GPS Data Storage Tips

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GPS: Expandable Memory

If you're in the market for a new GPS, you're probablty thinking about a lot of things: Does it talk?
Will it fit on the dashboard or a hiking pack?
What kind of maps does it have?

You're probably not giving much thought to GPS memory, especially expandable memory. But consider the advances in GPS data storage over the past few years and what you can do with extra memory -- like upload a complete street-by-street map of North America, for example.

Then consider the future and the detail you'll be able to include in your GPS -- Google Earth maybe?
If you don't have expandable GPS memory, you're going to be faced with buying a new model every few years. If you want to save some bucks as technology improves in this area, you may want to invest in expandable GPS memory now.

   

Advances In Micro-SD Cards

It used to be that if you wanted a GPS with mapping capabilities, you had to buy one with maps pre-installed in the onboard GPS memory. With some models you had to upload to the GPS memory from a CD-ROM.
Now, with advances in micro-SD cards, it's easier to select maps you want in your GPS and upload and download details to and from the memory.
The new Garmin X-series is a good example. All the models in this series have a micro-SD expansion slot. Map enthusiasts can use this slot to install topo or marine maps, even street directories.
This capability makes any of these GPS models more versatile and easier to use on land or by sea.

   

Mapping Capabilities

What's the difference between a GPS and a GPS with an expansion card? Look at the Garmin GPSMAP60 series, with and without the X designation.
The ones without the X do not have the micro-SD slot. They have enough onboard memory to give you map detail of one to three states, which can be limiting.
The X model comes with a 2GB card. It can hold an entire map of North America. Users also do not have the inconvenience of having to upload and download maps from a CD via USB.
Pick the product that meets your needs, though it may be to your advantage to have expandable memory and enough data for whatever situation you encounter.

   

GPS: Monitoring Your Workout

The ultimate in workout monitors is offered by both Garmin and Timex. They have systems that combine a stopwatch and race timer with a GPS and heart rate monitor.
A major benefit of this system is the data storage capability, allowing users to hold and monitor personal data.
With Timex you need to purchase a separate data recorder; Garmin keeps it all in one unit.
After each workout, you can upload the data to different Web sites that analyze your distance, times and heart rate. The mappaing capability gives you a complete look at your workout and helps you monitor and meet your personal fitness goals.

   

GPS As Your Co-Pilot

In the near future most every new car model with come with a GPS installed on the dashboard as a standard feature. It's convenient to plug in your destination, sit back and listen for the voice prompts to get take you there. But did you ever wonder how those stand-alone systems store street-by-street data?
The answer is hard drives. Popular models from Tom Tom, Garmin, Cobra and Lowrence hold their street maps on hard drives, expanding their GPS data storage capabilities.
If you want GPS to be your vehicle's navigator, get one with a hard drive to hold street-by-street data.

   
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