Probably the greatest of all GPS mapping software is the mac-only
MACGPSpro. You can use maps from other sources (not proprietary ones
like delorme, etc.) but I find free topos online all the time with the
GIS information attached to them that you can just open and go with.
You can see your waypoints displayed on the map, or you can see your
gps moving on it.

Now the cool part... any map or aerial photo you can scan in and locate
three waypoints on works, too. So you can add your own GIS info to any
kind of map you like.

The above is mainly used off-road.

You will be disappointed in the GPS's ability to determine altitude.
However, a good topo program (that handles proprietary topo data) will
show you an accurate altitude at every spot on the map, so you can know
your altitude from that.

You can buy street atlas programs if you want to stay on the roads.

You can't use a gps or cell phone to locate a vehicle without buying a
very expensive system. You could dial a cell phone and hope the thief
answers it, and ask them where they are : )

If you need specific information about a program, email me off the list.

Jim

On May 17, 2005, at 6:08 PM, No Name Available wrote:

> Hi All,
> This brings a question to my mind...
> Can a GPS unit or, even a cell phone with one inside it
> be used to locate a stolen vehicle?
> thanks,
> JC...
> Okay, once again, I'm pondering what the latest and greatest in GPS
> units to mount on my dashboard of my Westy Syncro.
>
> Ideally, I'd like something with topographic capability and a compass
> and altitude display, in addition to map display.
>
> Oh, and finally, any computer software that comes with, or is needed by
> it should work on a Mac (not a PC).
>
> Any suggestions?
>