serbie is got it . I use Delorme with my laptop . And the Pharos iGPS-500 GPS Receiver and USB Connector with the Sirf Star III chip . I don't really like the small screens gps that cost $300 to $600.

Problem I had was the Atlas is fine for the main interstates and highways but when you get off of them, a GPS is a true lifesaver. I had very few local maps. I personally think all big trucks should have a built in GPS as a standard feature. I mean, some SUV's have it built right into the dash, so why not a big truck? A plane can be flown VFR, but its not the most efficent way to fly. A truck is the same way to me. Alot of drivers get into accidents when they are lost and end up on roads, the kind that are just not made for trucks. I guess what I am getting at, why not have all that you can have available to find your way around this large country? If one can afford a GPS, its a great investment. If not, a low cost laptop running software can help.

Does anyone have the garmin 7200 or the co-pilot.
I want to get one but not sure which one is more trucker friendly.
Any advise appreciated.

bigmike

8) I use the mostest, bestest 1 there is. also sorta cheap. I use the motor carriers atlas and have a small compas

I have a Mio 168, works great, on occasion it will have you taking a less used road or even dirt on occasion but common sense will have you avoid the dirt road and then the unit replotes from your new location, no big deal. Having the GPS verbally explain turn by turn to the driveway of a location in the middle of the night, snow covered roads and signs and pitch black is what technology is all about. Your cheating yourself if you OTR to different spots weekly and do not run with 1, period.

Heck in cruddy weather I'll run mine on my local daily run, the display tells you the curves ahead as you run thru them on snow covered roads when your driving in blizzards and know your leaving the pavement when you hit the rumble strips.

stay safe

i have sprint gps thru phone and laptop. but, it is easier for me to do a well planned out trip plan and write everything down. i have local city maps including county maps where i go often. some state maps , city maps all together i can preplan me routs. I haul lots of hazmat so i gotta have it written down anyway. it is easier for me to look at my written directions than to use laptop while driving. besides when something is written down it tends to stick to my brain cell better than if i just read it, or tried to figure it out along the way. I still say, maps and map reading skills should be learned . even if ya gonna use gps, why not learn how to use maps?