We assume that you are familiar with your GPS unit and its basic functions. The following example uses a Garmin eTrex Vista C GPS unit and Garmin MapSource software:
Creating an Off-Road Course with a Personal Computer
Download raw track logs to your PC, or create a track on your PC,
using any of these mapping programs:
Garmin, TopoFusion or EasyGPS.
Save data as a '*.gpx' or '*.gdb' file, depending upon the software you're using.
Open the saved file with Garmin's MapSource software.
Clean up any errors.
Cut the track into smaller segments and name each one.
Be sure to break loops into two or more segments.
Select track log properties and filter track.
Filter all segments to 250 points.
Set waypoints to indicate resets at the end of each segment.
For tricky turns, set a waypoint just after the turn.
Save your track data as a '*.gdb' file.
Transfer the saved data to your Garmin GPS unit.
The above suggestions are intended as a general guide. As you become more familiar with the process of creating a GPS 'roll chart' you may want to employ a slightly different approach.
Setting-Up the GPS Pages for Navigation
Map - Data Fields: Map Only
Guidance Text: Show When Navigating
Setup - General: Track Up below 5 mi., Auto Zoom Off, Most Detail, Lock on Road Off
Setup - Tracks: Saved Tracks Auto, Track Log Auto, Track Points 3000, Go to Line, Bearing
Setup - Points: All settings Auto
Trip Computer - Large Numbers
Data Fields: Pointer, Distance to Next, Speed
Tracks -
Track Log Setup: Wrap When Full, Auto Record, Normal Interval
Main Menu - Setup - Page Sequence: Map, Trip Computer, Tracks, Main Menu
This is just one way to setup a GPS unit. Your Garmin model may not have all the same features as the eTrex Vista C, and your approach may vary. The page sequence is usually a matter of individual preference. For example, some people like to use the compass page, while others do not. Consider the above suggestions as just a starting point for your own personal exploration.
Additional suggestions:
Main Menu - Setup - Routing:
Guidance Method: Prompted
Follow Road Method: Shorter Distance
Next Turn Pop-Up: Off
Don't use Routes (linked Waypoints) for navigation.
Using the GPS to Navigate Saved Tracks
Secure the batteries and use dielectric grease on contacts - see CycoActive for info.
Turn on the GPS unit and acquire satellites.
Position yourself at the starting point of the course.
Go to Map page, press Menu, select Start Navigation.
Go to Tracks page and turn Track Log Off.
Select Show on Map.
From the list of saved tracks, select the first track.
On the Saved Track page, select TracBack.
On the TracBack map page, mover cursor and select the 'reset' waypoint.
Choose the Follow Track option if it is presented.
Use navigation prompts above Map page, or follow Pointer on Trip Computer page.
At the end of the first track, repeat the procedure with the second track, etc.