[Linux] Re: garmin gecko gps

[Steven Benmosh]

Hi Bob, Flux'ers

1. Thanks for the advice, Chris and all. I got it to work finally (for
those trying, GPSMAN uses the Garmin Protocol, GPSD uses the NMEA
protocol, both use /dev/ttyS0 in my case (which apparently is not the
same as /dev/ttys0...). GPSMAN uses a configuration file called
gpsman.tcl (or GPSMAN.tcl, can't remember) with the default device
name as a parameter. Apparently, if it is not set correctly,even
though the interface allows setting the device name, it would not
work.

2. Both GPSMAN and GPSD are not well documented for a layperson who
just wants to connect and use the device. They work intuitively to a
point, especially gpsd, but you have to guess the differences between
import, export, load, put and get by trial and error. Afaik, there is
no quick start guide, etc.

I may contact the authors (or if anyone knows the programs inside out,
I can do it with him/her instead) and create such a document. In the
meantime, I will try to learn and play with both programs as time
permits.

3. Bob, Garmin Geko 201 is, afaik, the least expensive device that
interfaces with a PC (unless you want to buy an OEM gps chip, which
are cheaper). You can interface with a serial port, or buy a
serial/usb convertor cable from Garmin or a replica cable from
somewhere else. Check out the Garmin site. Garmin would work with a
computer, even if it is not Linux. Can't say for GIS, but I would be
really surprised if it does not work

As far as trying to connect to your computer, I am quite a few miles
away from South Florida these days, so it won't work. If I visit, I
will give you a call. If I try GISknoppix, which I have downloaded, I
will let you know how it performs, but it is not a priority for me,
I'd rather make ubuntu work.

Z.

On 3/1/07, bob daggit <daggit_2@hotmail.com> wrote:
> i have been using gisknoppix for a few months, and didn't know anyone who
> has a serial gps device i could borrow to try out with the applications that
> require a gps device. if you want, contact me and i can lend you the ive
> cdrom, or better yet, come visit me and try it out on the installed
> gispknoppix on my computer. of course you can just download the gisknoppix
> distro, but hey, now that i told you about it let's try the device before i
> decide what i would pay for one that actually works with it. generally, most
> of the devices it says work with it are rs232 serial devices, not usb. call
> me at 9547713088
>
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