GPS Tools User Guide

Welcome to GPS Tools! This guide will help you visualize GPS tracks, display interactive maps, and share outdoor adventures on your Joomla website.

🎯 What You Can Do with GPS Tools

• Visualize GPS Tracks - Display GPX, KML, and TCX files on interactive maps
• Multiple Map Providers - Choose between OpenStreetMap (free) or Google Maps
• Interactive Charts - Show elevation, speed, heart rate, and cadence profiles
• Track Statistics - Automatic calculation of distance, elevation, duration, and more
• Community Features - Comments, ratings, and social engagement
• SEO Optimized - Search engine friendly URLs and structured data

📚 Quick Navigation

Essential Guides

• Installation - Install and configure GPS Tools
• Quick Start Guide - Get up and running in minutes
• Track Management - Upload, organize, and manage tracks
• Configuration - Complete settings reference

Features

• Maps & Charts - Map providers and chart options
• Content Plugin - Embed tracks in articles with shortcodes
• Modules - Display maps and track lists anywhere

Customization & Help

• Extending GPS Tools - Plugin events and customization
• Troubleshooting - Common issues and solutions
• Changelog - Version history and updates

🚀 Getting Started in 5 Minutes

1. Install the Package

Download pkg_gpstools_x.x.x.zip and install via System → Install → Extensions.

2. Configure Settings

Go to Components → GPS Tools → Options and configure:

• Choose your map provider (OpenStreetMap or Google Maps)
• Set your preferred unit system (Metric or Imperial)
• Configure chart display options

3. Create Categories

Organize your tracks by creating categories:

• Components → GPS Tools → Categories
• Create categories like "Hiking Trails", "Cycling Routes", etc.

4. Upload Your First Track

• Go to Components → GPS Tools → Tracks → New
• Upload a GPX, KML, or TCX file
• The system automatically extracts coordinates, elevation, and statistics
• Save and publish your track

5. Display on Your Site

Create a menu item to display tracks:

• Menus → [Your Menu] → Add New Menu Item
• Select GPS Tools → Tracks List or GPS Tools → Single Track

✨ Key Features Overview

Supported File Formats

Format	Extension	Description
GPX	.gpx	GPS Exchange Format - most common
KML	.kml	Google Earth format
TCX	.tcx	Garmin Training Center format

Activity Types

GPS Tools supports multiple activity types with appropriate icons and defaults:

• 🥾 Hiking / Walking
• 🏃 Running / Trail Running
• 🚴 Cycling / Mountain Biking
• ⛷️ Skiing
• 🚗 Driving
• And more...

Difficulty Levels

Classify tracks by difficulty:

• Easy - Suitable for beginners
• Moderate - Some experience needed
• Difficult - Experienced users only
• Expert - Very challenging

📦 Package Contents

The GPS Tools package includes:

Extension	Type	Description
com_gpstools	Component	Main GPS Tools component
mod_gpstools_map	Module	Interactive map with track markers
mod_gpstools_tracks	Module	Track listing with multiple layouts
plg_content_gpstools	Plugin	Embed tracks using shortcodes
plg_finder_gpstools	Plugin	Smart Search integration

💡 Need Help?

• Check the Troubleshooting Guide for common issues
• Review the Configuration Reference for all settings
• Each guide includes step-by-step instructions with examples