Bring out your dead.....technology

[tastrax]

Hi Folks,

I am working with some environmental volunteers who have very old Etrex GPS's and unfortunately the custom Serial to USB cables they are using for data download no longer work on Windows10. I don't suppose anyone has any old cables laying around that they would part with for a good cause? I can get a converter that works with WIN10 but I need the real old cables as shown below.

If anyone also has other GPS's, then I would also welcome donations and you can be assured they will be put to good use. Drop me a PM if you would like more details and a big thanks to those who have donated in the past.

[ChrisJHC]

Wouldn’t it be more future-proof to use the GPSs on mobile phones?

Add in cheap map-reading software and you’re good to go.

[MrWalker]

You can probably find an old computer that still works but doesn't use Windows 10, and download on that. Then just use a USB drive to copy to an up to date computer.

[tastrax]

Thanks folks - I work with lots of groups and yes we do use mobiles, tablets etc but the old basic Etrex is still good for collecting GPS traces, especially where you have lots of folks involved. I also still run an old XP Panasonic toughbook that has a serial port but that means all the GPS's need to come to me. I am trying to support folks in regions with older equipment. I am also making cables for some folks. Eventually we will need new GPS's but we are trying to make old equipment that is still serviceable last a bit longer.

GPS Tracking - Maatsuyker Island

[walk-light-ring]

If you haven't managed to find the cables/enough cables, it might be worth contacting the Computerbank charity (in Melbourne). They take donations of old tech, make computers for low-income people, and sell the parts they don't use on their website and Ebay. From their website:

Recycled Parts
Computerbank has many recycled computer parts and equipment for sale. Volunteers have taken the trouble to separate these items so they don’t end up in Ewaste.
We know geeks and creative people will find these recycled parts very useful, you can check out a common items list on our shop page, please contact us if you are after anything specific or have any inquiries.

https://www.computerbank.org.au/about-us/our-computers/

[tastrax]

Many thanks

[Lizzy]

Hey- I have one of those cables from old etrex legend (I think). Can’t locate the GPS at the minute but can have the cable if you still want it
Liz

[tastrax]

PM sent Lizzy