TOPO MAP SOFTWARE

[HELLHOUND]

I am looking for a new GPS either Garmin or Magellan what i was wondering is do both of these need to use there own software or canaftermarket Topo software be downloaded to the newer units .
Also how is the quality of the topo maps on the newer software/GPS units
i have used Mapquest on my eTrex legend
Thanks

[Skippy]

Garmin GPS units only accept maps in Garmin's vector format. You can't upload a raster map (GIF/JPEG etc) to the unit. You can make your own tracks, routes or even maps, but it's a bit tedious.

In the old days when GPS units only had a few meg of memory, I could see why they would do this, but with memory being so cheap and GPS units having colour screens, I can't see why they don't add the ability to calibrate and upload your own map to the GPS unit. 8O
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Gone fishing!

[BBB]

It's probably something to do with copyright, license fees and a whole bundle of legal technicalities.

Most organisations are probably hinged on a "who blink first" basis IMHO

The same could be said of maps: why isn't there a standard?

Why is my mega-dollar mega-euro GPS unit only capable of inloading a certain bespoke map format?

Then look at the price of bespoke memory chips compared with price on the market stuff

It isn't trivial - quality providers don't want to have their market share eroded by going down the open-market route

Well, not without some form of license arrangement in place that is

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