What is a TYP file?
TYP is file used with the majority of Garmin® Mapsource maps. The file alters the display of the map elements, i.e. areas, lines, and POIs. It works similarly to the so called skins known in many other programs.

How can I improve the view of my map?
Easily. Close Mapsource. Find the TYP file located in the folder of your map. Back it up. Download the appropriate TYP file from this site and save it to the same location as the original. Start Mapsource and your map should have a new look. Export the map selection to your GPSr. Now go out to check whether your map realy looks better than as provided by the manufacturer. If you don't like the view, return to the previous version of the TYP file or modify it using misch's editor according to your taste.

What kind of TYP files can be found at this site?
dandra's TYP files have been designed to provide a more readable view of Garmin® maps. Color contrast has been increased, lines unified, and POIs altered in a way, which should make the map more understandable. In many cases the dandra's TYP files correct the errors and ommissions of produced maps by making some of the map layers visible.

What is the difference between TYP files for high and low resolution displays?
You can use any TYP file that was designed for a specific map (same file name, same Family ID). However, the dandra's TYP files make a slight distinction between TYP files for displays with higher or lower resolution. For example, a TYP file designed for Oregon or Colorado exhibits wider roads and more fancy POI icons, because its display has a higher density (more pixels per inch) than the display of eg. GPSMAP 60CSx or eTrex Vista.

I lost/overwrote/deleted my original TYP file. Can you provide me with the original TYP file?
No, sorry. As my grandmother already said, you've got to backup, backup, backup. Install the the map again to get the original TYP file from the map manufacturer.

I took a TYP file from another map. Why it doesn't work?
It won't work. Each TYP file is designed for each map with a specific Family ID (FID) or Product ID. You cannot simply copy a TYP file from an older map to a newer one. For example Garmin Mapsource Citi Navigator Europe 2010 is a different map from Garmin Mapsource Citi Navigator Europe 2009. Consult dandra's site whether a TYP file for the newer map is available or use the one from your supplier.