Here is an edited version of a post I did in the other thread:
Edited 12/05/07 to reflect addition of Desktop Application
Backcountry Navigator using Dell Axim X50 running WM2003SE
Main - BackCountry Navigator
This type of GPS software is "raster-based" and is designed primarily for off-road use such as hiking and geocaching. Raster-based software uses an image, usually a picture of a map as a background. Topographic maps and aerial photos are common images used a backgrounds.
While this type of mapping program can be used for driving navigation, it does not have common features found in many of the "vector-based" software such as automatic routing, voice navigation, etc.
Raster-based software does shine for those who are used to the paper USGS topographic maps.
Pro:
Cheap raster based software ($30.00 US)
Excellent for hiking, geocaching and off road use
US maps are free and pre-calibrated.( pre-calibration is a big plus for me. I always had trouble manually calibrating maps on the other GPS software in the price range)
Uses USGS Topo Maps and Aerial Photos from Terra Server USA(many outdoor folks are familiar with this format) downloaded directly to the PDA or via Backcountry Navigator's desktop application (costs thirty dollars extra).
Tracks and waypoints can be recorded, imported and exported as a GPX file.
Geocaching files are handled fairly well
Tech support has been great and updates to the program are frequent
Con:
Only available in US
Can not import other types of maps
Map image is fairly large. Download times and space requirements could be an issue. Memory cards are recommended.
Menu items not stylus free and somewhat cumbersome.
Summary:
Very good GPS software for the price. It should meet most people's hiking and outdoor GPS needs.
Screenshot of Backcountry Navigator:
Screenshot of GPS file created by BNC and converted into Google Earth:
