Navigational Software
Several organizations such as forestry, engineering, real estate, rescue teams, surveying, and the military use navigational software to assist them in their jobs. Other people who often travel around less known areas, such as hikers, campers, and hunters also rely on navigation software. Standard compasses are quickly being retired and are being replaced with map software on laptops. Most of the navigational software developed for laptops has topographic maps that show off-road details for entire regions within the state. By clicking on the contour lines of these maps, it is easy to turn flat maps into 3D formats. The advantage of this design is that it makes it easier to locate terrain features.

For those who are not looking for off-road directions, Microsoft sells map software for laptops that enables the purchaser to get directions for U.S. and Canadian trips, and to locate services throughout the route that are essential for planning the best locations for stops, such as gas stations, hotels, restaurants, and local attractions. With an Internet Connection, this program also enables the purchaser to view road construction delays by re-routing trips through less congestive areas. Some other features of the Microsoft Navigational Software include GPS Voice prompted turn directions, and a GPS trail element that shows users where they have already traveled. To download this type of navigation software onto your laptop, you must have Windows 98 Second Edition, and a CPU of Pentium II or higher. The best part about this software is that it does not require a monthly subscription fee. Once you purchase the navigation software for your laptop, you can get updates through the Internet.

GPS Central offers several map software options for laptops to display location details. The Garmin MapSource Program is one example of map software can be used as a moving map display on your laptop. Moving maps are best used in conjunction with GPS systems to show real-time site input. Therefore, the screen will advance as you move to show your actual location. There are mounts available to attach your laptop to your dashboard or another visible location in your automobile, and these laptop mounts provide safer viewing options for drivers to use navigational software to get to their destination. All of these different options provide people with more resources for easier, more enjoyable travel.