GPS Tools User Guide
Welcome to GPS Tools! This is a full-featured GPX/KML/TCX visualizer for Joomla 6 with a modern React 19 SPA frontend. Display interactive maps, comprehensive charts, and engage your community with outdoor adventures.
What You Can Do with GPS Tools
- Visualize GPS Tracks - Display GPX, KML, and TCX files on interactive maps with color-coded routes
- Multiple Map Providers - OpenStreetMap (15+ tile providers) or Google Maps (7 style presets)
- Interactive Charts - Elevation, speed, heart rate profiles with synchronized map highlighting
- Track Analytics - Distance, elevation gain/loss, duration, speed, splits analysis
- Draw Custom Tracks - Create routes directly on the map without uploading files
- Photo Gallery - Attach geolocated images to tracks with lightbox viewing
- Waypoints System - Mark points of interest with 11+ custom types
- Community Features - Comments, ratings, social sharing, and engagement
- SEO Optimized - Search engine friendly URLs and structured data
- Modern Admin Interface - React-powered dashboard with real-time updates
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, tile options, and chart features
- Content Plugin - Embed tracks in articles with shortcodes
- Modules - Display maps and track lists anywhere
Developer Resources
- Plugin Events - Extend GPS Tools with custom plugins
- 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 and visibility settings
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 (or draw a route on the map)
- The system automatically extracts coordinates, elevation, and statistics
- Add photos, waypoints, and description
- 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, full sensor data |
| KML | .kml | Google Earth format |
| TCX | .tcx | Garmin Training Center format with fitness data |
| Drawn | - | Draw routes directly on the map |
Activity Types
GPS Tools supports multiple activity types with appropriate icons and color schemes:
| Type | Icon | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | 🥾 | Walking trails and hikes |
| Running | 🏃 | Running and jogging routes |
| Trail Running | 🏃♂️ | Off-road running |
| Cycling | 🚴 | Road cycling |
| Mountain Biking | 🚵 | Off-road cycling |
| Skiing | ⛷️ | Ski runs and tours |
| Swimming | 🏊 | Open water routes |
| Kayaking | 🛶 | Paddle routes |
| Driving | 🚗 | Road trips |
| Mountaineering | 🧗 | Alpine climbing |
Difficulty Levels
Classify tracks by difficulty:
- Easy - Suitable for beginners and families
- Moderate - Some experience needed
- Difficult - Experienced users only
- Expert - Very challenging, technical skills required
Waypoint Types
Mark points of interest along your tracks:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Summit/Peak | Mountain tops and high points |
| Viewpoint | Scenic overlooks |
| Water | Water sources, lakes, streams |
| Rest Area | Benches, rest stops |
| Food | Restaurants, cafes, snack points |
| Campground | Camping areas |
| Photo Point | Great photo opportunities |
| Warning | Dangerous areas, caution needed |
| Parking | Trailhead parking |
| Information | Information boards, signs |
Track Visualization
- Color-coded routes by speed, elevation, or heart rate
- Animated playback to visualize the journey
- Distance markers at km/mile intervals
- Start/End markers with customizable colors
- Multi-segment support for complex routes
📦 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