Outer Limits 4x4 Board

Hey,

Not sure if i have posted in the right area, but i tried search and struggling to work what i need.

Im trying to help someone out with there laptop, as they want to load maps i.e. vic high country and then be able to navigate with his GPS (GARMIN), just wondering what is actually required.

1. Mapping software
2. Specific USB cable for GPS to go into laptop?
3. Particular GPS or any kind will do?

Any links or pointers would be great,

If he's happy to buy commercial products, OziExplorer is a good program. I guess he'd need a cable to connect to USB, unless some Garmin units do Bluetooth?

Personally, I've used OziExplorer talking to the GPS in my phone (via bluetooth) and (last month) via USB to a small "mouse" type GPS receiver / logger (no display - all data outputs to computer.)

I bought the Hema map collection (includes some reasonably good Vic High Country maps) and have picked up another couple of maps along the way.

You are correct, you need software, a GPSR that outputs NMEA data and maps in the format supported by the software

Software: Oziexplorer, a popular mapping package, that is made in Aus, not too expensive, and works with a large variety of GPSR units. www.oziexplorer.com

GPSR: Must have a cable to connect to laptop, and output NMEA data. Can purchase a GPSR mouse quite cheaply. Less than $100 for a GPSR mouse.

Main thing to watch from a price point of view is the cable, often cheaper to buy a GPSR mouse, than a cable for existing GPSR.

MAPS: You need maps, these are not inlcuded with software, can be purchased, or acquired by other means.

Bluetooth GPS from ebay will work wonders. Shouldnt be anymore than $70. Most use a nokia mobile phone battery. I used to charge mine with a car charger for a 3130 I think it was. Well that was till I left it on the roof of the work ute.
But it worked well. I used it a number of times while it was sitting in the glove box of both a Falcon and a GQ.
I will try and find hte link to it.

Oh and I used OziExplorer.

Oh and another thing. If you dont need leads. Dont use them. More leads and crap plugged into the laptop is a pain.

Free Vic topo maps for Ozi here if you want them.

Try www.gpsaustralia.net heaps of info and even free maps hear

Thanks for that link Festy...