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What is Google Maps?
Google Maps is a Google service offering powerful, user-friendly mapping technology and local business information -- including business locations, contact information, and driving directions. With Google Maps, you'll enjoy the following unique features:

Integrated business search results - Find business locations and contact information all in one location, integrated on the map. For example, if you search for [ pizza in San Jose, CA ], locations of relevant listings and phone numbers appear on the map. You can also view additional information like hours of operation, types of payment accepted, and reviews.

Draggable maps - Click and drag maps to view adjacent sections immediately (no long waits for new areas to download).

Satellite imagery - View a satellite image (or a satellite image with superimposed map data) of your desired location that you can zoom and pan.

Terrain maps - View physical features, such as mountains and vegetation, with elevation shading.

Street View - View and navigate within street-level imagery.

Detailed directions - Enter an address and let Google Maps plot the location and driving directions for you. Plan a trip by adding multiple destinations to your route, and click and drag the route to customize it. Learn more about Google Maps driving directions.

Keyboard shortcuts - Pan left, right, up and down with the arrow keys. Pan wider with the Page Up, Page Down, Home and End keys. Zoom in and out with the plus (+) and minus (-) keys.

Double-click to zoom functionality - Double left-click to zoom in, and double right-click to zoom out (Ctrl+ double-click for Mac users).

Scroll wheel zooming - Use the scroll wheel on your mouse to zoom in and out of the maps.

Want to learn more? Take the Google Maps tour.

I can't view any maps and I'm not using Microsoft Internet Explorer. What can I do?
Reconfiguring the way your browser handles JavaScript may resolve this problem. If you're using Mac OS X or Windows with Mozilla Firefox 0.8+, Mozilla 1.4+, or Netscape 7.1+, just follow these steps:

1. Type 'about:config' (without quotes) in the browser's address bar.

2. Type 'image' (without quotes) in the 'Filter' field.

3. Verify that 'dom.disable_image_src_set' is set to FALSE.

4. Verify that 'network.image.imageBehavior' is set to 0 (the default setting).

Note: 'network.image.imageBehavior' may appear as 'permissions.default.image' for some browsers.

If you continue to experience difficulties, you may want to uninstall any programs or extensions that change the way your browser handles JavaScript. Other users have reported that these programs may affect the ability to view the maps.

Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6.0 or later
1. From the Tools menu, select Internet Options.

2. Click General (if it isn't already selected).

3. Under the heading 'Temporary Internet files,' click Delete Files....

4. Click OK to exit

Mozilla Firefox version 0.8 or later
1. Click Tools > Options > Privacy.

2. Click Cache > Clear Cache Now.

3. Click OK to exit

Netscape version 7.1 or later
1. From the Edit menu at the top of the page, select Preferences.

2. Click the triangle to the left of the 'Advanced' heading to expand the category.

3. Select Cache, then click Clear Cache.

4. Click OK.

Mozilla browser version 1.4 or later
1. From the Edit menu, select Preferences.

2. Collapse the Advanced menu in the left-hand column.

3. Select Cache.

4. Click Clear cache.

Opera browser version 7.5 or later
1. From the Tools menu, select Preferences.

2. Under the 'Network' heading, click History and cache.

3. Click Empty now.

4. Click OK to exit

Safari browser version 1.2.5 or later
1. Go to the Safari menu.

2. Click Empty Cache. You can also click Reset Safari under the Safari drop-down menu to clear all of Safari's saved history and cache. (For additional assistance, please visit the Safari support center at http://www.apple.com/support/safari/.)

What is the Google Earth Plug-in?
The Google Earth Plug-in is a web browser plug-in that lets you navigate and explore geographic data on a 3D globe across a variety of web sites.

You can learn more about the Google Earth Plug-in at the Plug-in Home Page

Operating System and Browser Requirements
The Google Earth Plug-in currently supports the following operating systems:

1. Microsoft Windows 2000, XP and Microsoft Windows Vista

2. Apple Mac OS X 10.4 and higher (Intel and PowerPC)

The Google Earth Plug-in is currently available for the following web browsers:

1. Microsoft Windows (2000, XP, and Vista)

a) Google Chrome 1.0+

b) Internet Explorer 6+

c) Firefox 2.0+

d) Flock 1.0+

6. Apple Mac OS X 10.4 and higher (Intel and PowerPC)

a) Safari 3.1+

b) Firefox 3.0+

Although the plugin and API may work correctly on other browsers that support extensions, these browsers are not officially supported.

