| WA8LMF Home Page | Main Ham Radio Page | Main APRS Page | Updated 01 June 2020 |
This program allows you to automatically download and stitch bitmap tiles from Google Maps, Microsoft Virtual Earth, Yahoo Maps or Open Street Map into seamless map images of virtually any size. It allows you to download either street map or satellite views from any of these sources.
The images captured by this program are non-projected (i.e. simple rectangular X/Y grid with latitude and longitude lines at right angles) at least for distances of 85-100 miles (130-160 KM) across. The assembled maps are suitable for use directly with any APRS program that can use static (fixed non-zooming) images as maps, or as underlays for the Precision Mapping Server plugin for UIview. The images align perfectly with the non-projected vector maps produced by Precision Mapping in UIview.
Note that when used with UIview, downloaded/tiled images can be far larger (in pixels) than the resolution (in pixels) of your computer display system. UIview will "automagically" create a "viewport" window that shows a portion of the oversized map image. You can then scroll (but not zoom) around the entire map. UIview DOS NOT downsample the map image into an illegible blur in an effort to fit all of it onto the screen at once. If you reduce the color depth of map images to 256 or 16 colors, UIview can easily handle 4000x4000 pixel images or larger. iIe. the equivalent of "Ultra-HD" a.k.a. "Quad-HD" images, even if the computer display is far lower resolution -- 1024x768 XGA or 1920x1080 "full HD".
Universal Maps Downloader a.k.a. "UMD" is a $59.95 shareware program. The free "trial" download has limited functionality; it will download maps at a resolution suitable for regional coverage. For higher resolution downloads suitable for street-level applications, it requires registration. The program is available from
<http://www.allmapsoft.com/umd>
The program has a total installed footprint of about 5 MB. Of course, you will want considerably more space for captured map images. UMD actually consists of three separate .EXE files: the main program that does the downloading of a specified area, a "Map Viewer" that can display the collected tiles as a single large image, and a "Map Combiner" that stitches the downloaded tiles into a single large .BMP file.
When you start the main program, you are greeted by this screen. The un-calibrated "Zoom level:" slider increases/decrease the linear resolution about 2:1 for each step; i.e. quadruples or quarters the number of pixels in the resulting image. The actual size of each downloaded tile is a constant 256x256 pixels regardless of resolution requested. As you increase the resolution, the number of these tiles downloaded (for a given area defined by a pair of lat/long values) increases. Requesting a county-sized area or larger, at street-level resolution, will result in the download of hundreds or thousands of tiles.
The latitude & longitude coordinates that select the area to be captured are entered in degrees and decimal degrees (DD.dddddd) -- not degrees-minutes-seconds (DDMMSS), or degrees and decimal minutes (DD MM.mmmm). A converter tool is available from the menu to convert DDMMSS to DD.dddddd. Annoyingly it won't convert the default GPS (and APRS) format of DD MM.mmmm. You can enter lat/long to any number of decimal places (at least 10). Since UMD always downloads fixed 256x256 pixel tiles, you may get an area slightly larger than requested regardless of the precision of your coordinates.
(A separate tool that converts between all
three coordinate formats is downloadable from my website.
)
The "Maps type:" pull-down allows you to choose the source of your images. Successive releases of the program every few months keep expanding the range of choices.
The "Task name" entry box above "Maps type:" allows you to save all the settings on the screen to a named file. This is useful for downloading images from several different sources with exactly the same lat/long and zoom settings. Later, the lat/long values can be copied/pasted into .SAT or .INF calibration files for maps used in various programs. These will only be approximate starting points that will need some trial & error "tweaking" to bring the map into precise alignment (since the actual captured areas will always be slightly larger than requested).
With all the settings selected and/or entered, you click the
"Start" button. Depending on the number of tiles requested (which is computed
and displayed in the lower left corner), the download time will range from
nearly instantly to several minutes or more. In this screen shot, the resolution is
set to the default "Zoom Level 12". This is the most detailed that the
unregistered/trial version of the program will accept.
The log file in the right window shows a list of the tiles captured. This
data is also automatically saved to the file
nnnn_log.txt where
nnnn is the Task Name assigned to the capture. This file is saved into the same
directory specified for "Path to save:"
If you you scroll the log display back to the top (or open the log file in Notepad), you will see two sets of coordinates representing the upper-left and lower-right corners of the captured map area. The first set are the values you entered. The second set (circled in the screen shot below) are the actual area captured, resulting from rounding up to boundaries of the tiles required to capture the desired area. The second set of coordinates (circled below) are the exact values you need to precisely calibrate the map for use in APRS programs! Just copy and paste these values into the appropriate .INF or .SAT file. (You may have to convert the DDD.dddddd decimal degrees format into the GPS/APRS format of DD MM.mmmmmm format for some programs.)
run.
The downloaded tiles are saved as .PNG files, but the "Map Combiner" auto-stitcher produces a .BMP file as it's output. The default saved image is in 24-bits-per-pixel photographic "high-color" format which results in unnecessarily large files. Reducing the color depth to 256 colors (8-bits-per-pixel) with an image editor program such as Windows Paint or IrfanView, and then resaving the file, will cut the file size to one-third of the original. I used the freeware IrfanView utility to convert these to .GIF format (which intrinsically is limited to 256 colors or less). The links below provide examples of the map images produced by the various sources.
