I have an etrex - want to use it on the Road with my Laptop

[agg]

Hello

Thanks for taking the time to help a newbie. I'm a quick learner, so I wont take up much of your time.

I was given an Garmin Etrex about a year ago. I've used it twice while camping/hiking. I have a lot of tech goodies, but have never jumped into the GPS stuff. I live in a large city where public transportation is the standard. When I drive, it normally to a location a few hours away. I always bring my laptop with my in the car and use it for audio listening selection.

Last weekend I started to ponder the idea of brining my etrex along on the trips. I'd like to attach it to my laptop and run a navigation software such as Microsoft Streets while I drive. It would be more for entertainment then actual navigation so I'm not looking to spend a lot of extra money.

I have done some research but still have a few questions. They are:
1. Are the only additions I need to purchase be a PC-interface cable and mapping software?
2. Is there a cheaper PC interface care instead of the 40 dollar one Garmin offers - say a off brand or OEM cable that may be 1/2 the price?
3. What mapping software would you recommend? I travel on large main roads to common destinations. I'd like it to use minmum resources on my laptop. I'd also like it to give voice directions.
4. Are there any peices of advice you may offer a newbie?

Thank you in advance for your help.
AGG

[lbendlin]

Welcome to the forums.

3) You will want to use a Netropa clone - something like Intellinav iGuidance. It's reasonable small and performant, and not too expensive. It's also waaaay better than Streets & Trips etc.
_________________
Lutz

Report Map Errors here:
TomTom/TeleAtlas NAVTEQ

[oddsock]

I dont know your location but this place does them and their very helpful
! http://gpsbitz.co.uk/gpsbitz_store/index.php?cat_id=4&catname='eTrex,%20eMap%20&%20Geko%20CABLES%20'
Dave

[agg]

Thanks!

I found ebay offered some great prices on the cables. I found the interface cable/cig power cord combo for 17 dollars shipped - instead of 50 through other online retailers.

I looked into intellanav as you suggested. It looks nice. Since it will be for entertainment more then actual directions, I think I might try something that has a few more features. If I decide to go basic, intellanav seems liek the way to go.

Are there any key software titles or additions I should add to my laptop for kicks while on the road?

Thanks
AGG

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