Discussion: GPS tracker / logger

Do you know any way to log gps routes without any smartphone, gps watch? I'm looking for small gps tracker without screen to record route and later upload to computer. Any idea?

I looked into this about 3 years ago and found the Holux M1200e to be the only one that was reasonably priced A$100 and fit for aiding mapping. 3 others orienteerimng mappers now use it. It is the size of a 1st generation USB stick. I pin it to my cap so my body doesn't get in the way of satellites. I checked it against my handheld GPSrs and it is every bit as good as them - probably better when on my hat.

Holds much more data than my Garmin and Magellan wrist/bike GPSrs. Probably even more than my new Suunto wrist/bike GPSr.

Can download via USB cable or Bluetooth. Has ezTour software for download. and can export GPX from that to Starva, RouteGadget etc. However, while ezTour will download waypoints/POIs, it will not export them. There is a way to get them but you need to be moderately PC oriented to do it.

A few months ago I checked the market for anything better than the Holux and was surprised that I couldn't find anything that is as small, low cost, robust and fit-for-our-purpose.

I have Holux M1200e I have compared it to my other gps devices. I find it quite poor in forest canopy. Fore open areas it is fine. Most likely because it has only a tiny antenna.

I still use my Holux M1000c for events longer than 10 hours (my watch limit) ... it's 'good enough' for my purposes (a track, splits, mileage, etc. ... not mapping) and lasts ~28 hours (even at a bunch of years old). The ezTour software is crud, I use the superb BT747 software for configuration of the device and export.

I've used one of these for racing: http://global.mobileaction.com/product/product_i-g...

GPS chip not as good as a garmin, software a bit flaky. I fashioned a 'button protector' from a piece of plastic to stop it being accidentally turned off.

But configurable logging intervals for weekend long races.

I want to buy bluetooth gps gadget for
1. tracking my running and later download it on to my laptop
2. use for navigation in unknown area while driving (or while walking) along with my smartphone + google maps/ or any other app.

What is the best device(s) for this in your opinion?

and I am looking at BT-1300ST http://www.amazon.com/BT-Q1300ST-Qstarz-5Hz-Sports... The problem is - nothing is mentioned on amazon or on their website if this device can be used for navigation in a car.

Thanks in advance for your help

Has anyone had experience with the Fitbit Surge? I just ordered one as my gift for 25 years at my employer. It has a screen, so could show distance traveled, but doesn't show the track like the Forerunner 305 that I have. I suppose using it would still be against IOF rules.

drMaria: you may want two separate devices. You can get a used GPS for the car for about $20 on ebay.

Also, the Google Maps app on your smart phone should not require any external GPS receiver.

And a smartphone that can run GoogleMaps can also probably run a variety of run tracking apps, too.

And Google does traffic, too!