A GPS laptop is a portable computer with a GPS device and mapping software, commonly used by boaters and motorists. It provides a larger screen and more features than standalone GPS units, but takes up more space. Connection options include USB, Bluetooth, CF, and PMCIA. Mapping software is usually included and can provide additional features like weather alerts and hotel information.
A GPS laptop is a portable computer configured with a Global Positioning System (GPS) device and mapping software, which allows the user to track their location anywhere on earth. Although some laptop or notebook computers are now available with built-in GPS devices, the most common way to configure a laptop to use GPS technology is to purchase an external device. This external device typically connects to your computer via a USB port or using Bluetooth® wireless technology.
GPS laptops are most commonly used by boaters and motorists, especially RV drivers or others who frequently take long trips. There are a number of benefits to using a laptop GPS rather than a standalone GPS system. One is the screen size. Because a laptop display, typically between 12 inches (30.5 centimeters) and 17 inches (43.2 centimeters), provides a level of clarity and detail not available on standalone GPS displays which are typically between 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) and 5 inches (12.7 centimeters), GPS laptops are often considered easier to use. A GPS laptop also tends to provide more features for less than a standalone unit, as it can take advantage of a number of the laptop’s existing features. An obvious drawback to a GPS laptop is that it takes up more space than a smaller self-contained unit, which can usually be installed on a vehicle’s dashboard.
There are a few things to consider when buying a laptop GPS device. One of the most important issues is the means of connection. Some devices plug into a computer’s USB port via a cable, while others plug directly into the port. Both methods can limit the user’s options when positioning the device for optimal satellite reception. Higher-end units tend to connect using Bluetooth® wireless technology, which allows the user to place the device anywhere in the vehicle, although of course it’s important to first determine if a particular laptop has Bluetooth® capabilities. A fourth option is to connect a GPS device directly to the laptop using a Compact Flash (CF) card or Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PMCIA), in which case the unit is usually paired with an antenna to be affixed to the outside of the vehicle.
Most laptop GPS devices come bundled with mapping software, which provides route maps, trip planning, and voice navigation. Other features may include weather alerts, local gas prices, and restaurant and hotel information, often pulled from Internet sources. Software updates are usually easy to download and install—another advantage of laptop GPS systems over standalone units. Several shareware mapping software packages are available for free download, although they may not be compatible with all GPS devices. You may need to purchase separate mapping software for international travel.
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