sleepysnails

Hello, I have my old PC and solely use it for GSAK and downloading all my PQs, but that's another story... I mainly use my MAC AIR and had the same problem when I got it, too. I'd start up my Google Chrome browser. Then I'd plug in my Garmin and it said that it recognized it and that it wrote it on there, but it was no where to be found... Then for the heck of it opened up firefox, it did the same thing. Then I opened up Safari and it works. Try that. It worked for me and my Garmin.... I hope that it works for you!

Hello, Ive been Geocaching for about two years and love it! I'm a mere beginnier with about 360 finds and 3 hides... For a while now I've been trying to find a way to place a large cache near where I live, but one problem... I live in downtown Los Angeles. I've been trying to figure out a way to place something larger than an Altoids tin or a Tupperware container somewhere...? Most of the ones, if not all of them are nanos, micros, or an Altoids tin. There is only one here in the city of Los Angeles that is a truly large one and it's awesome! (GC1DZX9). I would like to place more containers that are large, but am having trouble thinking about what and where. I don't mind doing something similar to the above mentioned cache, but I'd like to try and do something different.... It been a while and I finally thought that I would throw it out here in the forum and see if there are any suggestions....? What size am I thinking about... Larger than a sandwich size container...? If you have any suggestions or pictures of containers that are hidden in a metropolitan area, please let me know! Thanks!

So true. I just thought I'd throw it out there. All points taken well. Thanks for the feed back!

Au contraire. I've cached with the 3GS and upgraded to the 4S, and have only used that since I began in 2009. The 4S is plenty capable in forest cover, rural areas with little or no cell coverage (cell coverage is not required for GPS use), and out in the desert (and that was first hand with my 3GS - my group of 4, 3 non-cachers and myself, were relying solely on my device..in the desert). I tend to voice up in these threads because the thought tends to be one person's experience means it's one or the other. Ultimately, use what you're comfortable with (balanced with tech capability), because as much of a 'negative reputation' smartphones have, they are capable of providing a successful and fun and solid caching experience. Use what you're comfortable with, because while "smartphones" on average may be less accurate or capable than GPSrs, high end smartphones are certainly far more capable, and it's the app that more defines what your experience will be like. The best caching combination, as most anyone will agree, is a combination of both smartphone and dedicated GPSr. Generally, the GPSr will be faster and may be more accurate than a smartphone. But by no means is caching with a smartphone only good for 'beginners' or limiting technologically. If you know how to use the smartphone and optimize its use while caching (for battery life, pre-preparation for rural trips, and data organization and communication), then a GPSr may never be needed. In short, a GPSr may guarantee you a smoother caching experience. A smartphone can provide (as a device) far more than just a solid caching experience, thus it can be more expensive. Both classes of device provide specialized capabilities that can improve your caching experience. Therefore the best option, if money isn't as much of an issue, is both. And please, if caching with a smartphone, only cache with a mid- to high-end smartphone with quality GPS support. =P Also please, ignore people that say caching with only a smartphone is, generally speaking, a bad idea. Context and detail matter "smartphone" is far too broad a term by which to classify a gps device. Perhaps try a forum search, for there have been many a raging debate regarding smartphone vs dedicated gps... You are extremely correct! I'm not saying that smartphones are 'bad' in Geocaching. I'm not being as clear as I should. The caveat that I should have made more clear in my post is that it is my opinion and my experiences. Everyone has different desires and experiences. The combination of both is the best way to go! But, if the debate is either or... I'd go with the GPS over the smartphone.... But, that is my humble opinion...

I was reading the thread of "bad caches." Yeah, in my time I've discovered a number of them. I was thinking about how to possibly minimize the amount of bad containers.... When someone wants their cache hide to be approved by the reviewer, have that person not only submit their entry, but also a picture of their cache. The only person that would see this picture would be the reviewer. Now, I know that a lot of caches become bad because of the lack of upkeep and weather, but there are also A LOT of caches that start off bad and just get worse. It's just a thought... An addendum to this idea is: Not only submit a picture of the cache to the reviewer, but the placement of where the cache it is to be placed...? (because there have been a lot of caches poorly placed at well....)

