Microsoft Navigation Gps 168 Model 1372 Work -

The Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 (Model 1372) is a legacy USB-based GPS receiver primarily known as the hardware companion for the Microsoft Streets & Trips software suite. Although it is no longer in active production, it remains a popular choice for hobbyists and travelers looking for a cost-effective way to add real-time satellite tracking to laptops or DIY projects. Technical Specifications and Features

The Microsoft 1372 model was designed for plug-and-play simplicity during the era of portable computing before internal GPS became standard in all devices.

Chipset: Often reported to feature a u-blox GPS chip (specifically the discontinued u-blox 5 series), which allows for relatively fast satellite locks even in outdoor environments.

Connectivity: Uses a standard USB 2.0 interface, making it compatible with a wide range of older and modern hardware.

Navigation Capabilities: Provides real-time data including speed, altitude, latitude, and longitude coordinates.

Build Quality: Noted for being a durable "OEM" product, with some users reporting consistent performance for five years or more. Historical Context: Microsoft Streets & Trips

This GPS receiver reached its peak popularity when bundled with Microsoft Streets & Trips (and its European equivalent, AutoRoute). The hardware allowed the software to offer features such as:

GPS Trail: A graphical representation of the user’s route.

Automatic Re-routing: Recalculating directions in real-time based on the vehicle's current location.

Points of Interest: Accessing millions of mapped locations without needing an active internet connection. Modern Utility and Setup

While Microsoft officially ended support for Streets & Trips in 2013, the GPS 168 Model 1372 is still useful today for several niche applications. Installation Steps

To set up the device on a Windows PC, follow these general steps:

The Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 (Model 1372) is a legacy USB GPS receiver originally bundled with Microsoft's Streets & Trips software . It was designed to turn a laptop into a real-time navigation system by providing GPS coordinates via a USB connection. Key Specifications & Features Device Type: USB GPS Receiver (Dongle). microsoft navigation gps 168 model 1372

Chipset: Features a U-Blox GPS chip (specifically identified in some variations as a UBX-G7020KT).

Connectivity: Standard USB-A port; it is recommended to connect directly to the computer rather than through a hub to avoid hardware conflicts.

Protocol: Communicates using the NMEA 0183 standard, making it compatible with various third-party navigation software beyond the original Microsoft suite.

Performance: Users report it is generally reliable and provides a relatively fast satellite lock once outdoors. Compatibility & Setup Street&Trip 2013 with GPS on Windows 8.1 - Microsoft Q&A

The Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 (Model 1372) Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

is a legacy USB GPS receiver primarily bundled with Microsoft Streets & Trips software packages in the mid-to-late 2000s. It was designed to provide real-time location tracking for laptops and vehicle-based computing systems. Technical Overview

Hardware Core: Features a U-Blox GPS chipset, known for reliability in civilian-grade navigation during its production era.

Connectivity: Uses a standard USB interface for power and data transmission.

Operating Compatibility: Originally designed for older Windows versions (XP, Vista); however, users have successfully implemented it on newer systems using specific 64-bit drivers.

Performance: Typically tracks multiple satellites simultaneously to provide position accuracy within approximately 15 meters under clear sky conditions. Historical Context & Usage

Product Bundle: This model was a successor or alternative to the Pharos-branded receivers often found in Microsoft Streets & Trips 2007 and later editions.

Durability: User reviews suggest a functional lifespan of roughly five years, with performance degradation typically manifesting as longer satellite acquisition times (TTFF). The Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 (Model 1372) is

Modern Applications: While the official software it supported (Streets & Trips) is discontinued, the device remains popular in the hobbyist community for projects like Pwnagotchi or as a low-cost GPS logger for Linux-based systems. Acquisition & Support

Availability: As a legacy "OEM" product, it is no longer sold at major retailers but is frequently available on secondary markets like eBay and Bonanza for approximately $18.00 to $32.00.

Troubleshooting: Common issues involve driver recognition on Windows 10/11. Experts recommend manually updating drivers through the Device Manager and avoiding USB hubs to ensure stable power delivery.

The Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 (Model 1372) is a legacy external USB GPS receiver originally bundled with Microsoft Streets & Trips software packages from the mid-to-late 2000s. Designed to provide real-time positioning for laptop-based navigation, it is now primarily a legacy device used by hobbyists for retro-computing or specialized projects. Product Specifications Model Number: 1372. Hardware Type: USB GPS Receiver (Dongle).

Internal Chipset: Based on the u-blox 5 series (discontinued) or similar high-sensitivity GPS chipsets of that era. Connectivity: USB Type-A interface.

