BU-353 USB GPS mouse. Which charts to use with it?

[Uncle Buck]

Hi,

I've just ordered one of these to use with a small notebook PC. I see I can order a DVD from Maptech for $99, but this PC does not have a disc drive. Can I download charts (US West coast) somewhere? I've tried the free stuff from NOAA's site but when I attempt to open the files they are not readable/recognizable. I've tried both RNC's and ENC's.

Thanks,

Evan

[Paul L]

Try OpenCPN
http://opencpn.org

[Uncle Buck]

OK, thanks. However, when I attempt to install charts following the steps in the manual, there are no " available chart directories " showing to select from. Clicking on " charts " shows me a directory of my entire C drive. There is an OpenCPN folder within this that I can open with a bunch of stuff listed in it, but nothing says anything related to " charts " .