PC Based Map Programs

[trky chsr]

I'm looking for a topo program for my PC that is compatible with my Garmin 76c. I need to be able to look at a topo map on my PC showing waypoints, tracks, ect. as well as add text or other points. I only need this for my PC, not for navigation in a vehicle or boat. I have the Softmap program (without the GPS option) and it's OK but there are things I don't like about it. The only other one I've heard of is Fugawi but that looks like about a $200 investment....ouch! Any other options or suggestions?

[+PDOP's]

I have the Softmap program (without the GPS option) and it's OK but there are things I don't like about it.

 

The maps in SoftMap are as up to date as any you'll find. Your other options for programs are OziExplorer, MemoryMap and Fugawi. If you haven't got MapSource for your 76C TopoCanada is an option too although they lack the extra detail of the DRG topo's.

 

Edit to add that you can use your SoftMap maps with Fugawi.

Edited October 24, 2006 by PDOP's

[+Red90]

I would not discount getting Garmin's Topo Canada. $120 for the entire country and the maps can be used on the GPS as well with full auto-routing.

 

For use with Softmap, Oziexporer will also work (as far as I know). Try the demo version to see if you like it.

[+PDOP's]

For use with Softmap, Oziexporer will also work (as far as I know).

 

I don't think so (link). SoftMap's maps are in a proprietary format. They do allow you scroll across toposheet boundaries which is nice.

[trky chsr]

Thanks for the replies. I have the Topocanada program for my GPS but for my PC I'd like one that diffrenciates between woods and fields like the paper topos. TC

[+PDOP's]

I have a page about digital topo maps on my site but it's hasn't been updated for a while.

http://members.shaw.ca/pdops/digitalmaps.html

 

There a similar page at http://members.shaw.ca/davepatton/mapcompare.html

[+webscouter.]

www.expertgps.com works well.