Garmin Mobile PC alternative

I have some Garmin maps on my computer, but I don't get the Mobile PC program. Is there an alternative that can read my Garmin maps?

Did you get the "Garmin maps" from Garmin? If so, they should have come with a program called MapSource on the CD/DVD. It should have been installed at the same time as the maps were installed. MapSource will let you view Garmin's maps and also any Garmin-compatible maps you get.

If these are Garmin-compatible maps that did not come from Garmin, you can install MapSource and it might let you look at them.

How to install MapSource to add maps to Mobile PC

If the maps came as a GMAPSUPP.IMG file, MapSource will not let you look at them. That is a compiled map file that will only be useful on a Garmin GPS device like a Nuvi or Zumo or eTrex, etc. It will also be viewable in Mobile PC.

There is an explanation of Garmin's maps in Garmin Mobile PC - FAQ

...ken...

i think you mis-understood the question, but nevermind. where can you buy USB gps recievers from (I'm guessing usb would be cheaper than bluetooth?)

I think it is the phrase "don't get Mobile PC" that is confusing us.

Do you mean you didn't purchase Mobile PC? If so nRoute is a free download from Garmin and will provide tracking from your (unlocked) maps on a computer using any GPS receiver and GPS Gate.

Do you mean you don't understand the purpose or workings of Mobile PC? There are details in other parts of this forum.

Do you mean your maps do not show up in Mobile PC? If your maps are the type requiring an unlock code, they will not work with Mobile PC. The only way to use locked maps with Mobile PC is to purchase the Mobile PC version that comes with a GPS (USB 20x or BT10x) and use an unlock code for your map with that GPS.

If you live in the US, there are a number of on-line and local vendors carrying a wide variety of USB and Bluetooth GPS receivers. Semson's is a good place to start.

Terry

I ment i dont understand it. sorry for confusing you. so are you saying nRoute can use the Garmin maps i have purchased?

nRoute will provide gps functionality with any Garmin maps that you have unlocked and can view in versions of MapSource 6.13.7 and older. If you already have MapSource, nRoute will install on your computer and use any of the maps you have unlocked that are usable with MapSource.

http://www8.garmin.com/support/downl...ils.jsp?id=575

The problem is nRoute requires a Garmin-type data feed from the GPS. If you are using the GPS that the maps are unlocked to, it will work with nRoute. Otherwise you need GPS Gate or GPS Gate Express between your GPS and nRoute. It can provide the appropriate data output for nRoute. A free trial download is available here;


Terry

So in other words you have to use the garmin gps or get special software to use other gps recievers?