GPS Software – What You Can Do
Before you purchase your GPS navigation system, you may want to be aware that some GPS software is more compatible than others. While Magellan and Navignon have perfectly fine products, there isn’t as much widespread support. For instance, there are a number of free navigator maps and tour guide downloads for Garmin and TomTom that just aren’t offered for other manufacturers. Additionally, Mapquest and Google Maps both allow you the ability to map out directions on your PC and send them to your GPS device, yet only if you have a Garmin (for Mapquest or Google) or a TomTom (Google Maps only).
One thing you can do with the software on your GPS is speed up the satellite lock. You’ll want to do this when you first get your device or when you’ve moved to a new location. When you first turn on your GPS navigation device, your unit will need to read the positioning of the other satellites in the sky in relation to your current position. The most efficient way to receive this information is to leave GPS navigation systems on under an open sky for 20 minutes, without moving them around. Additionally, when you’ve traveled over 100 miles and you turn your car on, you may want to hit the “new location” button on the satellite screen menu to speed up the satellite acquisition.
Every once in a while you’ll want to check for firmware updates. “Firmware” refers to the GPS software in your GPS. Sometimes manufacturers find that there are common system glitches, so they’ll release updates to improve the functionality of your GPS system. For instance, the Garmin GPSMAP 60 CSx had an early altimeter bug that has since been fixed with firmware version 2.7. Other times firmware updates can actually add new features that your device didn’t have before! For instance, the Garmin i3 replacement, namely the StreetPilot 7500, has an upgrade that adds more languages, shows on-route traffic delays and allows you to customize points of interest. The manufacturers’ websites have “Support” sections where you can check for the latest GPS software and download new versions.
While your GPS software comes with perfectly fine navigator maps, some people find they aren’t satiated. Free and legal Garmin-compatible maps are posted online, which include highway and high-quality topographical maps. Garmin will also send you a free disc of their MapSource maps, which allows you the ability to plan your trips on your computer, note your favorite locations and send the information to your GPS navigation device.
