I would like to say Hi to all the forum members here, as this is my first post, and I also have to admit at being a new comer to using a computer, so some of my questions may sound a bit dumb, I live in Thailand and have just bought a ASUS N10J netbook that is running Windows XP , I would now like to do some traveling through out Thailand and just wondered if its possible in some way to use my netbook with GPS ? , as I really need some hand holding for now , could some one please point me in the right direction as to where to look for the information to enable me to use my N10J with GPS , any comments , advice or suggestions would be most welcome. Thanks
Hi rolex,
Welcome to the forums, and greetings to Thailand.
To set up a laptop computer for GPS navigation is rather easy. You just need two things: 1. a laptop GPS receiver (USB or Bluetooth), and 2. laptop GPS software that includes map data for your part of the world.
I think Garmin Mobile PC is a good choice. At the moment Garmin sells Mobile PC software that includes USA/Canada maps, and maps of Europe. However, there are Garmin-compatible maps of Thailand (and other parts of the world) available on various 3rd-party websites. Here's one such source: http://www.malsingmaps.com/wiki/index.php/Where_can_I_find_GPS_maps_of_Areas_other_than_Ma...sia_and_Singapore%3F
Welcome to the forums, and greetings to Thailand.
To set up a laptop computer for GPS navigation is rather easy. You just need two things: 1. a laptop GPS receiver (USB or Bluetooth), and 2. laptop GPS software that includes map data for your part of the world.
I think Garmin Mobile PC is a good choice. At the moment Garmin sells Mobile PC software that includes USA/Canada maps, and maps of Europe. However, there are Garmin-compatible maps of Thailand (and other parts of the world) available on various 3rd-party websites. Here's one such source: http://www.malsingmaps.com/wiki/index.php/Where_can_I_find_GPS_maps_of_Areas_other_than_Ma...sia_and_Singapore%3F
Thanks for the advice, I am using a Novatel wireless Ovation MC727 USB Modem - EV-DO Rev A , to connect to the internet but ive just noticed that this USB modem is GPS enabled, do you think this would be Ok as the receiver ?
I looked at all the available info at Novatel website, but the documents don't give any details about the GPS receiver built into the unit. My guess is that the lack of detailed information is only due to the fact that the unit is marketed to consumers who need mobile Internet access. I cannot think of a reason why it shouldn't work with Garmin Mobile PC (or other GPS software), if the unit does infact have a built-in GPS receiver. However, several people who have tried similar USB GPS "sticks" have noticed that the GPS performance is very bad when such a unit is plugged directly to a laptop computer. At least a short USB extension cord is required to move the GPS unit away from the computer (away from the interference) for it to work properly.
I would be concerned about something that said 'GPS Ready'. That could mean it just needs software or hardware also is required. The best bet would be to get a simple GPS detection program to test it. Someone else posted some links to GPS software but I can't find it.
Terry
Terry
Hi guys, being a beginner myself, I am also very interested as our Thai friend in having GPS on my new netbook (Asus PC1000 with SSD). I bought the netbook because I travel a lot and this especially in Australia (where I live) and Europe, so that everywhere I can keep in contact with friends and family whilst being able to browse for good locations to sleep or to eat anywhere in the world. And on top of this I would like to have a GPS system on my netbook which also covers 4 wheel drive tracks (like Simpson desert for example), has reception everywhere in Australia, whilst also covering Europe (car + pushbike maps?), and ideally even walking tracks.
So, if something like this exists, what are the best systems and/or tools available and can anyone of you give me any advice & costs indications?
Thanks in advance for your help. it is very much appreciated, Michel
So, if something like this exists, what are the best systems and/or tools available and can anyone of you give me any advice & costs indications?
Thanks in advance for your help. it is very much appreciated, Michel