magnetic mount type, just ask. go to www.octapc.com for details. Otherwise use the email address on the web site.