GPS demystified and stuff for birders only

[Bill Garamella]

The Garmin product sounds a lot like Microsoft Streets and Trips

http://www.microsoft.com/streets/en-us/P...09GPS.aspx

I have the 2008 version that come with a USB receiver and it works really well.
The MS
product isin the same $60 price range....I think its bargain for what it does.

NH Bill 83 FC "Casa Billisa"


--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "hippieforever3" wrote:
>
> 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
>