Gps

[SilverCabin]

I got into using a GPS system about five years ago. After much research I chose a Garmin eTrex Vista, because I thought the primary use was going to be hiking. I quickly found out that using one for auto navigation had a lot of benefits, especially when you get the question, "How long before we get there?" I tried using the Vista for on-the-road navigation, and while it worked, the small screen was hard to read.

I purchased a used Garmin Streetpilot off eBay, and loaded it with the current maps from Garmin. This worked better, but the old Streetpilots didn't have auto-rerouting, so you would only get point-to-point routes instead of on-road routes, but you could always find where you were on the map.

I eBay'd that unit off, and purchased a Streetpiolet 2610 (now discontinued but still supported by Garmin) from this site http://www.gpsdiscount.com/ I purchased a rebuilt unit at a good discount. I have always had good luck with rebuilt electronics, as these are usually DOA items that have made another trip to the factory and are now tested to make sure everything works. My 2610 has provided faithful service for three years now.

The 2610 sits in its "beanbag" mount on the dash of my truck, out of the way. The portable beanbag mount is great because I can move it to other vehicles, rental cars, etc. I don't have room (don't want to make room) for a laptop up front--probably spill coffee in it anyway.

My advice? Pick a GPS designed for only for a single application (road navigation, hiking/geocaching, boating, aviation). Each application has specific things that are needed, and multi-purpose units are always a compromise of something.

Here's a great website to help you make a decision: http://www.gpsinformation.net/ I can't imagine traveling without mine now.

[rickandsandi]

I have to agree with Bob about the Delorme package. Load the software into your laptop, plan your route when ever you want; look for campgrounds, Wal*Marts, gas stations etc. You can do all this anytime, anywhere. You can even plug in how much fuel ou carry, your MPG and it will tell you when and where to fuel up. A whole bunch of really cool stuff. Onece you get on the road, just plug in your GPS receiver and you are live. The con: large lap-top to deal with. PROS, work on your route anytime, large screen and really easy to use. Sandi used it for our 6K mile trip this year and not one problem.

[moosetags]

Thanx everyone for all the GPS tips and info. We decided to go with a Garmin Nuvi 660. We just ordered it yesterday over the internet. We shopped for it extensive and found the best price at www.gpscrazy.com.

After I get and try it out on the road, I will report back as to its pros and cons.

[SilverCabin]

Originally Posted by moosetags

Thanx everyone for all the GPS tips and info. We decided to go with a Garmin Nuvi 660. We just ordered it yesterday over the internet. We shopped for it extensive and found the best price at www.gpscrazy.com.

After I get and try it out on the road, I will report back as to its pros and cons.

I'll be interested to hear your review. I've been thinking of an upgrade and have looked at that unit. Thanks for the web site--another place to shop.

I think I saw your name on the FL rally list. See you there

[TIMETOGO]

Sorry Folks-

What In The World Is A Bluetooth.

And I Hate Going To The Dentist.

[clancy_boy]

Originally Posted by TIMETOGO

Sorry Folks-

What In The World Is A Bluetooth.

And I Hate Going To The Dentist.

Bluetooth is a wireless networking or communications device that allows manufacturers of different equipment to communicate with one another on a common link.

[LI Pets]

There another thread going on here about the same

[jcanavera]

Normally Bluetooth has a much shorter range. That's why you will find wireless earpieces used with cellular phones, or a wireless mouse using bluetooth.

Jack

[moosetags]

The "Bluetooth" is a short range wireless comm system that alows components in immediate proximity of each other to exchange data. The most common example is the wireless ear piece/microphone that you see people wearing to utilize their cell phones.

In the case of the Garmin Nuvi 660 GPS, the Bluetooth feature allows you to answer your cell phone on your GPS, I knbow that sounds really stupid. I'll try it and let you know.

[Jim Clark]

Originally Posted by moosetags

The "Bluetooth" is a short range wireless comm system that alows components in immediate proximity of each other to exchange data. The most common example is the wireless ear piece/microphone that you see people wearing to utilize their cell phones.

In the case of the Garmin Nuvi 660 GPS, the Bluetooth feature allows you to answer your cell phone on your GPS, I knbow that sounds really stupid. I'll try it and let you know.

I have the Nuvi 350, I like the mount and the size. It fits in my pocket and is great for walking if needed. The only problem I have with it is due to having a female voice my wife likes to argue with it. A good GPS system is a must for me as when I have to evacuate for a hurricane I run on the secondary roads to avoid traffic.

