For the last road trip to Cape Breton, I purchased a Magellan colour GPS from Wal-Mart for $300. From the unit’s packaging I could not tell if Maps were included. As it turns out it, amps are not included (it does come with a very basic map, showing only the 102 and other major roadways).

I suspect they don’t make it clear to the end user the various options they have for buying maps because most buyers would then realize that to make the GPS fully functional they need to spend another $150.00.

In a post back in 2004 titled GPS Buildup I showed a custom mount and serial GPS connection for a Casio E-115 Pocket PC. My next GPS Buildup (for my motorcycle will use this same E-115 (or if I am lucky an E-125) and a serial cable/power rather than the docking station. The GPS will be housed under the seat (dry) with the antenna running forward and mounted just under the front windscreen.

Since the Casio Pocket PC is not at all weather resistant I plan on using a rugged clear plastic bag to hold the unit.

I suspect that I will also be able to use the E-115 to play mp3s at the same time as providing real time GPS moving map, but I may need the extra processor power in the E-125.