Mapsource Software Help

[Kanga2Roos]

I just purchased (well actually hubby got it for me) a Garmin Etrex Venture HC. I have a question about the software.. I looked at other topics already out there and didn't see it already discussed, but maybe I missed it, sorry if I did.

 

So my problems.. The Unlock Map feature. Should I have received a code with my Garmin to unlock something or is that for extra purchases? I was originally having problems with being able to open the unlock feature on the software at all and emailed the support people at Garmin. They sent me an email with a link to a software update. I can open the unlock map feature now... but what do I do now?

 

My other problem is with the routing feature, I have been trying to play with the routing feature, when I choose two points on the map the only that appears is a straight line. I read the instructions in the help section and it says that if I go to "Edit" then "Preferences" I should click on the routing tab and choose Auto-routing to generate turn by turn routes that follow streets and highways. Well when I go into preferences there is no "routing tab". Am I missing something?

 

I have sent another email to the software support at Garmin about these questions... but I thought I would ask about it here too.

 

Thanks for any suggestions you might have.

[+fratermus]

Did you buy (or receive for free) any maps you had to install on the GPS?

 

If not, the unlock part means nothing yet and neither does the autorouting section of MapSource. They only come into play when manipulating maps like City Navigator (and some others).

[+Idahogreggory]

When you register your Garmin Etrex Venture HC at Garmin.com you should get a MapSource Unlock code; I did for both of my nuvi 200Ws and my Vista HCx. I know the code works to because I have added Canada, Alaska and Hawaii from City Navigator NT 2008 to the nuvi and all of the contiguous states to my Vista.

[+the hermit crabs]

My other problem is with the routing feature, I have been trying to play with the routing feature, when I choose two points on the map the only that appears is a straight line. I read the instructions in the help section and it says that if I go to "Edit" then "Preferences" I should click on the routing tab and choose Auto-routing to generate turn by turn routes that follow streets and highways. Well when I go into preferences there is no "routing tab". Am I missing something?

The Venture HC does not support auto-routing. From Garmin's Venture HC page, on the "Specs" tab:

 

Features:

Automatic routing (turn by turn routing on roads): no

[Kanga2Roos]

Thanks to everyone who replied : ) I got an email back from the support guy and he said I can't use that routing thing unless I have City Navigator software. I am a little frustrated because clearly in the help section of my software it says that I can do that and how to. They should have specific directions for each software not just a general one that can confuse everyone. Of course I am probably only going to use the Garmin for caching so it's not a big deal. I just like to be able to figure out how things work and how to use it.

Thanks again for all your help! : )

[+WVRadar]

Even if you had the City Navigator software, your unit is not capable of auto-routing. If you want a GPSr for this purpose you'll need one of the more expensive models. Don't get me wrong, the Venture HC (I have one) is a great unit for caching. If that's your main use, you should be fine. If you want to add maps to your unit, I would recommend the Topo 2008 maps.