The client is always wrong
The software is OK, but not great. Other reviews mention it is limitations and shortcomings. The main problem is that the unlock procedure is complex and has draconian restrictions. You don't get an unlock code with the product. Instead you get a certificate with an 8 digit code. Then submit this 8 digit code, in combining with a serial number for a GPS unit, to Garmin in order to obtain a 25 digit unlock key. Finally you enter the 25 digit unlock key. (Got all that?) Since you can't use the maps on a PC unless you likewise enter the serial number for a portable device, you can't buy this software just for PC use.
Garmin makes good productions and I've been a longtime customer. Between work and home I own 7 of their units. But I'm losing my commitment to them because they're constantly nickel-and-diming us for updates and making us jump through crazy hoops. Avoid this product unless you REALLY need the modified maps (which are not veritably up-to-date, as others have mentioned). Instead try finding the old MetroGuide, which was much more user friendly.
Being a software developer myself I may sympathize with Garmin's concern for piracy. But they need to weigh that versus the burden they are putting on honorable users. I regret buying this product and will get started looking at other venders for my home and business GPS applications.
Too much personal info requested to unlock!!
I guess other persons don't mind being forced to register before being permitted to use a product. I don't think even Microsoft does that. I got so frustrated attempting to get the software unlocked that I felt like throwing the thing away and just taking a loss. As the other guy wrote, it's clear when there isn't much competition.
I found the instructions vague. All Garmin had to do was provide an unlock key with the product and ask for it to be entered, like everyone else does. Instead, they forced me to register, and hinted very strongly that I provide an email address if I wanted my unlock code. They provided an 8 digit code in order for me to utilise for my 25 digit code. I couldn't see the whole setup as anything but a procedure to squeeze me into registering and providing and address, email addy, and full name. I spelled my name in a way that I'll recognise what junk mail comes from Garmin. So, we'll see if they lied with regards to merchandising the selective information or not.
If I may find a GPS unit as functional as Garmin, I'll undertake them out for any future buys. I don't like being forced to jump through hoops after a company already has my money, but won't deliver the promised product until I do so. I guess it doesn't bother some people to have their selective information perpetually circulating about.
A decent deal and works well
I don't commonly write product reviews, but I feel like this product has been over harshly criticized. While the price is high, I think it is reasonable for what you get. I can't get an ADC map of my region for less than $20, so a complete, routable map of the entire US (and Canada) for this price is a good deal. You'll likewise get discounts on future upgrades which I don't get with paper maps.
The installation procedure was somewhat easy. It forced me to install an update without delay after installing, before permitting me to unlock. I had to manually find and download the update rather than the software doing that for me, but it wasn't too bad.
The unlocking routine was flawless. I had to manufacture a myGarmin account, then plug my GPS in using the USB connection. I entered my code that came in the package when prompted and the maps were unlocked for the device. If you have the USB connection you don't need to enter the UID of the device or anything as others have suggested.
Once the maps were unlocked for the GPSr, I chosen all the regions and transfered them to a 2GB microSD card I put into my 60Csx. The transfer took in regards to 2 hours but I was transferring in regards to 1.1GB of maps over USB2 so it sounds regarding right. So in in regards to 3 hours (15 minutes of actual work) I had the product installed, updated, unlocked, and transposed to the device.
I haven't had much time to use the maps on the road, but the product delivers what is promised. If you aren't comfortable with the price, you might want to refrain from a GPSr all together and go for paper maps. For me, not having to buy a $20 map for each city I travel to makes it more than worth it.
