GSAK (Geocaching Swiss Army Knife)

[+ClydeE]

Here is one that opens up a can of worms. Multiple finds for one waypoint.

Here is an event cache that says to log the finds to the event to get credit to your total. Individual caches will not be listed on GC.

http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_detai...vj&Submit6=Find

 

Another one is a movable cache that allows multiple finds. GCD079

 

Gary

Perhaps the easiest way to get around this one is to add a new field to the database. This would allow you to update the number of finds for each cache. You would only need to do this for these "multi" found type caches, as the program would just assume 1 if the cache is flagged as found.

 

This would allow you to get your found count exactly right. However, I can see it leading to confusion when trying to reconcile your found count and you have entered the wrong number in some of these "multi" found caches. I guess this is just the nature of the beast and if you use this feature you will need to come to terms with it.

 

I would need to give this some more thought, but the implementation logic wouldn't be that hard. However, as it will involve updating the database layout I will probably leave this one until the next or later significant release of GSAK (next release of GSAK will be 3.02 but next significant release will be 3.1)

[+Aphrael]

I don't know if this has come up yet... or I may just be reading it all wrong... when I go to USB send file to... it DLs all the waypoints off my 60cs... but when I goto recieve from USB it loads all my waypoint off GSAK... am I just reading what the command is or are they backewards... ??? 

 

Wow, now you have got me confused

 

Are you sure you are using GSAK? Currently there is not such option as "USB send file"

 

Also, USB is currently not yet supported in GSAK. Perhaps you can clarify what is going on here please.

Yeah I goofed.... I was in mapsourse, not GSAK... I reinstalled the mapsourse cd that came with my 60cs... and all is right with the world...

 

now if GSAK would do this, my roof would be comin off... I'd be Yahooing so loud..

 

sry for the intrupt I read it late at nite when my coffee ran out...

 

Aph

[+hbrx]

Regarding Waypoint Tags.

 

I have read the new tread, and the help-info in the program without finding anything about it so;

 

Could we please have a %crypt-hint tag? The hint 'undecrypted'.

 

On the Garmin 60CS, when doing a search for unfound geocaches

and choosing one of them to start navigating to it I get to the waypoint screen,

and it displays the description data. I DO want to see if it is a multi/micro etc,

but would like to have the hint encrypted until I need it.

 

And perhaps an 'Direct to Ozi'-button, to load all waypoints to ozi without the need

to go via the 'Export WPT fil' dialogue (gsak might use a temp-wpt file).

 

GSAK will be the reason for a 'Geek Event' in Oslo, Norway this spring.

It has gained some momentum in the society, and more will come.

 

Keep up the excellent work!

 

(might also repeat my wish for a 'string conversion' table...)

 

henrik.

[+GLM]

Here is one that opens up a can of worms.  Multiple finds for one waypoint.

Gary

 

Perhaps the easiest way to get around this one is to add a new field to the database. This would allow you to update the number of finds for each cache. You would only need to do this for these "multi" found type caches, as the program would just assume 1 if the cache is flagged as found.

 

This would allow you to get your found count exactly right. However, I can see it leading to confusion when trying to reconcile your found count and you have entered the wrong number in some of these "multi" found caches. I guess this is just the nature of the beast and if you use this feature you will need to come to terms with it.

 

I would need to give this some more thought, but the implementation logic wouldn't be that hard. However, as it will involve updating the database layout I will probably leave this one until the next or later significant release of GSAK (next release of GSAK will be 3.02 but next significant release will be 3.1)

I only mentioned the multi finds per waypoint knowing that at some point it will become a problem, and you are already working on a solution.

 

Your solution sounds workable. I'll be watching to see what you come up with.

 

Actually, I'll keep watching even if you ignore the above.

 

Gary

[+PandyBat]

Hello all!

 

I posted this in another thread not knowing this thread was around. Please forgive me for not reading the other three pages of this thread. Seems the more I read about other peoples problems with files, the more I get confused.

 

My previous post and my questions:

First off, I'm a premium member so I can get GPX files.

 

I downloaded GSAK and EasyGPS to see which one I like better. So far, just by how much information you can obtain about the caches from the downloads, seems like GSAK is the way to go. Ok...so I downloadrd some waypoints from my search page. Is there a way to get them to download directly into GSAK instead of making them a seperate file on my computer? (Currently putting them into a file in My Documents)

 

Also, they download from GC.com and import into GSAK as .loc files. Hardly any information is available about each cache and every cache has the same blue question mark as the icon. I assume that a GPX file is the one with all the extra information, right? How do I fix it so it will download from GC.com and into GSAK as a GPX file?