Some of these samples are very large (2000x3000
pixels or more) images. Some browsers will attempt to downsize oversized
images to fit the browser window. Turn off this automatic resizing to
see the highest-quality images. You will then have to scroll
horizontally and/or vertically to view the entire map.
Note that most APRS programs (UIview, APRSplus, etc) will allow you to use
images far larger than your screen; your application becomes a scrollable view
port showing part of a much larger image. I have successfully used
images of 4000x5000 pixels with UIview running on a 1024x768 XGA screen. The
key is to reduce the color depth of images to only 16 or 256-colors from the
default 24-bit photographic "high-color"; this cuts the amount of image data
the program has to deal with to one-third.
Warning! Some of these sample
GIF images are very large files. Most are between 1 and 5 megabytes. A
couple are around 10 MB. They will take significant time to download.
Each sample opens in a new window (tab in modern browsers) for quick comparison.
Greater Los Angeles Regional
View (About 85 Miles Across)
|
Captured From Google Maps |
| Streets Zoom Level 10 (614 KB) |
| Streets Zoom Level 11 (1.9 MB) |
| Streets Zoom Level 12 (5.8 MB) |
| Satellite Zoom Level 10 (1 MB) |
| Terrain Zoom Level 11 (3 MB) |
| Terrain Zoom Level 12 (9.8 MB) - HUGE!) |
Captured From Microsoft Virtual Earth |
| Streets Zoom Level 11 (1.9 MB) |
| Streets Zoom Level 12 (5.9 MB) |
| Satellite Zoom Level 11 (3.4 MB) |
| Hybrid [Streets & Satellite] Zoom Level 11 (3 MB) |
| Hybrid [Streets & Satellite] Zoom Level 12 (11.3 MB - HUGE!) |
Captured From Yahoo Maps |
| Streets Zoom Level 11 (1.9 MB) |
| Streets Zoom Level 12 (6.3 MB) |
| Satellite Zoom Level 11 (3.1 MB) |
Captured From Open Street Maps |
| Streets Zoom Level 11 (1.7 MB) |
| Streets Zoom Level 12 (5.6 MB) |
Pasadena, CA City Scale View (About 6 Miles
Across)
|
Google Maps |
| Streets Zoom Level 12 (140 KB) |
| Streets Zoom Level 14 (544 KB) |
| Terrain Zoom Level 12 (220 KB) |
| Terrain Zoom Level 14 (1.3 MB) |
Microsoft Virtual Earth |
| Hybrid [Streets & Satellite] Zoom Level 12 (140 KB) |
| Hybrid [Streets & Satellite] Zoom Level 14 (1.5MB) |
Yahoo Maps |
| Streets Zoom Level 12 (160 KB) |
| Streets Zoom Level 14 (160 KB) |
If you are looking for the Far Cry 4 Update v1.4.0, it is an official patch released by Ubisoft primarily to fix critical launch-day issues for PC players. While the "RELOADED" tag often refers to cracked versions found on third-party sites, the update itself is a standard patch available through official platforms like Steam and Ubisoft Connect. Key Fixes in Update v1.4.0
This specific update was critical for PC stability shortly after the game's 2014 launch:
Black Screen Fix: Resolved a major issue where the game would not launch or showed a black screen due to certain USB peripherals being plugged in.
Gray Screen Fix: Fixed a bug that caused a gray screen after completing the "Master Outpost" mission.
Stability: Addressed various edge-case crashes across different game modes. Recent Major Updates (2025–2026)
While v1.4.0 is an older patch, Far Cry 4 has received significant official updates recently:
60 FPS / 4K Support: A surprise free update in early 2025 enabled 60 FPS and 4K resolution on current-gen consoles like PS5, PS5 Pro, and Xbox Series X.
Steam Achievements: PC players finally received official Steam Achievement support in early 2025, a feature that was previously missing for over a decade.
Performance Maintenance: Players on Steam reported a large 2.4GB patch in April 2025, likely for compatibility with Windows 10 and 11. Recommendation
For the safest and most stable experience, it is recommended to download the game and its updates through official storefronts rather than third-party "RELOADED" downloads, which may carry security risks or compatibility issues. Official versions on Steam automatically include all patches up to the latest version (currently well beyond v1.4.0). Far Cry 4 Live Updates - PC Patch 1.4.0 - Steam Community
Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded: Get Ready for More Valley of the Yetis Action
Ubisoft has just released a brand new update for Far Cry 4, and we're excited to bring you the details on what's new and what's changed. The v1.4 Reloaded update is now live, and it's packed with fresh content, bug fixes, and improvements to enhance your Valley of the Yetis experience.
What's New in Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded?
The v1.4 Reloaded update brings a range of new features, including: far cry 4 update v14reloaded game exclusive download
Key Features of the Update
Here's a rundown of the key features and changes in the v1.4 Reloaded update:
How to Download the Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded
The update is available now for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation platforms. Here's how to get it:
Get Ready for More Valley of the Yetis Action
The Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded is a must-have for fans of the game, offering a fresh injection of content, improvements, and bug fixes. If you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this update is the perfect excuse to dive back into the Valley of the Yetis.
