It depends on what the GPS is. For working with a desktop, you're much better off getting a handheld GPS and a USB or serial cable to interface with your PC.
Laptop and PDA GPS's offer far fewer features than what you'd get in a handheld.
I believe the laptop and PDA gps systems use the screen of the laptop/PDA for the display. I think you'll have a hard time carting your desktop around the Pines. LOL