I have the coordinates conversion formulas somewhere at home; I’ll try to dig it up for you. However, I have to say that I haven’t used these formulas in ages since any navigation software can let you enter the coordinates in pretty much any format. It might be cumbersome with some software, as you have to change the mode from the preferences before entering the data and then changing it back when done. Once you enter the waypoint in whatever format they are automatically displayed in the format you set in your preferences. It also gets automatically converted when uploaded to the GPS if it’s set to a different format.

I think you should stop using excel since it will complicate your work process. All navigation programs can store points, routes and tracks into their own database or files and let you edit them and their comments. Use these features instead of having to copy and paste things back and forth.

Also your software SHOULD be able to make routes by selecting points from the map. This is a basic feature. If it’s not there (maybe it is but you haven’t found it yet) then ditch that software for something better.

You don’t really have to learn about projections at this stage. The map projection should be written on it somewhere near the legend along with its parameter. Just enter those when calibrating and you’re done. If this into isn’t there then call up the mapmaker and ask for it.

I would go for 150dpi or 200 dpi max. 300 dpi will make the map unnecessarily big. The file size will be big and will slow things down. Also the typeface on the map will be big. Scan a few A4 section of the map at different resolutions and see what works for you best. I personally scan at 150 dpi.

I would rather spend more time, or money, looking for another GIS shop than will scan the whole map rather than segment it. Although it can be done it require a lot of work and you need to be very very very accurate. A stitching program would do much better than Photoshop. I can give you some info on this if you want but as you said this should be your last resort.

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A.B.

OasisPhoto.com – Images from the Magical Sahara.
ShortWheelbase.com – Jeep preparations.

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A.B.
OasisPhoto.com – Images from the Magical Sahara.