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Sharing GPS files can have great benefits, but since there are so
many varied GPS units out there, and so many different versions of
mapping software being used today, it is easier to share "Universal" GPS
files, which are saved in ".GPX" format.
GPX format actually saves all via points and waypoints in their
chronological order for each route, and then relies on YOUR software to
recalculate the actual routing, based on those points. It is simply
"Connecting the Dots" to recreate the originally intended map set.
Follow these procedures to adapt any GPX map set to your own software
and GPS unit.
| Click the images below for full screen detail |
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1.) With the GPX file on your computer or
auxiliary drive, open your mapping software, then direct
it to open the GPX file. (In the examples shown, the route file
is named "ParkwayLeap_220" and the route itself is named
"Parkway Leap Frog_220"). You may need to select "GPX" format
from the drop down list before the software will recognize it.
(see image) |
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2.) On
your screen, the route will appear to be a series of straight
lines that do not follow the roadway, but do touch all map
points. Now, right click on the route name in the list to the
left, and select "Recalculate", so the software can
create its own route info. |
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The image here
shows how the route looks AFTER recalculation. (click the images
for full screen detail). |
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3.) After recalculation, you need to Save the file
to your computer in whatever default format your GPS uses. It
will likely select the "GDB" format if it's a Garmin unit. |
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| 4.) Finally, download
or "Send To Device" the file to your GPS Unit. |
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