GPS Mapping Software Recommendation

Hello,
I'm planning to get a GPS mapping software to use with laptop and would
like some recommendation. Is Earthmate a good choice? How about Microsoft?

Thanks for any help!

ZR

BTW, I'm in the US. Mostly I'm looking for

1. Easy of use on the road. Don't need a lot of fancy stuff. Just detail map
and navigation.
2. Map detail. It should have at least as much details as you can get on the
web when zoom in at the highest.

Thanks!

ZR wrote:

DeLorme's StreetAtlas is the most feature-rich, but also the least
'Windows-standard' user interface. Another choice I like is Garmin's
nRoute/CitySelect. It comes with a mouse-style USB GPS for your laptop
but you can also use the maps on a Garmin handheld GPS if you later
decide you'd also like to sometimes use it without the laptop. Pretty
simple and clear interface with voice directions and automatic reroutes
if you happen to get off course.


Well, there are places on the web where I can zoom in and count how
many cars are parked in my driveway and none of these will provide that
level of detail. But Garmin's nRoute/CitySelect uses the same NavTeq
source for the maps as MapQuest and many other web services and makers
of the premium-priced automotive systems. You can also check the
detail level with their MapViewer at
http://www.garmin.com/cartography and zooming in on some areas with
which you're familiar.

ZR wrote:


Microsoft Streets and trips will do what you want.. If you have a GPS unit,
that has a serial port and can send NMEA data to your computer, then all you
need is the software. It's cheap.. About 40 bucks.. There is usually a
rebate that put it at 25-30 dollars..

If you don't have a GPS unit, you can pick up a usb GPS 'mouse' for under
$100.. You can get one bundled with Streets and trips, but some people
claim it isn't a good receiver..

Make sure you get Streets and Trips 2006.. There are quite a few major
advancements over previous versions.. They now include voice prompts, detour
and
off-route recalculations, auto zoom before turns.. It's finally evolved into
a decent package..

It's only good for the USA and Canada.

http://www.microsoft.com/streets/products.aspx

Thanks all for the info. I ordered a Microsoft Streets and Trips 2006 with
GPS locator from Office Depot for $99.99 (Cheapest I could find). Didn't
know if it's good or not, just thought the software interface might be
easier (familiar) from MS. The problem is that you can't return it if you
don't like it.

Thanks again.