I know..... same old question again. But after spending a rediculous number of hours reading old threads on multiple forums (although this is my favorite), studying features etc., I'm no closer to making a decision [information overload]. I'm leaning to towards OCN5, but have to decide if it's worth the additional $50 based on the desired map package (and bundled with the Globalsat BT-338). Probably 95% of the time, I'll be in MN. The seamlessness of the OCN5 maps would be nice the remaining 5%.
Any comments, particularily from users with first hand experience of either software in the Twin Cities, MN region will be appreciated.
I'm a huge fan of Iguidance. Its fast and the maps are detailed. Beatiful on my x50v. All the useful functions I needed are there: turn by turn direction, voice, fast re-routing, info on POI, ease of use in setting routes. There is even a weather function you can call up if you are also connected on-line.
OCN 5 has more features. However, it does seem more buggy. Sometimes, it'll run into memory allocation error and sometimes, it can not identify the BT GPS. A simple reset will correct the problem but it's a hassle.
iGuidance is easier to use and more stable. I like iGidance's voice a lot better than OCN's voice. However, it does not have seamless map and not as feature rich as OCN.
It will be hard to pick if both were the same price. But at $50 difference, I would definitely recommend iGuidance.
Id recommend IG. Its POIs is far superior. Price check at buygpsnow.com today:
OCN (xxl): $209
IG: $99
Mapopolis: $89
Have you consider Mapopolis? It's the best for downtown navigation and its CS/TS is a class of its own. Don't fall for OCN's seamless feature. It is standard on IG, Mapopolis and even on minor leagues like Delorme.
Anyway, IMO, it's more like a toy than a tool so I'd go with what I like than what I need.
OCN 5 has more features. However, it does seem more buggy. Sometimes, it'll run into memory allocation error and sometimes, it can not identify the BT GPS. A simple reset will correct the problem but it's a hassle.
iGuidance is easier to use and more stable. I like iGidance's voice a lot better than OCN's voice. However, it does not have seamless map and not as feature rich as OCN.
It will be hard to pick if both were the same price. But at $50 difference, I would definitely recommend iGuidance.
IG is seamless if you have a large mem card to put it on. i have the entire US on a 2.2Gb cf drive.
Based upon your post regarding usage areas -- save some money on the OCN5 package and go with the L version which gives you all US regions. This is what I use, and I travel extensively with zero problems using OCN5 and BT-338.
I have never used iguidance. My guess though is that you will be happy with either package. No one piece of software is perfect.
For me -- if one of these nav s/w folks would incorporate route blocking in the method that it is done in MS&T for the desktop/lapto, then that would be the killer feature, and I would purchase it immediately. In the meantime, with OCN5, alternative routing is not too difficult by selecting an additional waypoint. In fact, I think this is a feature OCN has over iguidance -- allowing you to route to as many waypoints as you want. :approve:
Good luck!
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I simply love my IGuidance,have not had any issues whatsoever with the software,voice is very human sounding and the Maps are 1st rate,very easy to use and the price of 95.00 very resonable,plus the ability to load and run on a laptop another plus.....runs like a dream on my X30, and my 8600 Laptop...
I LOVE IGUIDANCE! I bought it from semsons.com for $200 which got me IGuidance, bt-338, akron mount, car/home charger/leather case for gps. Great program!
The talk of " youll be happy with either" is not true IMO. Ive used both and could not force myself to keep OCN. After reading all the + reviews, I went for it, and regretted it. I had used the dell.iguidance before and was looking to improve on it. OCN disappointed me with buggy software, BT connection issues, crashes, etc. The killer was the limited POI database. I personally use the POIS a lot so I went back to IG and am very happy with the new release.
OCN5 is free of memory errors if you manage your memory correctly. If you are a disorganized pack-rat and not willing to guarantee the program 25MB of RAM at startup, you may want to look for another program with less requirements (and less capabilities perhaps). WM5 should really help here. The only time I ever saw a memory error was when I opened a lot of programs on purpose and then tried to route from PA to CA.
OCN5 stays connected to my GPS without interruption for the entire day while traveling. There are those who have problems with their OS not managing BT correctly, I have never had such a problem with A05 ROM.
No regrets spending what I did- I travel anywhere in the USA-Canada and never have to fuss with the software. It's right there in my pocket whenever I need it.
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OCN5 is free of memory errors if you manage your memory correctly.
I have only installed iGuidance and OCN 5 on my Dell X50v. From time to time, OCN will have memory allocation error while iGuidance works perfectly fine. To defend OCN, the memory allocation problem is likely caused by Pocket IE's temporary cache page. However, the fact one program works and one doesn't bothers me.
In my opinion, I should be able to start a GPS program and use right the way. Going to setup and make sure I have 25MB of free RAM everytime I need to use a program just doesn't seem right. Hopefully, WM5 will resolve this problem or OCN will release a new update that uses memory more efficiently.
By that I mean I bought a 1GB 50x Kingston Elite Pro SD card for the Axim X30 and I read somewhere that you should get a 60x or higher read speed, does it make that much difference? I got a real good deal from Buy.com with a rebate and instant $10 off so I am reluctant to return it. By the way, I am using an Axim X30, a BT-338 and Navigator 5 software.
Also, I forget the exact processor of the Axim but it was the fastest that Dell made in an X30 and it has Bluetooth.
IGuidance runs great on my Scandisc SD 1gig card, I have noticed no difference running with the program loaded on my Axim or loaded on my SD card......
Specs Axim X30 High
IGuidance 2.1.1
1Gig SD card
BT-338
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OCN5 vs. iGuidance :shrug:
