GPS software/hardware to use with my laptop

[FP]

Took a trip through the desert this weekend and got lost a few times on roads that weren't clearly marked.

I've decided to buy a GPS solution but don't want to spend $500 on an all-in-one GPS solution (Garmin, etc).

I took a look at MS Streets and Trips which includes a GPS receiver but I was wondering if there were any better products on the market. Anyone have any experience with other low cost solutions that come with GPS hardware?

 

[thescreensavers]

get the GPS 18 USB with the software you can find if for about $120

the garmin software automatically recalculates and I returned the Microsoft for the garmin

http://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Deluxe-Nav...-8309772-1154011?ie=UTF8&s=electronics

 

[The Stigenator]

trust me.. the all in one unit kicks butt over having to lug my laptop with me..

i prefer my all in one unit over my laptop (i got both).. and frankly its easier to use too.

by the way i have microsoft streets and trips 2006.. and trust me there are features a all in one unit has that this just sucks at..

like no rerouting automatically if i miss an exit.. i got to press a button..

the software is useful when i am at home but not on the road.

 

[intogamer]

yes laptop may be bulkly...

Get a Dell PDA or something and get a BT reciever

It will double... as you can use the PDA whenever... leave the receiver in the card...

 

[GeekDrew]

I've never used a handheld GPS device, but I'm also looking for one of those.

As for using GPS on a laptop, however, I use Delorme Street Atlas USA, and I think it's awesome. Dynamic re-routing, easy to use, etc.

 

[FP]

I had a PDA with GPS capabilities but sold it because I never used it for the PDA functions.

I only take about 5-10 trips a year that would need GPS so I can't justify the $500 price tag when MS Streets and Trips is only $99. I don't need all of the fancy rerouting, POIs, voice commands etc. I really only need it as a reference when I am on a road trip. I always have my laptop on me and often have it sitting in the passenger seat anyway.

I checked out the Garmin GPS 18 and it looks good but the GPS receiver doesn't appear to support the new SiRF Star III. I really have no idea what that means other than it is supposed to be more accurate and faster.

Thanks for the replies. I think Streets and Trips from Costco for $99 is the winner...

 

[RossMAN]

If you have to go the cheap route then MS S&T 2006 is the way to go.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000AOGDM0/

However for an extra $200 you can buy a standalone Garmin StreetPilot c320.

As a matter of fact that's exactly what I did. Unless you have a mount for your laptop or a co-pilot (wife), it's nearly impossible to drive and glance at the laptop. Not to mention it's probably illegal and not that safe while cruising at 65MPH down I-5 South