GPS question

Wryel

Wryel

Wryel

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Joined
26 Mar 2005
Posts
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Sorry if this should go elsewhere or if I'm being a n00b....


Will any GPS unit work on foot if you have the appropriate maps?
 
Yes, but most (read TomTom) works only with roads (roads, where we are going we dont need roads). However, it is sometimes about 10-15 feet out, so if you are going rambling that might be a little bit of a problem
 
Its the SirFStar III reciever, it comes as part of a phone, (didn't post in MP as that was the only question I had) - would it depend on the software I install ir was that what you were implying?
 
Yes, it would depend on the software. Some can go 'off road', some can't. Surprisingly, I've found that you usually need better reception quality when on foot than you do in cars. Probably has something to do with being closer to buildings (unless you want to walk down the middle of the road ;))
 
I use a PDA with Memory Map pocket navigator installed and the TomTom Bluetooth unit, never had a problem with it even in fog in the deepest darkest Peak district :)
 
[TW]Fox said:
TomTom allows walking routes.
Click to expand...

It does, but not OS standard walking routes, for that you need memory map. TomTom's great for the car, not so good if you're in the middle of nowhere but then again the OP doesn't say what kind of walking routes he requires lol :)
 
I've got a Garmin eTrex Legend which comes bundled with Metroguide, which is a European map base which has some pretty impressive detail.

The GPS itself can't calculate road routes (you need to attach it to a PC and use the Metroguide software to create the route then download it to the device) so it's not brilliant as an in-car unit, but as a general GPS, it's fantastic, I use it for fishing trips, as well as having a few stored routes for certain road trips. It even picks up a signal through plane windows...

Think they retail at about £140 ish.
 
Last edited:
Wryel said:
Sorry if this should go elsewhere or if I'm being a n00b....


Will any GPS unit work on foot if you have the appropriate maps?
Click to expand...
I think GPS were originally designed to have maps downloaded into them - the satellites give your geographical location which the GPS displays at a lat/long figure or draws a map on screen. Although you could also use the lat/long figure from the GPS to position yourself on a paper map as well if walking.

Commonly fitted on boats as well, very useful around rocks and tidal estuaries as a backup to observational positioning.
 
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