 

Once I get all the information set up in the GSAK program on the caches that I want, I am going to be uploading to a Garmin eTrex (I think I have all the right cables). I don't even want to attempt downloading into my GPSr until I can get GSAK set up to download the right files with all the right information. And even though I can't download all the information about a cache, i.e. logs and placed by, type of cache, etc, into my GPSr, I'd still like to have it in GSAK as a reference when looking at caches.

 

Am I doing all this wrong? I've read so many different threads on all this that I have completely confused myself. I'm pretty sure this isn't going to be the first question I have while doing all this...lol

[+Team DEMP]

so I downloadrd some waypoints from my search page. Is there a way to get them to download directly into GSAK instead of making them a seperate file on my computer? (Currently putting them into a file in My Documents)

GPX files are either created on-the-fly as it seems you have done, or via a Pocket Query which can be scheduled. It's just a file, but GSAK allows you to drag/drop the file to import it into the application's database.

 

Also, they download from GC.com and import into GSAK as .loc files. Hardly any information is available about each cache and every cache has the same blue question mark as the icon. I assume that a GPX file is the one with all the extra information, right? How do I fix it so it will download from GC.com and into GSAK as a GPX file?

Sounds like you're downloading a LOC file and not a GPX file. On each individual cache page, you can download the info as a LOC or if Premium, as a GPX. On the page that lists many (20) caches, you can only check off and create a LOC file. In a Pocket Query, you can create either based on the drop-down list selection near the bottom of the PQ page. A GPX file has more info then a LOC file.

[+byonke]

Also, they download from GC.com and import into GSAK as .loc files. Hardly any information is available about each cache and every cache has the same blue question mark as the icon. I assume that a GPX file is the one with all the extra information, right? How do I fix it so it will download from GC.com and into GSAK as a GPX file?

I believe the default for pocket queries is .LOC. Check to see that your pocket queries are set for .GPX files instead of .LOC files. It is a pull-down near the bottom of the screen.

 

Brian

[+ClydeE]

Could we please have a %crypt-hint tag? The hint 'undecrypted'.

This feature was introduced in 3.01 - see the "special tags" help section (which is now online) here

 

And perhaps an 'Direct to Ozi'-button, to load all waypoints to ozi without the need

to go via the 'Export WPT fil' dialogue (gsak might use a temp-wpt file).

There already is! The OziExplorer export button has been there ever since version 1.00

Edited April 20, 2004 by ClydeE

[+Ptarmigan]

ClydeE - love the software and use it all the time.

 

Is there a way to filter distance between to variables? ie: give all the caches between 10kms and 25kms.

 

Or using greater than 10km but less than 25kms ?

 

If not, it might be something to add in next rels.

 

Thanks

[+ClydeE]

ClydeE - love the software and use it all the time.

 

Is there a way to filter distance between to variables? ie: give all the caches between 10kms and 25kms.

 

Or using greater than 10km but less than 25kms ?

 

If not, it might be something to add in next rels.

 

Thanks

Currently No. I will have a look at adding this in a future release.

 

A bit clumsy but the work around for this now would be (example of all caches between 10 and 25 kms):

 

1. Clear all user flags (User Flags=>Clear all user flags)

2. Set a filter on Less than or equal to 25 kms

3. Set all user flags for this filter (User Flags=>Set for filter only)

4. Set a filter on Less than or equal to 10 kms

5. Clear all user flags for this filter (User Flags=> Clear for filter only)

6. Set a filter for user flag = set (only - do not include any distance)

 

You now have a subset of caches that are between 10 and 25kms of your current centre point.

[+ClydeE]

Handy tip….

 

Although I do plan to introduce graphic support (pictures) for GSAK, you can include pictures now.

 

You may not realise this but the user notes section in GSAK supports HTML. So if you would like to include pictures (hints or your own digital photos) in split screen view or offline HTML view just insert as many <img> tags as you like. (Example <img src="file://C:\GeoImages\mypic.jpg">

 

Of course this powerful feature is not limited to pictures, you can set up whatever HTML code you like in the user notes.

[+PandyBat]

so I downloadrd some waypoints from my search page. Is there a way to get them to download directly into GSAK instead of making them a seperate file on my computer? (Currently putting them into a file in My Documents)

GPX files are either created on-the-fly as it seems you have done, or via a Pocket Query which can be scheduled. It's just a file, but GSAK allows you to drag/drop the file to import it into the application's database.

 

Also, they download from GC.com and import into GSAK as .loc files. Hardly any information is available about each cache and every cache has the same blue question mark as the icon. I assume that a GPX file is the one with all the extra information, right? How do I fix it so it will download from GC.com and into GSAK as a GPX file?

Sounds like you're downloading a LOC file and not a GPX file. On each individual cache page, you can download the info as a LOC or if Premium, as a GPX. On the page that lists many (20) caches, you can only check off and create a LOC file. In a Pocket Query, you can create either based on the drop-down list selection near the bottom of the PQ page. A GPX file has more info then a LOC file.

