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Reviewed by
Bill Klutz

Software Review of:
USGS Topographic Maps On CD Texas
National Geographic Maps - Texas

 

Bill Klutz does consulting work, primarily in the areas of Management and Computer Applications Hardware Software.

From the August, 2003 issue of PC Alamode Magazine

Anyone who comes in contact with the words "National Geographic" should immediately think of the monthly yellow bordered magazine, printed on glossy paper, with a cover picture, and stories (with many captivating pictures) about places and things from around the world. Sometimes there is also a quality map (about 3 ft by 2.5 ft) of a particular area, with additional text about the area, so you could peruse the maps text and geographical information as you correlate it with the particular story. From the time I can remember, when not actually traveling, I have traveled the world through the National Geographic Society magazine and maps.

With the computer and Internet age capable of bring things to us that heretofore may not have been readily available, National Geographic has apparently reorganized to take advantage of this boon to mankind. The parent company is now National Geographic Holdings, Inc. Although I don't know all of the subsets (including the "tree" arrangement) and their locations, a few names are: National Geographic Society (NGS), National Geographic Maps (NGM), and TOPO!.

TOPO!, the interactive mapping software, enables you to create your own seamless, customized topographic maps. It provides a complete set of powerful easy to use features. Standard features include:

  • Award-winning software


  • Scanned versions of the actual paper 1:24,000 and 1:100,000 scale US Geological Society (USGS) maps, produced to the National Map Accuracy Standards; the most detailed available


  • Zoom through different USGS map series that show increasing levels of detail


  • Navigate maps with ease and scroll seamlessly from map to map without borders


  • USA Place Finder allows access to thousands of preloaded Global Positioning System (GPS) waypoints (every labeled feature from than 4412 USGS maps for Texas). Also, you can use your PC to create and store thousands more waypoints, routes and tracks. Built-in database lets you organize and sort all of your information.


  • Select the exact area you want to print, even it is larger than the screen or covers multiple USGS quads, and print a custom, photo-quality map on any inkjet, laser printer, or plotter


  • Add custom text, symbols and routes


  • Export customized maps in a number of different raster file formats (.gif, .jpg, etc.) for use in other applications


  • Optional upgrades available (GPS upload/download capability, handheld compatibility, shaded relief, etc.)


  • Choose from state or regional series


  • Draw a freehand route and TOPO! displays its distance and generates an elevation profile


  • Swap custom map overlays with other users in the National Geographic mapXchange community


  • Add map border information to printouts including UTM or latitude-longitude grids, scale bars, north arrows, and magnetic declination


  • Toggle between NAD27 and WGS84 datums in UTM or latitude-longitude


  • Transfer your custom information directly to or from any leading GPS receiver using TOPO! Gps Wizard

    • The newest seamless topographic map software (State Series Products) has complete seamless topographic CD coverage of all 50 states and the District of Columbia [38 individual states and 2 groupings of states ) Mid-Atlantic States (DC, DE, MD, VA, WV) and Northeast States (CT, MA, ME, NJ, NH, NY, RI, VT) @ $99.95 per package]. (Note: The Texas product package I reviewed indicated it included full state coverage utilizing the following: National Geographic World Atlas, USGS 500K Map Series, USGS 100K Map Series, USGS 7.5' Map Series. Screen shots and sample map graphics should help illustrate the detail available) Each State Series Product includes all standard features above plus:

  • Already GPS ready - no additional upgrade needed! (GPS compatibility list)


  • Create routes and upload waypoints to your GPS


  • Great value for the amount of map coverage


  • Enhanced 3D digital shaded relief emphasizes changes in elevation, making the maps more readable. Shading intensity can be adjusted for personal preference or can be toggled on/off for viewing the original USGS maps


  • Precise geo-referencing ensures pixel-level accuracy for GPS and vector data overlay.


  • True-color imaging uses million of colors to optimize maps for viewing and printing


  • High resolution 30-meter digital elevation data provides the best elevation profiling


  • Right click on the level 5 map to see quad name, date, and contour interval

    • Also, Free State Series 3.3 Upgrade adds the following features to any TOPO! State Series product:

  • Enhance the maps with your own notes, web links and digital or scanned photos in the exact location they were taken.


