BabelMap

"BabelMap" version 8.0.0.2 is a highly versatile and free character map application specifically developed for Windows 7. Created by Andrew West, this software offers a comprehensive exploration of the vast Unicode character repertoire, which includes over 110,000 characters.

The key executable for this application is BabelMap.exe. This tool falls under the category of Office Tools and excels in the subcategory of Document Management. Previous iterations like 8.0, and 6.3 have laid a strong foundation, and the current version builds on these with robust features. Unlike many other character map applications, BabelMap is stand-out freeware, making it accessible without cost.

The latest version includes several significant features:

• A detailed Unicode Character Grid displaying all 110,187 assigned and 137,468 private use characters, based on Unicode 6.3.
• The ability to browse through the Unicode character repertoire using either a single font or a user-defined virtual composite font. This flexibility allows users to save and load different composite font mappings seamlessly.
• The option to navigate through the character grid by plane, block, or page of 128 characters.
• Specialized browsing for CJK Unified Ideographs by radical, in addition to a dropdown list for selecting any Unicode block.

A particularly notable function is the search capability for finding characters by their hexadecimal or decimal code point value, or by full or partial name. Users can also paste a character into the edit buffer, hit F2, and locate it within the Unicode Character Grid. The application supports editing through a versatile buffer that includes drag-and-drop functionality, and characters can be copied easily for use in any Unicode-aware application.

Text pasted from the clipboard into the edit buffer is automatically converted from NCR or UCN escape codes into Unicode characters. The software supports various encoding formats for saving text, including UTF-8, UTF-16, and UTF-32, in both Big and Little Endian.

Additional language support includes Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean, or Vietnamese readings for CJK unified ideographs. Users can also benefit from optionally color-coded characters based on several Unicode properties.

The download process is straightforward, ensuring quick access to this powerful free tool.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Unicode character support.
• Intuitive navigation and search features.
• Useful drag-and-drop functionality.
• Extensive language reading support for CJK characters.
• Free to download and use.

Cons:

• Interface might be overwhelming for beginners.
• Limited to Windows 7, restricting newer OS compatibility.

In conclusion, BabelMap 8.0.0.2 is an exceptional choice for anyone needing extensive Unicode character functionality, especially considering its freeware status. Its depth of features and ease of use make it indispensable for document management tasks.

You may want to check out more software, such as eXcelatorCTR, Rapidocs Classic+ or Beam 2D, which might be similar to BabelMap.