PDAToday Reviews smart2go GPS Software with Socket BT GPS Receiver [Archive]

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Ekkie Tepsupornchai

03-17-2005, 10:00 PM

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.pdatoday.com/maximumpda_more/2867_0_2_0_C/' target='_blank'>http://www.pdatoday.com/maximumpda_...e/2867_0_2_0_C/</a><br /><br /></div><i>"There are many choices of hardware and software that will give you the basic GPS navigation functions. The limitation of any system is usually the software. The speed and performance of available software packages can vary greatly. So when I heard about a new navigation software package from Gate5, I was very interested in giving it a try. <...> The smart2go package is expected to include [in addition to the Socket BT receiver] a device cradle, a memory card reader to assist in transferring data to the PDA or Smartphone, and a CD containing maps for the US and Canada. Maps for Europe will be available as an option. While this system is sold as a package, I will mainly focus on the smart2go software."</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/smart2go1.gif" /><br /><br />Darius and I actually had a chat recently about our desire to invest in some GPS technology, and if you're anything like me, you might find yourself a bit "dazzled" at the huge array of selection available at both hardware and software levels. That's a good problem to have of course, but a true geek selection takes time and we have to do our research! ;) So I was personally very interested in reading this <a href="http://www.pdatoday.com/maximumpda_more/2867_0_2_0_C/">PDAToday article</a> on the smart2go / Socket BT GPS Receiver bundle. This is also a great opportunity for me to shamelessly ask you PPC users out there what h/w and s/w GPS solutions do you use and how you like it. Oh, and for anyone shopping for a good GPS solution, be sure to read the review! :P

hang5lngbd

03-17-2005, 10:29 PM

I have tried a number of different hardware / software combinations over the years, starting with a PCMCIA card for my iPaq 3600.

I have 2 very different bluetooth GPS devices right now, and my software can't tell the difference between them. They both work great and I'm assuming that any OEM can make a decent bluetooth GPS by this point.

The current software that I have loaded is CoPilot and Mapopolis. I loved Mapopolis for my h4150, but the software gets confused by my VGA screen on my hx4700 and is barely usable. But I still choose to use Mapopolis because CoPilot is terrible. It has a slow and confusing user interface and creating maps that are big enough to be usefull without making the program too slow is quite a chore. Plus CoPilot has software activation. So once you install the software, you have to go online and type in your code to get a responce code and type that into your device. If you need to reinstall the software you need to remember to deactivate your software on the website first.
The worst part about this is that if your device crashes and you have to do a hard reset you can't simply reinstall the software again. You then have to call a non toll free number and explain to them what happened. Their representative was very rude and didn't understand why I couldn't do it online.
Mapopolis is a great program that needs some refinement to be able to work with VGA.
I myself am looking into buying this next version of TomTom when it comes out - assuming they have VGA support.

beq

03-17-2005, 11:56 PM

Thanks for the timely thread, I too (and I'm sure others) have also been looking recently for reviews/opinions to wheat out the "best" (though subjective I know) GPS solutions. Just bought latest CoPilot for PPC and Laptop, but I'm still looking though...

I kept putting off scouring through all the GPS Passion content since there's just so much stuff to sort through... Oh and I even forgot about PocketGPS until the recent mention...

ctmagnus

03-18-2005, 12:28 AM

Holy :shocked!: there have been a lot of GPS-related reviews lately!

Anyways, the one I liked was the one that came with all the maps preloaded on a MMC/SD card.

acronym

03-18-2005, 03:22 AM

I wouldn't agree that socket is the best manuf. to go with on a bluetooth card. I bought their bluetooth cf card a couple of years back for the pda, it worked fine at the time but now since I have built-in bluetooth I wanted to download the windows software and use the cf card with my laptop. Well, socket seems to sell 2 packages of bluetooth cards - 1 for pda and 1 that comes with a cf-pc card adapter for windows. If you have the pda version you gotta pay for the drivers for it to work in windows.

"If you purchased our Connection Kit for Windows CE and would like drivers for Windows 98SE, Me, 2000 and XP we recommend you purchase the Windows Upgrade Kit for Bluetooth. The Upgrade Kit includes the software and documentation in English, French, German, and Japanese as well as a special extended CF-to-PC Card adapter designed specifically for our CompactFlash Card. You can purchase the Windows Upgrade Kit online by clicking here. If you have further questions, please contact Socket Technical Support department at www.socketcom.com/prodreg/ and submit a question."

