Garmin & Mapsource

I was given a Garmin 76CSx. Just the unit & nothing else. I downloaded the instruction manual for it & it was talking about having to use mapsource. How do I tell if mapsource is loaded onto the unit?

Randy,

Mapsource is the program that is run on the PC that you can transfer info back and forth between the GPS and PC.....

You might try giving GPSCITY.com a call (1-866-GPS-CITY). I am looking to buy a GPS unit and the guy I talked to there last week was very helpful. Explain your situation and if you need map software I'm sure they have it.

You can look on Garmins web site and if you buy a copy of map source you want to make sure you buy the one for the area that you plan on riding.

I don't think you can buy Mapsource. It comes free with all handhelds but not Nuvi's. You can go to the link below and it has instructions on how to get it for free.

How to get Mapsource

Mapsource is the program that runs on your PC. You use it to view and edit tracks. By connecting you GPSr to your computer with the correct cable you can upload tracks and maps to your GPSr and also download any tracks that you have tracked on your GPSr.

One of the best things about Mapsource is is that you can view your tracks (not maps) in Google Earth. The command is View/View in Google Earth.

I highly recommend that everyone get Mapsource and download the maps and tracks even if you do not have a Garming GPSr. You can see where you ride. You can also get free TOPO maps at GPS File Depot

Bob T and others know way more about this than myself but here is a pic from Google Earth of what we rode during the spring ride. I deleted the tracks of the wrong turn where we got seperated and went several miles on the paved road and then turned around. We were able to ride Thursday-Sunday and this includes all 4 days tracks from my Garmin.
I could have added waypoints but it would be very cluttered.

Sorry, I meant MapSource Topo.