Techno-Geek Question
 

We are traveling through France Luxemburg and germany next month via automobile. We were going to bring our GPS reciever with us. (Global Positioning System) <BR><BR>Is anyone aware of any laws that would precludes us from using it?<BR><BR>Thanks<BR>Terry

I never leave home without my GPS. Since the receiver doesn't send out any signals, there's probably no restrictions against using it except near extremely sensitive instruments like in the plane during takeoff and landing. I use mine all the time while driving or when I'm in unfamiliar cities. One thing to note is that it doesn't seem to work well in large cities where buildings block the signals. I think that a GPS is one of those things that you don't miss if you never had one but you wonder how you ever got along without one once you've used one.<BR>Ron<BR>

Curious as to how much a GPS receiver costs? And where they are sold? As my name suggests I am not very techy.<BR>Thanks!

The cost of a GPS varies according to what features you want. A basic hand-held unit designed to tell you where you were and how to get back such as for hiking would probably start at about $100 to $150, maybe less on sale. A hand-held unit that could upload road maps for different cities or countries would probably start about $150 to $250. The last time I checked on the price of the maps they were about $100 each. (They were for road maps of the UK.) Units designed to be mounted in a car are about $250 and up with maps extra. (Usually a US road map is included with the unit. I don't know what maps would come with a unit bought outside the USA.)<BR>The unit I have is a Garmin and they have many models. Magellan is another brand that I've looked at. I've seen them sold at outdoor/fishing shops and also at auto parts stores. I think that both Garmin and Magellan have web sites and could give you more information about some of the specific features and cost.<BR>Ron

Yes, I recommend the Garmins. They are sold at sporting goods stores, electronics stores, boating stores, Bass Pro Shops, REI, etc. <BR><BR>I saw an excellent display at a Rand-McNally store at the mall.<BR><BR>I've had several (always trading up) and love them. There is an active resale market on ebay for them if you want to save some money. GPS-ers are always wanting to trade up!<BR><BR>Get one with an international database if you want to take it 'cross the pond.

Thanks for all the great info. I'm well on my way to becoming part of the civilized world.

Cave Man... Don't go there!!!! We like you the way you are. : )