Waypoints – January 27, 2007

The past week’s GPS news and more…

GPS firmware, software, maps and data

• It looks like there is going to be strong support for the DeLorme Earthmate GPS PN-20 –  DeLorme has already posted a firmware update. Via Groundspeak.
• I’ve added Waymarking.com to my GPS data search engine.
• In addition to posting Training Center for Macs, Garmin has also posted an updated version for Windows.
• Garmin has posted firmware updates for the Edge 205 and Edge 305.
• Lowrance has posted firmware updates for the iWAY 350C and iWAY500C.
• Thanks to Allory for tips on those last three items.
• Navigon announces free traffic data. Of course you have to buy a GPS that can use it.
• The Earth is Square has published a review of Microsoft Streets and Trips 2007. Via The Map Room.
• And in the "way ahead of things" department, here’s a peak at Streets and Trips 2008.
• Ask.com has selected NAVTEQ as map data provider for Ask Maps and AskCity local search.

Updated GPS reviews

• Garmin nuvi 680 review – I did a significant update on this post, and linked to the excellent review posted by GPSLodge.com.
• Garmin Rino 120 review – Backpacking Light gives the Rino a weak 2.0 out of 5.0 rating.

TomTom news

• Here is a positive review of the recently updated TomTom maps.
• And instructions for installing the new TomTom maps.
• New TomTom’s on the way? Prices on the current TomTom GO models are dropping ahead of CeBit.
• Don’t use TomTom HOME version 1.5.24 with a TomTom GO 700!
• PalmAddicts post a TomTom Navigator 6 review.

GPS tracking

• When will thieves learn? Don’t steal a GPS tracking device.
• GPS tracking built into your shoe.
• "A Coke can can interfere" with a GPS tracking system. Well, if you cut it open and place it over the antenna, maybe.
• Interesting conversation in the comments section here on GPS tracking of employees.

GPS hardware

• NaviGadget criticizes the MSN Direct receiver set up on the Garmin nuvi 680 and StreetPilot c580.
• Looks like there will be a zumo 400 in South Africa (and Europe too?).
• Free GeoTools covers Garmin microSD card tricks.
• Here’s write up on the Garmin / Jeep Trail Guide, which I believe is based on the Quest 2.
• Want to compare Lowrance units? Here’s a Lowrance comparison tool. Unfortunately, you can’t use it with the iWay series.

GPS in the news

• More on the Chinese anti-satellite test.
• Meanwhile, China is tightening the reins on foreign map makers and surveyors.
• Your GPS may be illegal in Switzerland.
• Will there be a GPS ban in Spain too?
• Prepare for that next shot on the golf course with GPS-fueled full-motion flyovers.
• Using GPS to market your art.
• Advertising from space may catch on, but I don’t know about the term astro-tising.
• Ice fishing with a Magellan eXplorist XL.
• We got GPS. Why bother learning to read a map?
• Renting a car? Chances are, you can rent a Garmin too.

GIS

• Free Geo Tools posts on importing GIS data into a GPS
  unit. You can also do this with OziExplorer, opening shapefiles or .e00
  files and converting them to tracks. I *think* you can do this with the
  free versions by using the "blank map" feature.
• The Map Room notes the release of Introduction to Neogeography,
  which they characterize as "a guide to the new mapping technologies
  that are accessible to users and developers outside the GIS profession."

The business of GPS

• Broadcom may get into the GPS chip business with a GPS-Bluetooth combo chip.
• Sony has canceled the Nav-U80 and 81T.
• Mio is looking for a strong growth rate this year.

Google Schmoogle

• Shaded-Relief.com is a cool new Google Maps mashup. I just wish you could zoom in more. Via Google Maps Mania.
• Google to take on Second Life and create a Google Metaverse?
• Saving images from Google Earth.
• Improved satellite coverage of Europe in Google Earth.