GPS Questions

BruceP · 01-22-03, 09:49 AM

I'm looking at the options for GPS/nav with the Axim.

The Mapopolis package has gotten some coverage here.

Q1. Am I right thinking the Mapopolis package uses the Holux GM 270 GPS ? If not what GPS does it use?

Q2. What sort of antenna does the Mapopolis package use? (Eg. the Navman, which is not yet available for the Dell, uses a quadrifilar helix antenna which is better to receive low-to-the-horizon satellites. The Pharos uses a patch antenna which is less sensitive.)

Q3. What battery draw does the GPS have? The Pharos again draws a maximum 200mA while the Navman (not available) draws only about 70mA.

Q4. Does the Mapopolis package include voice commands, like the Pharos?

Thanks!

snap54 · 01-22-03, 03:57 PM

The Mapopolis bundle uses the Holux PMG-205 receiver. It is older than the newer GM-270. You can go to www.pocketmapstore.com and get all of the specs there. They also carry the GM-270 and you can compare the two.

The Mapopolis software has the turn by turn voice prompts only in the top of the line Navigator package. It is a $99/year subscription where you can download all of the maps of the US and Canada at any time during the subscription year. You can email them for more information, and they usually respond quickly. I have the Holux GM 270 with the Mapopolis Navigator and have found that this combination works great. Re-routing is fast and accurate and the software is great if you do mostly city and short-distance driving.

Mattman · 01-22-03, 05:56 PM

I am anxiously awaiting the Navman for the Axim. It has to be in the works. Hopefully soon, we will start to see more hardware and accessories designed for the Axim. So far, this has been the only downfall to the Axim, well I guess I should restate that by saying so far, this is the one thing where the Ipaq has the advantage, more hardware and accessories. That should change soon though. :P

BruceP · 01-23-03, 09:33 AM

Thanks, the pocketmapstore site is useful and the 270 seems to have all the benefits of the Navman right now. Since my Dell hasn't arrived yet it's probably prudent for me to wait and keep an eye on this whole area - - it's changing very rapidly.

I'm interested in using this set-up to actually gather GEO-coded primary data (in the field). Is it possible to be simultaneously working in Excel and be able to extract latitude-longitude values from the GPS and enter that and other data into Excel?

JakeRich · 01-23-03, 09:50 AM

Yes, you should be able to run mapping software and Excel at the same time, providing you have the memory to handle both. For more detailed information on GPS, one of the bette sites is GPSPassion.com. They have reviews and discussion forums for all kinds of GPS/PPC combinations.

Mapopolis works with any GPS that outputs NMEA data. I have a Magellan that I hope to interface with a serial cable (when it arrives). I'll report back on the success. My rationale for having a separate GPS unit is that PPC's aren't really designed for exterior work, and I wanted a GPS unit that was more rugged for that kind of use. I use the Magellan with Mapopolis for driving directions and guidance, then just the Magellan for the outside work. Nice combination.

snap54 · 01-23-03, 09:58 AM

I am not sure if you can directly extract the data from the GPS into Excel. I am doubtful that it is possible. You may want to ask the people at www.gpspassion.com since they have more knowledge on the technology.

michaelmotorcycle · 01-23-03, 12:19 PM

I'm still researching...so far, I think I've narrowed my options to either PharosGPS (nice demo on their web site) and TravRoute, both around $300.

Still loooking, tho........

BruceP · 01-23-03, 02:28 PM

As I said my original post, the Pharos has a greater battery draw and the antenna isn't the most sensitive.

michaelmotorcycle · 01-23-03, 02:42 PM

Thanx Bruce....I must have had a senior moment while reading your post!

Rusty · 01-24-03, 06:13 PM

B)

Well my 2 cents. I have researched this to death here and at GPS Passion. I have purchased and now use the Holux GM-270 CF GPS unit. It works well, starts quickly and while demoing the Mapopolis trial maps, it was unbelievably accurate for my area considering the fact that the maps were Tiger data file based maps.

I am in the process of purchasing the Mapopolis Navigator Software this weekend.

BTW, if you subscribe to the GPS Passion site (Geared to GPS and Mapping Software only) you can received discount coupons to use at various sites when you purchase your gear.

Semsons is currently offering a free travel case for your GPS unit when you purchase it there with the Coupon code from GPS Passion along with a 10% discount. I found them to be very responsive to email and meeting there shipping
deadlines. (NO I DO NOT WORK FOR THEM!)

Cheers!

Rusty

Creecher · 03-14-03, 04:44 AM

I just came from the European Cebit yesterday where I spent a little time at the Navman booth. The had informed me they have been working with Dell to get a Dell approved solution. They also are trying to make it economically feasible. They didn't want a solution that cost more than the X5 itself. They intend on having a solution within the next 2-4 weeks. They're trying really hard for a compact flash, however, a bottom cable system would be the cheapest. Again, though, they are trying for a card. No jacket or cable system. I'll post a reply when I get more info from my new friend.;)