gps unit

aletchet · 03-24-2006, 05:59 PM

hi i got a gps unit off ebay, i wasnt sure what one to buy so i just went to the seller and looked at his feedback from other users on the unit and most said better than expected etc.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...MEWN%3AIT&rd=1

i fire up mapstore 3.5 (demo version) to test it put gps parameters in com 3 and 9600 baud, if i click on test i can see 3 things up 4,17,20 but sat - 0 and no fix.. im guessing because it cant pick up any satelites ? is it just the gps thats not strong enough or what?
do you suggest i get another one?
via michelin mapstore seems to be about the simplest gps software to buy? wanted something that will look alright on my touchscreen monitor but not cost alot i.e under £50

kpjuk · 03-25-2006, 02:48 PM

Hi Aletchet, and welcome to the forums. This is the right place to get information, a lot of the guys and gals here have years of experience, but be warned, they do like you to find the information yourself, but will generally point you in the right direction. There are a number of NMEA free apps on the web that can test to make sure that your mouse is working. Satellite signals are very faint, and so make sure that the receiver has good line of sight to the night sky.

I have no experience of mapstore, I use Infomap Navigator, but my system is not yet in the car. I have tested it on my laptop for short journeys, but not for anything of any distance.

To get a fix, you need at least three satellites, if you are getting some signals it would suggest you are using the right com port. Have you tried putting the gps mouse outside, with no obstructions to the sky ?

Other than that I can't help you, but I wouldn't buy another one until you know what is wrong with this one.

Good Luck
KPJUK