Garmin Pilot III GPS PC cables + software ?

[noblues]

I recently bought a Garmin Pilot III GPS and was somewhat surprised that the box did not include a PC link cable, and that is £30 for just this.

The set is useless without this for database updates, even the 'one free update' included can't be done without lashing out more dosh ....

Anyone know if their is a cheaper alternative compatible cable (plus looks unusual ), or any planning software that comes with a supplied cable ?

Thanks

Ahhh, looks like I may have answered this myself, just found these people who do a Garmin/PC lead for £13inc pp.

http://www.psionleads.freeserve.co.uk/leads.htm

[Keef]

Or make your own (I did). You can buy the funny plug that fits the GPS3Pilot for about a fiver, and the other end is a standard COM port plug. Between the two you need some cable - I think it's four core (can't remember: it was a while ago, but if so standard telephone wire from the DIY stores will do).

I think mine cost me the fiver for the plug, the rest came out of the junkbox.

The great advantage with making your own lead is that you can power the GPS through it, too, if you have a convenient 12 volt source to hand (who doesn't!).

[Evo]

Agree with Keef - it's easy to build your own (I did too). However, it'll probably cost you most of the £13 to get the parts (+P&P) from Maplin or wherever, so get the prebuilt :)

[Lowinverted]

You can get them cheaper on ebay. Other accessories for sales as well which are cheaper than buying garmin branded.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dllViewItem&item=3034094104&category=4668

[noblues]

Thanks for the comments - just ordered one through

http://www.psionleads.freeserve.co.uk/leads.htm

£13 inc pp. Would probably cost that to buy the plugs at Tandy/Maplin !

Their were a few on Ebay, but 'buy now' price of around £19 inc pp, didn't have the patience to bid for it !