Searches by GC code.

[+Indiangrass]

We're newbes on this stuff and we'd like to think we've read what there is on FAQ and the enhanced FAQs but...

 

Is there a good use for GC code? We downloaded the 50 cache loop for Geobash3 at Allegany State Park NY and when we got there they were all listed in out unit by GC code. This meant nothing to us and we had to search through each one to read what it was, then back to the list... We were short on time and wanted to pick and choose.

 

Also; it's been noticed that a cache can't be searched for (or, how do we search for a cache?) by its GC code. So what is it for?

[+Prime Suspect]

We're newbes on this stuff and we'd like to think we've read what there is on FAQ and the enhanced FAQs but...

 

Is there a good use for GC code? We downloaded the 50 cache loop for Geobash3 at Allegany State Park NY and when we got there they were all listed in out unit by GC code. This meant nothing to us and we had to search through each one to read what it was, then back to the list... We were short on time and wanted to pick and choose.

 

Also; it's been noticed that a cache can't be searched for (or, how do we search for a cache?) by its GC code. So what is it for?

It's simply a consistent, unique identifier. Nothing more. Since it's unique, you can use it in your GPS as he waypoint name, since they also have to be unique, and usually have to be of a limited length.

[+Indiangrass]

We get that (and thanks for the reply) but it seems to only be useful to the machine.

 

We wanted to go to Ski Jump and Chicken Leg II but not to Emmas Kitty since it was outside the park. But we had to sort through a list of GCxxxxxx.

 

Maybe we're not using our eTrex correctly?

[+Gary and Mary Adventurers]

If you use GSAK {Geocaching Swiss Army Knife) and are premium members you can use the pocket queries and create meaningful names for the download to your GPS.

 

[+briansnat]

We wanted to go to Ski Jump and Chicken Leg II but not to Emmas Kitty since it was outside the park. But we had to sort through a list of GCxxxxxx.

 

The problem is that there may be 3 caches in your area named Ski Jump, so how are you going to know you are looking for the right one? The GC number is a unique identifier. When you go to log your DNF or Fount It, all you need to know is that identifier and you can access the page easily. Do a keyword search on Ski Jump and you may see 300 caches that have that name. Which one is the one you were looking for? Not easy.

 

If you are a premium member and load GPX files to your unit you'll see the cache name in the notes field. You can use GSAK to change things but I think there is a 12 character limit for waypoint names in the newer Garmin units. You won't fit most cache names in a 12 character field anyway.

[+Guinness70]

note the GC codes of the caches you want to hunt on a piece of paper?

on the Garmin Colorado you can switch between cache name and cache code. no clue about the etrex

Edited August 27, 2008 by Guinness70

[+Indiangrass]

Well, thanks to all!

That's good stuff to know. We'll have to concider premium membership and learning how to use all those options. For now the small pocket notebook will do us fine (good idea ...the paper).

 

Thanks again, enjoy your hunts!