Free GPS routes

Glossary of GPS related terms

Waypoint

A defined position on a route, a set of geographic coordinates. A waypoint may have associated text description and icon depending on the hardware/software in use.

Mark

A waypoint which is not part of a route.

Route

A planned route consisting of a sequence of waypoints to be visited in sequence.

Track

A route recorded by the GPS. The difference between Routes and Tracks is a bit confusing to grasp at first, both record a sequence of coordinates, however a track will include real measurements of the time taken to travel between two waypoints (or, strictly, trackpoints) whereas a route can only offer time estimates.

Trackpoint

Rather similar to a waypoint but a position logged by the device rather than one uploaded as part of a route. My SporTrack stores 2000 trackpoints but only 500 waypoints. That implies that there is less information in a trackpoint. When your GPS or software converts a track to a route it simplifies it and creates fewer waypoints than there were trackpoints. If you have been walking approximately in a straight line the GPS may have recorded several trackpoints but the only waypoints you need are to record where you have changed direction significantly.

• Free_routes - Download free GPS routes here
• Software - Software which can be used in conjunction with a GPS
• Contact - Free GPS routes: Global Satellite Positioning system receiver tracks and waypoints
• FAQ - GPS frequently asked questions
• index - Free GPS tracks and routes
• Introduction - Own a GPS? Want to use it to go places?
• Links - Free GPS tracks and routes
• PC_connection - Connecting the GPS to a PC
• Which_GPS - Choosing a GPS receiver
• phptest - PHP test page