Waypoint Download Options
GPS mapping (as opposed to navigation) involves storing locations in the receiver's memory in the form of waypoints. The preferred method for getting waypoint data onto a PC for display and analysis is direct download. Users can choose from a variety of download utilities and data handling methods. The receiver model is a factor in choosing a downloading approach, but a lot of it is personal preference. One of the two computers in the Biodiversity Center conference area has the popular download utilities already loaded. The various hardware/software combinations are described in the table below as well as a list of receivers that each combo has been tested on.
Computer Hardware and Software |
Save Options and Remarks |
Garmin BaseCamp version 4.0.2 installed on a Windows 7 PC. Connection is via USB. Installation of Garmin USB drivers is required. GPSmap 76CSx (use receiver's USB Mini port not the Garmin 4-prong connector) |
Select File, then Export Internal Storage. Choose a "Save To" location and file format. Delimited text (.txt extension) is the preferred file format for novices. The download date and receiver s/n should be embedded in the file name. GPS eXchange (.gpx) and .csv formats are also available depending on intended use and user expertise |
Garmin MapSource version 6.13.7 installed on a Windows 7 PC. Connection is via USB. Installation of Garmin USB drivers is required. GPSmap 76CSx (use receiver's USB Mini port not the Garmin 4-prong connector) GPSmap 60CSx (use receiver's USB Mini port not the Garmin 4-prong connector) |
Select Transfer, then Receive From Device. When the transfer is complete, choose a "Save To" location and file format. Delimited text (.txt extension) is the preferred file format for novices. The download date and receiver s/n should be embedded in the file name. GPS eXchange (.gpx) is also available depending on intended use and user expertise |