Share Your Thoughts!
What do you think of the new update? Are there any features or changes that you're particularly excited about? Let us know in the comments below!
Stay Tuned for More Gaming News and Updates
For more gaming news, reviews, and updates, be sure to follow us on social media and stay tuned to our blog. We'll bring you the latest insights and analysis on all the biggest titles and releases.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only regarding game preservation and patch notes. We do not endorse or host pirated content. Always support developers by purchasing games legally.
While the vanilla game launched with a few bugs and performance hiccups, Update 4 (v1.4.0) was the game-changer. Here are the key improvements found in this release:
Packages labeled “v14RELOADED” are intended to bypass licensing and are illegal and unsafe. For a reliable, secure experience, obtain Far Cry 4 and its updates through legitimate channels and apply official patches or verified community mods. If you are looking for the Far Cry 4 Update v1
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Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded: Exclusive Download and What's New
Ubisoft has released a new update for Far Cry 4, a critically acclaimed first-person shooter game set in the beautiful and treacherous world of Kyrat. The update, dubbed v1.4 Reloaded, brings a plethora of exciting new features, bug fixes, and improvements to the game. In this article, we'll dive into the details of what's new in Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded and provide an exclusive download link for PC gamers.
What's New in Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded?
The v1.4 Reloaded update for Far Cry 4 is a significant patch that addresses several issues and adds new content to the game. Here are some of the key features and changes:
Exclusive Download for PC Gamers
PC gamers can download Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded exclusively from the Ubisoft website. The update is available now and can be downloaded and installed manually. Here are the details:
How to Install Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded
To install the update, follow these steps:
Conclusion
Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded is a significant patch that adds new content, improves performance and stability, and addresses several issues. PC gamers can download the update exclusively from the Ubisoft website. With this update, players can experience even more of the thrilling gameplay and stunning visuals that Far Cry 4 has to offer. If you're a fan of the game, be sure to download and install the update today!
System Requirements
To play Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded, you'll need a PC with the following specifications: New Narrative Missions : Explore new storylines and
Patch Notes
For a complete list of changes and bug fixes in Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded, see the patch notes below:
By downloading and installing Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 Reloaded, you'll experience the game with all the latest features, improvements, and bug fixes. Happy gaming!
Far Cry 4 remains one of the most beloved entries in Ubisoft’s open-world franchise, transporting players to the breathtaking but dangerous Himalayan region of Kyrat. If you are looking for the Far Cry 4 Update v1.4, specifically the version associated with the Reloaded release, this guide covers everything you need to know about the patch notes, installation process, and how it enhances your gaming experience.
The v1.4 update was a critical milestone for Far Cry 4, addressing several technical hurdles that players faced at launch. By the time this update was released, the focus shifted from minor bug fixes to significant performance optimization and stability improvements, ensuring that the struggle against Pagan Min’s regime was as smooth as possible.
One of the most notable fixes in v1.4 was the resolution of the "Black Screen" issue. Many players, particularly those using certain dual-core processors or specific hardware configurations, found themselves unable to launch the game. The v1.4 patch introduced a fix that bypassed these loading hangs, allowing a much broader range of PC users to enjoy the title. Additionally, the update improved mouse acceleration and stuttering, which were common complaints among the PC gaming community.
The Reloaded version of this update is designed for seamless integration with the base game. It includes all previous fixes from versions 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3, making it a cumulative patch. Beyond technical stability, v1.4 also refined the game’s shadow rendering and lighting effects, taking full advantage of NVIDIA’s GameWorks technology for those with compatible hardware. This resulted in more realistic environments, from the sun-drenched lowlands to the snowy peaks of the Himalayas.
Installing the Far Cry 4 Update v1.4 (Reloaded) is a straightforward process. Users typically need to extract the update files into their main game directory and allow the installer to overwrite the existing data. Because this update is an "exclusive" package, it often comes pre-configured to ensure that save games remain compatible, though it is always a best practice to back up your save folder before applying any major patches.
In conclusion, the v1.4 update is essential for anyone still exploring Kyrat. It transforms the technical landscape of the game, fixing game-breaking bugs and polishing the visual fidelity. Whether you are aiming for 100% completion or just starting your journey as Ajay Ghale, this update ensures your experience is stable, fluid, and visually stunning.
The phrase "game exclusive download" attached to the end of your search query is a massive red flag.
FC4.exe) to bypass DRM, antivirus software already flags them as suspicious. Malware authors hide their viruses inside these cracked executables, knowing users will disable their antivirus to install the "patch."Even if you own the game legally on disc or Steam, downloading a cracked update to bypass Uplay violates Ubisoft’s Terms of Service. It is considered circumvention of DRM, which is illegal under the DMCA in the United States and similar laws globally.
You might see this labeled as an "exclusive" release. In the context of archival groups, "Exclusive" usually means:
.exe and .dll files to keep the game playable offline without the launcher phoning home.