Mapomatic – Applications of Mapping

After too long, we’ve finally released an updated Garmin OSM map for the UK.  As well as the standard map (suitable for all users), we’ve also managed to release a version with routing information too, which will be useful for those who would like to use the navigation features of their Garmin GPS.

Some of the routing data (also supplied by OpenStreetMap) is a little experimental still, so it may not produce perfect results, but it’s certainly well worth trying.  We should also point out that the version of the map with routing data is now well over 256MB (it’s actually around 300MB), which means if you only have a 256MB memory card in your Garmin, it will no longer fit.  If you really don’t have the space, we are still producing the standard Garmin OSM map too for your use.

Finally, we *know* that the canal and cycle maps are woefully out of date; we’ve had some technical difficulties with the tools we use to create these maps, and continue to work on this problem; we hope to release updates to both very soon, especially for those of you about to embark on your summer holidays; we’ll post here on the main website when the updates are ready…

As always, head to the Garmin OSM Maps download page for more information, and the links to download the new maps.

A quick update on the situation regarding Garmin OSM Maps; we’ve not forgotten you, and we are well aware it’s been too long since we last released a map update.

A number of things have happened between now and our last map updates; we’ve changed tools, had to handle the massive jump in UK data that made some of our tools and techniques stop working, and we’ve also wanted to improve the content itself.

So, this is quick note to say we’ve not forgotten, and are currently testing some new versions and features and hope to release new maps in the very near future.

Thanks for your patience, and we will advertise here when the new maps are ready.  One warning though; some of the maps have grown exponentially, and hence no longer fit onto a 256MB card, so if you are using a small memory card, you might want to be prepared to get a new one before applying the maps…

For the last few years, the Garmin 60CSx has been the GPS device of choice for many users; rugged, a decent viewable screen (without the touchscreen of the newer models it’s often easier to read in sunlight), and generally a good device, but things move on, and the new GPSMAP 62 brings a whole range of new technologies to this rugged range.

Although there are 3 models in the US, the top model includes  full US mapping, so may not be available in an equivalent in the UK, so let’s at least look at the two other models to see the spec:

“With a 2.6” sunlight-readable color display, up to 20 hours of battery life and a high-sensitivity GPS receiver and quad helix antenna for unparalleled reception (the GPS receiver features HotFix, which automatically calculates and stores critical satellite information and can use that information to quickly calculate a position), the GPSMAP 62 series features three distinct waterproof models to suit various activities and interests. The basic GPSMAP 62 includes a built-in worldwide basemap with shaded relief. The GPSMAP 62s adds a 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass and wireless connectivity for sharing routes, tracks, waypoints and geocaches between other compatible Garmin handhelds. GPSMAP 62s also includes a barometric altimeter that tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude. Users can also plot barometric pressure over time, which can help keep an eye on changing weather conditions.”

It supports the full paperless geocaching options of other recent Garmin GPS, and the Garmin Custom Maps feature that’s also supported on the Garmin Colorado, Garmin Oregon and Garmin Dakota models.

Here’s a nice touch for existing users of other recent Garmin GPS devices; “The GPSMAP 62 series is made even more versatile through its universal mounting system that is compatible with the same accessories as Garmin’s Oregon, Dakota and Colorado products.”

The Garmin GPSMAP 62 should be available in July, although we don’t have any confirmed UK pricing yet (I’d expect it to fit in above the Garmin Dakota range, but less than the most expensive Garmin Oregon models).

Article first published at UK Gadgeteer.

SatMap have quietly released a new firmware, v1.4, for their SatMap Active 10 devices.  As well as addressing a range of bugs, the full Changelog is included in this article.  Highlights include better Geocaching.com support, better power management, including hibernation support.  For the full changelog, read the rest of the article…

Continue reading ‘SatMap release new firmware’ »

In keeping with our commitments to regular free updates, we’ve released new updates to our Garmin Maps, covering the original UK Garmin OSM Map.

Updates to the Cycle and Canal maps to follow shortly.

There’s been quite a lot of activity in the UK map since our last updates in April, so these updated maps are well worth installing to your Garmin.

Head off to the download page to pick up the latest versions…

From UKGadgeteer:

SatMap, the makes of the SatMap Active 10 (and SatMap Active10 Plus), have this week released a new version of their PC software, and a new firmware for the Active 10 devices to go with it.   For us, the key new feature is the support of geocaching.com GPX files, giving you a full range of information about the geocaches; offering hints, cache descriptions, terrain, difficulty, and logs.

In keeping with our commitments to regular free updates, we’ve released new updates to all 3 of our Garmin Maps, covering the original UK Garmin OSM Map, the UK Garmin OSM Cycle Map, and the new UK Garmin OSM Canal Map which we launched back in January.  There’s been quite a lot of activity in the UK map since January, so these updated maps are well worth installing to your Garmin.

Head off to the download page to pick up the latest versions…

Satmap Systems Ltd., has today announced the launch of the Active 10 Plus which is a one stop GPS solution giving outdoor sports enthusiasts the hardware, software and route planning tools they need to get out and explore. The Active 10 Plus has an RRP of £379.99 which is a saving of £120 if buying all elements of the bundle separately.

There is no difference between the performance of the Active 10 and Active 10 Plus, which incorporate the same technology. However, there are two features which differ: the Active 10 Plus comes with a World Base Map and postcode look-up functionality, neither of which is included in the Active 10.

The postcode look-up is a fast and easy way to identify UK postcode locations and works on any map. From the routes menu Active 10 Plus users can select GoTo by grid reference or postcode. Due to the licensing requirements the postcode look-up option cannot be retrofitted on the Active 10 and is only available on the Active 10 Plus.

Thanks to UK Gadgeteer for brining this story to our attention. Full details from SatMap can be found here

The Ordance Survey Outdoors Show takes place in 20 days time, starting on the 27th March 2009, and finishing on the 29th March, with over 250 exhibitors and lots of “Have a go” activities to take part in as well.  Pocket GPS World has managed to negotiate a discount to this show, so head over to their site for more information and the instructions on how to obtain a discount on advanced tickets.

In keeping with our commitments to regular free updates, we’ve released new updates to all 3 of our Garmin Maps, covering the original UK Garmin OSM Map, the UK Garmin OSM Cycle Map, and the new UK Garmin OSM Canal Map which we launched only last week.

Head off to the download page to pick up the latest versions…