GPS demystified and stuff for birders only

[hippieforever3]

Since more birders travel with a laptop, I thought I would mention
that Garmin makes a product for PC and laptops.

Additionally there are now mini-laptops Asus and Dell with 7-9 inch
screens for $400

The Garmin product is here:
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=&pID=13484

Make sure you get a third generation Bluetooth receiver to go with it.
Third generation receivers work very well on the dash of a bird. No
need for external antenna.

I use the previous version of this software so don't have any first
hand knowledge of this iteration but have good things to say about
that version. If this version is an improvement, the $60 price tag is
a bargain.

NOTE: I don't believe you don't get a worthwhile map for $60. That
must be purchased separately.

TIPS ON USE

Plan your route BEFORE you turn on the ignition.
The PC products have a companion software program called Mapsource
(downloadable) that is very useful in checking the sanity of the auto-
routing.
Fifteen minutes while having your coffee, looking over the days route
will be well worth your while.
I have a whole bunch of national files containing Walmarts, National
Parks, etc. I import the appropriate files. Select the area for the
day and make a composite of waypoints important for the day/week then
take my first shot at an "auto-route".
If you find something that doesn't look or feel right make a waypoint
where you think the route should go and redraw the route with that
(maybe more than one) waypoint in it.
Save that route.

Almost everyone I've ever talked to that is new using a GPS has a lot
of frustration. Send me questions if you want.

Wave as we go by,
GPSGary