

Miniature GPS loggers can be attached to wildlife and pets. This is really useful for comparing your performance with your previous best or with others and is a favourite of runners and cyclists. GPX files can contain a time for each point and therefore the route as a whole. OS Maps being used on a mobile device What else is a GPX file good for? You can then load the file into your favourite mapping application to check the distance covered, time taken and altitude profile, or share it with your friends or online.
#Download gpx file to desktop Bluetooth#
Every few seconds the GPS device will log where you are, and at the end of your trip the file can be exported back to your computer, usually by connecting it via a cable or Bluetooth and finding the file in the memory. Basic devices without on-screen mapping will generally just show an arrow to point to the next ‘waypoint’ (usually the next turning or fork) while more advanced ones will display the route on a map as well.Ĭreate a GPX file by activating the ‘Record Trail’ or similar function. The new route will then appear in the saved routes list on the device, and when active you will be able to follow it. Some devices will also automatically sync to routes imported from GPX files into a desktop or web based app.
#Download gpx file to desktop manual#
Check your manual for details, but this normally means connecting the device to your computer by USB cable or Bluetooth, then sending the file to the device. Use an existing GPX file by loading it on to the device. The great thing about the universal nature of a GPX file is that different brands of device, with different maps loaded can all use the same GPX file. Most GPS devices designed for outdoor sports and navigation can both create and use GPX files.

Even if they use a totally different mapping application or different brand of GPS, they should still be able to open it. As it’s a simple text file, you can also easily email it to others. You will be able to export the route as a GPX file and import it into a different mapping application or to a GPS. You then should be able to see the exact planned route on screen, allowing you to review, print or edit as needed.Ĭreate a GPX file from a route by drawing the route on screen. Look for an option labelled ‘Import Route’ or ‘Import GPX file’. If you use a mapping application such as OS Maps, you can use a GPX file to follow routes created by others, or to create your own routes for saving or sharing.Ĭreate a route from a GPX file by first saving the route on to your hard drive or USB stick. GPX file view in a text editor Using a GPX file – with a mapping application
