[geeks] Good GPS data logger for photographic use

[Shannon Hendrix]

On Jan 28, 2009, at 05:16 , Jochen Kunz wrote:

> This is what the garmin device, and any other GPS logger, does. You  
> can
> configure it: Save every x minutes, every y meters or feet, let the
> device automatically decide when to save a trackpoint. With the later
> you can choose high, medium or low accuracy. e.g. if I run with a pace
> of about 5 to 6 minutes per km it saves a trackpoint about every 12 m
> or every 4 seconds in high accuracy automatic mode. If I drive with  
> the
> car on a straight highway with constant velocity it takes a trackpoint
> every 10 to 15 seconds. If I don't move it records a trackpoint when I
> stop and an other when I start.

Yeah, I have a GPS, a Garmin 12XL, but it is pretty old now and  
doesn't have a very big log, and no way to download it.  It also eats  
batteries like no tomorrow.  It's very sensitive, but only useful as a  
navigator.

> If your computer program can read at least one of the several formats
> that gpsbabel can write you can use any GPS device.

I've since found some software to do that.  I'll just make that part  
of my workflow.

> It does. But if you really only want / need a logger you may look at a
> dedicated GPS logger as it is smaller. If you get interrested in
> Geocaching or if you want navigation functions, a real GPS handheld
> like the etrex H is better.

One thing I definitely need is a unit that gets good signal in trees  
and cities.

Most of my time with a camera is either hiking, or urban exploration,  
and some units cannot handle that.

> An other issue are bateries. Some GPS loggers have build in
> rechargeable batteries that you can't change. If the battery goes out
> in the field you are out. Other devices use standard AA or AAA
> batteries that you can swap at any time.

Ideally it would have a removable rechargeable like most good cameras.

Anyway, thanks for the information.

I'm currently thinking that maybe I should get one that can also do  
navigation, since my 12XL is 12 years old now, and no longer a very  
good unit compared to what's available.


-- 
"Where some they sell their dreams for small desires."