What You Can Do With Your GPS Software

By MIKE SELVON

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.

Let's face it, many customers purchase their 910 Tomtom or their Garmin GPSMAP 276c just for the "Points of Interest" feature. How many times have you been driving somewhere and suddenly your stomach is rumbling out of control. Do you settle for that greasy spoon you just passed or try to hold out for a Wendy's drive-thru?

With the navigator maps, you can view all of the restaurants near your current location or even type in the name of the restaurant you prefer for the nearest location! The lower quality GPS software comes with 750,000 points of interest, while the higher quality devices come with something like 6 million. To be sure you have the most up-to-date list of places in your area, you can visit Poiusa or Poifriend and download information to your GPS for free.

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.

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