Hello, I just bought a blazing new and beautiful notebook computer. I was wondering if anyone had experience with GPS mapping software. I'm talking about the programs which contain a comprehensive graphical U.S. map and a GPS receiver. I just bought DeLorme "Earthmate Road Warrior" ($200.00), but I haven't opened it yet. The box claims that it will pin point your location within about 10 feet anywhere in the country. The idea is that you tell the computer where you want to go by entering the address and it then speaks to you while you drive and tells you what streets to turn on to get there. It also has voice recognition so that you can ask for updates along the way. It will give you the shortest routes from point A to point B or it can give you alternate routes to avoid traffic problems. The idea is to make life easier in getting to my tuning appointments. I though if I pre programed the address beforehand then all I would have to do is start driving. The software is updated every year and contains every known street in the country. What I would like to know is if there is anyone else here who has tried this program? Does it really do what it is supposed to do? Reading the label further apparently the system does not work in real time, rather it needs about a minute and a half or so lag time to triangulate it's position. Between each satellite fix the computer will continue to estimate your present position in simulated real time. This is what makes me wonder how practical it will work. The GPS receiver also requires 4 AAA batteries which last about 10 hours which can be a slight inconvenience. Obviously I want to make darn sure this will do what I want it to do before I open the software and I have a limited time to return it. It is not cheep. So what do you think, has anyone else tried one of these? Just trying to bring piano tuning one step closer to technology- first ETAs and now GPS. Rob Goodale, RPT Las Vegas, NV P.S. It can also be used with Palm and includes the neccessary cables.
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