Free Mapping Tools

Scale Finder - a map scale conversion tool

Scale Finder converts linear map scales to a representative fraction (and vice-versa).
It is an invaluable tool for map cataloguers and users and is free to download and use.

Scale Finder converts nearly 100 different distance units - both current and historical.

To use Scale Finder, simply measure a number of units from the map scalebar and enter the values - the scale as a representative fraction (RF) is displayed automatically - no need for a calculator and you can measure any number of distance units. For example: The scalebar is in kilometres and 5 kilometres measures 3.3cm. Enter these values and the correct scale (1:151,515) is displayed.

Scales can be copied and pasted into other applications and documents. Either the full RF (with the 1:) or the short RF (without the 1:) can be copied. RFs can be rounded or unrounded.

No scale or the distance units are not in Scale Finder? - No problem if degrees or minutes of latitude are shown. Simply measure any number of degrees or minutes and choose the latitude to the nearest 10° to find the scale (note that scales calculated in this way are not as accurate so if a scalebar is shown then use that for preference).

Installing Scale Finder
Download the zip file and unzip it into a temporary folder.
Run the file setup.exe to start installation. The program will by default create a folder in your program files folder and install itself. An icon will be added to your desktop. It is then ready to use!

Please note that the software agreement states it may only be installed on a single computer and not distributed. This restriction no longer applies and you can install it on multiple PCs. It may be distributed to others but not sold.