Adding GPS to a laptop...

Anyone have some advice, or recommendations? I have a PCMCIA type 2, SD/MMC/xD/MS, USB and firewire port open. So far, the only ones i have found(varying prices and i assume, quality) are CF ones that include PCMCIA sleeves. They also stick out quite a bit, so i would need to remove them whenever i pack the laptop up. Does anyone know if there are ones that sit flush with the PCMCIA slot, that would have a removable antenna?

Btw, i dont know if this is the best sub-forum to ask in. Technically this would also be on-topic in 'accessories' and 'networking & wireless'.

 

what are you using the gps for?

what is your budget?

 

I would suggest one of the standalone GPS receivers with Bluetooth. You may need to buy a Bluetooth dongle for your computer but you then have the flexibility to put the receiver where it has a good view of the sky but have your computer in a shady place where you can read the display.

John

 

it really depends how accurate you want this to be....I own 3 gps's and they are all compatible with my computer through USB

I own a magellan meridian platinum
garmin 60csx******awsem*******
garmin edge 305

the 60csx is quite expensive but it has a port for an external antennae and I have never lost reception except once in my friends basement, but I have never lost a signal in the hills and it is constantly +-10ft or less


I am not sure if google earth is compatible with these because I use garmin city navigator, and topo maps.....along with a national geographic base set

usually as cost goes up so does accuracy.....SIRF is a somewhat new technology that helps it talk to satelites a bit better to improve accuracy and faster times in which it grabs the satelites

 

here are some basic ones

http://www.tigergps.com/pdacompanion.html

 

I've uploaded tracks from my Geko 201 into Google Earth and they look good. However, you need to pay your $20 for a Google Earth licence to add this functionality. I've not tried linking Geko + notebook while on the move (one would either have to pre-load all the relevant GE material into a big cache file or have a good mobile internet connection).

John

 

I think its worth buying mapping software.....I save every hike and trip I go on, its quite interesting especially when you are in the car and the software will tell you where a bathroom is or an airport, zoo or restraunt.....just about anything you could imagine without needing an internet connection

 

My parents are going to asia in a few weeks and asked that i give them my laptop(buying a new dell before then) along with a GPS setup that'll allow them to track their trip. Because of the chance of it getting ripped off, the fact that my parents wouldnt really care if its very accurate, and that they will be outside when doing all this stuff, i'm not too interested in getting a high end one.

 

well here are your options

http://www.gpsnow.com/garmin_etrex_legend_hcx.htm

they track quite well............battery life is important and waypoints are important