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Maps101 User Guide
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VI. Troubleshooting & Help

  1. How Do I Access Maps101?
  2. System Requirements
  3. How Do I Use the Maps?
  4. What are PDF and GIF files?
  5. How do I Print the PDFs?
  6. What if I Can't Print Out the PDFs?
  7. Trouble with Acrobat Reader?
  8. How often are the maps updated?

  1. How do I access Maps101 and what if I am having trouble logging in?
    Make sure you go directly to http://www.maps101.com/. Click on the button labeled "Subscriber Login" Type in your username and password- remember to use only lowercase letters! If you are getting to the login page, but can't get into the site, try these steps:
    1. Make sure your caps lock is off and you are typing your username and password EXACTLY as you have set it up, both are case sensitive.

    2. Make sure your browser is set to accept cookies. For more information on cookies click here.

    If you are still having problems, please call 1-877-MAPS101 (1-877-627-7101) or email maps101@maps.com, and we will assist you immediately.

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  2. What are the system requirements?
    Maps101 is best viewed with Netscape 4.0 and above, or Internet Explorer 4.0 and above.
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  3. How do I use the maps?
    Most of the maps are available in both GIF format for display use on the Web and in multi-media presentations; and in PDF format which are resized to fit neatly on a standard 8.5" x 11" paper for printing.
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  4. What are PDF and GIF files?
    PDF stands for "Portable Document File" and is platform independent — it doesn't matter whether you are using a MacIntosh or PC. PDF files will print out in a high resolution, which makes it ideal for small type and details on a map.

    GIF: Graphic Interchange Format. The leading type of image format specifically for computer use and optimized for use on the Internet. GIF imagery resolution (72 dots per inch or dpi) provides a combination of speed and quality when rendering non-photographic images via a computer monitor. GIF images can be displayed via projector, although Maps101 recommends use of its PDF files for that purpose, and is a standard file format for use with PowerPoint and Photoshop.
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  5. How do I print the PDFs?
    In order to download and print the PDF maps from Maps101, you must have the free software program "Acrobat Reader" from Adobe. If this is not already installed on your computer or within your browser (most of the latest editions come with it already installed), simply click on "Get Acrobat Reader" at the bottom left corner of any page in Maps101. Follow the instructions provided on the Adobe site-when the program is downloaded to your computer, installation should take only a matter of moments! Once installed, you should not need to install Acrobat Reader again.

    Download the map you would like to print by clicking on the "Download PDF" link (usually below the map), and the file should appear on your desktop. Double-click the PDF to open it in Acrobat Reader, and then go to File on the menu bar and choose Print.
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  6. What if I can't print out the PDF maps, and/or I get an Out of Memory Message?
    The newest version of Acrobat Reader will automatically set up your Preferences to open PDFs online, which may cause you to receive the "Out of Memory" message, or not allow you to print the PDF maps (they may come up blank or stall your printer). You will need to change your Preferences to download the files, click here for platform and browser specific instructions.
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  7. What if I am having other trouble with Acrobat Reader?
    If you are having trouble with Acrobat Reader, please contact Adobe Acrobat Reader Support. This link will bring you to their top issues page, which contains much useful information on how to install and configure Acrobat Reader.
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  8. How often are the maps updated?
    Countries and regions of the world are monitored daily for border changes, new spellings, name changes, etc. When a change occurs anywhere in the world, the cartographers of Maps.com make the updates and post the maps on Maps101, ensuring that our subscribers have access to the most up-to-date maps available. All of the maps are reviewed at least every two years by our editorial staff, even if no changes have occurred.
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