Mapping Software

As well as the info you'll receive here, try this site as well.

Ozi Ex is good - does everything most people want, runs on desktops/laptops and (the CE version) PDAs. It will provide moving map ability and lots of waypoint and ID facilities. However it does not come with any maps, you need to provide your own - which can either be bought or downloaded foc from the Oz Gov mapping site (can't remember the URL) at 250,000:1 There are a lot of "free" maps around for Ozi too - ask around.

Mike Harding

Hi Proco

Ozi explorer shines when used as a moving map displaying your position from a GPS.

Its raster based not vector based and a bit frustrating as a general map view piece of software as it can only zoom in/out so far.

I.e. if you put in a 1000km track then you can't get fine detail you need to make the right turn at a confusing junction.

A good point about it is that you can just download it a try it out
on your PC.

I've gone down the Garmin path and my GPS came with a map viewing program called Mapsource Trip/waypoint manager.

This is a pleasure to use compared to Ozi for general stuff, and your can download free general maps of Australia for it.

Many Magellans come with a similar program called I think Discover Aus.
Don't use it , but I think its similar to Garmin one, Magellan users many comment more on this.

Worth checking out, as it is designed for the unit.

Robin Miller

Regarding OziExpl versions. Just down load the latest if you are going to run it with a laptop.

Its a great program. I run it via a Garmin II plus. From the sounds of your needs this best of software will fill the bill nicely.

I recommend you then get yourself at least the Auslig set for Australia plus the Hema desert set if you are going to the interior ..a couple of state road maps are useful as well.

The program has great features for moving map such as being able to run two maps simultaneously (one showing you where you are on a regional view while the main one is set to find the map with the best resolution) works a treat. Also easy to set a track prior to going somewhere along with waypoints and routes etc. you can also save your track as you travel to see where you have been!

With the unregistered version you can do most things but if you want to scan your own maps then get a registered copy.

All the best with it

John

Proco,

I have an older model Magellan Meridian GPS and purchased Magellan's dedicated maps as an addition. Both DiscoverAus and Australia's Great Desert Tracks. I found the detail displayed on the GPS to be totally inadequate and basically, a waste of money.

The OziExplorer application, linked with NATMAP Raster Premium maps will give you all you need for country wide travel.

You can download OziExplorer and test/evaluate before you buy, but at around $120 its not expensive to purchase up front and you won't be disappointed.

You can purchase both OziExplorer and the Map software though the ExplorOz shop.

OziExplorer Software CD ($123.50)
Natmap Raster 2005: Premium - DVD ($119)
or
Australia 4WD Raster Map Collection on DVD ($149)

Great Desert Tracks of Australia CD ($79) will give more detailed maps of the Desert Country but I have found NATMAP Premium Raster to be more than adequate.

My recommendation is to start with NATMAP Raster 2005 Premium
and add additional maps if you need/desire them.

Now, just to complicate things a little, you may find that the Laptop solution to be somewhat cumbersome over a period of time and then wish to head down the path of a PDA solution.
Well, your initial investment in Ozi and the Digital Maps won't be wasted. Once you own a copy of OziExplorer, you can purchase the CE version for PDA's for "peanuts" and use the same maps stored on an SD or Compact Flash card.

Then you can add voice directed application software such as CoPilot or TomTom for use around Town. In fact, you will be able to do this if you stick with the Laptop.

Good Luck mate, you are about to become "hooked".

Hello - be aware that if your laptop is running MS Vista you will not be able to use the NMEA data output by eXplorist GPS units (maybe other GPS brands?). This data is used for the "Moving Map" function of Oziexplorer and other similar products. Apparently no suitable driver exists and they (Magellan) seem to be having dificulty in creating one.

Cheers
Greg