Additional Google Earth Plug-in System Requirements
The basic requirements for using the Google Earth Plug-in are available within the Browser and System Requirements article. Please keep in mind that the Google Earth Plug-in is available only for your PC and Mac configurations.

In addition to the basic requirements, we also wanted to pass along a few tips that will make using the Google Earth Plug-in a bit easier.

First, there’s lots of nifty imagery that needs to constantly stream into view; so you’ll want to ensure that you’re continuously connected to a high-speed Internet connection. Slower connections may still work, but your experience will be best with high-speed connections.

Also, since you’ll be using Google Earth through the Plug-in, you’ll also want to ensure that your computer can support Google Earth.

Installing the Google Earth Plug-in
To install the Google Earth Plug-in, browse to any page in which the plug-in is included (e.g. http://code.google.com/apis/earth).

Your browser will likely ask for permission before installing the plug-in - click through to allow installation. Once the plugin is installed, you may need to refresh the page before the plug-in displays correctly.

Age of satellite imagery and data
Google Earth acquires the best imagery available, most of which is approximately one to three years old. The information in Google Earth is collected over time and is not 'real time' in nature. For example, it's not possible to see real time changes in images.

We add data to our Primary Database on a regular basis. You can view a list of these additions on the following Google Earth Community page:

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/postlist.php/Cat/0/Board/latest

You may also want to stay informed through The Sightseer, our monthly newsletter which highlights all of our latest data additions. If you'd like to subscribe, please visit http://earth.google.com/sightseer_signup.html

Trouble Installing the Google Earth Plug-in on a Mac
Reporting a Bug or Requesting a New Feature for the Google Earth Plug-in

What is Google Maps?
Google Maps is a Google service offering powerful, user-friendly mapping technology and local business information -- including business locations, contact information, and driving directions. With Google Maps, you'll enjoy the following unique features:

Integrated business search results - Find business locations and contact information all in one location, integrated on the map. For example, if you search for [ pizza in San Jose, CA ], locations of relevant listings and phone numbers appear on the map. You can also view additional information like hours of operation, types of payment accepted, and reviews.

Draggable maps - Click and drag maps to view adjacent sections immediately (no long waits for new areas to download).

Satellite imagery - View a satellite image (or a satellite image with superimposed map data) of your desired location that you can zoom and pan. Terrain maps - View physical features, such as mountains and vegetation, with elevation shading. Street View - View and navigate within street-level imagery. Detailed directions - Enter an address and let Google Maps plot the location and driving directions for you. Plan a trip by adding multiple destinations to your route, and click and drag the route to customize it. Learn more about Google Maps driving directions.

Keyboard shortcuts - Pan left, right, up and down with the arrow keys. Pan wider with the Page Up, Page Down, Home and End keys. Zoom in and out with the plus (+) and minus (-) keys. Double-click to zoom functionality - Double left-click to zoom in, and double right-click to zoom out (Ctrl+ double-click for Mac users).

Scroll wheel zooming - Use the scroll wheel on your mouse to zoom in and out of the maps.

Want to learn more? Take the Google Maps tour.

Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6.0 or later
1. From the Tools menu, select Internet Options.

2. Click General (if it isn't already selected).

3. Under the heading 'Temporary Internet files,' click Delete Files....

4. Click OK to exit

Mozilla Firefox version 0.8 or later
1. Click Tools > Options > Privacy.

2. Click Cache > Clear Cache Now.

3. Click OK to exit

Netscape version 7.1 or later
1. From the Edit menu at the top of the page, select Preferences.

2. Click the triangle to the left of the 'Advanced' heading to expand the category.

3. Select Cache, then click Clear Cache.

4. Click OK.

Mozilla browser version 1.4 or later
1. From the Edit menu, select Preferences.

2. Collapse the Advanced menu in the left-hand column.

3. Select Cache.

4. Click Clear cache.

Opera browser version 7.5 or later
1. From the Tools menu, select Preferences.

2. Under the 'Network' heading, click History and cache.

3. Click Empty now.

4. Click OK to exit

Safari browser version 1.2.5 or later
1. Go to the Safari menu.

2. Click Empty Cache. You can also click Reset Safari under the Safari drop-down menu to clear all of Safari's saved history and cache. (For additional assistance, please visit the Safari support center at http://www.apple.com/support/safari/.)

