Making a Long Trip More Efficient
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 15 years
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Periodically we have to make a one-way trip of 600 miles (of course the return trip is also 600 miles). We have a Nuvi 650 and there is a propensity for it to use the interstate system even-though there are suitable more direct 55MPH routes available.
Anyway, in conjunction with Google maps we developed a more "direct" route using a series of shorter hops; we had hopped to reduce the mileage and time (Approximately 12 hours).
Well after a series of route change iterations attempting to improve time and mileage, nothing really changed!!! Still 600 miles and 12 hours.
One problem that developed with this "economization"; at one way-point the GPS selects the "wrong" route. We have been aware of this issue and had planned to plug in the next way-point before arriving. Alas, twice now we blindly followed the GPS. Well both times it was around midnight after 9 hours of driving straight. But still 12 hours and 600 miles even after going in the wrong direction.
multi-point routes.
Most of newer nuvi's support multipoint routes which would avoid the problem. You can put enough waypoints or shaping points into the route so it will follow the roads you want to take. Unfortunatly, the nuvi 650 doesn't support multipoint routes. That was introduced with the 7x0 series.
Alan - Android Auto, DriveLuxe 51LMT-S, DriveLuxe 50LMTHD, Nuvi 3597LMTHD, Oregon 550T, Nuvi 855, Nuvi 755T, Lowrance Endura Sierra, Bosch Nyon
Route
Most of newer nuvi's support multipoint routes which would avoid the problem. You can put enough waypoints or shaping points into the route so it will follow the roads you want to take. Unfortunatly, the nuvi 650 doesn't support multipoint routes. That was introduced with the 7x0 series.
Back in the day when I was using a Nuvi 350, the way I overcame this was to set a starting point and an end point. Then along the way I set up " VIA" points which the 350 was happy to accept.
Nuvi 2797LMT, DriveSmart 50 LMT-HD, Using Windows 10. DashCam A108C with GPS.
Eventually will Need to Buy a New GPS
Well, the Nuvi is 8+ years old. Hard to believe.
This last update to 2018.2 did not go well. Though I succeeded in eventually updating it appears that the map sizes are once again too big and/or there was a software flaw in Garmin Express.
The inevitable need for a new model Garmin is on the horizon. Since that occasion is approaching. Any recommendations?
There is the: Garmin Drive™ 61 LMT-S as on option. Based on where we live we do not need "live traffic".
Garmin Nuvi650 - Morehead City, NC
3597
Well, the Nuvi is 8+ years old. Hard to believe.
This last update to 2018.2 did not go well. Though I succeeded in eventually updating it appears that the map sizes are once again too big and/or there was a software flaw in Garmin Express.
The inevitable need for a new model Garmin is on the horizon. Since that occasion is approaching. Any recommendations?
If price is an issue, IMO, you can't beat the 4 year old Garmin 3597. Refurbished units are still available for $179.
https://www.thegpsstore.com/Garmin-Nuvi-3597LMTHD-Refurbishe...
Yes, there are current models available that have the same or slightly better features but you will pay a lot more for a new unit.
My second choice would be the 50LM currently on sale as a refurb for $179.
http://g.factoryoutletstore.com/Category/CategoryListNoCache...
Thanks.
Thanks.
Garmin Nuvi650 - Morehead City, NC
i wouldn't
I wouldn't bypass the traffic option just because you "don't need it" where you live. Get one that is smartlink compatible with the free live traffic. This will give you traffic information in areas where there is no coverage from radio stations.
Illiterate? Write for free help.
Basecamp used to create and test route
Most of newer nuvi's support multipoint routes which would avoid the problem. You can put enough waypoints or shaping points into the route so it will follow the roads you want to take. Unfortunatly, the nuvi 650 doesn't support multipoint routes. That was introduced with the 7x0 series.
I use Basecamp to create the waypoints that will force the gas to go the way I want to go.
I create two custom POI files. One going and one returning.
I name the waypoints with a sequential number followed by the name of the city or other name that identifies the location.
1 Erie PA
2. Cleveland OH.
The points will sort by distance, but it helps you keep track of the correct order. Otherwise it's possible that a previous point shows up ahead of the next point, simply because the previous point is closed.
This works great for me.
I test the results by plotting the points in Basecamp to make sure everything works.
I fine tune the point by going to satellite mode and make sure the waypoints are where they should be.
DriveSmart 65, NUVI2555LMT, (NUVI350 is Now Retired)
Thanks.
Thanks.
Garmin Nuvi650 - Morehead City, NC