hardware and software usb GPS

Hi i'm new for this
my questions i have a laptop i want to have usb GPS for my laptop
i don't know where i start so i came up some questions.
how much it cost for software and hardware?
any usb GPS will work for any software?
What model is the good price and good to use

thanks for your help

Hi S NIMO S,

Welcome to Laptop GPS World.

If you have a laptop, you can set it up for GPS navigation very inexpensively. You can buy a top of the line USB GPS receiver for about $50 and your choice of GPS navigation software from $40 to $200. You can buy software & hardware bundles for $100 or even less.

I'd look for a USB GPS receiver based on the SiRFstarIII chipset. BU-353 has been very popular. Vast majority of USB GPS receivers will work with most software programs. Garmin products still seem to be an exception (but there are workarounds to that, too).

Recommended software would depend on your geographical location, as the map data included usually covers only some countries. More info: List of laptop GPS navigation software programs and reviews

GlobalSat BU-353 USB GPS Receiver $36.99 + $ 5 shipping price not bad
i read the SiRFstarIII chipset. BU-353 they did not tell work for what windows
i used win vista and xp will it work?

thanks for your help

Wow, the prices keep going down all the time!

It works on XP and Vista (and very likely on other operating systems, too, but I only used it on XP and Vista).

Marvin Hlavac thanks for big help
and i just get one for me it call >> Microsoft Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator for the price $60.05 including shipping <<
i hope i get every thing i need

Good price! And yes, it includes everything you need (software + hardware). And I'm glad you didn't get scared by reading the 8 page long thread with over 100 replies: Streets 2008 stopping after 5 to 6 weeks. It is a known issue, but most users don't experience it.

i got my Microsoft Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator two days ago
i just done install inverter under Drivers Seat of toyota sienna one red cable connect to the fuse box the black connect to the bolt of the seat i tested work
but my Concern a bout the battery of the car >> after use the laptop with power of inverter if i forgot to turn off the inverter will the battery dead ???
an other think what is the best laptop stand for 2008 toyota sienna?

thanks

Yes, you will drain the battery if you forget to turn off the inverter (speaking from experience).

Glenn

I think some inverters have a feature which shuts them off when the battery voltage drops bellow certain level (to prevent discharging of battery).

Laptop mount for 2005 (or newer) Toyota Sienna: http://www.ram-mount.com/laptop_moun...aptop_desk.htm (alternatively, you may go to http://www.ram-mount.com/ and at the home page select the year, make, and model of your vehicle to get appropriate laptop mount)