Primary Compatibility: Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7 (32-bit/64-bit).

Physical Form: Slim, portable design typically with a protective cap for the USB connector. Original Software Integration

The Model 1372 was famously included with several versions of Microsoft Streets & Trips (2005 through 2008 editions).

Setup: Users would install the software, connect the GPS locator to a USB port, and use the "Configure GPS Receiver" tool within the application to scan and track their position.

Function: It converted a standard laptop into a turn-by-turn navigation system before smartphones and built-in tablet GPS became ubiquitous. Modern Technical Use & Support

While officially legacy hardware, the device remains functional with certain configurations:

Driver Issues: Modern Windows versions (Windows 10/11) may require manual driver installation through Device Manager, as it is often recognized as a USB-to-Serial adapter. GPS Week Rollover (April 6, 2019): The SiRFstarII

Linux Compatibility: It can be detected as a serial device on Linux, streaming NMEA data that can be used with open-source tools like gpsd. Common Troubleshooting:

Direct Connection: Users are advised to avoid USB hubs or extension cables to prevent hardware conflicts.

Signal Lock: Being an older GPS unit, it may take several minutes to achieve a "cold start" satellite lock when used indoors or in dense urban environments. Market Availability

Overview — Microsoft GPS Navigation 168 (Model 1372)

Microsoft's Navigation GPS 168 (model 1372) is a discontinued dedicated portable GPS navigator that appeared in the mid-to-late 2000s as Microsoft attempted to enter the in-car navigation market with streamlined, map-focused devices. It paired Microsoft-supplied navigation software and map data with modest handheld hardware intended for drivers who wanted a simple point-and-go experience without a smartphone. Below is a focused, structured deep write-up covering history, hardware, software, features, performance, limitations, and legacy.

Part 5: Why This Device Fails in the Modern Era

While nostalgic, the "Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 Model 1372" is essentially a museum piece due to three fatal flaws:

GPS Week Rollover (April 6, 2019): The SiRFstarII chipset was not built for the 2019 week number rollover. These units often report the date as 1999 or 2000 and have erratic navigation behavior. There is no firmware update for a Model 1372.
WAAS Limitations: Early 12-channel receivers have poor sensitivity. In urban canyons or tree cover, the Model 1372 drops signal constantly. Modern smartphones use A-GPS (Assisted GPS) with cell towers; this device does not.
USB Legacy: You cannot plug a PS/2 GPS into a USB-C port easily. The adapters required cost more than a modern ($20) Bluetooth GPS receiver.

Compatibility Hell

The "Model 1372" only works with:

Microsoft Streets & Trips (2002 – 2010) – The only software that natively understood the driver.
Windows XP / Windows 2000 (32-bit). Driver support for 64-bit or Windows 7/8/10 is non-existent without third-party virtual COM port software.
Pocket PC 2002 / Windows Mobile 5.0 (via a serial-to-CompactFlash adapter).

It is not compatible with smartphones, MacOS, or modern navigation apps (Google Maps/Waze) without a complex NMEA-to-Bluetooth bridge.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re searching for real-world navigation tools inspired by Microsoft’s tech:

Microsoft Flight Simulator: Offers hyper-realistic GPS navigation for virtual pilots.
Bing Maps: Free online tool with traffic, transit routes, and street-level views.
Windows 10/11 Apps: Built-in Maps app with voice commands and indoor navigation.

The Mystery of the "Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 Model 1372": A Historical Tech Autopsy

4. Performance

In terms of performance for its intended era:

Time to First Fix (TTFF): Cold starts took about 30–45 seconds; warm starts were nearly instant.
Accuracy: It was accurate within 5–10 meters, which was standard for consumer GPS

Part 4: How to Use a Vintage "Microsoft GPS 168 Model 1372" Today

Found one in a thrift store? Here is how to resurrect it.

2. Hardware and Specifications

For its time, the internal hardware was high-end.

Chipset: It utilizes a SiRFstarIII GPS chipset.
- Why this matters: The SiRFstarIII was the "gold standard" in 2005-2007. It offered exceptional sensitivity, meaning it could acquire a satellite fix much faster than older units and could maintain a signal even in "urban canyons" (cities with tall buildings) or under heavy tree cover.
Connectivity: Bluetooth 2.0 (Serial Port Profile). It connects wirelessly to laptops and PDAs.
Battery: Built-in rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery.
- Battery Life: Rated for approximately 8–10 hours of continuous use.
Charging: Uses a legacy proprietary connector (often PS/2 style or early mini-USB variants) and usually came with a 12V car charger.