GPS Laptop Receivers and Software

Disadvantages of Using a Computer with GPS Software for Navigation

Mar 28, 2008

Using a computer as a GPS laptop receiver is a way to combine convenience and function in one unit. Still, not going with a dedicated GPS unit can lead to some problems.

GPS navigation units are very popular these days. Many computer owners want to know whether or not it might be possible to equip a system with GPS laptop software in leu of purchasing a full-blown car or hand held GPS unit. The idea has its advantages. Laptop GPS is often cheaper to get into than a dedicated car unit. The flexibility of a laptop also allows the user access to other features such as storage for media files and web browsing while on the road. Is laptop GPS comparable or even preferable to a stand-alone GPS unit?

Types of Laptop GPS Receivers

Tried and true GPS vendors such as Garmin also manufacture USB and Bluetooth based GPS Antennas for use with laptop computers. These antennas plug into the computer's USB port using either a cable or a wireless dongle. Most manufacturers also provide units that come bundled with GPS mapping software and extra long antenna cables (some can be as long as 30 feet or more). Most laptop GPS receivers are built to be placed on the roof of a vehicle or boat.

Positive Benefits of Using Laptop GPS Hardware

One of the biggest benefits of using laptop computer GPS is the huge screen. While most stand-alone units are limited to three or four inch screens, a laptop LCD monitor is much larger. At the same time a full size laptop computer also means a full sized keyboard and track-pad allowing for quick and easy navigation within the GPS software applications. Many computer GPS software packages also provide more advanced navigation and route selection capabilities. For some dedicated travellers such as those in recreational vehicles, laptop GPS can be an excellent choice.

Drawbacks To Laptop GPS Receivers

One of the biggest positives in favor of GPS laptop receivers is also one of its biggest drawbacks. While using a computer as a GPS unit provides the additional functions and features of the, it also requires lugging the laptop around and having it function properly while the car is in motion. A dedicated GPS can sit on the dashboard while a laptop must sit on the passenger's seat. The power adaptor and GPS cable take up space and can be problematic when a person is in a hurry to get started or lock up upon arriving at the destination. Leaving a laptop GPS antenna attached while parked is not a good idea as it advertises the existence of the GPS and more importantly, the expensive laptop it is attached to.

Despite the size and security concerns, laptop GPS receivers can be just as effective and capable as dedicated units. Look for units that provide the GPS antenna in addition to current mapping software and that offer free updates to that software once it is installed.

The copyright of the article GPS Laptop Receivers and Software in PC Hardware is owned by Chad Criswell. Permission to republish GPS Laptop Receivers and Software in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.