How to Use a GPS Data Card
A GPS has a certain amount of memory programmed into it when you buy it. As with computers, most users want to expand the memory of their machines or add extra software. A blank data card allows you to save information that you use with your GPS without using all the built-in memory. A pre-loaded data card usually contains maps that you can use without storing them on your GPS.
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Instructions
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Use a Blank GPS Data Card
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Open the battery compartment of your GPS. There is a slot where the data card resides.
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Insert the blank data card into its slot until it cannot slide any further. Close the battery compartment.
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Turn on your GPS.
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Format the blank memory card before storing information on it. Follow instructions from your data card or GPS. Usually formatting entails pressing the power button for a specified amount of time.
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Allow the formatting process to complete before attempting to use the data card. Depending on the amount of space on your card, it can take a number of minutes to format.
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Transfer data stored on your GPS to your card. Refer to your user guide for assistance with this feature.
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Download the contents of the data card to your computer if you want to process or manipulate the information. You may need additional adapters if one machine uses USB interface and the other uses serial interface.
Use a Pre-Loaded GPS Data Card
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Choose a data card that is loaded with maps of the area you want to explore. Many different versions exist with United States regional maps, neighboring countries in Europe and other combinations.
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Snap the data card into the battery compartment slot. Be sure it goes all the way in without forcing it.
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Turn on your GPS. The program that is loaded onto the data card should come on automatically.
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Browse street, highway and other route maps, as well as coverage of lakes and mountains. Some data card software allows you to keyword search for specific locations.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a data card that is compatible with your GPS model. The card packaging clearly details which GPS series it is intended. Data cards can get pricey depending on how much memory they have, so you don't want to buy the wrong one.
High-memory data cards can take several hours to load, sometimes even longer than the battery life of your GPS. Try using a wall outlet power adapter when loading data to eliminate this problem.
You might want to consider buying a data card loader for loading large amounts of data. This USB-compatible attachment loads data cards in a matter of minutes.
