Useing a GPS to find Sheds

[Predator 1]

Just to make something clear right off the bat. The GPS won't actually find the sheds for you!!

Technology isn't that good ......yet!

Anyway, I just started using a GPS unit this year to help or assist my efforts in finding sheds. Here's what I've been doing...

Early on in the shed season I walked the whole perimeter of an area where I thought I'd do most of my shed hunting. During this time I left my GPS on to track my route. I took my unit home and downloaded it onto my computer using a program called GPS track maker (It's a free program via internet). The end result was an outline of the area.

Now every time I go back there, to shed hunt, I leave my GPS on to track my route. take it home and down load. On my computer screen it shows me where I have and havn't walked or searched. So you know what areas might need more searching.

I've also been marking all my finds as waypoints and downloading them as well. I've already seen some trends and "hot spots" or "Core shedding areas" if you will.

Anyway I just thought I'd throw this one out there, if it ever crossed anyone's mind, there now is a way to know you've covered every inch !!


Predator 1

 

[Greystoke]

I've always thought that would work well. When I'm searching I somewhat work in a grid pattern. That would definately show how accurate you are. What's that web site?

 

[Predator 1]

Here's the link!

http://www.gpstm.com/eng/download_eng.htm

Give er a try

Once you have it downloaded hook up you gps unit with the appropriate cables to your computer, open up the program (GPS track maker), turn on your gps, click on INTERFACE then product ID. The program should recognize your unit.

Then you have the option of downloading, tracks, waypoints or all data. Once it finishes downloading click the EXIT button on the pop-up box and presto chango your info is displayed on a grid in front of you.

If you have a mouse wheel you can zoom into the approprite scale (You can get it down to 5 meters).

Use your right mouse button to click, hold and drag the view screen to center your data.

I havn't used it a whole lot yet, so I'm still learning the ropes. You can import images to underlay your data such as topo maps or air photos which I think would be super handy, but I havn't got to that point yet.

Good luck!

Predator 1

 

[Greystoke]

Thanks for the info