Nuvi 750 Question, Never geocached, beginner questions. Options

[spainlinx0]

Hello everyone. I have never posted here before so be gentle. I have read as many of the faqs and guides as I can, but I have to admit I am a little overwhelmed and confused, but I want to ask a few questions to see if I can get myself in the right direction.

First of all, I just purchased a Nuvi 750. From what I gather this is not the type of GPS that is normally used in geocaching, but my GPS is primarily for work related things so that was why I purchased it. If I get enough into geocaching I will probably get a unit that is more suited to the activity, but that's not today.

Here is my dilemma. I went to the Garmin website, and through their mygarmin section I downloaded some geocache locations to my gps. I like that when I'm traveling I can see those geocaches, but I don't like that they are shown as "GZ----" instead of the name of the cache. I also don't like how much space it takes up in my favorites list. I tried using GSAK, but it wouldn't send stuff to my unit for some reason. I could just load up the .loc file from GSAK through POI Loader though from what I gather though.

Basically here's what I want to do. I want the names to show up on my map while driving, with their regular names, but I don't want them to go in my favorites. Is there a way to do this, or am I wasting my time. If there is, would anyone be kind enough to walk me through it? I am just not good at the GSAK program, and the walkthroughs seem tailored to the premium members, and it is daunting for someone who has no experience with GPS units or geocaching.

[MikeWCFL]

Hey there, I have the Nuvi 750 and use it for road navigation and geocaching. I use it to get me to the spot, then I take it out with me if I have to walk a trail.

It gets me close enough to a cache that I can find it. As I find more, I'm getting better at using my eyes (and hands) rather than relying on electronics.

I have GSAK setup perfectly now, thanks to the help of ClydeE (GSAK).

My pocket queries, or if you're not a premium member, you can still download the GPX files individually, are imported into GSAK. I only use the GPX files now because they contain ALL the information. I export the GSAK info to a single GPX file, using the macro option which really expands the capabilities of GSAK (mentioned below). LOC files do not include details.

I use POI Loader from Garmin to import this single file to my Nuvi 750. The caches appear in the Custom POI section ( Where To? -> Extras -> Custom POIs )

The Custom POI list shows the NAME of the cache. When I press the name, thanks to the macro in GSAK, I see the Name, Cache ID (GCxxxx), who owns the cache, the decoded hints, a short description and then long description, and the date the cache was last found. For me, this is perfect - no more paper printouts of the details...it's all there, except for the logs left by others but I'm sure that could be added if necessary. Some of the descriptions are a couple of pages long, also.

On the screen while driving, I use the "Where To?" part again and view the closest caches and they also appear on the screen as little dots. Using POI Loader, I have the Nuvi 750 beep when I'm approaching a cache ("Proximity Alert").

I'm still fairly new at this also, but these forums are a great help and since I have the 750 also, I'm just telling what I know so far. Maybe others will jump in here and add their input and expertise.

Good luck!
Mike

[Motorcycle_Mama]

Custom POIs are probably the way to go. You can run a macro in GSAK to put the smart names in there instead of the GC number. (Miragee will be along, I sure, to explain it). It will create a new GPX file and you can load this as a Custom POI file. You can't load LOC files as custom POIs.

However, the names, unfortunately will NOT show on the map screen unless you load them as Favorites. There's no way around it that I am aware.

Oh, wow, I just noticed that you said you aren't a Premium Member. In that case, just be sure that you realize that you are only going to get the name and the coordinates in the LOC file and no additional information. And you will have to go through the steps more times since you won't be working with Pocket Query files.

[spainlinx0]

Well I'm not a premium member yet. I joined the site yesterday I believe. I just wanted to get a flavor for it before I spent the money. MikeWCFL I am very interested in to how you did that. I like the way you have it set up, even if it doesn't pop up the name normally like my favorites do, the proximity alert would be nice. However the macro section is what I had a lot of trouble with. I have no idea how to use the macros. Is there a simple walkthrough that would show me how? Some people posted some strings in another thread, but I had no idea how to use it after I had brought some caches into GSAK. If you can tell me exactly the steps and macros you entered it would be a great help. I don't know how time consuming that would be, but I would really appreciate it.

[MikeWCFL]

A couple more things...

Get the "POI Loader" from Garmin.

( I'll wait here )

Import your GPX files into GSAK. You'll use GSAK to export to a single GPX file.

In GSAK, go to File -> Export -> GPX/LOC File...

A screen pops up with a bunch of options. Look for "Waypoint Name" and a long box. In that box, put "%name" (without quotes).

