USB crash

[Hakan]

I can't figure out a reason to unplug GPS while running O but for a test I tried to unplug and plug without more annoyance than lack of position while unplugged. That seems rather reasonable. (Win XP and Prolific RS232-USB).

[Ambler]

Originally Posted by dweller

I am using a Globalsat BU-353 GPS, connected by USB. This puck does not crash MacENC or GPSNavX, only open CPN.

This GPS runs the prolific chipset in the cable that basically converts the data from the GPS to USB. There is plenty written in forums on the frustrations of using this cable/ GPS puck in drop outs.
I now use a handheld garmin and an FTDI brand serial to USB cable to get the position onto OpenCPN and other programs with great success, never drops out.

Manufacturers still choose the prolific because they are the cheapest. Such as GME with their new AIST120. I used it recently on a delivery, the owner couldn't get the USB to work for longer than an hour on his laptop so purchased an expensive chart plotter with limited AIS alarm function just to display targets!

Wayno