GPS Tracklog

GeoJournal - Geocaching software for Mac

GeoJournal is a new geocaching program for Mac that allows you to "plan, manage and record your geocaching activities." It includes the following features:

• .gpx and .loc support.
• Multiple custom categories allow you to group geocaches by type, location, etc.
• Multiple "home" locations allowed.  For all you folks with a vacation home or the need to get away from the in-laws!
• Built-in use of Google Maps.
• Itinerary generation to help plan caching expeditions. Viewable in Google Earth.
• Built-in journal feature allows you to attach photos to each found cache. hence the name, GeoJournal.
• POP3 importing for Pocket Queries.
• Paperless geocaching support features includes CacheMate compatibility.

GPS news for Mac owners

I've come across several bits of news for Mac owners today.

First of all, Garmin has released beta versions of their WebUpdater for Macs and POI loader for Macs. No news on the much delayed release of MapSource for Macs though.

Also, HoudahGeo, a new photo geocoding program for Macs, has been released in beta. It appears that there will be a fee once it's out of beta, but for now, it's free. OgleEarth has promised a more detailed report soon.

Via Allory and Digg.

Related posts:

• Garmin Training Center for Macs
• MakeGPI - POI loader for Macs
• GPS mapping solutions for Macs
• Maps, Macs and GPS

Garmin Training Center for Macs available for download

As previously announced, Garmin Training Center (GTC) will now work with Macs. Specifically, it is compatible with Intel-based Macs or PowerPCs (G3 or newer) running OS X 10.4 or later. As of today, you can download GTC for free from Garmin's website.

You can use Garmin Training Center to analyze and store workout data on your computer, from the devices listed below, as well as plan and save future workouts.

Compatible Garmin GPS receivers:

• Edge 205
• Edge 305
• Forerunner 201 (for use on your computer only; GTC workouts cannot be transferred to this model)
  
• Forerunner 205
• Forerunner 301
• Forerunner 305

Garmin Training Center software for Mac OS X

Garmin has announced that Garmin Training Center software is now compatible with Mac OS X. Garmin will be distributing complimentary CDs at Macworld from January 8-12. Most users will need to wait until late January 2007 though, when they will be able to download the software for free at http://www.garmin.com/products/trainingcenter. Garmin Training Center software is compatible with Garmin's Forerunner and Edge series of fitness GPS receivers.

Previously, Garmin had announced that it intended to make all its hardware and software Mac compatible by the end of 2006, but they have missed that target. MotionBased.com, owned by Garmin, has been supporting Macs since March 2006.

• Garmin Edge and Forerunner reviews
• Maps, Macs and GPS

MakeGPI - POI loader for Macs

A fellow on GpsPasSion has developed a Garmin POI loader for Macs - MakeGPI.

And here's another Mac tip from GpsPasSion - how to upgrade your nuvi firmware with a Mac.

I'm not a Mac person, but I do keep my eyes open for these things, and as of today, I've created a new category -- GPS and Macs. Follow the link and scroll down for some treats from the archives.

GPS mapping solutions for Macs

RouteBuddy, a new Mac application, made the news today on a number of sites. High Earth Orbit's coverage caught my eye due their extensive list of GPS mapping resources for Macs.

Related post: Macs, Maps and GPS

Technorati tags: GPS

MapSource for Macs!

Garmin announced today that it will begin making all of its hardware and software compatible with Mac OS X. Beginning this spring, Garmin will offer a Mac version of their Training Center software. Also this spring, MotionBased will be OS X compatible. But the big news in my mind is this tidbit:

"By the end of 2006, Garmin intends to have made all its popular hardware and software applications Mac OS X compatible. This includes the ability to load MapSource map data to Garmin units via a Mac, as well as waypoint and trip planning applications."

Maps, Macs and GPS

First a disclaimer -- Macs are not my thing. Nevertheless, questions come up so often about Macs, GPS compatibility and mapping software, that I wanted to post some information and resources. Let's start with GPS mapping software for Macs. Here are the options that I am familiar with:

• National Geographic TOPO! is now available in a Mac edition.
• GPSy and GPSy Pro are two applications that seem to function much like OziExplorer. In other words, you can download (often for free) DRG maps to use with GPSy.
• MacGPS Pro also allows the use of DRG and other map formats. Additionally, MacGPS Pro recently announced support of Garmin USB models, which had previously been a significant challenge for those on the Mac platform.
• Route 66 offers Route USA, a highway navigation package.
• GPS Connect is a freeware program that allows you to transfer waypoints to and from Garmin receivers.
• Google Earth has an OS X beta. Stefan Geens' Ogle Earth posted info five times recently, starting here.

Here are a few other resources that may prove useful:

• GPS Information.net has a Mac resource page.
• Your best information resource online is probably the Yahoo MacMap discussion group.
• Here's a great page on geocaching with a Mac, which includes additional software (via the Map Room).
• Geocaching.com's GPS discussion board typically has some Mac threads going.

I hope this helps, and as I said in the beginning, I'm not a Mac person, so if you have info to share, please comment...