Would like Spanner mode also for GPSmap 78 series

78 series requests

The Spanner mode is also required for using the USB port for track log verification and downloading programs used in many competitive sports that use waypoints for virtual buoys/ turn points (Paragliding, Hang Gliding, Sail Plane, and small boat racing to name a few). Using the USB would greatly speed the processing time that is required during comps that many times go vary late into the night using seral connections.

The 76 series was the gold standard for these sports but is now being superseded with the 78 Series. It would be great if we could use the devise to it's potential.

Some other 76 features should be retained:
Single button “Go to Next” waypoint navigation manual advance for routing as in the 76 series along with the 76 style highway waypoint signpost screen should be added back in. Scrolling down and multiple inputs for navigation can be difficult and wastes time in rough air or rough seas. What can be a simple task on land is another thing while moving in 3 axis.

This would all lead to greater adaptation to the 78 series and inturn $ for Garmin . . .

Definitely want this feature. It makes uploadig my flights to competition server very easy and nobody can argue about authenticity. Now I have to process my tracklog with two or three programs to make valid *.igc file with G-Record. With spanner mode everything what I have to do is connect USB and run Gipsy Flight Manager. Everything else makes the computer itself. Please put back this feature.

I would like to see the spanner mode also added to the GPSmap78 series

Unfortunately I think this is wishful thinking. Spanner was last updated on February 8th 2007, over 4 years ago, and it never was updated to work with Vista or Windows 7. IMO Spanner is dead (and buried).

The alternative, that I've used, is Franson's GSPGate. It isn't free but it works and does much more than Spanner ever did.

This is different issue. Spanner mode is required for direct connection between PC and GPS. Than I can download tracklog to *.igc file with security G-record. This is necessary paragliding competition etc. Now It is possible only by old 4pin serial cable and that is problem, because it cost money. I don´t understand why 62 have this feature and higher model 78s no. There is very simple software solution of this problem. Connect USB cable, GPS ask Spanner or Mass Storage and that´s it. But Garmin probably want another money.

Thaks, spanner is here

thanks to garmin developer team. After few mails and couple of weeks garmin add spanner mode to their v3.01 firmware. They send it to me direct to emailbox so here it is:


http://www.paraglidingforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=40044

Does the above link work for anyone else? All I get is a blank screen.

Discussion also on the 62 / 78 Wiki with a link to the file via Dropbox. Works fine on my 78s.

Looks like they just released 3.02 beta with spanner mode for the 78! :D