Hello everyone, Thank you all for such quick responses. This sounds like an attentive group with knowledgeable members which is always nice to be a part of. It sounds like no has yet tried either of the NGS or Delorme Topo state map software programs yet for use as map images for locating and placing plots in DeedMapper. I expected they would have sufficient detail and resolution to be useful but was apprehensive about whether I could capture the image directly in the right size easily. I'd hate to spend $100 for one state just to find out ;-) Mike wrote: > What state/county are you working on? Currently South Carolina, about 15 miles south of Spartanburg along Jimmy's Creek which flows east from Woodruff to the Tyger River. Marie wrote: >Would it help to see what maps look like with the background maps purchased through DeedMapper? > Yes. I plan to start with these but I haven't quite figured out how to determine which one/s I need as yet. I just need to spend some time figuring out how to define what I need and place an order. They appear to be made for use with DeedMapper and should require the least effort to use (sizing, etc.). I also don't know yet the relative detail available and the topo maps appear to have quite a bit. I may not be able to have my cake and eat it too. Shirley, I'll post any information along the lines of my experience with the DM maps and any others. Dick wrote: >The federal government has an online site where you >can download topo maps for anywhere in the country and you can zoom in and out to several different scales. > >Here is the url: http://geonames.usgs.gov/ > I haven't seen this page before even though I've been to the USGS site looking for USGS map sources. I'll check it out. It sounds like it might be very helpful once I figure out how to use it. All of you have been very helpful. Thank you again for your responses. I'll try to return in kind once I get some experience ;-) Take care all... Pete -- Peter and Connie Bradish <bradish@attglobal.net>