I realize that this article isn't for the bluetooth cf card per se, but I've learned to stay away from this vendor.

jsloan

03-18-2005, 03:45 AM

Several years ago my wife and took a three week driving tour of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Not speaking the language I decided that navigation could better be handled by my HP Jornada, a GPS and a mapping program. Having previously used OziExplorer and a Magellan ColorTrak GPS to navigate a kayak across Northern Saskatchewan I thought that this combination, mated with a PDA, would make an ideal set of tools for navigating in Europe. I wasn't disappointed. I scanned and calibrated maps from the Michelin Touring and Motoring Atlas, laid out the routes and marked points of interest. When we arrived I mounted the Jornada in a simple dashboard mount, connected the GPS to its serial port and voila. Had it not been for this combination my wife and I may have parted ways during the trip. The short distances and very fast speeds meant that the navigator (my wife) had to be ready in an instant to announce exits (German - Ausfarht - which I thought at first was the name of a town). The PDA/GPS combination came to the rescue and resolved some of the 'communication lag' extremely well.

This year we are returning for a 5 week sojourn of Southern and Western Europe. My PDA has evolved into an hx4700 and my Magellan Colortrak has morphed into a smaller Magellan Sporttrak. I continue to use these external devices primarily because they are self powered and don't draw from the IPAQ's battery. The external GPS, which is waterproof and has its own screen can also be used in conditions that the IPAQ wouldn't be suited for.

I have purchase the great Seido G2500 Car kit for the iPAQ. It includes a customizable RJ11 jack for serial input which can be mated with the Magellan's serial cable. It has an internal amplifier which, when connected to the IPAQ, allows audible directions to be easily heard above the car noise.

For walking tours in the major cities I will carry the IPAQ/Magellan combination strapped to my person. For this I was able to acquire, from Gomadic, an IPAQ connector to Magellan Sportrak connector cable which alleviates the hassle of mating two different cables together.

For software I chose both Fugawi and OziExplorer mapping software, each which have both a desktop and a PDA version. Ozi is by far the more capable package with both its desktop and PDA versions miles ahead of the equivalent from Fugawi. Unfortunately there is a dirth of detailed European maps available in any of the many formats that Ozi can read. So, for a reasonable price I was able to purchase a complete set of digitized and calibrated European road maps compatible with Fugawi. These I will use for areas such as cities where I need a lot of detail. I will mark an area of interest on my laptop and then download the selected map section file to my SDRAM in the IPAQ. For driving the main highway systems (Autobahn) which requre less detail I am using scanned and manually calibrated maps (from the Michelin map series) with OziExplorer and am adding my own voice directions.

To test all of this and ensure that it works is difficult without an appropriate string of GPS coordinates. Fortunately Fugawi's desktop version will output a simulated GPS NMEA file for a chosen route. I output this file to a virtual serial port on my desktop computer, created by Franson's excellent GpsGate program, which logs the output into a file. I can port the Franson file to the IPAQ and where I play the file using the PDA version of Franson's GpsGate. It creates a virtual port on the IPAQ to which I can attach both Fugawi and Ozi programs simultaneously. While driving I will use Franson to gate the real GPS data to both programs simultaneously. I can then switch between either program using Wisbar to obtain the level of map detail that I want. However, at home, I can test my routes and audio directions for accuracy by playing the NMEA file through Fransons virtual port on the PDA.

I may also attach my Logitech Bluetooth headphone to the IPAQ, not only to better hear the audible directions but I may use the Logitech's mike to input voice commands (to switch map programs) using my Fonix VoiceCentral version 3.

Nevertheless, should any or all fail, or a terrorist EMP bomb wipe out all electronic devices, I will still have my paper maps as backup.

CEGiven

03-18-2005, 04:23 AM

Here's my "GPS" SW/HW profile. I use GPS for both road navigation and geocaching:

# Hardware
* PDA: HP iPAQ 4155 Pocket PC
* GPS's
o HAiCOM 303s CF (compact flash) and 404BT Bluetooth slipper
+ Arkon Vent Mount for PDA (came with GPS)
+ Windshield mount magnetic mount for Bluetooth slipper (came with GPS)
+ HAiCOM External Antenna with magnetic base
o Magellan Meridian Gold (v5.38)

A Pocket PC is a delicate and expensive device, and the GPS units for a PPC are just as expensive and delicate. Wet weather, a few falls during steep climbs, and loosing the HAiCOM (thankfully just temporarily) in deep forest leaves was just too nerver-wracking. I could either protect them in expensive Otter Boxes ® or use that same money for an inexpensive but more rugged "real" GPS.

I now take both GPS's with me. The HAiCOM excels at road navigation and is perfect for general planning using Microsoft Pocket Streets. But the 303s has too long of a delay and can create problems when used for foot travel. Cliffs and buildings can create maddening echos and extreme "slingshot" tracks (you stand still and five minutes later, the pointer jumps 100 feet showing your true location -- maybe). In open areas with good signal, it can do a fantastic job. Besides being more rugged, the "MeriGold" also serves as backup if the HAiCOM isn't behaving. The HAiCOM 303mmf, versus my 303s, supposedly doesn't have the delay problem and also has WAAS support. Not that it would have influenced my original purchase since the 303s is what was in the package deal, and now I can use both WAAS and SiRFXTrac.

