Software's the Missing Link to Your GPS Unit

By Joseph Aaron

When people submit reviews on the diverse GPS devices from the larger brands, they appear to focus primarily on the the device itself; the appearance, performance levels, and the user-friendliness of the unit. What those reviews normally ignore, regrettably, is the GPS Software which is required in order for the device to interface with the Windows or Mac systems correctly. This software is needed for functions like synchronizing and downloading the most recent maps and POI's to a GPS device. Similar to regular software, GPS software that is too hard to update should be avoided. Knowing about the differences between GPS software may not be the point that moves you to purchase one given brand, but knowing about the supporting software is important after you already put money down on one GPS device. The kinds of GPS software are going to often be practically identical for the range of models within a specific brand. A nice model to look into is the Garmin Nuvi 465t Truck GPS Navigator.

Garmin Nuvi Software

Garmin Nuvi manufactures a wide selection of different GPS software that you can get from their main website. Software updates are able to be downloaded manually or through another bit of software called WebUpdater. In order to make WebUpdater work, all that is needed is to plug the device in and follow the easy wizard steps. Garmin also offers several mapping programs which support both Windows and Mac users. There is actually a special section exclusively for Mac users allowing them to make the most out of their Garmin Nuvi GPS devices.

TomTom HOME

The TomTom HOME lets you search your TomTom for existing software and run upgrades when required. As well as the basic abilities in transferring maps, TomTom HOME also allows customers to download files currently used in the GPS unit, then customize and put them back in the unit to make unique screen graphics, giving your TomTom a more personal look. Adding to that, TomTom even managed to engineer software for mobile phones, the majority of which has been scrapped. Fortunately there is still an application that supports an iPhone 3G.

Magellan Software

Magellan might have the well-known habit of producing reasonably priced products, but they now offer a lot of software provided to be downloaded at no cost, including two individual versions; VantagePoint and MapGuard. VantagePoint is a multipurpose application made to transfer all the GPS bells and whistles to a computer screen. Every one of the maps, trails, directions, and points of interest are offered and your maps can be browsed with both the 2D and 3D effects.

MapGuard is Magellan's alternate program and contains MapSend Manager and Mapsend Lite. The MapSend Lite is a state of the art application designed to view any map on a PC, enabling you to choose waypoints and design directions. This software also support Geocaching, and you can also convert information into several different formats. A great unit to consider is the Garmin Nuvi 465t Truck GPS Navigator.

Judging Each Application

Once again, GPS software ought not be the only factor in picking your new GPS device. These applications are only sold to support their products and tap into that product's maximum capabilities. Out of the devices listed, TomTom HOME easily beats out the others as a result of our ability to customize the user interface. Certain kinds of software may even be "test driven" even if you don't have the corresponding GPS device. - 21396

About the Author:

Joseph Aaron writes for a site that helps consumers make smarter buying decisions on GPS Navigation Systems. Amongst the highest rated GPS units recommended on his website is the Garmin Nuvi 465t Truck GPS Navigator.