Palm T3 - Which Bluetooth GPS package to buy?

[andrewb]

Hi,

I have recently received a Tungsten T3, and I want to pair it with a Bluetooth GPS for use primarily in the car. We are planning a west -> east American road trip :-)

I was initially thinking of the TomTom Bluetooth GPS package, but then found this website and all the other permutations.

I guess this is a subjective question, but who has the better GPS package (hardware and software) for the T3, preferably designed for MAC OSx although I do have an OLD windows systems around should that be required.

Also, from a mounting perspective - does the GPS device need to be in the open (front windscreen) or can it be placed in the trunk?

Any advice would be appreciated
Andrew

[Wobbly]

Andrew,

I think this is a bit like asking which is the best mobile phone - everyone thinks its their setup!

I think the TomTom Bluetooth GPS and Navigator3 is an excellent combination. One of the forums discusses how you can get the software for only 100GBP instead of paying 250GBP for the official kit - but if you are a beginner and not too strapped for cash would suggest the orthodox route as you also get the TomTom car kit which will enable you to connect and charge both the T3 and GPS unit from one cigarette lighter adaptor (all cables included in the box). The GPS can be placed in lots of different locations, but on the dash under the windscreen is fine on my car. If the GPS isn't plugged in for power (battery 6hrs), it could be literally anywhere including your top pocket - although reception best near a window.

I'm not sure about the MacOS compatibility - but maybe check the TomTom website (www.tomtom.com) for more details. If you want to send them an email - try this procedure:

Set up an account in their support section. Then login using this account. Now go to the FAQ section and click on any question - it doesn't matter which. Now click on the 'send an email' option in the lefthand menu. The email can be on any subject / does not need to be related to the FAQ question selected. Don't expect a quick response - often I get a 'holding email' but then they usually reply within 5 days - sometimes its even next day!

I'm not sure about the availability of maps on their own (ie without the GPS bundled) so would advise purchasing both US and GB maps at same time or at least researching where to get the other one (as maps only) to ensure you don't have to get the GPS bundle twice! Maybe you could look into the backdoor route to maps only as outlined at this thread...

http://pocketgpsworld.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=8855

W.

[Wobbly]

Have just seen at one of PktGPSWorld's sponsors:

http://www.handtec.co.uk/moreinfo.asp?ProductID=204

that you can get GB maps as part of western europe software, so maybe buy the US maps bundled with GPS and this?

W.

[andrewh]

Wobbly is correct. Buy the US TomTom for T3 (which includes all maps) and then buy Maps of Western Europe which includes most European countries.

Andrew

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