GPS systems for trucking.

We use to get around on horses just fine too. The car made it easier.

We use to talk with people on the phone then there was computer voices.

We use to..... a never ending story.

Let it go! New technology isn't all bad. Go with the flow! You might like it!

 

Condocruiser, I appreciate the advice, but I'm retired, no need to "take advantage" of the new stuff. I know that it is a great thing (gps) I have a friend that I deer hunt with ,he uses it to locate stands and to help him position them on his property. I have to say they are cool. But while they can truly be a good tool I'll take a Rand McNally and a few phone calls every time over them. Main reason for my comment was to let the newer drivers know that learning to read a map , and taking the time to communicate with shippers and receivers is always a good thing...may take some time to do it ...but you can't argue with the results. Getting the basics down 1st , I'm sure that you would agree is paramount in becoming a well rounded driver...the new technology is a great tool , but as you well know not something to solely depend on.

 

I would recommend using a map I guratee if you read it correctly you'll never run into a problem a gps is like a tool that doesn't work well at all

 

The TND 720 is like any other model Rand. Yes it has free updates anytime ... whenver Rand decides to release one, which tends to be about once a year. The weather update part is also dependent on it being plugged into a device or connected via wifi with said device that has an internet data connection. The Magellan I'm not familiar with, but I would say it's essentially the same. An update has to be released for the device before the device can be updated.

 

Sufi, if you decide to get the TND 720 (which I have and recommend), there is a great support thread (HERE) where an actual authorized tech answers a lot of questions and gives tips. Also, if you go to Rand's youtube account, they have some good demo videos.

 

The Magellan Roadmate is a great little GPS. Map updates are a bit pricey, but the interface is great, and can really help getting around a city like Chicago, since you can see how many more blocks are between you and the street you're looking for. This, along with a low clearance listing, restricted route listing, national network listing, and a call to the shipper and receiver are all great TOOLS when used TOGETHER. It just so happens that 4/6 of these tools are all in a convenient little book called an atlas, along with a whole bunch of other junk, like bridge law formulas, local regulations, permanent weigh station locations, phone numbers, and countless other tools that if used from the beginning, make the learning curve for a rookie a lot less expensive, since the last place you want to learn about any of that is right before a DOT officer walks off to type up your citation.

 

never blindly follow a truck-specific GPS.Go to cdllife.com and read the dozens of stories of truckers who got in trouble following their GPS.A guy in Indiana recently drove into a covered bridge that his GPS took him through and did 10s of thousands in damage and got him a 6-month jail sentence.

 

I'm just playin' with you. I know you're experienced.

GPS's are here to stay and the new drivers are going to use them regardless. I try to get the point across of GPS faults and how to correct that. Not one trip should be started without Mr. McNally. GPS's are handy if you are in heavy traffic and have an unexpected left exit or looking for a place to stop. Or they are pretty accurate giving your dispatcher an ETA. I even used mine to order a pizza. The guy said "I never delivered to a truck before".


Someone mentioned devices being too bright. Almost all devices you can dim the display. I even dim my dash lights. All those bright things make your pupils smaller and your night vision poorer. It will also make your eyes tired quicker.

Dim them interior lights and watch your night vision increase ten fold as your pupils open up. Then you won't be all bug-eyed after an all night trip.