I saw this and needed to add myself to the mix! I'm not actually a dog owner, but..... I'm house sitting for a friend right now and went geocaching with their dog today. IT WAS A BLAST! I've been thinking about getting a dog for a while, but this experience really took me over the edge with my choice! I've known that people geocache with their dogs all the timel, but I didn't give it any mind until now. NOW, I GET IT! I woke up this morning and decided that I was going geocaching, but I wasn't too sure if I should brining Olivia, the dog, or not. My first reaction was, 'Of course not, it'd be too much of a hassle!' Then as I was getting ready to go, I heard her wimper a bit, then I thought, 'oh, heck... I'll try it...." I was going for three caches that was a simple hike. The entire walk to find all three and make it back to the car, I was estimating would take about 40 minutes.... well, I was a bit wrong! Olivia went nuts! she was so playful and... happy?! I've never been a pet owner, but I think I saw something that I never thought i'd see... happiness in a dog!! We ran, we sat down, we searched, we played, and 90 minutes later and finding 2 of the 3 caches, we were back in my car heading home. I've been house sitting here for about four days, yes I know Merry Christmas to me (long story), and Olivia was always just stayed in one part of the house and I did my thing on the other side of the house, but things may be different now. When we got back, she sat up next to me and hasn't left my side! I've been petting her all day... I actually fell asleep and she was still there by my side! Although I don't have a dog, I soon may get one and post again on this thread as an actual owner! I'm actually planning a Geocaching Day with Olivia tomorrow. Fun Times!! KUDOS to all you dog owners out there!

I saw this post an had to reply. My $.02: I have an iPhone 4S with the Lifeproof case (very much like the otter box). I also have the Garmin 60csx. When I started geocaching I didn't use either. I used google maps, read the caches descriptions and the logs and went for it! I found my first 50 that way. Then I got my Garmin and life was good. Then I got my iPhone... Life couldn't get easier! That is only for areas with good reception and in urban areas. When I go hiking or anywhere outside the urban area, I use my Garmin. Sometimes, I like to go back to my old school ways and just use google maps! Advice: the smart phone is good for beginning your geocaching adventure, but you'll get to a point that you will need to go outside your general community/ city because you've found all the ones around you that you want to find. That is when you'll probally need a dedicated GPS. Because going to the mountains, desert, and those crazy tunnel caches will seem more intriguing, too! And, if you are going to that next level of geocaching, get a GPS worth getting. Not saying that the one you have isn't good, but there are better ones. So, keep what you have. Use you smartphone for now because it works! And maybe later when you find that reception is a problem, use the GPS that you have. And when you find that you want to upgrade, get a better GPS! To a certain degree, I think that geocaching is like raising kids and golf. There are just SO MANY toys and tech you can get because its the new now next thing and you can spent hundreds if not thousands of dollars on that next thing, but one thing I've learned, don't get it unless you really need it. Just my $.02...

I have no idea what BootCamping my mac is... if it works for you, then it should work on my MacBook Air...? Could you send me link?

I want to thank all of you who helped. It seems that I can't use GSAK with my MAC.... oh well.... I also don't feel like paying more for a software that would seemingly frustrate me because of it's limitations.... It also seems like I can't use the current plug in, I need to download an older version for my Garmin 60csx. All of this I understand, but... I am still having a slight problem... I really can't find a link to upload an older version of the plug in...? I would not in any way consider myself a 'techie' and I do have very simple understandings when it comes to computers and it's applied technology. If someone could assist me with sending me a link, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks for all your help!

I was wondering if anyone has a Mac Book Air? I have one for work. I use my PC at home to do the GSAK, but I would like to use my Mac Book Air, too. I did the necessary thing, I downloaded the Garmin plug-ins and installed it correctly, or so my Mac Air says. So the problem: I'll plug in my Garmin 60csx via USB. I'll go to Geocahing.com and find a cache. I'll click the upload to my GPS button. The Geocaching site recognizes that my Garmin is attached. Then when I click write it, the Geosite does its magic and says it was written correctly. All seems fine, right? I've been doing that with my PC at home and my old Mac notebook. It always worked. After I uploaded it into my GPS, I'll search for it and it's not there. It's not in my Garmin. I've checked my POI folder, It's not under the Geocaching tab under either category: Caches found or Caches not found. I've checked the USB Mass Storage folder and I can't find it? Well, my question is, what am I doing wrong? I can survive not using my Mac Book Air, but it'd be nice to upload at work and plan a Geocaching route. SIDE QUESTION: I've heard some ups and downs with GSAK and the MAC? I don't mind getting another subscription for my MAC only if it works? If it does, maybe that is the route to go? Thanks in advance for any help!

Would you be willing to break up the pair. I'm just looking for the Garmin?

I just sent you a PM. I was wondering if this unit was still for sale? I'd like to get it.

I was wondering... On a long day of Geocaching, what do you bring to snack on? You know what I'm talking about. When you and a friend or just alone are going for that 10-30 or more caching kind of day, what do you bring? Or do you just reply on the road and local stores? My answer is a thermos full of homemade coffee latte and altoids....? Is that strange?

I just sent you a PM, too. I'm seeing if it's still for sale? If so, let me know. THANKS!

How much are you asking?

Hey! My hand is up, too! Let me know if it's still for sale?! Thanks. I'll dro pyou an e-mail, too.

Hello, I have a Garmin 60csx and LOVE IT! I'm finding out that I need two GPSrs. I, also, have the Geomate jr and thought that would be enough, but after several months of having that, I'm realizing that I should have spent my cash on a full GPSr. I've become a Garmin fan and have been looking at the 62 series, but I haven't read too much about them here on this forum. Are they still newish that people are still tyring to figure out the kinks? I use my GPS mainly for finding places, work, and Geocaching. I'm not your avid hiker and I don't plan on climbing Mt Everest anytime soon. People have said that the 62s is the one I should get, but I thought that I would throw it up into this forum and see what others think? I know that the other models have the camera built in, but what are the other perks that people see using while Geocaching?

I was so confused when I got mine, too! I eventually got GSAK and my life was better. Before that I added them one by one. Then I used the interface menu on the Garmin. Turn it on> hit menu twice> goto system interface> mass storage. ( I have a PC) This will lead you a folder on your computer (like plugging in a USB FLASH DRIVE). The garmin folder will pop up onto your computer screen. Open it. Open up your Custom Points of Interest folder and put all your PQ into there. This is where I store all my PQs. How to find it on your GArmin: FIND> scroll down to Custom Points of Interests> wait a minutes> voila! IT's SO MUCH EASIER USING GSAK! If you are really into Geocaching, throw down the $30 to get GSAK! Or do the trial one.... Depending on the size of the memory card, you can load thousands of caches! I currently have loaded all of Southern California's Geocaches onto my Garmin! I do a lot of driving aroung So. CAlifornia. There is a learning curve to GSAK as there is with you Garmin. If you do have questions, drop me a line. HAVE FUN!

Hello, I sent you a reply to your e-mail. I thought I would just post it here just in case. I hear from you soon! Thanks!

Has this been sold? I'd like to get this!

Thanks for the replies. When I bought it, it already had the detailed maps on it. Thanks to the previous owner! I turned on the GPS and saw that it was a 2005 map. Six years old map. Thanks for the info! Next question: In all of your opinions, how up to date are the street maps and should I update frequently? I am a person that uses the GPS mainly for Geocaching, getting around town, and I do some light traveling across the states. I do like to have the new now next thing, but I like to be smart about it. In you opinion, would it be worth it? Thanks for any replies.

I was wondering how up to date the Garmin maps are? I have a Garmin 60csx. I bought it used about four moths ago and it already had the road maps of North America on it! I was wondering if there is a way to know how old the map is that is on my current GPS? Also, does Garmin updates thier map for 2012 on thier site? I was thinking about downloading the North American map on the Garmin site to be updated on all the new streets, roads, stores, etc. But, right before I did, I thought that I would ask my questions here. I assume that it's been discussed here, but I don't know the correct seach terms to find it. If anyone can direct me to finding out this info, please let me know. Thanks!

I did my first 25 cache without a GPS. I wanted to try to do my first one hundred without one, but I found a great deal on a Garmin 60csx that I just couldn't pass up. I found that it can be done, but only to certain degrees. For me, I found that the caches has to be urban and be in an obvious place (ie. newpaper boxes. old telphone stands, light poles, virtuals, if the cordinates were actually spot on perfect, etc...), but if you try and find caches that are off the beaten trail and into open fields/ hard terrain places, I had A LOT of trouble doing it and usually was not too sucessful. Although I've read that many have found mountain/ forrest caches without a GPS. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE using my GPS because of the pocket querries and being able to cache on the go, but.... I found that caching without one made the find that more 'rewarding' and the search was far more intense, but more satisfying, and the actual hunt made me have to just simply BELIVE. Yes, cahcing without a GPS can be done, but only to a certain degree.

Well, I just got back from Nashville TN. and I thought that I would report on how things went. In one word, 'HOT!!!!' Being from Los Angeles, CA where the weather is always a nice breezy 75-85 degrees (sometimes in the mid to high 90s), the 100+ humid weather of Nashville almost had done me in! I had never heard anyone say the word Y'all before. That was fun! I'm now a fried green tomato and BBQ ribs FAN! The chicken... unbelievable! They do know how to BBQ out there! I didn't have the time to find a fried pickle, but... oh well. Night life, I went to a place called The Stage (or the locals call it a honkey tonk). Great live music and good prices! Well, on to the Geocaching. 8/3/11 I spent the week at the Opryland Hotel at a teacher conference. I had some time to find some caches. If any of you stay at this hotel, there are quite a few just north of the hotel's praking lot. I thought that I would just walk over there and grab them. Well, it was 102 degrees with a 70 percent humidity and the quarter mile walk almost was impossible! But I stuck to it and was strong enough to grab one by a huge horse and one near a river. I knew that there were more near by, but the heat and humidity was just too much! I went back to my hotel room and just laid there for about an hour trying to cool off. The next morning I went to the Adventure Land Science Center for the GeoMaze. 8/4/11 I got there a bit early because I saw a few Caches that were near by. The one in front of the place was a fun one. Then there was one behind the science center on top of an old civil war fort. I went up the COMPLETELY wrong way. For you that are going, there is an open side trail that can be accessed from walking around back of the Science center and to the right of all the bushes. STAY ON THE TRAILS! The top of the fort was REALLY COOL! If you go to the maze I really recommend you going to this one! Because I was not used to the 100 degree heat, I was swimming in my own sweat (not a good picture to see). Well, I walked into the center looking like I just walk out out of Hades, stood in line amongst all the little kids and their parents, and just simply felt and looked out of place. Well, when I got there, (I was traveling alone), I walked around. The experience was ok. If I had the kids or just someone to have gone there with, it would have been probally a lot more fun. I did feel strange walking around the maze as an adult by myself. My secret city was Anchorage, AL! Do I recommend this to anyone else? I would say, 'yes' just for the smiley. The Maze itself would have been a real fun time with the kids or with someone. To go alone was not sustainable enough for me to spend longer than a half an hour there. On my way out, I was waiting for the taxi and I saw that there was one more at the entrance of the park. I did a simple walk over there thinking that i could grab it before the taxi got there... I forgot about the hours. I was there too early and I was again sweating like crazy and I didn't want to wait. So, I couldn't get that one. If you go to this one at the entrance of the park and the fort, make sure that you get there during the working hours. Well, all in all my experience was a good one in Nashville, TN. The Southern Hospitality feel IS REAL! I always thought that it was just a phrase that people used. I didn't think that people were actually that way! Thanks Nashville for a HOT, HUMID, and memorable time!

I am the original person who posted and all I've got to say is, "WOW!" I was gone for a few days on a work trip in Nashville, TN. And yes, I did stop by the Geo Maze (comments about that in my other post). I came back here and saw this amazing thread! I've learned SO MUCH about the legal dynamics and physical properties of poles that I feel almost burdened with the knowledge! THANKS! Also, trying to related Geocaching to the Scientific Method is quite intriguing! Being a teacher, I LOVE this potential idea! I can almost see how I can justify it to my school to almost ask for a small grant to purchase some GPS units! I do have an afterschool program that does Geocaching and I think that I am going to try and utilize this thread to 'legitimize' Geocaching more to my coworkers and administration. Do not worry, I wouldn't quote anyone directly. Also, I don't plan on misrepresenting the fact that Geocaching is primarily FOR FUN, but with now a twist of an action research that I plan on creating (through the motivation of this thread!) THANKS again! BTW- my original post was about helping to find some caches on utility poles and I had one in specific that I hadn't found and that was why I had wanted to post this. And to this day, I still haven't found it. It's a straight pole without any of the guylines (thanks for this thread I know what they are called!) attached and no metal cross attachment to hold other wires. The CO still maintains that it's still there. Fundamentally, it just one huge, long, and lonely wooden working telephone pole. Crazy! However, reading this post, I saw a hint that I think that I do now have a great solid idea of where it is! I plan on checking it in the next week! Thanks again for all your posts!