Here's where I
got my tools: |
To get started, I suggest getting a GIS application to view, edit, print, and export GIS files. The big advantages I see in using an actual GIS program over logging into a county or other GIS interface are: |
- Your system will work pretty much the same no matter what county you are working. You just have to learn one system.
- You don't have to get online to work.
- Way more powerful and flexible
print and export.
- You use GPS with your system!
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My current favorite GIS tool is:
click here to go to:
Global Mapper |
click here to go to:
Global Mapper
click here to download a free Global Mapper Trial
BUY NOW - Global Mapper version 10
BUY NOW - UPGRADE from version 9 to 10
SPECIAL DISCOUNT - Global Mapper $239.20 (with Coupon for 20% off the $299 regular price - good through 1/31/09)
Email us to request your promo code coupon today!
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- It's EASY to use.
- Makes using different projections a snap.
- Even reads zipped files.
- Easy imports and exports (feeds OziExplorer)
- OK GIS selects and vector editing.
- 3D is too cool for words.
- Huge bang for the buck.
- This replaces my expensive GIS for 90% of my projects.
- GPS - moving maps on the laptop.
- I just hope they make a moving map for PDA's in the future along with a couple of minor features.
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Next, you might want to add a GPS. This with show you where you are on the map. (Great for your laptop in the car). |
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This GPS will connect directly into your computer's USB port. |
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Any good GPS with a
SIRF Star III chipset (or equivalent) should work. There are also GPS units with a USB connection instead of the wireless Bluetooth. You can also use a Bluetooth GPS with your Windows Mobile (or CE) handheld unit. |
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If your laptop does not have a built-in Bluetooth receiver, here's what you need.
Bluetooth Adapter - This allows your GPS to communicate with your laptop computer. If your laptop is bluetooth capable, you don't need it. |
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SD Cards:
High Speed
works best. |
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Now you're ready to view your GIS maps on a handheld with an arrow showing your position on the map. If you have a Windows Mobile (or CE) PDA or cell phone, all you need is software. If you need a PDA handheld, check out this: |
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I've been using a Dell Axim X51 in combination with the Globalsat BT359. The Axim line is no longer available. This would be my first choice if I had to replace my unit. |
These will work
with OziCE
Windows Mobile
version |
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Here are some PDA choices that have built-in SIRF Star III GPS and Wi-Fi to connect with the internet. You can also use any PDA or cell phone that uses the Windows Mobile operating system and is Bluetooth capable. |
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Magellan (professional) offers two models that use Windows Mobile or Windows CE for operating systems. The MM CX system pictured is preloaded with Arc Pad. If your budget will allow it, and you need a true handheld GIS/GPS system, this may be a good choice. However, you put together moving map solution for less than $500 using a PDA and the Ozi Explorer software. |
This will work
with OziCE
Windows CE
version |
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This GPS can be used for combining a single unit that works for on-road and off-road applications. Instructions for running Ozi-Explorer can be found at the GPSPassion.com forum. |
HP IPAQ 310 Travel Companion from Tiger Direct |
Garmin Options
*Recommended* |
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| Other Choices |
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comes with preloaded topo maps |
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From Tiger Direct: Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx GPS |
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| Magellan Options |
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| Magellan Triton 1500 Handheld GPS from Tiger Direct |
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OK, you've got the software to produce and export maps from all sorts of free maps and data. Now you need software to import your maps to use with your Windows Mobile handheld system. Here is the best product I've found so far: |
| OziExplorer CE |
In the past, I've had some issues with "Ozi". However, it looks like the new development version has ironed out some problems and added some tremendous features.
To run moving maps on your pocket PC, you will need OziExplorer CE and their free utility Img2Ozi conversion utility. Simply export georeferenced JPG files you create in Global Mapper, convert them to the Ozi format using Img2Ozi, then use your moving map in OziExplorer CE on your GPS equipped pocket PC. The real power of OziExplorer CE is that you can customize your screens to meet your needs.
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| Links to GPS Sellers - to shop for the best deals |
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| Great deals, great service. I've bought a ton of GPS stuff and never had a problem. |
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| Run Global Mapper in the field with a tablet PC. |
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| Great place for computers, PDAs, GPS, and other electronics. |
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| For the rugged Panasonic Toughbook computers, cell phones and PDAs. |
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| Easy & dependable. |
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| send email: info@ncgps.com |
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