MapSource TOPO U.S. 2008

[Siskiyou]

Garmin is releasing new MapSource software for Garmin Mapping Gps units; it is titled TOPO U.S. 2008.  I have not used it in a unit but it appears to be slightly more detailed then the older U.S. Topo.  I expect this will replace the older U.S. Topo on retailer shelves. 

I checked it out using Garmin’s MapSource viewer I like the changes that I could find.  One of the key changes is the addition of many street names.  If I had a non-auto-routing gps this would be my software of choice.  I will not run out and buy it at this time because I already have US Topo, and City Navigator loaded on my units. 

I have found my current version of US Topo very useful when fishing man made reservoirs, hunting, and when visiting older cities.  With the rapid construction in California Street mapping programs become obsolete before they leave the factory.

[Dusty Miller]

Is that the software I should get for a 76cx?  I'll be primarily using it for hiiking and hunting. 

[Siskiyou]

TOPO U.S. 2008 is designed to work on your 76Cx.  It is the idea product for the U.S. outdoors.

[Dusty Miller]

When I order it should I order the CD and download the data to the Garmin unit or should I buy the flash card?

[Siskiyou]

If your computer has a DVD player I would go for the DVD version.  I do not see a CD version for TOPO U.S. 2008.  In the long run I believe it gives you more bang for the buck.

http://www.gpsnow.com/gmmstp.htm

System Requirements: PC with Windows 2000 or newer operating system; 32MB RAM minimum; 2 GB free hard disk space; DVD drive for DVD versions; available serial and/or USB port, 256 color display adapter and monitor (16- bit color required); and mouse or other pointing device; PC Interface cable, Internet access is recommended
 
I intentionally deleted mention of a CD player in the system requirements because I do not see a CD version offered.  While DVD players have become common, many older computers do not have a DVD player.

 Micro SD cards in the 2 GB version are becoming cheaper.  On sale they can be purchased for $25 plus tax for the State.

Should you have questions on loading MapSource Data from your pc to your gps I have a very long how to do it which can be posted.  In fact I will post it as a new topic.