# Google (Static Maps API) Grid Layer Example

Google, grid, static, GMaps, light

Using the Google Static Maps API with a Grid Layer.

A Grid layer with a custom `getURL` method can be used to request static maps for a specific extent and zoom level. The Google Static Maps API is the most reliable way to get Google base maps in OpenLayers. Note, however, that the free version of this is limited to a map size of 640x640 pixels (1280x1280 if the `scale=2` url parameter is used) and 1000 page views per viewer per day. Every map center or zoom level change increases the page view counter by 1.

Look at the google-static.js source to see how this is done. See the Static Maps API V2 Developer Guide for details on the API.