  • Scroll seamlessly across multiple State Series maps. View ALL files in the mapXchange, including files created with TOPO! Sync.


    • There is also a Regional Series (approximately 30 products @ $24.95 ea), which has the topographic map software for popular recreation destinations and Standard Features previously listed. Examples are: Adirondack Mountains & NY Capitol; Colorado Front Range Cities & recreational areas; and Colorado Rocky Mtn. ski & wilderness areas. There is also an optional Regional Series upgrade ) Add GPS functionality by purchasing TOPO! GPS USA. Added features include: Ability to upload/download waypoints and routes to and from supported GPS receivers (GPS compatibility list at website); Overview maps of the United States.

    MapXchange: Allows upload and download of free TOPO! files for use with TOPO! CD-ROMs. Files can be posted so that others in the "mapXchange community" can use them on their adventures, if they find them useful. Whether you like to hike, bike, paddle or ski, each unique file provides fresh information about where to go. Examples: Pacific Crest Trail, CA ) A complete trace of the PCT from Mexico to Oregon! Great for day-hikers or thru-hikers alike; 18 Great Hikes in the Central Sierra; Continental Divide Trail - Colorado; Waterfall Hikes in North Georgia. Learn about mapXchange partners across the US who are actively using the mapXchange. This and more in available through the mapXchange feature at the website.

    Now with more retail locations nationwide, getting the exact customized topographic map you desire just became easier ) fascinating maps, globes, and CD-ROMs. (If you desire, NG Maps will send you a free catalog in the mail or help you find a dealer that offers TOPO! CDs with their convenient website store locator.) The Map Machine offers thousands of seamless USGS quads for US states. "Touch-n-go" technology makes selecting the exact map for your recreational or professional need easy and fun. Maps print in under 4 minutes on waterproof, tear-resistant media. Learn more about the Map Machine, or locate a kiosk near with a visit to the website.

    Comment: If interested in mapping software for outdoor adventures, visit (us-outdoors.com/misc/maps.htm> for a listing of some additional software that is available. You might be glad you did!

    System Requirements: Windows: 95, 98, 2000, ME, XP, NT 4.0 and higher; 16 MB memory; 8 MB of hard drive space; 2X CD drive; 256 color monitor; 486 DX/66 MHz PC or higher. Mac (w/separate Mac download): OS 8.5 and higher.

    Printer and paper: Works with all color and black & white printers and plotters supported by Windows. Optional tear-resistant, waterproof printing material (Adventure Paper) that works with any ink jet printer (not intended for use in laser printers) is also available. Print durable custom maps, outdoor signs and banners. Designed for use with TOPO! digital mapping software, this durable, tear-resistant, waterproof media can withstand the rigors of the great outdoors. Adventure Paper is environmentally safe, easily foldable, and withstands a wide range of temperatures. (Packages @ $19.95 ea: 8.5" x 11", 25 sheets; 8.5" x 14", 15 sheets; 11" x 17", 10 sheets.)

    Supported GPS Receivers: GPS Receivers Compatible with TOPO! CD-ROM State Series products are most popular receivers manufactured by Garmin, Eagle, Lowrance, and Magellan (receivers listed on the website support NMEA live-tracking mode). Receivers manufactured by other companies may also be compatible, but should be tested.

    Want to use the State Series with your Palm or Pocket PC? Get the Pocket TOPO! extension ($24.95) to add the ability to sync the TOPO! State Series with Palm and Pocket PC handheld units. Notes added to the maps while in the field will synchronize with your PC the next time you connect. (State Series users who would prefer to receive Pocket TOPO! functionality on CD may purchase TOPO! Sync. When you install the software, it will automatically upgrade your State Series product with Palm and Pocket PC functionality; $39.95) There is also an Optional ArcGIS TOPO! Extension. With it you can import TOPO! State Series base map data into your ArcGIS project with the additional purchase of the TOPO! Extension for ArcGIS. Visit the website to learn more about each.

    Contact Information: National Geographic Maps, 375 Alabama St., Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94110; Customer Service: 800-962-1643; 415-558-9700, FAX 415-558-9700; Topo or National Geographic

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