I believe the default for pocket queries is .LOC. Check to see that your pocket queries are set for .GPX files instead of .LOC files. It is a pull-down near the bottom of the screen.

 

Brian

 

Team DEMP & byonke

 

Both of you provided some of the information I needed. I never even saw the pull-down on the bottom of the pocket query screen to change them to GPX files. I also didn't know about the drag and drop feature for the GPX pocket query files. Thanks so much for your help! I'm sure this won't be the last of my silly questions about this...lol

[+hbrx]

Could we please have a %crypt-hint tag? The hint 'undecrypted'.

This feature was introduced in 3.01 - see the "special tags" help section (which is now online) here

 

And perhaps an 'Direct to Ozi'-button, to load all waypoints to ozi without the need

to go via the 'Export WPT fil' dialogue (gsak might use a temp-wpt file).

There already is! The OziExplorer export button has been there ever since version 1.00

I have perhaps not made mysel very understandable...

 

I know of (and use) the %hint-tag. This gives me the decrypted hint.

But the tag I am missing is one that gives me the hint undecrypted.

I could not find any such tag either in the help in GSAK or the online helpfile.

Is it just that I cant find it, or are we not talking abouth the same thing?

 

I am also using the Ozi-button in the menu bar. NO problem, a great function.

What I was thinking of was some sort of

"export waypoints to ozi and open up ozi without bothering me with further dialogue". A 'quick-export'.

That function could use the same settings as last export, and making a temporary waypoint file. The reason I put up this request is when I plans trips I switch back and forth between GSAK and Ozi, and make changes in the filtering or database, and exporting again. But, I do also realize that it might be a little bit to much, just beacause I want to skip a few keyklicks :-).

 

hbrx.

[+byonke]

I've been trying to better manage my database(s) and have a couple of questions.

 

Is there an easy way to transfer data from one database to another? I have exported a .gpx file and imported it into another database, but I was wondering if there was a more direct method.

 

Are corrected coordinates transfered with a .gpx file or must they be reentered? A simple way to bring corrected coordinates from on database to another would be nice.

 

Thanks

Brian

[AJK]

Problems:

 

Every time I open GSAK it says there is insufficient memory (unlikely). I press okay, and it seems to open properly, but my filters are gone, and if I try to filter I get this:

 

Application...

Start Date : 04/22/2004 20:59:24

Name/Description: gsak.exe

Version Number : 3.0.1.20

 

Exception...

Date : 04/22/2004 21:05:35

Address: 004C9C33

Module : gsak.exe

Type : EDatabaseError

Message: tblFilter: Cannot perform this operation on a closed dataset.

 

Active Controls...

Form Class : TfmOffline

Form Text : GSAK Version 3.01 DataBase: Default

Control Class: TwwDBGrid

Control Text :

 

Computer...

Name : HOME

Total Memory: 255 Mb

Free Memory : 96 Mb

Total Disk : 27.32 Gb

Free Disk : 19.02 Gb

 

Operating System...

Type : Microsoft Windows XP

Build # : 2600

Language: English (United States)

 

I am on the latest version, have tried reinstalling (without removing dataset) and tried rebuilding the database, to no avail. Any ideas??

 

Thanks, AJK

[+ClydeE]

Is there an easy way to transfer data from one database to another? I have exported a .gpx file and imported it into another database, but I was wondering if there was a more direct method.

From the main menu select "Database=>Save As..." This option was specifically put in there for this purpose, and will copy over your corrected coordinates and your permanent delete list

 

Are corrected coordinates transferred with a .gpx file or must they be reentered? A simple way to bring corrected coordinates from on database to another would be nice.

The actual coordinates in the GPX file will be the corrected ones, but the database that contains the old and new coordinates will not be restored. If the "Save As..." does not help you here and you just want to copy over the corrected coordinates then just copy the file "Corrected.cds" from one database to the other. Each database has its own folder in the "Data" folder of the install folder of GSAK

[+ClydeE]

Problems:

 

Every time I open GSAK it says there is insufficient memory (unlikely). I press okay, and it seems to open properly, but my filters are gone, and if I try to filter I get this:

 

Sounds like your filter file may be corrupt. The filter file is called "filter.cds" and resides in the install folder of GSAK. Try renaming to "filter.xxx" and restarting GSAK.

[+Right Wing Wacko]

I loaded this mornings pocket querys into GSAK and discovered that my find count went DOWN by three caches.

 

A little investigation and I discovered that the CITO event and WebCam caches that I've logged were no longer marked as found in GSAK, even though they had a found date shown in the database.

 

It appears that Groundspeak may have changed the way finds are recorded for these two types of caches (and I suspect that regular events are soon to also be in this list, with an "Attended" log instead of "Found").

