OkMap is a free geographical application which enables you to create, edit, and manage digital maps, import data from GPS devices, scanners, as well as other sources, plot your position instantly, and extract statistics. Using its detailed toolbar and feature-packed menu bar, OkMap’s user interface has a strong similarity to digital imaging and word processing tools, although with a distinct geographical emphasis.

This program starts with an optional tool tip which you can click through for a basic view of the program’s functions. An online-hosted, PDF-based Help file does a great job of explaining this convenient application’s many functions and options in its 214 pages; obviously, this tool requires a while to set up and become familiar with. It is advisable to get started by creating some simple maps to get a feel for how OkMap functions. You’ll be able to create two kinds of maps with OkMap: raster maps, which are pixel-for-pixel images and can be very big – as large as printed map sheets – and vector maps, that are “smart maps” like Google Maps that enable you to zoom in and out, change the perspective, and manipulate objects. The New Vectorial Map option initiates a wizardlike process that will let you select a wide range of parameters and choices with which to create your raw map file. Then you can draw and connect lines; add icons, polygons, comments, and other functions; including waypoints, routes, and tracks from GPS data or entered manually.

The user is also able to access Google Earth, Google Maps, remote feeds, and data sources, as well as export data in a number of ways. You do not need a GPS device to make use of OkMap, but the program can upload data from your handheld receiver for storing and displaying in several ways. If you ever hook your GPS up to a laptop running OkMap, you can track and display your position in real time. You don’t any extra hardware to use this program at 100% and it is totally free.

Check it out at Okmap.org.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, October 19th, 2011 at 5:42 am and is filed under Main. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.