Suggested PC Software & Hardware
GIS2GPS Program
The following suggested items are used in all our GIS and GPS classes. We have tried several different GPS units and have narrowed it down to two units. These units have been kid tested as well as teacher tested. We have used them in several different classes and all our trainers feel the following units will go the distance.
Take Me to the Mac Section
Major Change! - GPS Units & Cable
Over the years, we have been using Magellan units in our classes as well as suggesting them to schools. The last series we worked with was called the Meridain Gold - a real workhorse. However the company has stopped the production of them. They switched to a new series that will not work with our program for a couple of reason. One major issue is that it will not work with the software that we use to download the GPS data. As teachers we see technology changes, some good, some bad.
In looking for a replacement unit we discovered Garmin has developed a new series that fits right into our program. The Garmin unit we are suggesting is great for fieldwork, scavenger hunts, geocaching and all round activities. the GPS 60 is your trusted guide to the great outdoors. The GPS 60 along with the GPSMAP 60 are packed with several of the features found in the 60 series color units, but sport an affordable, high-resolution, monochrome display for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget. The units come with a USB interface as well as serial interface (cable is optional).
The regular cost for the GPS 60 is $192.84 and the regular cost of the GPSMAP 60 is $321.42.
A Garmin dealer has worked a real good deal on this unit which we can pass along to schools.
Please contact us for more information about the discounted prices.Suggested Software
From ESRI you can use either of the following. ArcVoyager Special Edition - free to schools. The other product is ArcView School Bundle from ESRI - version 3.x - Cost is approximately $500 for a school license or you can earn it free. To find out more please contact the team directly.
The last item you will need is one piece of software that will do the work of uploading and downloading data to and from the GPS unit. We have designed our program with this software since it is easy to use. It is called TOPO! GPS USA - a product of National Geographic. We have been using it with much success as well. We suggest buying one for each cable you buy since it is required to set up a station. The suggested cost for this software is $24.95. National Geographic has worked a deal on this software which we can pass along to schools as well. Please contact us for more information.
If you have any additional questions, please contact the team directly.