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There are two main types of mapping software and it is important to understand the differences between them:
1. Digital Mapping Software e.g. Anquet
When we refer to a digital map in the GPS context, we mean an exact digital version of a paper map, such as Ordnance Survey (OS) maps used in the UK. Digital mapping software can be used on a PC or PDA to create waypoints and routes, analyse tracks and print copies of maps overlaid with your route. Although the data can be uploaded to and from a GPS, the mapping itself cannot be shown on a handheld GPS screen.
2. Garmin Topo Mapping
Topo mapping is a special compilation of both Ordnance Survey data and routable street level mapping supplied by NAVTEQ™. The product includes businesses and points of interest (POI). Although not showing every detail available on an OS map, the maps in this product can be used both on a PC and on the screen of a handheld GPS.
The two types of product complement each other. Both digital mapping and Topo mapping will allow you to plan a route or analyse where you have been by viewing your track, but only Topo can be seen on the screen of your Garmin GPS as you navigate and used as a turn-by-turn sat. nav. in car, bike or handheld when on foot in a strange town or city. Digital mapping provides a wider range of viewing and analysis tools and can be printed out. Both have their place as extremely useful pieces of kit for anyone in the outdoors.
Digital Mapping
Main Uses: Route Planning & Analysis & Map Printing
- Is a raster map: zoom = just gets bigger
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Cannot be downloaded to a handheld GPS
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A complete digital OS map in every respect
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May include an aerial map
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Shows all paths and ROWs
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Includes extra functions - route card, text, 3D
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Can be printed/ emailed
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Works with any PC connectable GPS
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No turn-by-turn navigation
Garmin Topo Mapping
Main Uses: Navigating Outdoors & Turn by
Turn + Limited Route Planning and Analysis
- Is a vector map: zoom = get more details
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What you see on the PC is what you get on the GPS screen
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Is a stripped - down map
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May not show all paths
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Some digital mapping functions missing
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Really needs a colour GPS
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Cannot be printed/ emailed
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Gives turn - by - turn street level navigation
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Memory intensive - needs a memory card
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