The Garmin MapSource is another software marvel from the company which is developed for viewing maps, routes, tracks, waypoints. It can also be used for transferring the data to/ from the Garmin GPS. It comes with some selected models of the GPS device and with some map products.
The software runs on the Windows operating system. It can also run on Linux using an emulator like Wine.
Using the Latest Garmin Mapsource:
The latest version of the Garmin Mapsource is available for download without any charge. But, if you want to install then you’ll have to install a previous version. It can be avoided by installing the BaseCamp or Garmin Training Center first. Afterward, you can install the Mapsource on your computer.
However, we would like to make it clear that this software is no longer supported by the company. You can now use the Garmin Basecamp instead. It works slightly differently than the Mapsource, all tracks/waypoints are included in a single database and not on separate files. Basecamp doesn’t have a feature of connecting to the device with the USB hub.
Features of Garmin Mapsource:
Planning and organizing trips, hikes, adventures are quite easy with this software.
- You can back up important trip data independently from your GPS device.
- It is quite convenient to plan routes from your computer instead of the GPS device.
- Creating, viewing and editing routes, waypoints and tracks.
- You can plan complicated or extensive routes when you have to travel to several different locations.
- Helps in transferring routes, waypoints, and tracks to and from the computer and the GPS device.
- Easily search addresses, items, and points of interest in the map data.
- View your map data on the computer screen.
Download Garmin MapSource Maps to the GPS device:
Maps on the Garmin device needs to be updated regularly to be most useful. Garmin map updates can be installed using the MapSource to get detailed information about a particular region. Free Garmin maps can be installed on the external SD card in the device.
- Click on the “Download” link on the Mapsource update page for the latest version of the Mapsource.
- Click on “Save” and then double-click on the saved file when the download is finished.
- Run the Mapsource program and select Garmin Map updates which you want to download from the drop-down menu.
- Now, click on the map selection tool from the menu located at the top.
- Again open the drop-down menu select the map which you want to copy.
- Connect the Garmin GPS device to the computer using the USB cable.
- Click on “Send to GPS” and send it.
- Click on “OK” when the data transfer is finished.
Things you’ll require:
- Windows computer
- USB connector cable
- Internet connection
Warning:
If you’re transferring map data onto your GPS device then it will replace the old maps on the SD card.
Free Garmin Maps Download process:
Your GPS device comes with some Free Garmin Maps which can be downloaded using the Mapsource as described earlier. Some device comes with Garmin Lifetime Maps, which can be downloaded using the Basecamp or Garmin Express.
You’ll have to update your device with the latest maps regularly for using the lifetime maps. If you don’t update the GPS device for more than 2 years then you won’t be able to use the Garmin Lifetime maps.
Garmin Map Manager updates and Downloads:
Garmin Map manager is a software that manages all your maps installed on the Mac computer. It helps in copying maps and unlock codes which can be accessed from BaseCamp, Training Center, and MapInstall.
It can also delete and promote maps so that all users on your Mac computer can use them. It can also be used for retrieving map unlock codes online to unlock the maps.
System Requirements for using Garmin Map manager:
- Intel-based Mac computer running OS version of 10.5.8 or higher
- At least 512 MB RAM
- USB port
How to install the Garmin map manager on the Mac:
- Click on the “Download” and choose to save the file on your computer.
- Double-click the saved file to open it.
- A new window will open, double-click on the “install Garmin MapManager”.
- Follow the instructions carefully to install the software.
How to get Garmin Maps Europe and North America?
If you’re planning a trip then you can purchase the maps for different regions. There are different maps of Europe and North America like
- City Navigator Europe
- UK and Ireland
- NorthWest Eastern Europe
- Spain and Portugal
- Italy and Greece
- Germany
- US
- Canada
How can I purchase Garmin maps?
Whenever you need a new map of the region then you can purchase it by paying a small subscription fee. You can do this by going online and downloading the maps. If you don’t know how to do it, then you can contact the Garmin customer service. They’ll provide you step-by-step instructions for downloading or purchasing the maps.
We are always with you on your trips, adventures, trekking. If you’ve any difficulty regarding the blog then do reach us by commenting in the comment section.
