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November 24, 2007
The Key to Great GPSing
If your Windows Mobile device is not equipped with built-in GPS, you will need to buy a satellite receiver so that your Pocket Pal can engage in GPS navigation. Some software packages come with a receiver, some do not. Over time, I have witnessed the diminution of receivers, but I just got a new one that is so small it fits on my key ring—amazing.
Measuring 2 x 1.25 x .75, it weighs about an ounce, and you will hardly notice it in your pocket when in operation. I put mine on a lanyard. The Freedom mini GPS receiver will hook up with any Bluetooth equipped device. It features Bluetooth V2.0 with a range of up to 30 feet. This SiRFstar II device tracks up to 20 satellites.
The rechargeable lithium ion battery will operate for about nine hours before needing a recharge, which is a good day’s drive for me. But, just in case you need a recharge on the road, it comes with a cigarette lighter adapter/charger unit.
What I found to be remarkable was that you can just leave it on your key ring while you are diving, and it picks up the signal and transmits it just fine. Usually the receiver must be in plain view of the sky in your windshield. Even more amazing, you can leave it in your pocket, your backpack, or briefcase, and it will still pick up a signal and relay it to your tracking device. No sky view needed with this greedy little signal grabber.
You could have one on your keyring and start navigating in a jiffy by visiting http://www.proporta.com/F02/PPF02P05.php?t_id=3687&t_mode=des. They cost $129.95. Note that the receiver does not come with navigation software.
An excellent navigation program that I highly recommend is by OCN. What I appreciate about this application is that it is completely plug and play. You just slide it into the expansion slot of your WM device; it automatically installs, and you are good to go immediately because it comes with preinstalled maps of the U.S. and Canada. You do not have to download and transfer maps from a desktop or install software or go through a cumbersome registration procedure. All the data and the program comes on an SD card that acts as a caddy for a mini and micro SD card so that it will fit into any device.
To obtain a copy, go to www.buygpsnow.com. The price varies from $119 to $229 depending on the package your purchase.
Happy GPSing!
Posted by conradb212 at November 24, 2007 08:05 PM