Ime thinking of getting a PDA/GPS or similar which will accomodate memory map ( ime told this is like having a ordnance survry map in front of you?) to enable me to map out routes for green laning, anybody got any experiences on which systems are the easiest to use / download / mark waypoints etc (as i am a bit of a techno phobe).
All advice appreciated.
thanks ferret
Ferret
I have been using Memory Map on a PDA for years and it is very very good, especially when off-road. There are some things to be aware of, some of which you probably already know.
For routing you are better off drawing the route on the PC software and then exporting it to the PDA. Trying to do it on the PDA can be a right faff. Marking waypoints is not easy because it is difficult to be precise on the screen with a gloved finger!
This software does not plan routes like TomTom or Garmin. You can get a PDA with maps from Memory Map but I would advise buying the PC software. You can transfer the latest Mobile navigator, as it is included, and you can then tailor the maps to suit. You can also choose which OS maps you buy.
The size of map on the PDA is limited because Windows Mobile 6 has filesize limits that cannot be altered (Windows Mobile 5 is better but there are still limits). I create smaller maps areas on the PC and export them to the PDA. Currently you can see all the Route Planner scale maps for the UK and Europe and each individual explorer map will dispaly easily. If using a GPS it will automatically move the map and change the map as you progress.
You will need some sort of waterproof box to house the PDA, I currently use an Otterbox 1900. I drilled some holes in the back of it and fitted a Ram mount with rubber washers to keep it watertight. It's never leaked. Touratec do a PDA case and mount which does the same thing but I have not used one.
With the Otterbox you can feed cables in through the base and power the PDA. I used to both power it and hardwired the mic/sound to my Autocom. I now just power it and use bluetooth for the phone/stereo music, satnav voice. I also have Tom Tom Navigator 7 which is good for route planning throughout Europe.
It can be difficult to read in sunlight but you get used to it. It is awkward to access the menus unless you are stopped and use a stylus.
Having said all that i like it and regularly use it to 'look at map' rather than trying to browse a satnav map.
If there is anything you want to know about this software PM me. I currently use an HTC Touch Pro PDA phone with built-in GPS but I still have my HTC P3600 Trinity that worked very well and would be available for sale if you are interested.(you would need a separate GPS unit)
Regards