PPCGeeks - Simple GPS program like Forerunner?

Quote:

Originally Posted by TC1 (Post 216686)

Won't run for 4 hours... unless you're careful. I do endurance cycling (4+ hour rides) and use VisualGPS to create a log file which I then upload to one of the many Google Maps mashups that are available on the Internet to analyze the data and see where I've been. You have to be able to set the sample time of how often the GPS app queries the hardware.... the default on VisualGPS is like 1 second when writing the log file, which quickly drained the battery in less than 2 hours. Then again, I'm also playing music through the earbuds too.

Again, the key is to find a GPS app that allows you to set the sampling interval.

I downloaded the trial for rungps.net and it worked surprisingly well.

You CAN change the sampling interval. I just stuck with the default of 5 seconds (which is probably fine for walking/hiking/running). For biking, maybe a shorter interval would be better.

The features of this program is pretty impressive. It keeps track of almost every conceivable data that you can think of... and you can customize which ones show up on the screen.

The coolest part is that it speaks to you whatever values you choose (and the interval you choose). So you don't have to look at the screen at all. That is actually a battery saver because the less backlighting you use, the better. You can be listening to music at the same time.

I did a test run with my Motorola S9 BT headphones and it worked great.

It also provides real time maps, live tracking for others wanting to know where you are, download of data to PC... etc...

The only issue I need to find out is, how long the battery will last. I'm hoping to use this for 4+ hours. I'll report back as I use it more.

It's a bit pricey at $34 but if want to use the Mogul for running/hiking/biking, this might be the best program out there right now. The free trial period is 14 days.

(disclaimer: have NO affiliation with rungps)