Friday 11 December 2009

Your GPS Unit's Not Complete Without the Right Software

By Joseph Aaron

When users post reviews on the different GPS products from the major brands, they seem to focus only on the the device itself; the appearance, how well it performs, and the user interface. What GPS product reviews usually ignore, though, is the GPS Software that is needed in order for the GPS unit to interact with the Windows or Mac systems properly. A certain kind of software is necessary for tasks like synchronizing and accessing the most recent maps and POI's to a GPS device. As with any other software, GPS software that is too complex should be avoided. Appreciating the peculiarities of GPS software may not be the point that moves you to purchase one specific brand, but appreciating the capabilities of the supporting software is required after you already decide on one GPS device. The kinds of GPS software will often be practically identical for various models within a particular brand. A nice model to look into is the Garmin Nuvi 465t Truck GPS Navigator.

Garmin Nuvi Software

Garmin Nuvi manufactures a comprehensive collection of specific GPS software which consumers may purchase from their main website. Software updates can be downloaded directly or through another type of software called WebUpdater. In order to make WebUpdater work, users simply need to hook the GPS to your desktop and follow the software instructions. You may additionally find a number of mapping programs that support either Microsoft or Mac systems. There is actually a particular section exclusively for Mac users allowing them to tap the full potential of their Garmin Nuvi GPS devices.

TomTom HOME

The TomTom HOME lets you search your TomTom for existing software and run upgrades when required. As well as the basic abilities in transferring maps, TomTom HOME also allows customers to download files currently used in the GPS unit, then customize and put them back in the unit to make unique screen graphics, giving your TomTom a more personal look. Adding to that, TomTom even managed to engineer software for mobile phones, the majority of which has been scrapped. Fortunately there is still an application that supports an iPhone 3G.

Magellan Software

Magellan may have the permanent habit of selling affordable goods, but there is plenty of software made to be downloaded for free, including two different versions; VantagePoint and MapGuard. VantagePoint is a comprehensive application which lets you download all the GPS action to a desktop monitor. Every one of the maps, trails, directions, and waypoints are accessible and your maps can be perused using both the 2D and 3D effects.

MapGuard is the other program and includes MapSend Manager in addition to Mapsend Lite. The MapSend Lite is a state of the art application designed to see any map on your PC, helping you to select waypoints and plan directions. Magellan's products also support Geocaching, and the user can additionally convert coordinates and mileage into several different formats. A great unit to consider is the Garmin Nuvi 465t Truck GPS Navigator.

Judging Each Application

Please remember that, GPS software ought not be the only basis in picking your new GPS device. This technology is only marketed to support each manufacturer's GPS systems and tap into that product's maximum usability. Out of the ones listed, TomTom HOME easily beats out the competition thanks to a user's option to personalize the user interface. Certain kinds of software may even be "test driven" even if you don't have a compatible GPS device.

About the Author:

No comments: