Have you ever tried to enter multiple data points into your GPS receiver? You can avoid self inflicted repetitive motion injuries by managing this type of data in the GPX file format.
Photo Credit: Jimmie Joe via Flickr
What is GPX?
GPX is an abbreviation for the GPS data exchange format, a file format that allows GPS data to be shared between programs that manage GPS information. Imagine two software programs that don't "talk" to each other. They have different manufacturers and may even be running off of different operating systems. One strategy that enables communication between the two is to have one program export data in a standard text format that another program can import.
The programs don't "talk" directly to each other, but since both programs recognize the standard intermediate format, they can easily share data. This is a powerful idea that simplifies the sharing of data.
For example, let's say you visited a website that provides GPS waypoint information such as Geocaching.com. You want the information on the website (the list of geocaches) to populate TOPO (your mapping software) as well as your handheld GPS receiver. The painful way of getting to your endpoint is to enter each waypoint into each application by hand. However, by downloading a set of waypoints in the GPX file format you import the data into both applications in just a couple of steps. It's actually very simple, once you get the hang of it.
How can I use GPX files?
If your mapping software supports importing or exporting GPX files directly, you have a ready-to-go method of cross software communication.
Not all GPS receivers allow direct import of GPX files. If you have a Garmin, Magellan, or Lowrence GPSr, you can download a free copy of Easy GPS that will allow you to manipulate GPX data and upload it to your GPSr. You can read a tutorial here:
How to Upload Multiple Geocache Waypoints to your GPS receiver using easyGPS
What Software Applications support the GPX format?
More and more software applications are supporting GPX. Here is a list of software that uses the GPX file format.
Although it takes a little practice, managing map data in the GPX format is much easier than managing the data by hand. In the end, you will save yourself time, headaches, and perhaps avoid carpal tunnel surgical procedure down the road.