Learn How to Download Geocaches using Garmin Communicator Plug-in
Garmin Communicator Plugin
The Garmin Communicator Plugin is an Internet browser plugin that allows you send and receive information from your favorite websites. This is a free plugin that is installed on most new Garmin devices, but you can also download this plugin from the Garmin website.
This also makes it easier to obtain caches if you enjoy geocaching. Geocaching is a game where you input coordinates into your GPS unit, and you follow it to a location. When you get to the location, you will have to search for the hidden cache, which can be anything that the previous person or the person who created the cache left behind. Here are tips on how to download geocaches using the Garmin Communicator Plugin.
Download the Plugin
First of all, be sure that the plugin is installed on your machine. If you cannot locate it, go ahead and download it to your desktop or laptop. The plugin is compatible with the following operating systems: Windows XP, Vista and 7, and Mac OS (Operating System) 10.4 or later. For the Windows systems, you need either Internet Explorer 6+ or Firefox 1.5+. For the Mac systems, you need either Firefox 2.0+ or Safari 2.0+.
Once you download the software, plug in your Garmin so that it can be updated with the software. Just follow the instructions to install it on your machine.
Using the Communicator Plugin
When the Garmin Communicator Plugin is fully installed, it’s time to start using it. While you can obtain caches from other sites, Geocaching.com has coordinated with Garmin to send the caches directly to their GPS units. So, to begin, go to the geocaching website, and search for your geocache. If you are new to geocaching, look for one in an area that you are already familiar with. Remember, the coordinates only take you so far. You will have to search for the cache by yourself.
Once you find the geocache that you are interested, simply click on the cache. This will bring up information like icons, description and when the cache was last found. The last icon in the list is the Send to GPS icon. Click on this with your mouse. This will send your cache to your GPS unit’s menu. You just need to plug in your Garmin to get the cache.
Geocache Hints for Newbies
Now, if you are new to geocaching, here are some hints to help you find the cache. Some geocaches also have geocache cheats or hints. These vary in degrees based on how much help that you need. If you have searched for the cache more than once, go to the highest level cheat that basically gives away where the cache is.
But, if you just want some additional help, just use the hints. These will point you in the right direction without actually giving away the surprise.
