Microsoft Navigation Gps 168 Model 1372 Jun 2026
: It is often reported as "plug-and-play" for Raspberry Pi and Linux systems. Troubleshooting Common Issues Genuine Microsoft 1372 Navation GPS 168 USB Receiver
is a compact, high-utility USB GPS receiver that represents a pivotal era in consumer navigation. Originally bundled with Microsoft's iconic road-tripping software, Microsoft Streets & Trips, this device turned ordinary Windows laptops into fully functional GPS tracking and live mapping systems. Driven by a robust u-blox GPS chip , this dependable hardware continues to be highly sought after by retro-tech enthusiasts, marine navigators, and offline travelers.
When used outdoors, the device is known for a relatively fast satellite lock .
The package included the mapping software on DVD and the USB GPS "puck". The plan was simple: microsoft navigation gps 168 model 1372
: It's crucial to understand that this string does not refer to a single, standalone GPS unit with its own screen and maps . Instead, it describes a specific piece of hardware found inside the box of Microsoft's Streets & Trips software . "GPS 168" or "Model 1372" were informal or hardware part numbers for the GPS receiver dongle that was included with the software package. Think of it less like a Garmin and more like a USB-powered "mouse" that fed location data directly into your laptop.
Originally designed as a robust accessory for Microsoft mapping software (such as Streets & Trips), the 1372 model has outlived its original software ecosystem to become a versatile tool for navigation enthusiasts, marine operators, and GIS professionals. What is the Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 (Model 1372) Microsoft GPS 168 USB Receiver (Model 1372)
First step: confirm the product. If it doesn't exist, I need to adjust accordingly. But maybe the user is creative and wants information on a similar or fictional device. The user might not know the product is fictional, so I should check that. : It is often reported as "plug-and-play" for
NMEA 0183 standard output. This universal protocol allowed the hardware to transmit latitude, longitude, altitude, speed, and time data to almost any software capable of reading a serial COM port.
If you want, I can:
Compact, durable plastic housing, often featuring a magnetic base to attach to the roof or dashboard of a vehicle for an unobstructed view of the sky. How the System Worked Driven by a robust u-blox GPS chip ,
The is a specialized piece of legacy hardware that occupies a unique niche in the history of mobile computing and satellite navigation. Often resurfacing in tech forums, surplus auctions, and enterprise recovery discussions, this device represents an era when standalone GPS receivers were critical tools for field logistics, marine navigation, and early automated fleet tracking.
During the late 1990s and 2000s, Microsoft heavily invested in mapping software, most notably through , MapPoint , and Microsoft AutoRoute . While Microsoft was primarily a software giant, it frequently partnered with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to bundle dedicated hardware receivers.
The confusion surrounding is a classic case of tech archaeology. Microsoft never sold a "Navigation" unit under that exact name. Instead, they licensed their software (Streets & Trips, AutoRoute, Pocket Streets) to hardware partners like Pharos , GlobalSat , and Royaltek . The model number "GPS-168" belongs squarely to Pharos Science & Applications, Inc. , not Microsoft. However, because these units shipped in a box emblazoned with "Compatible with Microsoft Streets & Trips 2006-2010," users consistently rebranded them as Microsoft devices.
Thus, users searching for drivers or manuals naturally typed "Microsoft Navigation GPS 168 Model 1372."
USB (Wired, typically with a long cord for flexible placement). Connector Type: USB Type-A (standard PC connection).