I can't view any maps and I'm not using Microsoft Internet Explorer. What can I do?
If you're having trouble using Google Maps with your Microsoft Internet Explorer browser, please try the steps below to see if any of them resolves the problem:

Clear the browser's cache
Clearing your browser's cache may resolve the problem you're experiencing. To do so in Internet Explorer 6.0 or later version:

Open IE and click Tools.

Select Internet Options.

Click General, if it isn't already selected.

Click Delete Files.... under the heading 'Temporary Internet files.'

Click OK to exit.

Make sure JavaScript, ActiveX, and 'binary behaviors' are enabled
To enable these browser settings in IE: Click Tools > Internet Options. Click the Security tab.

Click the Custom Level button.

Verify that the Enable button next to 'Run ActiveX controls and plug-in' is selected.

If you're using XP, verify that the Enable button next to Binary and script behaviors is selected. If you're not using XP, continue to step six.

Verify that the Enable button under 'Active scripting' is selected.

Click OK, then click OK again to save your changes.

The easiest and safest way to enable our maps in your browser is to add Google Maps to your list of trusted sites in Internet Explorer. Here's how:

Click Tools > Internet Options.

Click the Security tab.

Select the 'Trusted sites' icon, and click the Sites button.

Deselect the option 'Require server verification for all sites in this zone.'

In the text field 'Add this Web site to the zone:,' type 'maps.google.com' (without quotes) and click Add.

Repeat step five for 'local.google.com,' 'www.google.com,' and '*.google.com.'

Click OK, then click OK again to save your changes.

Update the 'scripting engine' of your system
Google Maps takes advantage of several advanced browser features. If your browser appears not to load the map properly, you may need to update your scripting engine. You can obtain the latest scripting engine directly from Microsoft:

For Windows XP and 2000: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=C717D943-7E4B-4622-86EB-95A22B832CAA&displaylang=en

You'll probably need to restart your system after performing this update. Then, try Maps again to confirm if this step resolved your problem. Otherwise, try the next step.

Install the latest version of DirectX
Some IE users have reported that installing the latest version (9.0c) of DirectX has resolved the difficulties they've experienced viewing maps. To install DirectX, please visit http://www.microsoft.com/windows/directx/default.aspx

Check for security settings or browser plug-ins
Some security programs and third-party browser plug-ins are designed to modify webpage content and may interfere with the map display. If applicable, please try temporarily disabling components that may disable our maps in your browser.

I'm experiencing difficulty viewing the maps while using Microsoft Internet Explorer. How do I fix this?
If you're having trouble using Google Maps with your Microsoft Internet Explorer browser, please try the steps below to see if any of them resolves the problem:

Clear the browser's cache
Clearing your browser's cache may resolve the problem you're experiencing. To do so in Internet Explorer 6.0 or later version:

Open IE and click Tools.

Select Internet Options.

Click General, if it isn't already selected.

Click Delete Files.... under the heading 'Temporary Internet files.'

Click OK to exit.

Make sure JavaScript, ActiveX, and 'binary behaviors' are enabled
To enable these browser settings in IE: Click Tools > Internet Options. Click the Security tab.

Click the Custom Level button.

Verify that the Enable button next to 'Run ActiveX controls and plug-in' is selected.

If you're using XP, verify that the Enable button next to Binary and script behaviors is selected. If you're not using XP, continue to step six.

Verify that the Enable button under 'Active scripting' is selected.

Click OK, then click OK again to save your changes.

The easiest and safest way to enable our maps in your browser is to add Google Maps to your list of trusted sites in Internet Explorer. Here's how:

Click Tools > Internet Options.

Click the Security tab.

Select the 'Trusted sites' icon, and click the Sites button.

Deselect the option 'Require server verification for all sites in this zone.'

In the text field 'Add this Web site to the zone:,' type 'maps.google.com' (without quotes) and click Add.

Repeat step five for 'local.google.com,' 'www.google.com,' and '*.google.com.'

Click OK, then click OK again to save your changes.

Update the 'scripting engine' of your system
Google Maps takes advantage of several advanced browser features. If your browser appears not to load the map properly, you may need to update your scripting engine. You can obtain the latest scripting engine directly from Microsoft:

For Windows XP and 2000: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=C717D943-7E4B-4622-86EB-95A22B832CAA&displaylang=en

You'll probably need to restart your system after performing this update. Then, try Maps again to confirm if this step resolved your problem. Otherwise, try the next step.

