Learn About GPS Maps
Map ReferenceThis is a reference used which assigns a number or identification, e.g. Garmin’s US001R and signifies a specific location or mapping area. In this example the letters “US” have some intelligence indicating this is a United States map segment. A Garmin product number on the other hand, will not intuitively signify anything but is specific to both location and map media type. US001R is a North East USA map, which is supplied as a Garmin Data Card part number 010-C0015-00, and as a Micro SD Card 010-C0336-00.
Map Technologies
GPS navigation technology continues to be quite remarkable with faster processing and larger maps using Secure Digital (SD) and Compact Flash CF cards. Mapping technology continues to keep pace with yearly additions of new features and capabilities. However, users need to understand that GPS maps use “paper map data”, mined or purchased from government electronic archives. US government maps are updated with important safety information when necessary and it is the map users responsibility to use the most current, or best maps available.
As GPS devices evolve to store more data and process information at a faster rate, mapping media and size are changing too. Area maps are being consolidated into regional maps. Satellite imagery, photography, and 3D rendering are being added. If it hasn’t been done already, the next evolutionary step may be to movie video imaging.
However, using the best technologies available will not ensure safety and accuracy on the water. It is still possible to find mapping errors considering the volume of data needed to create digital maps. Many GPS equipment and GPS map providers issue a disclaimer to the effect that their products should not be used as the sole or primary source of information to navigate safely. Always read the terms and conditions of GPS equipment, and electronic maps to correctly understand possible limitations.
Garmin Map Technologies
Bluechart-g2-Vision
Bluechart-G2-Vision are in SD card format only and include BlueChart G2 maps
as a supplement to maps already on the Garmin chart plotter. Added features
include highly detailed satellite imagery overlaid on the chart to better understand
the dynamic environment. Aerial reference photography data helps to understand
marine installations such as ports, marinas, and navigation landmarks. 3D map
generation also covers underwater features consistent with chart information.
An auto guidance function derives best course to follow, using chart data points.
Bluechart-g2
The Bluechart-g2 works for units available since 2006, includes 3D mapping capability,
aerial photography of ports, and more details than the standard BlueChart line.
The maps offer smoother presentation, while the 3D allows a different perspective.
The photography database covers ports marinas and coastal features.
Bluechart
Bluechart maps are available in three different formats: Garmin Data Cards,
Garmin Micro SD Cards, and CD ROM. Garmin Data Cards fit devices made before
2006 . Preprogrammed Garmin Data cards are a simple plug and play cards but
may be used only on compatible Garmin devices. In contrast, the CD ROM is compatible
with most Garmin GPS devices, but can only be used on the device you own and
unlock codes need to be purchased for each coverage area of interest. If you
own two Garmin GPS devices, according to Garmin, a second unlock can be made
free of charge. The CD ROM is the cheapest medium per map.
Bathymetric
Underwater Topo maps are specifically created for the fishing community.
Inland Lakes
In SD card format, this series covers rivers and lakes in five US regions, North
East, South East, Mid West North, and Mid West South, and West Coast. Each region
displays over 300 major lakes with contours, satellite imagery, and 3D views.
Navionics Marine Charts
Navionics Platinum Maps
Formatted on SD and CF cards Platinum Charts are available for newer (circa
2008), usually high-end GPS models. Platinum Maps overlay satellite imagery
with map coordinates to improve situational awareness. Aerial photographs assist
with navigation into unfamiliar ports and marinas. Detailed contact information,
including phone numbers is available for port services and facilities of interest.
Major coastal road networks are also displayed. Observe tidal heights, flow
speed and direction with on screen map indicators. High definition fishing detail
included with select chart purchases.
Navionics Gold Maps
Bigger and better, Navionics Gold Maps now includes an XL9 chart combining three
XL3 charts. The larger XL9 charts provide the same level of details as the XL3
charts and also include chart contour shading to more clearly represent features
to look like a regular paper chart. Further help is provided through the “Xplain”
feature, which explains confusing navigational symbols more clearly. Major coastal
road networks, and port services are included.
Navionics Gold Charts are formatted on SD and CF cards with CF format primarily used by Raymarine and Northstar and SD cards used by Lowrance, Furuno Navnet vx2, and Humminbird models.
Navionics Classic Charts
These are charts smaller in coverage area made for older units, which may not
have the processing power and imaging capabilities of more recent units. The
raw map detail is the same, and the maps are clear and easy to read. Depth contours,
navigational aids, port plans, and service guides are also included.
Navionics Lake Charts (Hotmaps)
Hotmaps are designed as fishing assistance tools and not navigational tools.
Here’s a quote from the Navionics Website:
“HotMaps information is for the smaller freshwater lakes and are to be used as a fishing guide and not as a navigational tool.” http://www.navionics.com/HMPlatinumFAQs.asp
Hotmaps Platinum
The Platinum series presents over 300 high definition lakes with 3D viewing
capabilities and panoramic lake views, and satellite imagery over five different
regions. Newer chart plotter models from Humminbird, Northstar and Raymarine
can use these charts.
Hotmaps Premium 2007 and 2006
The 2007 series edition presents 5 regions containing over 300 high definition
lakes and over 10,000 other lakes, while the 2006 version presents 5 regions
containing over 150 high definition lakes and over 800 other lakes. These maps
are supplied in both SD and CF card formats.
Classic Hotmaps
For older GPS devices in SD, MMC, Navchart, and CF formats.
Continent
Greater mapping areas are usually divided up into various continents, i.e. North
America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania.
Country
If possible maps are given country designations, e.g. USA, Canada, Mexico, etc.
Coverage Area
Describes a general coverage area.
List Price
Manufacturers need many channels to distribute their goods and are careful against
competing with their own channel. Manufacturers usually market at a list price,
which is often significantly higher than retail channels.
Description
Geographic locations within the map may be of high or low detail.
Media
SD=Secure Digital Card
CF = Compact Flash Card
MMC = MultiMediaCard
CD = CD ROM Disk
Manufacturer’s Description
In the absence of images or certain information, if a good resource is found
to help demonstrate the manufacturers product it will be placed here.
Map Sizes
Map sizes describe the coverage area and not the scale or level of detail.