Garmin Map Updater: An Overview

If you have to manage the Garmin devices then Garmin Express is the application to use. To download the latest version of Garmin Express.

For, Windows Vista SP2 and higher first go to http://garmin.com/express then Click Download for Windows & then Run the downloaded GarminExpress.exe or GarminExpressInstaller.exe file and then. Check the box next to the terms and conditions statement. You need to click Options to alter the install location of Garmin Express, and then click the Install button. After the installation you need to click the Launch Garmin Express button.

If you are running a Mac OS 10.8 or higher, go to: http://garmin.com/express. Please choose the option for Mac. Please open the GarminExpress.dmg or GarminExpressInstaller.dmg file. In the new window, double click on the Install Garmin Express icon. Then follow instructions in the installer & once installation is complete, please close the installer. Eject the Garmin Express mounted drive from Finder or the Desktop. Then open the applications folder or Double click on the Garmin Express icon.

Once the Garmin Express is installed it can be used with compatible GPS devices and used as garmin map updater. You can use City Navigator map update purchases. City Navigator map update purchases should be activated to a specific device prior to downloading the update.

Once the purchase is activated, the map will be installed using Garmin Express. As part of the Garmin Communicator Plug-in installation, some Internet browsers will close.

How to get free map updates on Garmin Nuvi units?

Any Garmin satnav unit, after sometime will need to update maps. The older devices will have to get a new device sooner for newer maps.

LMT stands for Life Maps and Traffic – so if you buy a device you will have free maps for life (life of the satnav device). You can get the latest updates for free all you have to do is to get the gps, register it on Garmin website. There are up to four updates for map is available.

Another garmin nuvi map update for Garmin satnav owners is to get free maps from free sources. The best choice is Open Source Maps.

The maps for these countries are free Europe, Africa, Asia, North America, South America and Oceania.

 A similar website where you can get free Garmin maps is Cloudmade. If your satnav is old then you have to purchase new device. If you have a new device you don’t want to spend money on official map update, then you can use Garmin free maps from open sources.