MAC user needs Garmin help

[Schattenjager]

I want to hook up my Garmin 60CSX to my MacBook Pro. My ultimate needs are quite simple - up/download waypoints, see my tracks on a map on the Mac, and save various points of interest. Maybe even integrate Google Earth.

Is there an application that can do this that does not require Automator, or code breaking, or NASA level hacking?

:088:

 

[gjackson]

Yep. MacGPS Pro. www.macgpspro.com.

You can even calibrate your own maps. The current version 7.1 is a universal binary so it will work well with intel macs. Just check on compatibility with your garmin before you get it. It does do NEMA in/out, so it will com with most Garmins.

cheers

 

[Schattenjager]

Thanks for the rapid reply! If I go that way - will I need a special cable or can I use the Garmin USB to USB mini cable? THe 60CSX has a mini port as well as the big port.

Your help is appreciated!

 

[Desertdude]

There is also a yahoo user group - Macmap tons of great info on connectivity

 

[gjackson]

If your Garmin has a serial com, then you will need a serial to USB converter. I've been using Keyspan, and it has worked very well!

cheers

 

[Schattenjager]

It has both - the four prong serial and the mini usb... do I have to use the serial?

 

[SinCity4r]

http://www.macgpspro.com/html/newhtml/macgpspro/faq.html#60CS

loadmytracks is a free option, however it doesn't allow you to author tracks on your computer, only up/download.

 

[Desertdude]

Someone posted a how to here

 

[Schattenjager]

Perfect - thanks for the info!!!

 

[KMR]

Schattenjager, I am in exactly the same boat as you. What a nasty surprise to get a brandy new GPS and realize it does not work with a Mac!

Have you guys purchased MacGPS Pro?
Is it worth it?
It seems to have way more features than the free options I have been able to find. Is it the only option?
Thanks,
Kevin R.

 

[geodasher]

Re: Mac and Garmin

Schattenjager, I am in exactly the same boat as you. What a nasty surprise to get a brandy new GPS and realize it does not work with a Mac!

Have you guys purchased MacGPS Pro?
Is it worth it?
It seems to have way more features than the free options I have been able to find. Is it the only option?.

Most Garmins work fine with a Mac. The only thing you can't do without Windows is create a mapset using Garmin's proprietary MapSource. Garmin promised Mac support a year ago but has been dragging their feet.

There are several ways to transfer data via the USB cable, including mounting the memory card (for the x-series Garmins) on the desktop. For simple waypoint transfer the free app MacGPSbabel does the job in fine style. For tracking yourself in real-time on topo maps buy a copy of MacGPS Pro--pretty good product with excellent support and reasonably frequent updates.

Other options that might be suitable depending on exactly what you want to do are Google Earth Plus and National Geographic TOPO! Or you might want to wait for the promising RouteBuddy to evolve into a more complete navigation tool. Finally, if you have a boat get the excellent GPSNavX.

 

[KMR]

Hey, thanks for the additional info.
I am crossing my fingers on the Garmin stuff and planning on getting the GPSmap program if they don't come through soon.

I would just really like to load some maps on my GPS.

And, welcome to Portal. :sombrero:

 

[Schattenjager]

Glad to see some activity on this thread again - I have yet to find something as user friendly as the Garmin stuff. I just might buy an el cheapo laptop, but man - that burns...

 

[Schattenjager]

Anyone use the National Geographic TOPO? This look s great and it is Mac friendly! :

http://www.gpsnow.com/wftstates.htm

 

[Tucson T4R]

I use NG Topo for Arizona all the time. Obviously you can't load their maps directly into the Garmin GPS but NG Topo has a lot of great features and detail. It works well with Garmin as far as transfering waypoints, tracks, and routes back and forth. It also has a nice 3D fly over feature that is pretty cool. The detail is true 7.5 degree which is a lot more map detail than the Garmin Mapsource topo maps.