Look for "Cache description" below and to the left. In that box, put "%name [%code] by %by on %datepl:" (without quotes).

At the top of this box, make sure you've entered a name and selected "GPX" as a File type. The directory you're saving to should be EMPTY, or free of other GPX files.

At the bottom click "Generate" and let it go until you get the "Finished!" (OK) box.

Make sure the Nuvi is connected and your computer has seen it. Run POI Loader.
On the 2nd screen, your Nuvi (as a hard drive) should show up...if not, press "Find Device".
On the next screen, Install New Custom POIs onto your device.
Browse to the directory you placed the exported GPX file. Make SURE there are no other GPX files in this directory!
If you want Proximity Alerts, next to "In Express Mode"... select "Manual" then click NEXT
In MANUAL mode, you'll check "This file contains proximity alerts points" and choose either alert settings. For MPH, put something like "1" there. This thing alerts me within 1/4 mile. If you prefer "distance", enter a value there and select that radio button.
Click NEXT...

If you want descriptions like I have in my 750, let me know and I'll post my macro file that I use in GSAK. It strips HTML codes also, which some cache descriptions have caused the 750 to lock-up. Not anymore with this script.

Ok, that's it. Hope this helps!
Mike

[MikeWCFL]

Haha, I was entering my previous message and THEN noticed the replies. Ok, here goes.

Same steps as above...but you'll need the GPX files. I don't remember how the Garmin site got its data and if they are in GPX format. If you can only get LOC files, the macro won't help, but the lines I mentioned above will at least get you the name of the cache on your Custom POI screen ( I *think* that's included in the LOC files)...

In the cache description box I mentioned "%name [%code] by %by on %datepl:", you'll put this instead:

%name [%code] by %by on %datepl: %macro="d:\GSAK_macro2.txt" Last Found: %datelf

(you will use the quotes around the directory & filename as I have it in the new line!)

Notice the d:\GSAK_macro2.txt this is the macro that will run, so make sure the directory I have points to where you save the file!

My macro lines are below. Cut-n-Paste this to a text file. Just make sure the path and filename matches where YOU put it! And, again, only helps if you have GPX files somehow. There should only be TWO lines, each starting with $_Special. I took ClydeE's help and expanded the macro for my preference.


$_Special = $_NewLine + "HINTS: " + $d_Hints + $_NewLine + " SHORT DESC: " + $d_ShortDescription + $_NewLine + " LONG DESC: " + $d_LongDescription
$_Special = RegExReplace("</?[a-z][a-z0-9]*[^<>]*>",$_Special,"")

This post has been edited by MikeWCFL: Nov 20 2007, 07:52 PM

[spainlinx0]

I just imported, and it worked great although some of them still show up as letters with no description. I'm guessing that's just due to the original cache not having a description?

I would love the macro you used. The more information that would go into my GPS the better. If you could include how to set one up and use it that would be helpful. I tried saving a macro simply copying something from a thread, but when I went to apply it nothing happened. Your first little guide was great and very clear. I really appreciate it.

Posted while you were. I'll go try out the macro now, and see how it goes.

This post has been edited by spainlinx0: Nov 20 2007, 07:55 PM

[MikeWCFL]

The ones that show up as just letters could be added waypoints, like parking areas or other non-cache points...not real sure, but that's what mine does when I view the POI's in the Nuvi.

When you view the details, you might see something like "Parking spot for locating cache" or something. And there may not be a "MORE" button for further details.

As for membership, I understand what you mean. I chose the $3/month plan once I got hooked. Now, with the caches on the GPS, the whole family is like "pull over!" when we hear the thing beep. Takes forever to go places now.

[spainlinx0]

The macro file didn't load into my GPS. I copied and changed addresses, but it doesn't even show up on my custom points now.

[MikeWCFL]

The macro file didn't load into my GPS. I copied and changed addresses, but it doesn't even show up on my custom points now.

Hmmm... not good!

Ok, to make sure: this line goes in GSAK in the Cache Description box when you select "File" and "Export" then "GPX/LOC File..."

%name [%code] by %by on %datepl: %macro="d:\GSAK_macro2.txt" Last Found: %datelf

The d:\GSAK_macro2.txt is replaced by your path and file name of the file you created. You include the quotes in the line.

The file you created has only these two lines (as-is):

$_Special = $_NewLine + "HINTS: " + $d_Hints + $_NewLine + " SHORT DESC: " + $d_ShortDescription + $_NewLine + " LONG DESC: " + $d_LongDescription
$_Special = RegExReplace("</?[a-z][a-z0-9]*[^<>]*>",$_Special,"")

And, it is saved as a text file.

You run the export -> GPX/LOC file, as a GPX file described way above (here) and use POI Loader to import the GPX file to your Garmin...?

[spainlinx0]

I imported it, fixed an error and this time it worked, but none of my caches have anything for hints, short description, long description, or last found. They show up, but then it's blank next to them. Is this because I am not a premium member, or have I done something wrong?

[spainlinx0]

I just looked through GSAK, and it looks like the 5 non descriptions are waypoints for another cache I have, but there is nothing in their descriptions to let me know that. The information is in the other cache, but it does not get pulled up on my GPS.

Maybe I should try and find a cache with hints, to see if it's just the one's I downloaded that don't have a lot of info.

[spainlinx0]

OK, I just went to download some more waypoints, and I realize it's getting downloaded as a .loc file. I must have to get a premium membership to get all that information. Oh well.

[MikeWCFL]

I goofed up somewhere. I thought there was a way to get GPX files from either MyGarmin or individually from geocaching.com ... by viewing each cache. Now I see that is not an option.

I wonder if you send them to the GPS from geocaching.com, then export them to GSAK (GPS -> Receive Waypoints) - if THAT will work? I never use the GPS menu on GSAK, sorry.

I hate to say it because you're just starting out (as I was a couple weeks ago!), but if you get hooked on this and can register, the added benefits really help.

Until then, the LONG way around is editing each waypoint and adding the data from the website manually. It's a pain and I've done that also.

[spainlinx0]

I just registered, but I don't know how to download a bunch of GPX files at once. When I click select all, it still downloads them as .loc. Isn't there a way to get a bunch of GPX files at once the same way? I thought that's what premium membership is for.

[MikeWCFL]

I do it through Pocket Queries!

Click on your username in the upper right. Look down the right side for "Build Pocket Queries".

Create a new query (click that link) and build a search similar to how you would do it under Hide and Seek A Cache.

Down near the bottom, have it save as a GPX file.

OH! You'll want this TODAY so at the top, select the day (it's Tuesday here). Don't mark every day, or it will Email you a file every day and might bog down the system... I don't know.

Save it and wait a minute, or a few minutes. Check your Email!! You can refresh that screen showing your query summaries and it will change when it has sent you the Email.

Unzip the file, if you have them zipped. Create a NEW database or clear out the current database in GSAK and OPEN the new files geocaching.com sent you.

This post has been edited by MikeWCFL: Nov 20 2007, 08:42 PM

[MikeWCFL]

FYI, I have three pocket queries going once per week, each.

One query searching 20-miles from my home location/coordinates. I get 300 caches in that list.

The next one searches 20-miles from a zip code in south Tampa. I get 100 of those.

The 3rd one is for when I go to Lakeland, searching 20-miles from a zip code there. I get 200(?) of those.

The local query comes in Monday and the other two come in Friday (cache weekend).

Unzip and load into GSAK (it will update the records as needed). Be sure to update your "Finds" on geocaching.com. In the Pocket Query searches, I only have it pick the caches I have not found. That way, the GPS doesn't beep, sending me into another parking lot unexpectedly. haha

Anything else you need, post again. The forums are great. I'm out for the night but will be back tomorrow.

Good luck and have fun!

[spainlinx0]

dadgum, the one cache keeps shutting off my GPS.

[MikeWCFL]

I had a couple like that with a lot of HTML code in the description. Unless it is something different or the macro isn't catching it?

I've had some descriptions with embedded animations, web links and everything else. But now the macro takes care of it. No more lock-ups with those.

[Motorcycle_Mama]

You can only get the GPX files from the cache pages if you are a Premium member. The LOC files only have the Cache name and coordinates. They don't contain the hints and other information.

[spainlinx0]

Right, I signed up for the premium membership. I downloaded the GPX file. I haven't actually tried it out yet, but it did upload correctly. I only had the problem with the one cache so far where it shut down my Nuvi. The only thing is some of those non-description waypoints don't tell you what they are for. That's a little disappointing, but I guess that's why it's recommended that you print out the thread or the item page? I guess that's the big draw to the paperless caching. Thanks so much again for all the help MikeWCFL. You have been an absolute lifesaver.

[MikeWCFL]

No problem and glad to help, as are many others here. I can relate to your circumstances. I didn't want to register just yet, found a few caches, etc. After a bunch of printouts, I found the benefits of registering will save me in the future. Plus, we both have the Nuvi 750, which helps.

