HowFar?

Getting Started

1. Java Runtime

   You need to have a 1.4+ version of the Java Runtime installed. To check to see if you already have it installed, open a command prompt (DOS window or Shell) and type "java -version". The output should look like:

   java version "1.4.2_01"
   Java(TM) 2 Runtime Environment, Standard Edition (build 1.4.2_01-b06)
   Java HotSpot(TM) Client VM (build 1.4.2_01-b06, mixed mode)
   

   if you see something besides "1.4" (or higher) in the first line - you probably need to get an updated Java Runtime first. Go to the Java download site and follow the instructions for downloading and installing either the latest JRE (for running HowFar) or the JDK (includes the JRE, plus tools if you plan on developing). After installing Java repeat this step and verify you get the correct results.

2. Get HowFar

   Download the latest version of HowFar.

3. Install HowFar

   Expand the downloaded zip.

4. Run HowFar

   In the dist/lib subdirctory where you unzipped HowFar, you will find a file named HowFar-XXXXXXXX.jar where the XXXXXXXX part will be the build date. To run HowFar, just type java -jar HowFar-XXXXXXXX.jar - for example:
   

   > java -jar HowFar-20030927.jar

5. Get Map Images

   Go Get Maps and follow the instructions for getting maps of your intended running/cycling area. You can also scan printed maps are use those if necessary. Once you've donwloaded a map, choose File->New in HowFar and select the downloaded map image.

6. Determine the Scale

   Locate the scale bar and click on one corner and then the opposite corner. You should see a red line drawn between the points like this:
   
   
   Since the distances HowFar reports for routes will be dependent on the accuracy of the scale, try to be as accurate as possible when clicking on the corners.
   
   Next locate the length of the line you drew in pixels - this will be in the status bar:
   
   We now know that 250 pixels = 1 kilometers (1000m).

7. Set the Scale

   Go to the Map menu and select Set Scale. On the dialog that is displayed enter the scale information:
   

8. Plot the Route

   You'll probably want to do an Edit->Clear before starting your route to get rid of the segment you drew to determine the scale. After that - just click around on the map to plot your route.

Resources

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