Question about Maps for GPS

[fireman1904]

I have a Garmin eTrex Legend. I want to upload some kind of topo maps to it. I dont have a lot of experience with GPS's. What software do I need to do this. I dont want to spend a fortune but I would like something half way decent.

[David Grimes]

You can use software like MapSource Topo 2008 or there are several others that work with the etrex but all of them run around $100 so there really is not a cheap solution as far as I know.

[fireman1904]

Ok. Besides Mapsource what will upload the maps to it? I know mapsource is the one that is endorsed by garmin. Probably the same company. I just know that there is usualy better software for around the same price that will work with things like this. Just curious on any opinions anyone has.

[scottn8zus]

Bieng it is a Garmin GPS you can only install Garmin Mapping Software to it. Like Garmin Mapsource U.S. TOPO.

[Squirrel Girl]

I have an Etrex Legend. I use MapSource to put maps INTO my gps. But I bought Topo Virginia for plotting. Last night I dug out my data from AZ (Memorial Day Trip). I didn't want to pay another hundred for AZ for one little trip, so I just used MapSource since I have the whole US (I did buy the extra topo maps--just roads come with the unit, but at least you get the whole US).

Now they let you take the track from your GPS/MapSource and instantly plot it in Google Earth. No profile that I can see, though.

As far as the unit itself... the screen is so darn small, that I doubt you'd gain much by having better maps.

[FiddleCaver]

Garmin has made things difficult by making their maps on the GPS kindof proprietary, however it is possible to upload custom maps from other programs. Personally, I use Maptech Terrain Navigator but I suppose that there area several other programs that will do the same thing possibly even for free. Just do a search for Opensource Topo Software or Opensource GIS Software and you'll come up with something. Now for getting the maps on the GPS, here are some instructions for that http://vip.hyperusa.com/~dougs/GPSSM/. As I said, it can be done, it's just not quite plug and play unless you use the Garmin software. To be honest, I researched this before and after discovering how much is involved I decided that it wasn't all that important to have the maps on the GPS after all. I just print off a map if I need one.

[Squirrel Girl]

I meant to post up this image in my last post: