Software. 8 CD Rom set includes instruction manual. 3D viewing glasses. See information page for minimum system requirements. 

Even before I came to Alaska in 1972 I was building a topographic map library of the state.  By the mid-80's I had a bunch....1:250,000, 1:63,360, and a few other scales for special areas.  I folded them with important features written on the outside and filed them in order by map name.  I had most of a file drawer full.

Recently, I gave my map library away.  There was some nostalgia associated with those maps, but today I have a product that does the same job and occupies quite a bit less space.  Let me restate that: what I now have does quite a bit more than the maps I had.  I don't even mind that I can't take this in the field with me: now, I can just print the map I want on my color printer. (Actually, if I had a pocket PC, I could take it in the field with me....and link it with a GPS, too). 

Ever notice how the place you want to go is often on the edge of at least two maps?  With Terrain Navigator, I can print the stitched together view.

Forgive me if I wax enthusiastic.  This CD based topographic map product covers the entire state of Alaska with all of the currently available USGS 1:250,000 and 1:63,360 (inch=mile) maps.  Alaska is well known for its size.  MapTech's Terrain Navigator covers the state with seven CD-ROMs.  The installation CD makes eight.

But, let's say we need something a little more challenging.  Just what is the terrain like in the area we are looking at?  No problemo: I can look at the map in 3D view.

I'm not really into GPS yet.  I'm kind of a compass guy.  For those of you who are, this is from the user's manual: "Terrain Navigator lets you transfer data directly between your GPS unit and your computer.  This lets you create waypoints or routes on the maps, and send them to your GPS for use in the field.  You can also transfer data from your GPS directly to the maps in Terrain Navigator."   To connect Terrain Navigator to a GPS requires a data transfer cable (from the GPS manufacturer) and possibly other hardware.  Terrain Navigator is compatible with selected models from major GPS manufacturers.  Visit MapTech's Website or the latest updates on which models are supported.
If you can't tell from the foregoing, I'm impressed by this software.  If you are a person who uses maps of Alaska, I think this will answer many -- perhaps even most of your needs.

Terrain Navigator David Johnson, webmaster

SOFTWARE FEATURES
	Find maps quickly - use the graphical index map or search by map name, lat/lon, ZIP code, or over 50 types of place names such as rivers and summits. Find exact coordinates (Lat/Lon, UTM, MGRS) instantly View high-quality digital USGS Maps in 2-D or 3-D. Use the seamless mode to stitch multiple maps into a single, continuous map. Or, view maps with collars (borders). Annotate maps with Markers, Routes, and Tracks. Create Elevation and Line-of-Sight Graphs that include elevation gain and loss calculations. Measure distance and area quickly, even across multiple maps. Complete documentation and online tutorials. USGS map symbol reference guide.
PRINT FEATURES
	Create customized printouts with optional Lat/Lon grids, UTM grids, and compass alignment guide. Print maps on standard office printers, with or without the USGS borders and legend. Print quality is excellent, comparable to original USGS paper topos.
GPS FEATURES
	Transfer Marks, Routes, and Tracks from your PC into popular GPS receivers. Transfer Marks, Routes, and Tracks from your GPS back to Terrain Navigator to analyze where you've been on a detailed map. Connect a GPS to a laptop and turn it into a moving map display. Maps are compatible with Pocket Navigator for Pocket PC handhelds (sold separately) Learn more about GPS and Terrain Navigator

Some Terrain Navigator features:

1.  Bring topography to life with the 3D view

2.  Scroll seamlessly from map to map.  Ever notice how the place you want to go is right at the junction of 2 or 4 maps?  With Terrain Navigator, you can view and print from four maps at once.

3.  You can personalize your maps with your own data: notes, trails and symbols

4.  Use Terrain Navigator with your GPS. Maptech's Terrain Navigator allows you to easily upload & download GPS waypoints. From your PC view the topo maps, create a route and transfer it to your GPS. When outdoors, mark a waypoint or record your route and later download it onto the map effortlessly.

These are just a few of the Terrain Navigator features.  Click here for a more complete tour.