Software Recommendations

vcbb5 · 11-01-2003, 10:07 AM

Ok, i know everyone loves copilot, but what puts it so far above the rest? And what seperates $300 like copilot software from $50 like Streets and Trips and Street Atlas?

adamis · 11-02-2003, 04:35 AM

Voice Navigation. Copilot seems to be made directly for in car use. Hence the interface is a little bigger and easier to read. It also has voice control (I believe) and voice navagation that will give you turn by turn directions.

Streets and Trips 2004 is a mapping software that is great for trip planning.. It does produce directions but does not feature voice navigation. Instead it will highlight the route onto the map. The GPS feature is pretty much an icon of a car that moves on the map. Nothing more but plenty adequate if all you want is to know where you are. Also if you use hibernation you will get a message saying the GPS is unable to lock on to a satalite when you wake up the computer (I've been working on a solution to this for a long time)

I don't know much about street atlas. Maybe others can put their two cents in.

Personally aside from a few minor issues with Streets and Trips 2004 I like it. The map is pretty snazzy and it is great having all of the restraunts / gas stations / points of interest on the map. I'm not sure if Copilot offers this but it might.

Bottom line, it's worth starting off with the 30 dollar GPS software and seeing if you like it before you decide you really want to spend 300 bucks. I decided that a highlighted route versus voice navigation was well worth me saving 270 bucks. Your mileage may vary...

Taytay · 11-02-2003, 08:20 AM

Well, there's also iGuidance. The folks over here at gpspassion are always raving about it (http://www.gpspassion.com/forumsen/t...idance,copilot) , and in fact, generally seem to prefer it over copilot. Granted, they are often comparing the Pocket PC versions together, but most of their gripes with Copilot are not limited to the Pocket PC - accuracy of maps and routing ability being the two main gripes about Copilot. Apparently iGuidance is driven by Navtech, which has more frequently updated maps, whereas the Copilot folks roll their own solution for maps. That thread has LOTS of enlightening reviews of Copilot, and eventually starts getting into iGuidance stuff. I read it yesterday and learned a lot.

Cheers,

Taytay

DodgeCummins · 11-02-2003, 08:45 AM

I have used Street Atlas RWE for years. It is not the best, but it does exactly what I want with no fooling around. The rand mcnally one was too much of a processor hog.

I have an older version of the microsoft product, but it did not give audio/visual turn by turn directions.

I assume the newer one does.

vcbb5 · 11-02-2003, 09:33 AM

Thanks for all the info