Mapping System
Choosing Personal GPS Systems Is Easier Than You Think
Are you scratching your head at the tough decision you have to make regarding a GPS purchase? If you have never been introduced to the world of global positioning systems, then it may be a bit perplexing at first. But don’t worry! Companies make their units very user friendly, so as long as you are open to learning the differences between types of devices, and you know what you like in optional features, then you won’t have any problems choosing personal GPS systems that suit your needs.
What Are The Differences?
The first thing you will want to do is determine whether you are looking for a system that is primarily used for mapping, navigation or tracking. While there will be many units available that combine the features, you will need know what you are mainly trying to accomplish before choosing personal GPS systems.
Mapping – If your primary goal is to have directions handed to you when traveling between destinations – and you’re good at following maps – then you will want to consider a mapping device. They are usually a little less expensive than the other types and still offer other great options like photo sharing, MP3 players, and maybe even Bluetooth capabilities. The maps may be 2D or 3D and look similar to those of online mapping services. And many even offer directories in the device so that you don’t need to know an address to a business before mapping the directions.
Navigation – Navigation devices are the slightly more advanced version of the mapping system. Whereas the mapping system will give you instructions and a map to view, navigation units actually give you turn-by-turn directions to a location, and even alert you as to whether you’re about to miss a turn or exit. Some mapping systems come with complimentary navigation services, but many do not, meaning you will have to pay more for the navigation feature. So when choosing personal GPS systems, definitely keep in mind whether you are fine with just viewing a virtual map, or whether you want to have turn-by-turn instructions. This will make a huge difference in the unit you purchase.
Tracking – Tracking devices are great for those who want to keep tabs on their cars, pets, or even family members more easily. Usually there are two parts to these units, one that goes for the ride and tracks where it is going, and the other that displays where the first device is traveling. These systems are ideal for those who have teens who drive the car and want to keep track of where they are traveling.
Determining which one of these systems meets your needs is the first step in choosing personal GPS systems. Now we will look at other uses of the units in helping you choose.
In-Dash, Portable or Handheld
Choosing personal GPS systems usually also relies on how you plan to use the device. For example, if you are primarily planning to use the device to get around town in your car, then you might want to consider getting an in-dash system that cannot be removed unless done professionally. However, if you have more than one car and you would like to utilize the services in both cars without having to buy two separate units you can take advantage of a portable device that can easily go from one car to the next.
Then there is the world of the handheld device. Handheld devices can be used in cars, or they can usually be used outside of the vehicle also. For example, if you want to go on a hiking expedition with your friends and family, you can utilize the handheld unit to get you to the area in which you plan to hike. Then, when you get out of the car, it can lead you through trails with the promise that you won’t get lost.
Usually the mapping and navigation devices are those that are either portable or in-dash, while the tracking units are typically handheld. However, there are exceptions to every rule, so don’t expect these devices to suddenly have no exceptions.
Choosing personal GPS systems is not a difficult task if you have a basic idea of who you are and what you like in general. After you make those determinations, you can figure out the rest. There may be technical terms to get in the way that have the ability to intimidate you, or even let you allow a salesperson to sell you on a system that has way more than you actually need. But if you do your research and assert yourself during the process then chosing personal GPS systems will be a piece of cake for you.
Choices of both free and reasonably prices gps software
Gps software
If you own a navigational or a tracking gps system, you know that the one thing that may make it even better is by downloading additional software onto it. If you had the choice, you would surely pick a free software choice or at least a reasonably price one; wouldn’t you?
Here are some choices you may find that will make that almost perfect gps system, as close to perfect as it can get:
GPES EXPLORER
This software program works with Garmin gps systems.
It is a mapping system
It has plug-in function ability
It can identify a Garmin unit
It has serial plug ins
The program is written in java format
It can be downloaded at many sites including:
http://www.geocities.com/garminmaploader/
Gps3d
This is a small application
It is a mapping application that will display textured maps
It allows for 3-D viewing
You can broadcast information via the internet and through a gps device
It can be downloaded at many sites including:
gps3d-1.20.tar.bz2
Tour Point Editor
Is used for making maps which can be used for touring
These are professional looking maps
They work for both dash mountable and portable systems
The system is very easy to use
A free download of a trial of the software can be found at:
http://www.travelbygps.com/authoring.php
XAstir
This system is used for retrieving and plotting positions
It supports many formats
It is easy to use and customizable
It supports 125 map formats
It has access to a weather station
It has the ability to distinguish seven languages
It is free to download under GPL license.
To learn more about downloading and its many functions visit:
Viking
This free and open source program can help the user to manage their GPS data
You can plot tracks with this
You can import tracks with this software
You can add new coordinates to your maps
You can make completely new maps
You can add waypoints
Works with most computer programs
To learn more about this program and to download it, visit:
http://sourceforge.net/projects/viking/
Clew
This is a chart plotting program
It easily connects to your computer via a USB port
It can replay logs in real time
To learn more about this program and to download it, visit:
http://www.baum.com.au/~jiri/clew/clew.tgz
GPSylon
Can help to show the user maps downloaded from the expedia server
Can help the user to track given position on maps
It is a serial device
It shows maps in many scales This is perfect in case you are missing one scale.
User can download one single map or a series of maps at a given time
To learn more about this program and to download it, visit:
http://www.tegmento.org/gpsylon/
NavSys
This is a mapping application
It is used for navigational purposes
It is also a media application that will allow the user to play audio files in the automobile
It allows the user to track history
It can be downloaded at many sites including:
http://nixbit.com/cat//utilities/navsys/#
EveryTrail
With this program a user can upload data to view on Google maps
The user can also upload pictures for viewing on Google maps
Find maps with tracks and coordinates
View your trips in 3-D format
Share your trips and maps with a community of users
To download your free software program visit and to join the community:
Geosetter
This is a free tool that works with windows
It is used for displaying and changing geo photos
Works well with Google Earth
Can embed the exact location into the heading of the photo
To learn more about this free download and its applications, visit:
http://freegeographytools.com/2007/geosetter-the-best-free-photo-geotagging-app
Yes, it is nice to get free anything, especially free software gps programs. But remember some of the better programs, may cost you a little.
As you can see, gps software can make a gps system more usable. It can provide the system means to communicate with other systems such as basic computers and even weather stations. It can give the user the ability to download more maps or to make the maps they are currently using more customizable.
Where can one purchase gps software (if the above ones do not meet your needs0? At any local electronic store, at any local or online store that sells gps systems and at many sites that cater to navigational needs or sporting needs.
Is your gps system missing something? Could that something be a new improved gps software program? Investigate your choices in free and reasonably priced gps software today and see if you can find something that will fill your needs.
