For WGA events — all you really need is a cable to upload coordinates. I have no clue what type of cable the Lowrance uses though (USB, serial, 4 pin?)

Bec

Looks like possibly USB. Did it come with a cable?

Bec

I mean more of a data cable, for transferring waypoints from the computer to your GPSr.

But don’t worry about it — we can look at it when you get to the picnic. Usually, someone has the right cable, and with the fabulous new Eggplant Powered Ammo Box from TS, we’ve got many cables right on hand.

Tie, do you know about the Lowrance models and uploading (as you are our resident waypoint upload guru)?

Worst case scenario, you have to enter coordinates by hand — good finger exercise!

Bec

I utilize a Lowrance PhD — here some basic info for you.

The Lowrance models utilize as far as I know MapCreate for mapping software. But I believe version 6.0 and beyond require a proprietary card reader to utilize the mapping function.

This is from their web site “Note: You must use an LEI branded memory card reader/writer for MapCreate™ 6.3 to work properly. “

You do not need the proprietary card reader if you’re just loading waypoints or other data to the card. This applies only to loading of maps.

With the newer versions of GSAK that export waypoints in .usr format for Lowrance this has become very easy to deal with. All you need for loading of WAYPOINTS is a card reader that can read your SD/MMC card. This is usually connected to a computer via USB cable.

Those at the picnic can plug you card reader in and insert your SD/MMC card into the reader, export the waypoints from GSAK to your card. Then you remover card and reader from computer and reinsert your SD/MCC card back into your GPSr.

This is the only thing that I personally don’t like about the Lowrance models is the fact you have to remove battery cover, and the batteries to be able to access the SD/MCC card. But no model is perfect.

If you want to spend little effort in getting the items you need and cost is not a factor then I suggest you look at Lowrances store at LEI They have what you need but at a nice high price.

Products shown here:
MapCreate USA Topo Accessory Pack Series 6 Part #95-49 $99.95
Includes MMC card, MMC card reader/programmer and MapCreate Topo CD-ROM. For Windows 98 or higher operating system.

MapCreate USA Topo CD-ROM Series 6 Part #95-48 $79.95
Comprehensive mapping detail including US marine navigational aides, rural roads, city streets, highways, interstates and enhanced shorelines plus elevation contour lines and hunting-specific databases (including public lands, wildlife management areas and game management units). Also includes searchable points-of-interest feature to easily find bodies of water, cities, lodging, restaurants and more. For Windows 98 or higher operating system. Requires use of MMCI-USB reader/programmer (#113-071).

If you don’t mind doing a little work and saving some $$ check out GPS stores on the net such as the http://www.thegpsstore.com. (no endorsement here just an example)

You can save a lot of $$ on ebay but you will need to know your ends and outs of what you want.

Hope this helps.