 

Edit: Spelling

Edited April 23, 2004 by Right Wing Wacko

[+ClydeE]

I loaded this mornings pocket querys into GSAK and discovered that my find count went DOWN by three caches.

 

A little investigation and I discovered that the CITO event and WebCam caches that I've logged were no longer marked as found in GSAK, even though they had a found date shown in the database.

 

It appears that Groundspeak may have changed the way finds are recorded for these two types of caches (and I suspect that regular events are soon to also be in this list, with an "Attended" log instead of "Found").

 

Edit: Spelling

Thanks for altering me to this. Would you be able to send me your GPX file with this new info so I can take a look and make the necessary changes?

 

Ta

Clyde

[AJK]

Sounds like your filter file may be corrupt. The filter file is called "filter.cds" and resides in the install folder of GSAK. Try renaming to "filter.xxx" and restarting GSAK.

Yep, that would be correct. Thanks

[+Right Wing Wacko]

I loaded this mornings pocket querys into GSAK and discovered that my find count went DOWN by three caches.

 

A little investigation and I discovered that the CITO event and WebCam caches that I've logged were no longer marked as found in GSAK, even though they had a found date shown in the database.

 

It appears that Groundspeak may have changed the way finds are recorded for these two types of caches (and I suspect that regular events are soon to also be in this list, with an "Attended" log instead of "Found").

 

Edit: Spelling

Thanks for altering me to this. Would you be able to send me your GPX file with this new info so I can take a look and make the necessary changes?

 

Ta

Clyde

On the way.

[+Rosco Bookbinder]

Clyde,

 

Can you tell me why the corrected.cds file keeps ending up in the root directories of my computer? Both the C:/ drive where the program is located and my F:/ drive where I keep my gpx files...

Edited April 23, 2004 by Rosco Bookbinder

[+ClydeE]

Clyde,

 

Can you tell me why the corrected.cds file keeps ending up in the root directories of my computer? Both the C:/ drive where the program is located and my F:/ drive where I keep my gpx files...

Good question. Sounds like GSAK is using the root drive rather than temp when doing some temporary operation. I will track this down and fix.

[+Rosco Bookbinder]

Clyde,

 

Can you tell me why the corrected.cds file keeps ending up in the root directories of my computer?  Both the C:/ drive where the program is located and my F:/ drive where I keep my gpx files...

Good question. Sounds like GSAK is using the root drive rather than temp when doing some temporary operation. I will track this down and fix.

Thanks Clyde. I've noticed it for quite a long time. Not sure how far back.

[+Tervas]

Is there a way to include User Data field content in an exported HTML file?

[+ClydeE]

Is there a way to include User Data field content in an exported HTML file?

No - but another good point, I will add this in the next release.

[+Tervas]

Thanks in advance!

[+NightPilot]

I'm seeing the same thing as Rosco, for whatever reason. I finally gave in to GSAK and installed it on C:, in the default location, because it seemed to want to be there so badly. I keep everything else on F: drive, in a geocaching folder. I hadn't looked, but reading this thread made me do a search, and it appears that GSAK is putting the corrected.cds file in both root directories. I do have a temp directory designated, but GSAK seems to be putting this file in both root directories for some reason. Not the end of the world, but I don't like having files in my roots, especially C:\.

[+ClydeE]

I'm seeing the same thing as Rosco, for whatever reason. I finally gave in to GSAK and installed it on C:, in the default location, because it seemed to want to be there so badly. I keep everything else on F: drive, in a geocaching folder. I hadn't looked, but reading this thread made me do a search, and it appears that GSAK is putting the corrected.cds file in both root directories. I do have a temp directory designated, but GSAK seems to be putting this file in both root directories for some reason. Not the end of the world, but I don't like having files in my roots, especially C:\.

Yes, I have tracked this one down and it will be fixed in 3.02 (out soon)

[+DomHeknows]

Can we have the Geocache uk site added as a custom url in the "factory install". The link that is needed would be GCUK=http://stats.guk2.com/caches/osgb_cache_details.php?wp=%code

 

GCUK has an authorised copy of the gc.com database but has extra features to the webpages such as streetmaps (which gc.com doesn't have at all).

Ta!

[+ClydeE]

Can we have the Geocache uk site added as a custom url in the "factory install". The link that is needed would be GCUK=http://stats.guk2.com/caches/osgb_cache_details.php?wp=%code

 

GCUK has an authorised copy of the gc.com database but has extra features to the webpages such as streetmaps (which gc.com doesn't have at all).

Ta!

I am curious to know why you would want this in the "factory" settings.

 

I would prefer not to add country specific URLs to the "factory" settings (but I can be persuaded if you have a convincing argument). The whole idea of the custom URL is to allow you to set these up the way you like. You can add/move/delete these URLs (Tools=>Options=>HTML) and they are sticky. So if you want that URL to be used in your version of GSAK then just copy and paste to the custom URL section.

[+DomHeknows]

I thought it would be good publicity for the uk site and provide people an alternative when gc.com is overloaded on a sunday night

[+PandyBat]

Ugh, I'm having problems again.

 

I've got all the files set up in GSAK. When I try to download them into my GPSr, it just sits there. A little window comes up saying "Sending Waypoints..." and it also says Label1 and the little icon moves but the whole program sits at 0%, doing nothing.

I don't know what to do now.

 

I have the Garmin PC Interface cable connected to a USB to 9 pin serial converter hooked into a 4-port USB hub. Is it possible that one of these cables does not work? The hub works just fine. I have used it with other USB items. The little green light on the USB to 9 pin serial converter lights up. I assume its working. I have a tight connection to the GPSr with the Interface cable. The only COM ports available are COM1 and COM2. I have tried both of them and I get the same results when downloading. What am I doing wrong?

I assume I am supposed to have my GPSr on when downloading, right? If so, is there a certain screen I am supposed to have it on when downloading? (Yep, I'm resorting to thinking about stupid little fixes like that...lol) HELP!

[+ClydeE]

Ugh, I'm having problems again.

 

I've got all the files set up in GSAK. When I try to download them into my GPSr, it just sits there. A little window comes up saying "Sending Waypoints..." and it also says Label1 and the little icon moves but the whole program sits at 0%, doing nothing.

I don't know what to do now.

 

I have the Garmin PC Interface cable connected to a USB to 9 pin serial converter hooked into a 4-port USB hub. Is it possible that one of these cables does not work? The hub works just fine. I have used it with other USB items. The little green light on the USB to 9 pin serial converter lights up. I assume its working. I have a tight connection to the GPSr with the Interface cable. The only COM ports available are COM1 and COM2. I have tried both of them and I get the same results when downloading. What am I doing wrong?

I assume I am supposed to have my GPSr on when downloading, right? If so, is there a certain screen I am supposed to have it on when downloading? (Yep, I'm resorting to thinking about stupid little fixes like that...lol) HELP!

GSAK uses GPSBabel "Under the hood" to send waypoints to your GPS, so the issue really lies with GPSBabel. Unfortunately I have had reports of some (not many but enough to know it exists) USB=>Serial converters not working with GPSBabel. You could try posting you problem in the GPSBabel List to see if there is anything that can be done to fix/get around this.

Edited April 25, 2004 by ClydeE

[+PandyBat]

Thanks ClydeE....I'll try there and see what they say.

[+PandyBat]

ClydeE, do you know if EasyGPS also uses GPSBabel to send waypoints? I tried sending waypoints to my GPSr using it also and it doesn't do a thing either. No windows pop up or anything. I even tried testing the serial connection through EasyGPS and still nothing happens. I just can't figure out why neither of these programs seem to respond to anything I want them to do as far as sending or receiving waypoints.

[+ClydeE]

ClydeE, do you know if EasyGPS also uses GPSBabel to send waypoints? I tried sending waypoints to my GPSr using it also and it doesn't do a thing either. No windows pop up or anything. I even tried testing the serial connection through EasyGPS and still nothing happens. I just can't figure out why neither of these programs seem to respond to anything I want them to do as far as sending or receiving waypoints.

EasyGPS does not use GPSBabel. If you can't get it to work with EasyGPS then you definitely have a problem at your end. As you said you only have ports COM1 and COM2 available, it sounds like to me that you system is not recognising the new USB=>Serial adapter. Are you sure you loaded the necessary drivers - I would have thought this would appear as COM3 or some higher number.

[+ClydeE]

GSAK version 3.02 is now ready.

 

This updated fixes a few more bugs and adds some minor features

 

Fixed "cannot focus disabled window " crash after selecting last active filter.

Fixed waypoint description getting "placed by" included in the description when updating GPX files in the Roblisa format

Fixed GSAK crash when importing GPX files generated by UsaPhotmaps

Fixed problem with some GPX files (Benchmark) showing placed by date as 31st December, 1899.

Fixed crash on exit after using OziExplorer (Some W2000 systems only)

Fixed Export/Load problem with owner ID of GPX files created by user added waypoints

Fixed problem of corrected.cds file being created in the root drive of your computer

Fixed found column width being reset (small size) when it shouldn't

Fixed found count so it will allow a cache you placed to be included as a found.

Changed smart names so words keyed in uppercase stay in uppercase

Offline/Split screen now uses database URL when you "Click Here for latest Info" (was incorrectly assuming the waypoint was a gc.com cache)

When you open another database distances are now calculated from the current centre point.

Cachemate install setting is now sticky

You can now associate GPX and LOC files with GSAK (not just GPX files)

Changed Tab order to be more intuative for most dialogs.

