Hi everyone,

So after not too much work (and a C-compiler) I've managed to get the =
GPS
up and running with a PIC and an LCD. So far, so good.

My next steps are:
1) Figure out how to power it
2) Build a board and a box
3) Improve the software
4) Waterproof everything so that when I drop it in the water it will
survive (and float!)

Anyway, I'm currently not so concerned with 2-4. 1 seems to be a bit of
an issue. With the PIC+LCD+GPS, the current drawn is 250 mA from the 7.5
V supply (regulated down to 5 V, 7805 style).

One thing I will do is see how much savings a switcher will get me in =
the
regulation dept.=20

The other thing is to figure out what kind of battery system to use. My
question is, has anyone else working with these units decided on which =
way
to go for portable power? I'm looking at NiMH after reading through the
archives, but if someone's already spec'ed out some batteries for the =
same
system, I'd like to hear about it!

Also, if anyone in the lower mainland (BC, Can) region might want to go =
in
on some PCB's for the same system just e-mail me offlist and we can see
about getting a quantity discount from a PCB maker. Either that or it
might just be wirewrapped.

Thanks.

Wade

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