Messages

Again, thank you all very much for all the helpful information.  You have been a great help getting me through all this with a limited amount of frustration on my part.  I really enjoy this site and have learned a lot.

Finally.....I got it to work.  I really appreciate all the input from everyone helping me to understand this.
 
All the downloaded maps are on the Dakota and working and I can switch between maps.  There was one map when I changed the name from the GMAPSUPP.IMG to ARK Topo.img on the computer while hooked to the GPSr, the name did not change on the GPSr when I unplugged it from the computer and turned the GPSr on.  It listed the numbers of the first three .img maps in place of the new name.  Can you help me with this?

Ok Guys, I deleted Mapsource and moved all the old maps away from the program files.  I re-downloaded Mapsource.  Then I re-downloaded the maps again.  All the maps I wanted are showing in Mapsource on the pull down window.....BUT....there is no file called GMAPSUPP.IMG under Garmin.  The only map in the Garmin folder is the basemap PCBSMP2.  All the maps are in Mapsource.

When I use the Mapsource map tool and hi-light the area I want from the map, and all the .img files show up in the box on the left, can I just use the "map set name" box at the bottom and rename the file with an .img file extension and then download it to the Dakota and do each map like that and maybe it won't overwrite the first map.  I was really expecting to see that GMAPSUPP.IMG but its not there.  Still confused.  The tutorial is plain enough and seems simple but something is just not working for me.

Thanks Boyd
I already had the maps downloaded using Mapsource.  I think my filing system is wrong.  I created a folder "Custom Maps" under Garmin.  All the maps went into this folder.  I renamed the maps on the Mapsource page using the box at the bottom of the box that lists all the sections you highlight to create your map, but did not put ".img" on the end.  One map will load just fine on the Dakota.

I think I need to just delete everyting and start over or can I just rename my files and ADD the ".img" at the end.  I don't think I ever saw a GMAPSUPP.IMG file

I have downloaded two maps from this site (Arkansas topo and US-P-SC, arkansas section) to a 2GB mini SD card using a card reader.  The basemap is on the Dakota memory.  When I go to Setup>map>map info select map...only the basemap and the us-p-sc map options are showing.  The AR topo map is not showing and there is no others options, boxes to click, etc.

When the Dakota is hooked to the computer it shows the basemap under Drive G, and the two maps I downloaded on Drive H (card) which I feel is correct (hopefully)  These I just drag and dropped on Windows Explorer.

When I tried to download one then the other, it would just overwrite the first map and show it and the basemap.

Is there something I'm doing wrong or is it the Dakota???

I got my Dakota 20 today with 12v cable and handlebar mount.   I thought the mount clamped to the handlebars and the zip ties held the GPS.  It was the other way around.  The GPS fits in a snap on fixture and the whole thing is held on the handlebars with the zip ties.  I believe this will work just fine.  Thanks for your help an suggestions.  Now just to download some maps and get started.

You guys have really been helpful.  I ordered the Dakota 20 today.  Sure wish I could find a handlebar mount that is a cradle like for the 60csx rather than zip tie model I ordered.  (the marine mount is a cradle).   I can't wait to get the GPS and start downloading maps.  The more I thought about it, I doubt if I will have problems with the 12v USB cable.  If so there is always the option of rechargeable batteries suggested in a earlier post.

Thanks for your input Boyd.  Now I am leaning toward the Dakota 20 due to the fact I can make a custom map from paper maps or Google.  I'm assumig these can be overlayed on a topo map or visa versa.  (I'm not used to this much technology).   I guess I am still a little concerned with just a USB hookup vibrating loose or wearing out the connection (probably unfounded).  I also like the ease of drag and dropping maps.  Thank you both for responding.

Again, thanks
I was leaning toward the 60CSx for quite some time, but the lure of better technology and a newer unit had me looking and constantly researching.  I appreciate your comments and helping me decide.

Thanks
So you think the 60CSx would be little more robust and a better choice for bouncing around on a 4-wheeler and hitting waves in a  boat.  Can I still download the custom maps listed on this site?  I saw there is a 1:24k topo of the entire state of Arkansas.

Guys
I am replacing a Magellan Map330 that is 15 years old and has nearly crapped out on me.  I have done extensive research in forums and pricing on line.  I have narrowed my search to the 60csx and dakota 20 and I just can't make up my mind.  They appear to have basically the same attributes, but I have seen where the 60csx has been discontinued, but is still praised as Garmins best and most accurate.  I can get either for the same price.  Since neither has good maps installed I want to download maps from this site. I will use the gps on the handlebars of my 4-wheeler hunting and trail riding and in my bass boat using 12v cord.  I will rarely use just the batteries except for maybe a hike to two now and then.  I also might want to geocache some. I also need to readily see the screen in bright sunlight.  I know the Dakota 20 is some of the newest technology and the 60csx is a proven unit.  I don't really need city streets as I have a Tom Tom for the car. I would appreciate any help I can get as you folks seem very knowledgeable.  Thanks in advance.