Added ability to use GSAK generated HTML files for Microsoft Streets and Trips (I.E. Offline browsing in S&T)

Added new "Attended" log (CITO events) to update your found count.

Added export to CacheMate button to the tool bar

Added new special tags of %found and %crypt (see help file under special tags)

Added option to add "Begin doc" to Street Atlas export (see help file)

 

This version of GSAK ships with GPSBabel_11042004 which fixes problems with comments sent to Garmin GPSs

 

Download here http://gsak.net

 

Cheers

Clyde

[+GLM]

I know that there was at least one other "watcher" of this forum that uses the same antique Garmin II+, so I figured I would post this note for his/her benefit. The latest release of GSAK includes GPSBabel 1.2.3beta04112004. This release of GPSBabel re-introduced the problem of not being able to download "less than 6 character" waypoint names to the GPSr. The Garmin shows "Invalid Waypoint". I still had a copy of GPSBabel1.2.3beta04052004, so I just copied that into the install directory of GSAK, and everything that "I" use works fine.

 

Gary

[+ClydeE]

I know that there was at least one other "watcher" of this forum that uses the same antique Garmin II+, so I figured I would post this note for his/her benefit. The latest release of GSAK includes GPSBabel 1.2.3beta04112004. This release of GPSBabel re-introduced the problem of not being able to download "less than 6 character" waypoint names to the GPSr. The Garmin shows "Invalid Waypoint". I still had a copy of GPSBabel1.2.3beta04052004, so I just copied that into the install directory of GSAK, and everything that "I" use works fine.

 

Gary

I don't recall seeing this in the Babel list. Have you posted this problem there?

[+GLM]

I know that there was at least one other "watcher" of this forum that uses the same antique Garmin II+, so I figured I would post this note for his/her benefit.  The latest release of GSAK includes GPSBabel 1.2.3beta04112004.  This release of GPSBabel re-introduced the problem of not being able to download "less than 6 character" waypoint names to the GPSr.  The Garmin shows "Invalid Waypoint".  I still had a copy of GPSBabel1.2.3beta04052004, so I just copied that into the install directory of GSAK, and everything that "I" use works fine.

 

Gary

I don't recall seeing this in the Babel list. Have you posted this problem there?

Not yet.

 

I sent an email to Robert through GC.com, but haven't had a chance to figure out the Babel List yet. I wanted to see what was posted and how, before I posted about something that has already been talked about.

 

Gary

[+PandyBat]

ClydeE, do you know if EasyGPS also uses GPSBabel to send waypoints? I tried sending waypoints to my GPSr using it also and it doesn't do a thing either. No windows pop up or anything. I even tried testing the serial connection through EasyGPS and still nothing happens. I just can't figure out why neither of these programs seem to respond to anything I want them to do as far as sending or receiving waypoints.

EasyGPS does not use GPSBabel. If you can't get it to work with EasyGPS then you definitely have a problem at your end. As you said you only have ports COM1 and COM2 available, it sounds like to me that you system is not recognising the new USB=>Serial adapter. Are you sure you loaded the necessary drivers - I would have thought this would appear as COM3 or some higher number.

Thanks for helping me, ClydeE. I really appreciate it.

 

Ok....let me see if I can explain this correctly.

 

I uninstalled the driver for the cable this morning. When I uninstalled the driver, the little green light on the cable would not light up so I am assuming it was not being recognized on my system. So then, I reinstalled the driver for the serial port cable and it is showing recognized on my computer. (My Computer>Properties>Device Manager>Ports (COM and LPT)>Serial on USB (COM 3). When I go into the Serial on USB (COM 3), on the general tab, it shows that it is working properly. On the Port Settings tab, I'm not sure what settings it should be set at. I've just left them as they were installed.

Bit per second: 57600

Data bits: 8

Parity: none

Stop bits: 1

Flow control: Hardware

On the Driver tab, I tried updating the driver using the CD that came with the cable and it is showing the newest driver as being used. I'm almost positive that this cable is working. As far as connecting another device to the serial port cable to make sure, I don't have anything else here available to attach to it. Maybe I could borrow something from someone in my family to hook up to it. What kind of devices use 9 pins?

 

When I go into GSAK, it only gives me the option of setting up my Garmin on COM 1 or COM 2. GSAK is not recognizing a COM 3. Is that possible? Would uninstalling and reinstalling GSAK help it give me a COM 3 option?

 

Under the GPS tab in GSAK and EasyGPS, nothing works except the "GPS set up" in GSAK. I can't test serial connections or send or receive or anything. In GSAK, it acts like it wants to but it doesn't go through, just sits there. In EasyGPS, when I hit send, nothing happens. I can set up my Garmin in GSAK but in EasyGPS, that is not an option.

[+ClydeE]

When I go into GSAK, it only gives me the option of setting up my Garmin on COM 1 or COM 2. GSAK is not recognizing a COM 3. Is that possible? Would uninstalling and reinstalling GSAK help it give me a COM 3 option?

