Read and process GPS data
Data On the Go
© Lead Image © Nataliia Natykach, 123RF.com
Almost all manufacturers of GPS devices use proprietary formats to save routes, tracks, and waypoints. Vendors unfortunately rarely offer Linux software for uploading and downloading or processing the data. Four GPS editors keep Linux users on the right track.
Most smartphones have a GPS receiver, and handheld GPS devices, sports watches, and bike computers are available today at budget prices. These practical devices can simplify navigation, find geocaches, and record tours with your speed, distance covered, elevation, calories burned, and much more. With a chest strap, training computers can also measure your pulse.
If you want to analyze the data later on your PC or show it to family and friends, you first need to transfer the logs to your computer. A software tool helps you evaluate and rework the raw data.
Many outdoor enthusiasts like to plan their hiking, cycling, and running routes in advance. On the web are many portals where users can compose tours online and then download the results. The community also exchanges data and more on sites like GPSies [1], GPS-Tour.info [2], BikeNet [3], Outdoor Active [4], ShareMyRoutes [5], and EveryTrail [6]. A breakdown of features offered by various GPS editors is shown in Table 1.
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
US / Canada
UK / Australia
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.