Reviewing PDA Mapping Software

If you buy a GPS receiver specifically designed for PDA use, it will probably come bundled with mapping software that includes map data and a program that displays the maps and interfaces with the GPS receiver. In addition to the program that runs on your PDA is a program that runs on your PC; this program installs the maps on your PDA and can be used for route planning. You select the maps that you want to install on your PC and then upload the selected map data to your PDA. Because the maps are typically stored in the PDA’s memory card, the more memory you have, the more maps you’ll be able to use.
Most PDA navigation software is designed for street navigation, and has features for getting around on roads and highways, including

• Autorouting: By inputting starting- and ending-point addresses, the map program creates a route for you to follow to reach your destination. (You usually can choose between fastest or shortest routes.) The route is outlined on the map, and the program also provides turn-by-turn directions to get to your destination.
• POI data: In addition to maps, most programs have extensive databases of POIs (Points of Interest) information, including gas stations, restaurants, shopping locations, and other useful travel data. POIs appear as icons on the map that you can click to get more information. You can also search for specific POIs by geographic location.
• Real-time tracking: When your PDA is connected to a GPS receiver, an arrow moves on the screen, giving you real-time information about your current position as well as displaying where you’ve been.
• Voice prompts: In addition to displaying turn-by-turn directions on the screen, many programs provide voice prompts that tell you when to make turns to reach your final destination. This is a nice safety feature because you can pay more attention to the road and less attention to the PDA screen. Devote an entire book to discussing them all.
• Most of these programs are sold individually or might come bundled with a GPS receiver. Expect to pay anywhere between $40–$150 for a software package. One of the challenges in using a PDA in a car is dealing with the stylus. It can be quite a coordination test holding the stylus in your hand, tapping commands on the PDA with it, and driving at the same time. One slick solution is the Stinger Stylus, which is a cross between a plastic ring and an artificial fingernail. Just slip the Stinger over your finger, and your fingertip takes the place of a stylus. For more information on the Stinger, go to www.stingerstylus.com.

Most of the software and maps that come bundled with the PDA GPS receivers are designed for road navigation. But what if you want to display topographic or nautical charts on your PDA or use real-time GPS tracking off the road? You’re in luck because several PDA programs fill this need. Topographic map display is one area that PDA mapping software far exceeds handheld mapping GPS receivers. Your PDA can display full-color, detailed 1:24,000 scale maps that look exactly like the USGS paper versions. Compared with the 1:100,000 scale vector maps typically used on mapping GPS receivers, there’s no comparison when it comes to the amount of map detail that a PDA can display.