What are vector maps?

A vector map is a graphical representation of geographic information in which map elements (such as roads, rivers, and buildings) are represented by geometric shapes, such as lines and polygons. Instead of being made up of individual pixels, like a bitmap, a vector map uses mathematical equations to describe the location and shape of each element. This means that vector maps can be scaled to any size without losing quality, and also allows the possibility of performing certain geospatial data manipulation and analysis operations.

There are paid ones from major publishers (TomTom) and other collaborative ones made by user communities like you. (Open Street Maps).

They are mainly used to navigate cities but there are also vector maps with information on mountain roads.

The elements that make up the vector maps are grouped into layers, each layer contains a different type of information that you can show/hide as needed: points of interest, toponymy, main roads, secondary roads, buildings, fields…

Unlike topographic maps, which are static images with no possibility of being edited, vector maps can be adapted visually. From the properties you can edit the different layers of the map changing its color, thickness, texture, identifying icon…

Although vector maps can be classified into different categories depending on their content and purpose, we are going to focus on vector road maps.

Why am I interested in a road map?

If you are a GPS user, in addition to topographic maps for your mountain routes, you may be interested in using vector road maps on your device. Here are some reasons:

Accuracy: Vector road maps are highly accurate and detailed, which means you can trust them to guide you along the roads with precision. In addition, they can show you important information such as traffic direction, road signs, speed limits, junctions, and other relevant details.

Frequent Updates: Vector road maps are updated regularly, which means you’ll always have the most up-to-date information about new roads, one-way changes, or changing road conditions. This is especially useful if you are traveling to a new or unfamiliar area.

Wide coverage: Vector road maps typically cover a wide geographic area, which means you can use them to navigate across different countries and regions. Also, some vector map providers offer road maps in different languages, making it easier for international travelers to navigate.

Additional information: In addition to basic road information, vector road maps can also show points of interest, such as gas stations, restaurants, hotels, shops, and other important places that may be of interest to you.

In short, vector road maps can be very useful as they offer consistently accurate and up-to-date, wide geographic coverage, useful additional information, and customization options.

What can I do with a vector map in Land?

If you are a Land software user, you may be interested in learning more about the vector maps available in the program. Here are some things that might be of interest to you:

Fast track: It is the most automatic and fastest way to create a Track from Land. All you have to do is mark the starting point and the destination point. Land will automatically create the path of the track. In addition, you can also decide which way to go at intersections, thus making sure that Land’s auto-generated itinerary passes through your points of interest. This function is only available for vector maps.

Editability: Vector maps in Land are editable, which means that you can modify and customize them according to your needs, such as adding more information to your map by copying references from other maps (shortcuts, restricted areas, population centers…). You can add new layers, modify colors, change symbology, edit geometry, and much more. In addition, if the map you use does not have the paths that you usually travel marked, you can add paths and points of interest yourself.

Variety of formats: Land supports different formats of vector maps, which means that you can import and export data in different formats according to your needs. Some of the supported formats include DXF, SHP, KML, GPX, CSV, and others. You can also combine vector maps with other maps, for example, superimpose the information of a vector map on a topographic one, and thus you will have information from both at the same time.

Convert Maps to routable: Add network information to your vector maps so the map can calculate the itinerary of your routes automatically.

What can I do with a vector map in GPS?

Vector maps are not only useful for editing or creating routes, they also have multiple utilities for GPS navigation:

– Consult nearby points of interest: While browsing, the device shows you points of interest near your position and allows you to add captures such as restaurants, hotels, campsites.

– Navigate to a specific point: You can navigate directly to a specific point indicating the postal address (go to street X)

– Automatically recalculate routes: While navigating, the device will automatically recalculate the route in case you take a detour or make a mistake.

You can use the same TomTom or OSM vector map in Land, your TwoNav GPS and Smartphone

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