 

Under the GPS tab in GSAK and EasyGPS, nothing works except the "GPS set up" in GSAK. I can't test serial connections or send or receive or anything. In GSAK, it acts like it wants to but it doesn't go through, just sits there. In EasyGPS, when I hit send, nothing happens. I can set up my Garmin in GSAK but in EasyGPS, that is not an option.

GSAK will allow you to enter the com port manually, so you can just key in COM3 for the com port. Give it a try, but as GSAK lists the com ports that windows recognizes I still get the feeling this will not work.

 

The fact you can't get it to work with either EasyGps or GSAK is pretty damming evidence that there is a problem with your system/setup. It could just be windows 98. I am no comms guru, but this really gets down to a hardware issue with your system rather than anything to do with EasyGps or GSAK

 

First base would be to get this serial adapter to talk to ANY serial device. You will need to do a bit of research on the Internet on how you can track down the root of the problem. If the supplier of the adapter has a website, log on as see if there is a support section or FAQ. Failing this you need to find a site or forum that can offer technical expertise in USB=>Serial adapters

[+PandyBat]

When I go into GSAK, it only gives me the option of setting up my Garmin on COM 1 or COM 2. GSAK is not recognizing a COM 3. Is that possible? Would uninstalling and reinstalling GSAK help it give me a COM 3 option?

 

Under the GPS tab in GSAK and EasyGPS, nothing works except the "GPS set up" in GSAK. I can't test serial connections or send or receive or anything. In GSAK, it acts like it wants to but it doesn't go through, just sits there. In EasyGPS, when I hit send, nothing happens. I can set up my Garmin in GSAK but in EasyGPS, that is not an option.

GSAK will allow you to enter the com port manually, so you can just key in COM3 for the com port. Give it a try, but as GSAK lists the com ports that windows recognizes I still get the feeling this will not work.

 

IT WORKED!! IT WORKED, CLYDEE! IT WORKED!!!! Far out!! I can't believe the fix for that was that easy. The co-ords are showing up in my Garmin. (You won't believe how freaked I was when I saw "Transfer Complete" on my GPSr....LOL) Thank you so much!

 

Now, I have another small problem.....the GSAK transferring part of the program doesn't shut off when the transfer is complete. Actually, it still doesn't show that anything has been transferred at all and I wouldn't have even noticed that the co-ords were transferred to my Garmin if I hadn't been looking at my GPSr at the time. It still just sits there acting like it's transferring without anything actually happening. So how come GSAK doesn't notify me that a transfer has taken place? I have to use CTRL>ALT>DELETE to get it to stop and that ends up shutting the whole program down. When I go back into it, it does its own defrag and repair (which is a cool feature, btw). Any ideas?

 

Clyde, I am all smiles right now. Thanks so much!

Edited April 26, 2004 by PandyBat

[+ClydeE]

Now, I have another small problem.....the GSAK transferring part of the program doesn't shut off when the transfer is complete. Actually, it still doesn't show that anything has been transferred at all and I wouldn't have even noticed that the co-ords were transferred to my Garmin if I hadn't been looking at my GPSr at the time. It still just sits there acting like it's transferring without anything actually happening. So how come GSAK doesn't notify me that a transfer has taken place? I have to use CTRL>ALT>DELETE to get it to stop and that ends up shutting the whole program down. When I go back into it, it does its own defrag and repair (which is a cool feature, btw). Any ideas?

 

Still a bit strange. GSAK is waiting on GPSBabel to say that the transfer is finished, but it would appear it is not getting this acknowlegement. Not a final solution, but when this happens and you press CTL-ALT-DELETE, cancel the GPSBabel process rather than GSAK. That should return you back to GSAK.

 

This following only applies to windows 95/98/ME, please ignore if you are running windows 2000 or XP. One other thing you could check. Start windows explorer, navigate to the install folder of GSAK, right mouse click on the file Babel.bat and select properties. Now click on the program tab, and make sure the "close on exit" box is checked (see picture below)

Edited April 26, 2004 by ClydeE

[+PandyBat]

Still a bit strange. GSAK is waiting on GPSBabel to say that the transfer is finished, but it would appear it is not getting this acknowlegement. Not a final solution, but when this happens and you press CTL-ALT-DELETE, cancel the GPSBabel process rather than GSAK. That should return you back to GSAK.

 

This following only applies to windows 95/98/ME, please ignore if you are running windows 2000 or XP. One other thing you could check. Start windows explorer, navigate to the install folder of GSAK, right mouse click on the file Babel.bat and select properties. Now click on the program tab, and make sure the "close on exit" box is checked (see picture below)

I am using Win98.