Install the latest version of DirectX
Some IE users have reported that installing the latest version (9.0c) of DirectX has resolved the difficulties they've experienced viewing maps. To install DirectX, please visit http://www.microsoft.com/windows/directx/default.aspx

Check for security settings or browser plug-ins
Some security programs and third-party browser plug-ins are designed to modify webpage content and may interfere with the map display. If applicable, please try temporarily disabling components that may disable our maps in your browser.

Which web browsers does Google Maps support?
Google Maps currently supports the following web browsers: IE 6.0+ (download: Windows)

Firefox 2.0+ (download: Windows Mac Linux) Safari 3.1+ (download: Mac)

If you're using one of these browsers and are encountering problems, please visit our troubleshooting guidelines.

What is YouTube?
YouTube is a free online video streaming service that allows anyone to view and share videos that have been uploaded by our members.

JavaScript / Flash Player error
If you get this error message, it means that you either have JavaScript turned off in your browser, or you need the latest version of the Flash player.

To find out how to enable JavaScript, click your browser:

Clearing cookies in Internet Explorer 7
Select Tools > Internet Options. Click on the Security tab.

Click the Custom Level button. Scroll down to the Scripting section.

Select Enable for Active Scripting and Scripting of Java Applets.

Click OK.

Select YES if a box appears to confirm.

Click OK. Close window.

Reload page.

Clearing cookies in Internet Explorer 6
From the browser's Tools menu select Internet Options... Select the Security tab.

Pick the Internet zone icon and select Custom Level... button.

Scroll down the Settings list to the Scripting item. (You may need to double-click on icons to expand lists.

Under the Active scripting item, choose the Enable radio button.

Click OK and Yes to confirm and close the Security Settings dialog box, then OK again to close the Internet Options dialog box.

Refresh the current page.

Clearing cookies in Firefox 2.x
Open Firefox.

On the Tools menu, click Options. Click Content in the Options list. Under the Content section, check the box next to Enable JavaScript.

Click the Advanced button to open the Advanced JavaScript Options box.

Check the boxes under Allow scripts to section that you want to allow.

Click OK.

Click OK.

Clearing cookies in Firefox 1.x
Open Mozilla Firefox.

On the Tools menu, click "Options".

Click "Content" in the Options list.

Under the Content section, check the box next to "Enable JavaScript".

Click the "Advanced" button to open the Advanced JavaScript Options box.

Check the boxes under "Allow scripts to" section for actions that you want to allow.

Click OK.

Click OK.

If you are still receiving the JavaScript error
If you are still receiving the JavaScript error when you have it enabled, try troubleshooting below:

Step 1: Is Javascript enabled on your browser?

Yes

No

What system requirements are needed to watch videos on YouTube?
In order to watch videos on our site, make sure you have access to the following system requirements:

1. Macromedia Flash Player 7.0+ plug-in 2. Windows 2000 or higher with latest updates installed

3. Mac OS X 10.3 or higher

4. Firefox 1.1+, Internet Explorer 5.0+, or Safari 1.0+

5. Broadband connection with 500+ Kbps

The video won't play-what's wrong? + Video
Videos on YouTube are streamed through an Adobe Flash player. For the best viewing experience, we suggest you install the latest version of Adobe Flash after removing any old versions you've installed.

Please completely uninstall Flash before reinstalling the latest version.

To uninstall Flash, please follow Adobe's instructions, listed here: http://www.adobe.com/cfusion/knowledgebase/index.cfm?id=tn_14157

Once you're done, restart your computer and follow Adobe's instructions for reinstalling Flash: http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash

If the instructions above don't resolve the issue please try the following: 1. Temporarily disable popup blocking software installed on your computer to test. 2. Allow YouTube.com as a trusted site in your Firewall software.

3. Ensure other applications like Quicktime, iTunes, Real Player, or Windows Media Player aren't set as the default streaming application, as this might affect the video player.

Windows Vista users:

If the flash uninstall reinstall does not work this maybe due to a Microsoft Windows Vista permissions issue.

Please use the Windows button at the bottom left then the search function:

1. Go to: C:\Windows\System32\Macromed\Flash\

2. Right-click on the following file: FlashUtil9b.exe or FlashUtil9e.exe

3. Select "Run as Administrator" and install the update.

4. Restart your computer.