Jim

[Safari Tim]

I recently got a Nuvi 360 with the bluetooth feature.

It works really well. I've talked over it several times and its quite convenient.

No more fumbling for the phone or not hearing it ring.

Originally Posted by moosetags

The "Bluetooth" is a short range wireless comm system that alows components in immediate proximity of each other to exchange data. The most common example is the wireless ear piece/microphone that you see people wearing to utilize their cell phones.

In the case of the Garmin Nuvi 660 GPS, the Bluetooth feature allows you to answer your cell phone on your GPS, I knbow that sounds really stupid. I'll try it and let you know.

[moosetags]

I was ready to buy the Nuvi 360 when I found the 660 at a really great price; I just couldn't pass up up the big screen. This is thwe first time that I will have the latest anything. Of course, before I get the 660 the "new 770" will probably be out.

[SilverCabin]

moosetags,

I forgot to ask you at the rally: How's that new GPS working for you?

My 2160 took us right through downtown Jacksonville to the driveway of our relatives home without any issues. I wouldn't have accepted this route with my trailer attached if it hadn't been anything other than a Sunday afternoon, but it was the shortest, quickest way to where we wanted to go.

[woodedareas]

Originally Posted by moosetags

Thanx everyone for all the GPS tips and info. We decided to go with a Garmin Nuvi 660. We just ordered it yesterday over the internet. We shopped for it extensive and found the best price at www.gpscrazy.com.

After I get and try it out on the road, I will report back as to its pros and cons.

I purchased a Garmin 350 and it is the best GPS that I have received.In comparison I have a new Land Rover with a built in GPS and its is almost worthless. We are amazed at the ease of use and the accuracy of the Garmin. It is somewhat expensive but based on our recent experience it is great.

[LI Pets]

We started using it on the trip from NY and now in Miami very happy looking at a 15" laptop screen instead of the usual mini screen.

It has a lot of bells and whistles that we are finding, for $175 it is worth many times that.

Also you can take the gps reciever and put in your pocket hook to a palm and go hiking, or bike riding.......

[flitzwhopper]

I have a Garmin unit that plugs into my laptop via USB. It has saved me more than once. I'm not sure how its features compare to any handhelds or other brands but GPS is the way to go. The nice thing about using it on a laptop is that the display is real easy to read and the controls for making the InRoute program work are familiar. Big bright colorful screens help my old eyes.

Mike

[Airstream25]

Yes, the Garmin 680 with "Local Search" was announced at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week.

Originally Posted by moosetags

I was ready to buy the Nuvi 360 when I found the 660 at a really great price; I just couldn't pass up up the big screen. This is thwe first time that I will have the latest anything. Of course, before I get the 660 the "new 770" will probably be out.

[Airstream25]

Well I broke down and bought a Garmin Nuvi 660 GPS, of course it was just one week before Costco offered the $150 discount coupon

We hitched up the AS in ABQ, used the GPS to punch in Lubbock, TX as a midway stop over on the way to Dallas, loaded up a good book on CD and hit the road. I watched the GPS display the purple route for awhile then muted the GPS to listen to the story. After about a hundred miles my wife and I were so engrossed in "Fly Boys" that I missed a turn. I quickly realized my error when the GPS displayed the "Make a U turn" message. Who knows how far I would have driven without the GPS while listening to the story before I noticed my errror.

Originally Posted by moosetags

The "Bluetooth" is a short range wireless comm system that alows components in immediate proximity of each other to exchange data. The most common example is the wireless ear piece/microphone that you see people wearing to utilize their cell phones.

In the case of the Garmin Nuvi 660 GPS, the Bluetooth feature allows you to answer your cell phone on your GPS, I knbow that sounds really stupid. I'll try it and let you know.

[thecatsandi]

I just broke down and bought a Garmin 496. It does Aviation, Auto and marine. I bought it because it can receive weather info. A must for us flying fires. It works well for auto and aviation. Have not tried the marine yet.

[Wayne&Sam]

I have a TomTom 910 and my wife has a previous model. We like them both. I got it at first because they offered Mac support, when Garmin did not. I see Garmin has just introduced a bata of Mac programs for my hand held and bike GPS. Maybe they've done the same for the auto units.

Gee, does a family of two really need four GPS units. I think so.