If you want to make your laptop PC more useful, the Garmin GPS 18 will turn it into your personal navigator. It's a GPS receiver that connects to the laptop's USB or serial port. And with map software loaded in the PC, you're ready to go any place you'd like.

There are two versions of the Garmin GPS 18, one for serial port connection and the other for USB ports. The only difference is how they're powered. The USB version gets its power from the computer through the port connection. The serial version is powered using a 12 volt adapter that plugs in a vehicle's cigarette lighter. The receiver is the size of a fat cookie at 2.4" in diameter and 0.8" thick. And at 3.5 ounces, it's not going to weigh you down.

Despite its small size, the GPS 18 is a highly accurate 12-channel GPS receiver. It uses Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) signals to produce location readings accurate to within three meters. It has a magnetic base built in and comes with a windshield mount for optimum GPS satellite signal reception.

The software you get with the Garmin GPS 18 depends on where you live. The North American version is sold in the Americas, and the European maps are for Europe. The Americas' version is Garmin's City Select for North America on a CD. The data on the CD provides coverage of the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Map details include major and minor roads and over five million points of interest. And with a laptop's larger screen, compared to a handheld GPS receiver, you'll be able to see a much more map area with greater detail. You can also use other types of maps such as topographic or world.

With the software loaded in your PC, you can begin navigating. Creating a route is as simple as entering an address. With the GPS 18 identifying your present location the software will calculate the route. If you need the address for a public place, you can find it in the points of interest database. The database has everything from ATMs to Zoos and can be searched by name or category. It's particularly helpful for seeing what's in your vicinity. For instance, if you had a medical emergency it can direct you to the nearest hospital. Or if you're low on gas, you can find the closest service station.