THINGS TO CONSIDER

Using a GPS device can be frustrating at times.

Here are a few things to consider:

1) The Trillium Miata Club has traditionally used “GPX files” to create and share tour routes

2) GPX files are simply a list of Latitude and Longitude “points” along a route

3) Your GPS will calculate the path between those Latitude and Longitude points (an important consideration)

4) It is vital that tour creators provide sufficient “points” within a route to ensure everyone’s GPS will calculate the same path over the desired roads

5) A GPS device must be capable of accepting (aka downloading) a GPX file. Garmin, for example calls this feature “Trip Planner”

6) Don’t expect 100% accuracy. GPS devices may use different mapping software from that used to create the route. Use your GPS as a guide, but always follow your lead car.

7) Newer technologies such as the “Scenic” app for smart phones allows for an entire route to be shared that minimizes the chance of errors being introduced by the GPS device

8) Unfortunately, as of today (Dec 2022) the Scenic app is only available for iPhone models (Android version has yet to appear)

9) You don’t have to be an expert at creating a tour route. There are a number of members within the club that are quite capable of creating a GPX file. If you have an idea for a tour, reach out to them for assistance in building the route.