Share GPS

Zip-Lock · 08-05-2002, 10:10 AM

I’m trying to find a way to “split” a serial cable so that I can use a single GPS on two computers at the same time. The GPS I have is fully automatic meaning it needs no initialization in order to start sending NMEA sentences. Can I just split the Rx and the ground and run them to the two computers? I have seen some serial port debuggers that do just that.

spyhunter · 08-06-2002, 07:46 PM

which GPS are you using? i have the delorme but i'm not too happy with it

Zip-Lock · 08-07-2002, 12:05 AM

Garmin 35. I love it! It's pricely but I had to get it.

To follow up with the topic, I bought the parts to do the "split" today so I'll try to get it working soon.

marsjell · 08-07-2002, 01:46 AM

I don't see why not, just try it I would say. maybe first measure if you have a voltage difference between the two grounds. If there is, I would reconsider or run a thick cable between the computer chassis' before connecring the GPS

just thinking....

spyhunter · 08-07-2002, 10:10 AM

why did you choose the garmin35 over the 16? how much did you pay?

Zip-Lock · 08-07-2002, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by spyhunter
why did you choose the garmin35 over the 16? how much did you pay?

I've had the Garmin 35 for about two years. I'm not sure why I didn't buy the Garmin 16, maybe it's relatively new? I haven't heard to much about it. I think I paid about $200 for the Garmin 35 back in the day.

spyhunter · 08-07-2002, 10:20 AM

interesting...i have the earthmate and its....ok. i just don't like the software too much, which do you use?

cproaudio · 08-07-2002, 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by spyhunter
interesting...i have the earthmate and its....ok. i just don't like the software too much, which do you use?

Which part of the software dont you like?? please explain because im in the market of getting a gps nav software

spyhunter · 08-07-2002, 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by cproaudio

Which part of the software dont you like?? please explain because im in the market of getting a gps nav software

hmm well becaiscally i need to play with it some more. my main issue is that i haven't got it to work with my earthmate yet. and i kind of don't like the look of it compared to other products..i'll keep the board posted once its working on the new computer

DodgeCummins · 08-07-2002, 06:16 PM

Funny you mention the splitting function.

A friend of mine did just that sharing the Garmin GPS35 (actually the standalone guts with separate antenna...long story)

Anyway, the GPS35 will put out two serials anyway, but the neat part is that since you don't need to talk to the Garmin...just receiver the data...you only have to split the data line.

There may be some signal loss, but it is a one way transmission, like patching into cable tv.

I would put the junction in a shielded box (metal) and use shielded cable runs from the splitter.

the splitter is simply splicing all your items desiring gps feed together and hook to the data out.

only use the one data line...not the clock or anything else.

I don't remember if they had any problems...I'll ask.

OK talked to them...it worked just fine.

mxxxxxm · 08-07-2002, 07:42 PM

I;ve read up on CoPilot by travroute :

http://www.thegpsstore.com/cgi-bin/S...604+1028781475

Looks complete and fits the budget, anyone want to offer an opinion?

Zip-Lock · 08-07-2002, 09:47 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DodgeCummins
OK talked to them...it worked just fine.

I just made made mine, it works fine. Now I just have to put it in a neat little project enclosure.

Zip-Lock · 08-12-2002, 12:34 AM

Because the above project was such a success, I’m thinking about taking it a step further.

Right now I am running out of serial ports, and thinking about sharing the same serial port for both my GPS and my LCD. The GPS only uses the Rx and the LCD only uses the Tx. The grounds would be common. Anyone see a problem with that? I’m writing my own software so that aspect isn’t a concern.

AVGeek · 08-26-2002, 10:24 AM

I don't see why not Zip. There are some professional products that I use that simply have a serial port in with a loop out.