Buzz
A GPS receiver is far more affordable than purchasing a full-fledged global positioning system. – sarote pruksachat / Getty ImagesInstead of investing in a satellite-based global positioning system, why not opt for a GPS receiver to connect to your laptop? It's a more budget-friendly choice, and you'll already be comfortable using your laptop to manage the GPS instead of trying to master a new gadget.
Here’s how you can set up GPS functionality on your laptop.
- Ensure your GPS receiver is fully charged before use.
- Install the software that was provided with your GPS receiver onto your laptop.
- Use the included cable to connect the receiver to your laptop [source: TomTom].
You are now ready to find a signal and use your laptop as a GPS device.
- Launch the software that you installed.
- Drive to an open space where it will be easier to detect a signal. Avoid parking garages and tall buildings. You may need to wait a few minutes for the GPS receiver to pick up a signal [source: Garmin].
Once the signal is found, you can search for your destination using one of the following methods:
- Click on Where To? and either type in your destination or select a location from the list of points of interest (restaurants, hotels, gas stations, ATMs, etc.).
- Click View Map and select your destination directly from the map.
- Choose your destination from your saved Favorites list [source: Garmin].
Once you've selected your destination, click Go. Now you can begin your journey by:
- Following the route shown on the map
- Reading the instructions displayed on your screen
- Listening to the voice instructions that guide you to your destination [source: Garmin]
Safe travels!