* Belkin FT8001 Bluetooth USB Adapter (when I want to wirelessly use the GPS with my laptop)
# Software
* For the Pocket PC
o GPXsonar (also creates LOC for other programs, and pushpins for Pocket Streets)
o GPS Tuner by Megalith
o MS Pocket Streets (free with MS Streets & Trips 2005)
o iNAV iGuidance (came with the GPS)
o Vito Navigator II
* For the Laptop
o iNAV iGuidance (came with the GPS)
o MS Streets & Trips 2005
o GSAK to create push pins for S&T
o GPSBabel
o EZDetach, PKZIP. and MightySync (automatically extract Pocket Queries (GPX's) from emails and synchronize to Pocket PC's Storage Card)

CrashX

03-18-2005, 05:53 AM

http://www.rreynolds.net/images/forums/m500GPSweb.jpg

I currently use a Magellan Navman with my Palm m515. It's worked well for the last year or so but I've been looking to upgrade. The problem though is that I'm looking for a specific type of GPS receiver.

I use the GPSr for road directions as well as Geocaching, and I'm always worried about taking the PDA "into the wild". It hasn't been a major concern since the m515 isn't even a backup PDA for me anymore, but it would still be quite a loss should something happen. My current PDA, an iPAQ h6315, is invaluable compared to the m515 and I can't chance having it damaged by taking it on a cache hunt.

The perfect solution for me would be a stand-alone GPS receiver, like a Meridian or eTrex, which also has Bluetooth connectivity in it. This would allow me to use it in a vehicle with a PDA or laptop for driving directions, and I could take it with me as a stand-alone unit when on a trail. This type of functionality will protect my PDA by allowing me to leave it behind.

I know that Fortuna released a unit like this, but I've heard nothing but bad reviews on it, and its features are somewhat limited when compared to an equally priced Garmin or Magellan handheld. Although a new GPSr is definitely in my future, I probably won't invest in one until I can find a device that serves both my purposes.

Stik

03-18-2005, 06:49 AM

jimski

03-18-2005, 06:57 AM

Using ths HP Bluetooth Navigator System with my 4705. Tried to use TomTom, but their 2004 version has some conflicts with Bluetooth (yes, another Bluetooth compatibility issue :( ) so I decided to try something that was guaranteed to work with my 4705.

Maybe not as slick as TomTom, but as a first time GPS user, Navigator certainly seems to get the job done. In fact, I traveled from the east coast to Minneapolis, MN tonight and Navigator got me from the airport to the restaurant for dinner and then to the hotel. Tomorrow its a trip to a machine vendor and then back to the airport, all without looking at a map and not missing a turn. Sweet :D

I was able to fit all 48 continental US states and the eastern Canadian provinces on two 1GB CF cards, labeled East and West. I hit about 20-25 states plus Canada every year, so I never know where I am going to be tomorrow.

ctmagnus

03-18-2005, 07:16 AM

I was able to fit all 48 continental US states and the eastern Canadian provinces on two 1GB CF cards

...and west of Ontario on a 256MB card ;)

carphead

03-18-2005, 10:32 AM

Over here!!!

Using....

X50v
Brodit Mount (plus move mount so I can change mounts between IPOD and X50v)
HAiCOM 303MMF CF (compact flash) and 404BT Bluetooth slipper. Installed on rear shelf of car using velcro!!!!

Software

TT3
GPS Speed Sentry (testing)
GPSDash (Testing)
GPS Tuner
VitesseLimite
Wififofum
Mapoplis

TT3 works great but I'm not happy with the lack of warning for POI (Such as speed cameras). Looking forward to the TT5 upgrade.

I'm not overly keen on Mapoplis as it doesn't seem to be happy 100% with VGA. Hopefully a update will solve that problem.

I keep looking a other GPS packages with better POI stuff. But I've yet to find anything that has the good one handed (when driving) operation of TT.

beq

03-18-2005, 12:09 PM

I bought their bluetooth cf card a couple of years back for the pda, it worked fine at the time

You mean that it worked as advertised??

but now since I have built-in bluetooth I wanted to download the windows software and use the cf card with my laptop.

Just so I have this straight. After a couple of years, you expected a enhanced software upgrade to give your older PocketPC card the added capability to use it in a notebook/laptop for free?

Do you feel that there was no company cost, notwithstanding the CF to PC Card adapter, involved for this upgrade endeavor?

Is there a software tree somewhere that these things get plucked out of?

