Using a Garmin Nuvi as a laptop USB GPS receiver

I have a Garmin Nuvi and was hoping I could us the USB cord to connect it to my laptop and use it as my GPS receiver for Microsoft Streets and Trips 2010. Is this doable? If so, will Streets & Trips recognize it automatically?

Many Nuvis can output a data signal on the USB connector if you press on the battery indicator (top right corner) for 10 seconds or so. When the device goes into test mode, connect the USB cable between the Nuvi and the computer and press Exit on the Nuvi.

Unfortunately, the signal appears on a USB connector which S&T can't see. GPS Gate can find that signal and present it on a COM port which S&T will find.

If you think that is a reasonable solution, try it out. Otherwise GPS devices are inexpensive. If you already bought S&T without the GPS, consider the Globalsat BU-353.

Terry

What Terry said. To underscore his comment that only some Nuvis are capable of doing it, I just got a new 765T yesterday and it does not do it.

It's not a big deal because I have other GPS receivers that I use with my laptop but I was a bit disappointed.

...ken...

Interesting Ken. What doesn't it do; Go into test mode or; Output GPS data?

Terry

Terry,

Does the conversion have to be done with GPSGate, or could XPort be used? I have a friend who might like to know. And, like me, if he could use the free XPort, he would pinch the penny and go that route.

You need GPS Gate as the data is presented on a USB port. xPort is not capable of seeing it. GPS Gate Express is what, $13! How cheap can he be. I bet he doesn't even contribute to the people who develop products like xPort that he can enjoy.

Terry

Goes into test mode just fine but when it comes out of test mode with the USB cable attached it just goes back into mass storage mode. No GPS output.

...ken...

If nothing happens when I prees the battery indicator, I guess it means mine (Nuvi 260W) won't work ????????

How long did you press it - takes about 10 seconds or so. I thought I remembered it not working with the 200c but don't have it any more to confirm.

Terry

10 seconds at least ... nothing. I guess I will pick up a separate device. It sounded good as my Garmin always seems to have a good strong signal.
Thanks for your help.

A separate device is a good idea anyway. Going through that song and dance each time you want to use the Nuvi is a pain I wouldn't bother with for the minor cost of a GPS such as the BU-353. The signal will be just as good if you place it on the dash or, at least, somewhere with good sky view.

Terry