why cant just get nat maps on card and put in GPS chartplotter?

PS: Natmaps are in raster format so will not work on vector mapping programs. Someone has however taken the same data used to make Natmaps and created a garmin vector format mapset - called Shonkymaps. This mapset will work on a Garmin chartplotter eg. Garmin 276C.

There are also some GPS mapping programs that use both vector and raster images e.g GIS programs such as Arcview/Mapinfo.

Cheers
Greg

Hello
I dont have Garmin Topo so cant comment from experience but I am sure it has far more detail that Natmap overall e.g. Garmin Topo has streets and roads of every town/city - Natmap doesnt have this detail. Also keep in mind Natmap is a 250K map. Garmin Topo is apparently equivalent to a 25K scale map so the depiction of features will be far more accurate (in theory). I have heard that some areas are actually better depicted on Natmap eg Fraser Island..but suspect this is not the norm. There should be many more tracks and roads shown on the Garmin Topo (overall).

The Shonkymaps are free so give them a bash - if they suit your needs then fine..if not consider one of the commercial products.

I know for a fact that the Shonkymaps will work on a 276C ...so assume they will work with the 176.

You can get Shonky maps here - bit of a huge download (~340mb)

shonkymaps

I am no sure if you could load them onto the same data card you already have....you may have to buy a new one

Garmin data cards

Maybe contact gpsoz guys and ask - they will know. Maybe someone on this forum knows?

To load the maps onto the card you will need Mapsource ..though think there are some free programs that will also compile the maps into correct format (from PC to GPS/Data card). GPSOz will possibly do this for you if you purchase card from them. Again maybe someone else on the forum can help.

Cheers
Greg

Hi G N
If you are after Shonky maps, and don't want the big download, you can get it along with "Tracks4Australia" and "Contours" (which work with both), and a heap of other data on a DVD for $5, from here:
$5 DVD
Regards
Neil

Hi
Many thanks for the shonky map link

regards
GN

I have a few more questions and might start a new thread i think.

Oh Greg is good value in all things mapping. Just don't mention dogs or climate changfe in any subject heading and it should be sweet....hahahahahaha

Good work Willem.

I am currently researching how dogs are thought to be the main cause of climate change especially when let to roam un-tethered in national parks - will report back to the forum on my findings in near future:)

Cheers
Greg