As for the waypoints, I usually see a summary when I click on the code in the Custom POI list (on the Nuvi). Very basic like "Parking for GCxxxx" or something. It really depends on what the author wrote. If you're seeing a full description on the website for that waypoint and it is not appearing on your Garmin, that could be another issue and concern. I'm finding that the extra waypoints don't have the "GCxxxxx" code format and don't have hints or descriptions. It's usually a reference point like "Park here and walk to trail" or there's nothing. I am mostly concerned with the cache information getting to the Garmin.

Since using GSAK and the macro, I haven't needed any printouts. Oh, and we're out of toner.

[osterbe1]

What an awesome thread! I have a Nuvi 660, and I didn't even know you could do this kind of thing. I will be signing up for my premium membership tonight so I can try this out...VERY COOL! Thanks for the info and the great step-by-step instructions.

[ventura_kids]

What is the accuracy of the Nuvi?
Does it show an arrow and the distance?

[MikeWCFL]

osterbe1, glad you found the thread useful also. I wish geocaching.com had a referral bonus! hehe

ventura_kids - the Nuvi has high-sensitivity WAAS and SirfStar III...uh, whatever those are! It is similar to what the handheld units have. Anyway! While driving, there is a slight delay when looking at the car, or arrow on the unit and passing a road... maybe this is normal, I don't know. It is like the unit shows the road ahead of the arrow when, in fact, you've just past the road. It updates quickly, though when you pass it.

When geocaching, when I'm driving up to a point (cache), I get the point as close to the car/arrow as possible, almost even with it, jump out and look in the tree, or nearby object, and there's the cache. Same thing when taking the Nuvi handheld in the woods. I put it in Pedestrian mode and go on the trail or where ever. I zoom in all the way and walk until the dot is close to the arrow/car. Having all the information on the screen also helps a lot.

It can get goofy, though. When standing still the point jumps around. When backing up in the car, the point jumps around also and sometimes the roads and cache points appear on the wrong side. I haven't mastered this yet or used the "Where Am I?" coordinates to get a better fix on the cache. But it will get me in the area and close enough.

When driving, I like to hit the "Where To?" button, look at the POI list (caches) and it shows them in distance order, the distance to the cache, and arrows pointing where they are in reference to our current location. "Oh look, west of here about 1 mile is another one."

A handheld would be a nice compliment, with a compass and other features. We're looking at the Vista everyone's talking about.

[ifloydian007]

MikeWCFL - I love it. You've done an excellent job customizing GSAK for use with the Nuvi 750. I have one and hated using favorites for displaying caches. kudos and props to you...

I do have a question though - When I used favorites I would set the icon to the Open/Close cache icon based on whether I found it or not. Is there a way, using GSAK, that I can export this information and have it change the icon for the Poi's accordingly that you know of? It seems to me that Poi icons are limited to the built in "dot". But I really would love to see the cache status instead. Another option would be to just filter the found caches before exporting so found ones don't show up at all.

Thanks again, urrr the best.
-floydian007

______________________________
Garmin Nuvi 750
Dell Axim 50v w/GlobalSat SD-501 SDIO GPS Receiver and BeeLineGPS for hunting

This post has been edited by ifloydian007: Dec 28 2007, 08:35 PM

[briansnat]

Moving to GPS Units and Software Forum

[nljones]

Does anybody know anything about adding topo maps to the nuvi? I have a 650 with sd slot.

[nljones]

Does anybody know anything about adding topo maps to the nuvi? I have a 650 with sd slot.

[Motorcycle_Mama]

Sure, just select the segments you want, and send them to the card.

Are you having a specific problem?

[nljones]

No problem. I haven't bought any maps yet. I'm just wondering if the nuvi would be an adequate starter gps for a little back country caching even though the battery life too short for any serious hike. Getting both maps and another high sensitive gps are a little expensive for me right now. I actually had never heard of caching until I went to the Garmin site after I got the nuvi, but it sounds like a good excuse to do some hiking, which I used to enjoy but haven't done lately. I've never used maps for hiking either so I don't know what kind of learning curve is involved. I don't have any interest in urban caching. There is another thread with info up setting up a nuvi 650 with cache info and that probably would have been a better place to post this, but thanks for your reply.

[Motorcycle_Mama]

The nuvi will take the topo maps. You will just select the map segments you want to load (up to the segment limit of 2025) and send them to the card. The unit will read them from the card no problem.

The only caveat I would say is to be careful with the nuvi on a hike. It's not waterproof and fairly fragile.