FAQ-GPS
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How to save batteries?
Depending on the device, here are some tips to get the longest life with batteries/charges:
- Turning off internal compass significantly reduces battery drain
- Battery type should be set properly (Alkaline vs. NIMH) in your GPS settings
- Set to Battery Saver Mode, not WAAS
- Turn off beeps and backlights
How do I upgrade the firmware on my GPS device?
Here's the link to the download page and instructions: http://www.garmin.com/support/download.jsp
Will I lose data if I change the batteries?
No, your data will be stored until you reach the maximum memory allowance for your device, or you reset your track log, which ever comes first.
How long do the batteries last?
Every device is different. It depends on what kind of batteries, and what settings you currently have on the device. The re-chargeable lithium batteries in the new Forerunner and Foretrex last anwhere from 8-14 hours. On the devices that accept batteries, you can expect a range of 9-20 hours of use from Alkaline or freshly charged NiMh batteries. To save the batteries, we recommend you put the device in Battery Saver mode, turn the compass off, and use the backlight sparingly.
How do I connect a GPS receiver with a serial port to my USB port?
Many new PCs (especially laptops) have USB ports but do not have the standard 9-pin serial ports found on older computers. This presents a problem because most of the GPS manufacturers don't make data cables that terminate with USB plugs. Unfortunately, we have noticed that the USB-Serial converters often cause computer crashes. We are working hard to resolve this problem.
What does a barometric altimeter provide to the user?
Some high-end GPS devices offer barometric pressure to obtain a measurement for elevation when signal reception is not very good. The result is that you will have a smoother elevation profile in the Dashboard and Map Player. Without an altimeter, the GPS assumes your elevation is not changing when the signal goes bad. This results in a blocky elevation profile. Soon MotionBased will verify your elevation with geo-coded data. So there will be no need for an altimeter. What GPS devices does MotionBased support? MotionBased intends to support all GPS devices that store track points. However, at this time, we only support the following GPS devices. If you own or intend to purchase a GPS device not listed, please let us know so that we may prioritize your request. If you already own a GPS device, please make sure that you have a PC cable for that device. For many devices, this is an optional accessory.
How do I avoid losing a GPS signal?
A GPS receiver only works outside because it needs a line-of-site path to the GPS satellites. Any object can block the line-of-site - trees, buildings, roofs, bags, bodies, even clothes. For cyclists, the best place to place your GPS is mounted on your handlebar. Or we have found that placed in the back pocket on your jersey, facing up to the sky produces an acceptable signal. Runners should strap their GPS on their arms or wrists. Many new devices come with straps that make this easy and convenient while running.
Is it true that a WAAS based GPS such as the Foretrex will give better reception under trees than the Forerunner?
No. WAAS will improve GPS precision in open areas, but not under trees.
Quoting: http://www.garmin.com/aboutGPS/waas.html
For some users in the U.S., the position of the satellites over the equator makes it difficult to receive the signals when trees or mountains obstruct the view of the horizon. WAAS signal reception is ideal for open land and marine applications.
