Some people often forget that GPS systems are dynamic gadgets. In other words, they could be upgraded with new map databases. GPS manufacturers often have their own maps which users can download for a fee. A company usually releases several new map updates every year.
The subscription to these map updates are usually based on a one time fee and it is valid for an entire year. Some GPS companies will offer a lifetime access to map updates after users sign up once and pay a specific fee. The latest maps can be downloaded from the GPS company websites. The GPS navigation devices are easily synced to a computer via a USB cable.
Apparently, the TomTom Gps does have the option to receive unlimited map updates. This features is better known as lifetime map updates, and more information can be seen at http://www.afterdawn.com/news/article.cfm/2010/03/31/tomtom_to_offer_lifetime_map_updates_for_north_america
Yes, the tomtom car GPS does require map updates. The updates can be found on the actual tomtom support page. They are free and easily uploaded. http://www.tomtom.com/support/support.php?ID=3&Language=4
Yes, you can purchase map updates for a Garmin GPS. It is actually recommended that you do so on a yearly basis. These can be bought at any big-box retailers like Best Buy or Walmart.
No, unless you bought a subscription for monthly map updates.
Garmin has been upgrading their website and at "My Garmin" you can download free software updates and map upgrades tha can either come in the form of subscriptions, or in one time upgrades. The Nump program allows you to buy a lifetime map service for the gps and you also get quarterly upgrades to keep your gps up to date.
The Roadmate Magellan is very comparable to the Garmin GPS. The Magellan helps you with your daily commute by providing turn by turn directions. Also Magellan offers free map lifetime map updates.
You can find updates and maps for the garmin gps map 60csx at Garmin's website. The location of the files and other information is at: https://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=1245
You would have to find out which gps you have and contact the manufacture or store you bought it from. this is how i do mine.i go to the forum at newelectronx and download the worldwide gps updates.Download the newest Map Updates for USA or whatever from the forum download section.Unzip the Map Update.rar file.Open the Map Update folderrun each file as directed and viola worldwide maps on your gps.keep in mind like i said, i am using the newelectronx amigo gps. so the instructions maybe a bit different on your gps.
How often you should update the maps on your GPS depends on the area in which you live. If you live in a town where there is current road work, then it is best that you update your maps at least once every other month.
TomTom is a servicer and leader of navigation products and also offers lifetime map updates. Garmin also offers website upgrades for GPS maps for their users.
No, GPS works without a subscription. The only costs are the price of the GPS unit, and the cost of downloading map updates, or new regions to add to your map. The updates can be fairly expensive, but don't need to be done very often (or ever) unless the roads in the area you drive in are being constructed or re-routed heavily.
Garmin mapping refers to the map updates you can download for your GPS software. You can get these maps and more at http://www.garmin.com/unlock/update.jsp.