What is a map?

In general, we all have experience of paper travel maps or electronic maps as found in Google Maps™ or Google Earth™ . Unlike paper maps, electronic maps provide the ability to display the data you need, the way you need it.
There are three main categories of map:
  • Vectorial maps are a set of points, lines or areas and can contain additional data such as road names. You can decide on the look and feel of the display.
  • Raster maps as satellite views. These provide realistic views of the earth, but are often heavy and can be confusing.
  • Elevation maps that provide altitude information for any place on the globe.
All three categories can be mixed together in a single map display.