I admit though that when Socket first came out (a long time) ago with their restricted software driver policies for their various products (like the CF Wi-Fi, BT, etc cards), I recall it causing quite a brouhaha among users. It was one of the common gripes among the forums like Brighthand... My memory is vague, but as I seem to recall, they charged customers extra $$$ to get driver for a different platform, and even charged extra $$$ for customers to upgrade to a newer driver in the same platform (or am I mistaken in my memory here?). But this second aspect I think they'd backed off from after too many complaints -- obviously since they'd recently provided upgraded driver version for the CF Wi-Fi card for free :)

I think at the time many users were accustomed to buying computing hardware and having all the drivers readily provided (akin to buying PC graphics cards and having Windows/Linux/Mac drivers provided). But I'm not inclined to pass too harsh a judgement as I can see if perhaps Socket feels they should be compensated for their driver development efforts (then again Socket-brand products in general already seem to carry a premium, hehe). But they do make good hardware (or rather choose to rebadge good hardware)...

acronym

03-18-2005, 02:59 PM

disconnected

03-18-2005, 04:47 PM

I've been using Mapopolis with a Fortuna GPSmart for about two years now.

The Fortuna has a few quirks, and I'm planning to get one of the new Sirf III units soon.

On the whole, I've been happy with Mapopolis. One of the features I really like is that it DOES speak street names. The review of the Socket package says that no PPC does this, but Mapopolis definitely does; it's kind of a robotic voice, which seems to bother some people, and it mispronounces a lot of things, but I think it's a great feature. Aside from its VGA problems, currently being worked on, its main drawback is in the long-distance routing area. Selecting the maps you need for a trip is a pain because no desktop software is provided. The mapopolis website has maps of states showing counties, but no cities. You kind of have to guess which counties you need, and copy them individually. You can copy whole states, which is fine for local use, but there is not really a "corridor" feature for long-distance travel; there are some workarounds, but they're not very user-friendly.

Stik

03-18-2005, 08:19 PM

My memory is vague, but as I seem to recall, they charged customers extra $$$ to get driver for a different platform, and even charged extra $$$ for customers to upgrade to a newer driver in the same platform (or am I mistaken in my memory here?).

Your memory is pretty good I think. Charging customers extra money to get the driver/software/adapter to enhance the B^ card to work on the Windows platform ( rather than exclusively on WMOS ) is what acronym was/is referring to.

On your second point, Socket gave its established B^ card customers an option to buy not only new B^ software, but to upgrade to a new B^ card itself, new software included of course. Socket's old B^ card ran on Digianswer software, which was not very good software, but, at the time, was the only software/driver that was compatible w/ Nokia B^ phones.

The company then had to switch gears w/ their new version B^ card, w/ new software and drivers... Blue Soleil. I have a feeling that the Blue Soleil people didn't do this out of the kindness of their heart, ( $$$$ ) and is why Socket has to charge for the upgrade. Its also why Socket has 2 classes of B^ cards. One for PPC devices only, and one that will work in PPC's /laptops/notebooks/ tablets etc.

But I'm not inclined to pass too harsh a judgement as I can see if perhaps Socket feels they should be compensated for their driver development efforts (

Nor I. From a business standpoint, its either be compensated for your ( $ ) efforts, or die.

I totally apologize for taking this offtrack, it wasn't my intention. :oops: Some comments I won't let stand if I think a rebuttal is in order.

There has been excellent remarks and experiences made by users here ( jsloan I'm so jealous! :lol: ) on what folks use for a satisfying GPS experience. Just what Ekkie asked for...

This is also a great opportunity for me to shamelessly ask you PPC users out there what h/w and s/w GPS solutions do you use and how you like it.

Hope it continues. :wink:

pine

03-18-2005, 08:57 PM

I also prefer mapopolis. I have tried TomTom destinator ostia Oncourse etc and found the interface of mapopolis is the most intuitive and useful. Particularly, it is extremely easy to a). zoom in and out, espeically box zooming b). control the detail level the map. this is extremely useful for me. I believe tomtom also allows detail control, but the problem is it uses a slide, how can I be expected to move a slide while I am driving?

I think if you just use it as a navigation device, meaning you get start and end point input before you get started, hook up your gps and follow it faithfully. many just work file. However, if you also want to use it as a map to say look up places, see what is near by, choose location manually etc, mapopolis is the best interface out there IMHO.

drawback of mapopolis is a). no desktop map selector, takes some guess and the help of MS Street to figure out which county to load (but the separate highway map really helps). b). no 3D (which I don't care) c). takes a long time to calculate long trip. But it does plot the entire route across country in my tiny 32M XDA, just takes time.

Ekkie Tepsupornchai

03-19-2005, 01:41 AM

There has been excellent remarks and experiences made by users here ( jsloan I'm so jealous! :lol: ) on what folks use for a satisfying GPS experience. Just what Ekkie asked for...
Absolutely. This is the best PDA community around and these testimonials are fantastic proof of that! Thanks everyone for your input. Much appeciated! :D