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Topo USA National Edition
 Category: Products & Services
Title: DeLorme - Topo USA 2.0 CD ROM
Description of Products:
DeLorme has done it again!
A leader in the field of topographical maps, atlases, mapping software and online mapping applications, the New Topo USA 2.0 Regional CD ROM is sure to be a hit with it's advanced navigation features and 3D viewing options.
We received the Mountain States series of Topo USA which includes coverage
for Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming. The software is available in 6 separate state regional versions or one complete National Edition. Being
located in Utah, and having over 30 years of travel time spent in the Great Basin area, I installed the copy of Topo USA with great enthusiasm to put it to a test.
Installation was simple, by following the set by step instructions provided upon
loading the CD ROM into the Windows 95, Micron 450 MHz computer used for testing this software. Upon launching program and 15 minutes spent getting
accustomed to the features and options available, I set of on a mission to map out a route for my upcoming muzzleloader deer hunt in the Oquirrh mountain range here in Utah.
The find feature, offers a very complete search function for locating areas of
interest or specific landmarks. I located an area I have hunted for years and zoomed in for a closer look. In the normal 2D mode, the topographical map
display, contains some of the most current information available on any maps I have seen on the market (for most areas... see below*). Many topographical
map CD ROM's contain information based on USGS maps that can be 10 - 25 years old. This is not the case with Topo USA! The main content of the CD ROM is very up to date on areas we checked within city limits.
*Although in certain areas, we did find a few discrepancies in the off road maps,
most of the maps we printed out and headed to the hills with where on the mark! In the areas we did find the discrepancies, there where off by some margin. As
much as 1/8th mile from the actual roads. NOTE: These tests where done without the aid of a GPS unit and made from long time experience in the area we tested in and a standard compass.
Maps are based on the latest in vector-based intelligent mapping technology
and displays contours at 20-foot intervals. The clarity of the maps, both on screen and printed, is exceptional. A downloadable update allows to to add
custom items to the maps, and then also preview these drawn items in 3D mode!
I mapped an area I have hunted for years, using the software, and found two new
outlets that deer have been sneaking past me for years. When I took advantage of this new found knowledge, it harvested an impressive 3 X 3 mule deer out of one of these hidden draws! Thanks Delorme!!!
Additional Features Tested:
NETLINK Feature. This option allows you to add customized and current
information to your maps, for weather, road construction and more. It does require access to the Internet for downloading the latest information.
2D and 3D MODES. Just like being there, now you can preview and print maps
in 2 and 3 dimension variables, with many levels of detail available. True elevations are clearly noted on the maps and also available by simply placing
your cursor over the area and looking at the easy to understand navigation bar on the left of the screen. The elevation is displayed as you move your cursor
across the map. 3D mode allows you to choose the level of vertical exaggeration that makes picking out hidden areas, not easily identified from traditional 2D maps or mapping software.
The rotating map pictures to the left display the same point on a map using 1X, 2X, and 4X vertical exaggeration. The detail that pops out in the higher levels in extraordinary. Area that are
not easily seen become clearly identifiable and can then be marked for further exploration.
Target Printing: A handy option for only
printing the information you need. Print the maps in 2D, Route Directory, Profile, or 3D mode. 2D mode prints you high quality, traditional topographical
maps. Route Directory prints out the routes you have laid out using the easy to use draw tools. Giving elevation, distance and GPS coordinates along the way.
Profile lays out the elevation changes and distance in a graphical form for easy interpretation 3D Mode allows you to print out a 3 dimensional view of the area you have selected!
OVERALL RATING: ***** 5 Summit Award
When compared for price and features offered, to other software titles on the
market, DeLorme has come up with a winner! This is an easy to use interface that really takes the work out of printing out the maps to need. I look very
forward to purchasing my first GPS unit and doing additional testing on this great piece of software. I will be making updates to this review as I continue to
learn more of it's high end features and integrate in a GPS unit to the testing process. (Currently looking for a Sponsor of a GPS Unit in exchange for review and promotion on our site. Contact us if your interested!)
I encourage all Hunters and Outdoorsman to visit the DeLorme web
site and pick up a copy of Topo USA 2.0 before you step one foot into the field this
hunting season. It just very well make your trip more successful! It worked for me!
The Trail Master's 1999 Muzzleloader Mule Deer. Taken using knowledge I directly relate back to using DeLorme Topo USA 2.0 to locate new areas in a
favorite and long time hunting area!
Product Review Data:
Tested Software - DeLorme Topo USA 2.0 Regional (Mountain States)
Reviewed By: Cris Draper, Trail Master
Review Posted: 10-05-1999
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