Topo USA 7.0 National Edition

Great software, but not compatible with all GPS devices

If you enjoy geocaching or are simply looking for some great topographical software to make directions with or for your own maps, then Topo USA 7 is a dream come true. DeLORME has built up a reputation for coming out with innovative software products, and this latest edition of Topo USA is no exception. Probably the only real problem that I can think of with it is that it’s not compatible with Garmin GPS devices (since Garmin uses its own map format that Topo USA can’t reproduce.)

There really are a lot of useful features in Topo USA 7, including both topographical and street map options. You can also access a variety of outside services to update your maps according to the United States Geological Survey, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other excellent sources of up-to-date geological and oceanic data. This will help to ensure that your maps are as up-to-date as they can be and will keep you from being surprised because of unexpected changes that have occurred to the landscape since the map you were using was printed (referring to changes such as landslides as well as new construction.)

There’s also a really handy flyover feature which lets you view a 3d model of the area in your map data, enabling you to see all of the details of the landscape in advance of actually going there. This can help you both in planning out your trip in advance (since you’ll be able to get an idea of places to go that you might not otherwise have considered) and let you look back fondly at where you’ve been. Adding in the capacity to include digital photos with your map data (which will appear as thumbnails until expanded) makes Topo USA even better at bringing back old memories, since you can attach the photos to the exact spots where they were taken.

A number of other useful features are included in the software as well. You can access information about attractions, restaurants, hotels, and any other pertinent locations from a number of other software databases, giving you access to millions of places that you might want to include in your trip planning. You can even find boat ramps for river access, campgrounds, and great spots to go hunting or fishing. Regardless of the reason that you’re heading on your trip, there’s bound to be something useful that you can find with Topo USA.

Like I said before, probably the only real drawback to the software is that it isn’t compatible with Garmin GPS devices (or any devices that use Garmin software.) This doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find a GPS device that will be able to sync with Topo USA (since you can even buy the software in packages with compatible GPS devices in some places), but if you already own a Garmin product then you won’t be able to get the most out of the software without buying a new GPS. Make sure that you’ll be able to use it with your GPS to ensure that you get the most out of your software.

Review by Christopher Franks