[ gpsdrive ] Garmin usb18(oem) .. is it alive?

[Ross Scanlon]

On Fri, 23 May 2008 22:46:24 -0400
gpsdosm at trixtar.org wrote:


> Close to a window right now, where a Street-Pilot is 
> outputting an accurate position.

Close to a window usually is not much use.

I can put my MR-350 on the verandah of my house at the edge of the roof but it will not receive a signal.

If I put it on the roof at the same spot will receive maximum coverage of the sky with all satellites visible at maximum signal strength.

The puck style gps like Garmin USB18, BU353 and MR-350 all need a very clear view of the sky.

Sorry I don't know if your in the northern or southern hemisphere but if your south of the equator then you need a clear line of sight to the north, north of the equator then a clear line of sight to the south.

I know with the MR350 in cities with lots of tall buildings it has problems when the buildings to the north of present position are shielding the receiver from the satellites.

I'd get the garmin outside at least 5m from any overhanging roof, with a clear line of sight to the equator and see if it will work.  Use a laptop not a usb extension lead.

Regards
Ross