Netbook GPS
Download Program w/source:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-FdGMkfhc8FdlNUNkhzdTNDTEU/view?usp=sharing
ReadGPS.exe is a utility for reading LL (longitude and Latitude) from a GPS hardware device. I only have experience with one hardware device which I purchased for $30. This seems like a reasonable cost for a device that reads LL to a netbook. A GPS reads directly from the satellite and does not need internet access in order to read LL. It does however require clear open sky with no obstructions. To view the various maps Internet access is required. The LL and notations can be saved for viewing when Internet is available. You can also "Copy" and "Paste" the LL from the program or the various Internet map utilities. There are numerous Internet Maps with buttons for each.
USGS - United States Geological Survey - will search for city, St but not LL.
2014.06.06 Added elevation selector to Satellite view.
2014.06.01 Added ability to have multiple lists. Refined user reports.
2014.05.08 Added address search to google maps.
2014.05.02 Added copy and paste LL to clipboard
I have now been able to get LL (Latitude Longitude) from the USB GPS device
I purchased $30.
http://www.thegpsstore.com/USGlobalSat-ND100S-USB-GPS-Dongle-P2611.aspx
I am looking into this newer unit
https://www.thegpsstore.com/USGlobalSat-BU353-S4-USB-GPS-Receiver-P3219.aspx
I have written software to read the LL and deliver the user to Google Maps.
I have used this combination with my Verizon MiFi to supply internet access.
When opening the software it is necessary to search the ports for the device
but I plan on automating this process. It can take a couple of minutes to
lock on the satelites but then updates are fairly fast. Within the software
is also the ability record the data being viewed to a datafile. You can go
to Google Maps at any time and the map position will be the current LL.
You can also copy decimal latitude and longitude from google maps and create
a data entry for that location. The LL can be copied to the clipboard and
pasted in Google Earth which is more robust software than Google Maps.
The GPS reports LL without use of the internet so you can record positions
and view them later in Google Maps when Internet is available. The GPS
updates can be turned off and on. When turned off the last recorded position
is retained.
To do:
Com port detection
I am increasingly able to navigate between "Bing Maps", "Google Maps", and
"Google Earth". Google maps has a google earth link in the lower left corner.
Imagery date - is not available in Google Maps. Must use Google Earth