Just got a Garmin 276C

[mep1811]

I just got a Garmin 276C. I am new to this type of GPS. What is the best software to use ? Easy GPS , DeLorme Topo 7.0. Thanks Mike

 

[kai38]

I just got a Garmin 276C. I am new to this type of GPS. What is the best software to use ? Easy GPS , DeLorme Topo 7.0. Thanks Mike

The Mapsource software that came w/ it works good.

 

[teotwaki]

I don't think that it is compatible with anything but Garmin software

 

[garrett]

Not true. All Garmin products (that I've used) work with DeLorme Topo USA. I use both Garmin and DeLorme software with my Garmin units. DeLorme makes a great product both in paper maps and software.

 

[fishbum]

Thats correct, you can view your Garmin GPS position and tracks on the DeLorme software, but what you can't do is transfer DeLorme maps to the Garmin GPS to view onscreen, and vice-versa.

 

[off-roader]

Thats correct, you can view your Garmin GPS position and tracks on the DeLorme software, but what you can't do is transfer DeLorme maps to the Garmin GPS to view onscreen, and vice-versa.

Thank you for clarifying that. It's somewhat misleading to blindly say it's compatible when not all features are.

I learned this the hard way when I purchased a Garmin ETrex Legend a few years back from REI partially based on the salesmans recommendation and his telling me it was compatible with the Nat Geo software. Well it is but only partially. You cant view any of the 7.5min hi res topo data from the Nat Geo software on the Garmin. You can however create tracks, plot waypoints, etc using the Nat Geo software and import those into the Garmin.

Somewhat useful for off highway travel but imho it's much more useful when you have the actual 7.5min topo lines as well.

Ignorant me, stupid salesman... I've learned. Won't be using garmin for my primary gps device until they make their unit's more open to other products (especially when their hi res maps are very limited).

I hope my 'venting' doesn't sour your purchase Mike. For your needs that gps might be fine. If not, hope you are still able to trade it for a unit that better fits your needs.

 

[fishbum]

My guess is it will be a loooooong time before map data is compatible between different GPS vendors. I used to be a Garmin fan, but with DeLormes release of their PN-series GPS, incredibly detailed map data and ability to put color imagery, USGS topos, or any other data layer onto the device, I'm not looking back...

 

[Mlachica]

Now we know the appropriate questions to ask when purchasing a gps :sombrero: