J0ck0

I went out for my first cache this weekend. I used my new Meridian Plat for the first time (first time with any GPS for that matter) and found that the maps from Mapsend Topo were off in regard to the forest service roads. They would show me off about 30 feet or so. I agree with mtnsteve. As long as the maps show me where I am and how to get in or out, I am happy. They will get better with time.

I just got off the phone with Meridian (had to call twice because the first guy I spoke with said they didn't have any maps that would show backwoods roads). The second person I spoke with was very nice and actually looked up some of the tiny towns here in AZ on Topo. Thankfully they and the roads leading to them were there. I'm keeping the Plat and buying Topo. I am so happy because everything I have read says Magellan's (especially the Plats) are the most accurate. Can't wait to start caching this weekend.

I just bought a Plat, but I'm having second thoughts. I don't have any mapping software and what I have seen on the Plat doesn't impress me. I am looking to find something with some backroads here in AZ, but cannot find anything for my Plat. Every store here sales Garmin and they all have the maps that I am looking for. What software can I purchase that will allow me to upload offroading maps to my Plat? Am I stuck with Mapsend Topo (if that will even have it)? Are there websites where I can download some? I don't want to have to return my Plat for an Emap just so I can get the maps that I want. I am new to the whole GPS thing so any help would be GREATLY appreciated.

I have searched and searched the net and spoke with Magellan about getting some forest service maps for my Plat, but have not been successful. Does anyone know where or how I could get these maps? There is a store here that sells Garmin products and has a bunch of maps like that for their products. I don't want to have to return the Plat for an Emap, but I need something that will help me when I am camping or offroading. Is there another way to create these types of maps? Thanks.

I just purchased a Plat (which of course does not come with any software) and I am looking to purchase some software. Are most mapping software programs compatible with my Plat? I am thinking about Streets and Trips to start, but I am also wanting to get something that will show some of the offroad routes as well. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

After reading the posts about the Platinum vs. Sportrac, I was dead set on getting the Platinum until I called a GPS dealer here in town. He deals strictly in Garmin because he says they are the best (I know, just an opinion). He spoke with me about the EMAP. It also has the option to add more memory, but the memory is Garmin's own proprietary memory (which is considerably more expensive than the SD cards that the Platinum takes). How do these two units compare and which would be the better option? Is the mapping software that comes with both comparable? I'm new to GPS and geocaching, but I am looking forward to getting started. Thanks for the help.

I searched and read through some posts, but did not find what I'm looking for. I'm just starting out and I am considering getting a GPS setup (Vista, EMAP, or GPS V) or a GPS add on for my Pocket PC (since it is in color). I have an IPAQ 3850 with 64 MB SD card, 128 MB CF, and dual PCMCIA expansion. How do these add-on GPS work in comparison to the standard GPS? Are they as accurate or have as many features? Thanks.