 

GSPBabel does not show up in the CTRL>ALT>DELETE menu. Just GSAK. I am assuming that means it is not running at the time I am sending waypoints to my GPSr, is that right?

 

In the Babel.bat file, the "close on exit" box was already checked. I unchecked it, checked it again and hit apply just to make sure. Tried downloading a waypoint to test it and although the transfer went through, GPSBabel still did not shut off the transfer after it was done and still wasn't available in the CTRL>ALT>DELETE menu. I don't know what's going on here.

 

This is probably a very dumb question, but was I supposed to download anything else along with GSAK, like the GPSBabel program, when I downloaded GSAK? From what you've told me, GPSBabel seems to be a big factor in some things not working properly here. And I wasn't aware that anything else needed to be downloaded when I downloaded GSAK and I'm not sure what GPSBabel is anyway, so I thought I better ask.

 

Also, the new download for GSAK that you announced today, do I need to uninstall GSAK and download the new version or will it overwrite? I'm not too literate on these things. I'm actually surprised I've gotten as far with this topic as I have....LOL

Edited April 26, 2004 by PandyBat

[+2trux]

GSAK version 3.02 is now ready.

 

Added new "Attended" log (CITO events) to update your found count.

I updated GSAK to v3.02 and downloaded an updated GPX later today.

 

While the log entry shows my "attended entry" for our local CITO event on 4/17/04, it's not highlighted in yellow. Should it be?

 

Thanks for an outstanding geocachining application!

[+ClydeE]

GSAK version 3.02 is now ready.

 

Added new "Attended" log (CITO events) to update your found count.

I updated GSAK to v3.02 and downloaded an updated GPX later today.

 

While the log entry shows my "attended entry" for our local CITO event on 4/17/04, it's not highlighted in yellow. Should it be?

 

Thanks for an outstanding geocachining application!

Yes, it should count as a found.

 

GSAK interrogates all your logs looking for the "attended" log. In order for GSAK to consider this a "Found" it uses the same logic as your "placed by" IE it tries to match up the the log owner with your name, and if they match then if will be counted as a found.

 

Please check your setting for "method for matching placed/hidden" caches (Tools=>Options=>General)

 

If you still think all your settings are correct, email me the GPX file you are loading together with the GSAK.ini file (found in the install folder of GSAK) and I will investigate what the problem is.

[+ClydeE]

GSPBabel does not show up in the CTRL>ALT>DELETE menu. Just GSAK. I am assuming that means it is not running at the time I am sending waypoints to my GPSr, is that right?

 

In the Babel.bat file, the "close on exit" box was already checked. I unchecked it, checked it again and hit apply just to make sure. Tried downloading a waypoint to test it and although the transfer went through, GPSBabel still did not shut off the transfer after it was done and still wasn't available in the CTRL>ALT>DELETE menu. I don't know what's going on here.

 

This is probably a very dumb question, but was I supposed to download anything else along with GSAK, like the GPSBabel program, when I downloaded GSAK? From what you've told me, GPSBabel seems to be a big factor in some things not working properly here. And I wasn't aware that anything else needed to be downloaded when I downloaded GSAK and I'm not sure what GPSBabel is anyway, so I thought I better ask.

 

Also, the new download for GSAK that you announced today, do I need to uninstall GSAK and download the new version or will it overwrite? I'm not too literate on these things. I'm actually surprised I've gotten as far with this topic as I have....LOL

GSAK uses GPSBabel for all its GPS communications and some of the export conversions. The installation of GSAK automatically comes with the latest version of GPSBabel so there is no need to download anything. Each version of GSAK can just be installed over the previous, so there is no need to uninstall.

 

When GSAK sends waypoints to your GPS it just creates a file called "babel.bat" which in turn runs GPSBabel to send the waypoints to your GPS.

 

Try opening up a command prompt, and running the babel.bat file from the command line and see what messages (if any you get). That is, if you installed GSAK to the default folder of "c:\program files\GSAK" then:

 

1. Start a command prompt

2. CD "c:\program files\gsak" then press ENTER

3. "babel.bat" then press ENTER

 

Now see if the tranfer to your GPS works and what if any messages are shown on your screen.

 

I would also like to confirm what version of GPSBabel you are using with GSAK. From the Main menu of GSAK click on Tools=>About and read off the version number for GPSBabel

[+MedicP1]

OK Clyde your skill and forethought beat me last time now try this one.

 

I wonder if it is possible to attach/associate a Cache or LAT/LON to a filter to act as centrepoint for that filter. I have set up a filter to pull up all of the caches in a park area with a 180 KM diameter. I set a filter to give me all the caches within a 90KM diameter around a central located cache. But for the filter to work I have to set that cache as the centre point prior to running the filter. It would be nice to have that filter automatically set it's own centre point.

 

So is this already possible and once again you have beat me to the punch or is it feasible for a future version.