Turn your phone into a satnav system for free!

With winter behind us, it’s time to dust off those bikes and remember just why we love cycling: long rides on hot days, exploring woodland and leaving urban sprawl far behind. But before you head out, your Windows Vista PC can help you be prepared.

Firstly, make sure you have your weather gadget on your desktop, so you know if the heavens will conspire against you halfway through your ride. And when good weather does arrive, choosing where to go can make all the difference. Windows Live Maps can open up a world of undiscovered routes for you.

Never get lost

Once you’re underway, if you have a phone or PDA with GPS capabilities you need never get lost on your rides. Memory Map enables you to download Ordinance Survey maps and get a live GPS location. Here’s how to do it:

1. Positon

First you need a phone that has GPS capabilities. A lot of smartphones and PDAs have this built in, while many others have a Bluetooth extension you can pair with. Using a phone for navigation offers the most cost-effective and flexible way to get satellite navigation mapping.

2. Where am I?

To get mapping on your phone, you’ll need to purchase it from a supplier. The online service Memory Map uses Ordinance Survey maps to chart your progress – so if you ride offroad, you’ll still have accurate mapping. There are also special National Park editions available.

3. Map It

You can buy a variety of map packs from Memory Map. Simply load the software on to your PC and register with Memory Map.

4. Link Up

Link your phone to your PC and load up the Memory Map program. Go to Mobile Device ? Install Pocket Navigator and the files will be transferred to your phone. You’ll probably need to complete the installation on the device.

5. Ready to go

Send the maps to the phone by clicking Mobile Device ? Send Maps. You now have all you need to go out and explore what the countryside has to offer. Don’t forget to pack a waterproof!

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