Garmin HomePort software
 

Does anyone use this? Thoughts? Costs is ~$30

This software installs on the PC and allows you to exchange data between the PC and the Garmin unit (and visa versa). You must move the chip (g2Vision works) to the PC to get the maps. During the winter plot course, edit waypoints and transfer route data then save on chip and unit is ready-to-go.

I already use, just seeing if others are aware that something like this is available.

Does it update the charts on the chip? How do you connect the chip to the 'puter?

Your computer either needs to have the compatible multi-drive slot or you need one of those USB multi-drive adapters to acept SD/MicroSD/etc cards. I've got one around here somewhere if interested. I'm showing the card you have to be able to plug into computer (SanDisk in the picture).

Updating: I have down loaded from Garmin Updates to the operating software and firmware for the Garmin unit. There may have been updates to the charts, too.

HomePort basically just allows you the work with the installed charts that are on the chip.

I've included a couple screen shots from HomePort showing one level of detail available. The whited areas are my waypoints not to spot burn.

will it work on the chip you gave me? and i need the adapter. more buzz handmedowns

Niko: I know it works on that chip, BUZZ tested and approved!

You might find some interesting waypoints I forgot to erase but I think you know where I fish any way.

Not sure but I might also have downloaded a major software upgrade from Garmin website onto that chip for the Garmin unit however it might also be on the chip I still have at home. If you turn on your GPS, then plug in the chip and it ask to install upgrade it is your option to install Y/N. I upgraded from the original Rev 3 to Rev 5 and really like the new features.