MICROSOFT STREETS & TRIPS 2008 WITH GPS LOCATOR

REVIEW BY Shirley Finefrock

The program was very easy to install.  The tutorial was a big help in determining all the features available.

The main toolbar offers Icons for saving and printing after you have established your route and destination.

Using the route planner, you simply type in the starting address and destination address, and any address or point of interest where you would want to stop in-between.  You do need the actual

 street number, as intersections are not recognized.

When requesting directions, you can select the quickest or shortest route or you can select your roads if you want to avoid Interstates and toll roads.  Turn-by-turn detailed information and mileage

 calculation is provided.  You can also request reverse directions if needed.  Highway construction details can be included in the directions.

The program also includes a GPS Receiver. This system is useful when driving alone as you can plan your route and alternate routes to get to your destination.  You can change your route if you need

to because of an accident or other traffic problems.

The GPS Receiver is plugged into a USB Port.  There is a USB extension cord with a suction cup that allows you to attach it to the dashboard.  In the GPS pane you need to go to “Configure GPS”, click

 SCAN, select the unit and click OK.  A blue light on the receiver indicates the power is active.  When GPS is enabled and you enable “Guidance”, a pane opens up at the bottom of the map with

 directions.  When “GPS Tracking” is enabled in the task pane, the receiver locks into your current position and is shown on the map.

When traveling alone, if you need to check the map at anytime, it is necessary to get off the road as the screen is very difficult to read in bright sunlight.

One thing you will need is an adapter for your Laptop to run from the car instead of battery, since battery time is limited, especially on a long trip.

The entire program provided all necessary directions to arrive at the predetermined destination, without problems.  The program with the GPS Receiver is priced at $99.95.  If you use your laptop

 on trips and need to know where you are at all times, then this is the program for you.