Garmin 2610

[eukreign]

I have been looking around on the forums and seems like most people use a combo of iPaq and GPS attachment (The general reason is that people either already have an iPaq to begin with or are looking forward to possible support in the MINI for an iPaq interface). While I like that idea in theory, I've also discovered from reading many other forums that people tend to have a lot of problems with that combo, mostly due to slow operation or just plain old bugs in M$ Windows and navigation software. Also the screen is smaller and software is not as convenient to use while driving. (My biggest concern was depending on M$ Windows.)

As a result I decided to order a dedicated device instead. After looking around I decided to get the Garmin 2610 (instead of the new c320).

Does anyone here have a Garmin 26xx? It would be nice if you could share any tips with mounting the device in a MINI and also tell us how you use it. Photos would be nice as well.

Thanks!

[nulltty]

I like my 2610, I just use the beanbag mount, not the permament mount since I don't always use it. The beanbags holds it on the speedo "hump" just fine. The only time it's ever fallen was when I was on some twisties, took the most tight twistie to make it fall; leisure driving won't budge it.

The use is great, touch-screen or using the remote. Screen is large to see, and it auto-dims at night. I run the power wire along the speedo's faceplate down the right side of the stack and into the cig lighter. Nothing tied down, again not using it all the time, I don't really notice it, a passenger might but it's not in the way.

I've seen another car where they mounted it to the left of the tach, I didn't like that position nor have it pushed back sitting near the window (hit a bump and it'll hit the window)

[raptor]

I have one. Its probably the best one out there. Just make sure you put the exact address in or you will get lost. The other thing is if you don't want it to take you through neighborhoods (absolute shortest route) go to road preferences and tell it to choose primarily bigger roads or just choose fastest route. There is an option for everything,its absolutly the best gadjet I've bought in a long time. One of the coolest options is it will tell you what services are around which is especially nice if your out of town, just pick what you want and tell it to take you there. You will love it, and you can take it from car to car.

Have they come out with an update for it yet? I'll have to check and see what version I have as I think you can just download new map info from your computer. Has anyone tried that yet?

[nulltty]

Quote: Originally Posted by raptor

Have they come out with an update for it yet? I'll have to check and see what version I have as I think you can just download new map info from your computer. Has anyone tried that yet?

I've installed the new Garmin software, but not new maps as you only have 1yr of free map upgrades.

Wish the naming convention allowed for more characters...

[eukreign]

Quote: Originally Posted by raptor

I have one.

raptor, how do you mount the unit in your MINI (or other cars)?

[eukreign]

Quote: Originally Posted by nulltty

I've installed the new Garmin software, but not new maps as you only have 1yr of free map upgrades.

Wish the naming convention allowed for more characters...

How do they start counting down the 1 year? Is it from the day you register your unit/software? Mine will be a refurbished unit (i got for $540 on ebay) hopefuly everything will be alright, although it says that it comes with all new software supplied by Garmin but we'll see (the guy I bought from has good feedback though...)

How much do the maps cost after the 1 year is up? How often are new maps released? Will the unit ONLY work with specific Garmin maps?

Thanks!

[nulltty]

Quote: Originally Posted by eukreign

How do they start counting down the 1 year? Is it from the day you register your unit/software? Mine will be a refurbished unit (i got for $540 on ebay) hopefuly everything will be alright, although it says that it comes with all new software supplied by Garmin but we'll see (the guy I bought from has good feedback though...)

How much do the maps cost after the 1 year is up? How often are new maps released? Will the unit ONLY work with specific Garmin maps?

Thanks!

How do they start counting down the 1 year? I believe from when you register/ activate your maps.

How much do the maps cost after the 1 year is up? Check Garmin's website

How often are new maps released? From what I remember, I think yearly, so at minimum you'll get one new map (other than the CD) free for download, however you have to remember to check their site, they won't send you a reminder.

Will the unit ONLY work with specific Garmin maps? I think it'll work with whatever the map is compatible, however, maps require an activation key paired with your Garmin unit. So while you might have a map that works with your 2610, it won't work with a second 2610 unless you activate that unit.

Check Garmin's site, I'm sure they have the latest answers.

[eukreign]

Got my unit today! I haven't driven very far yet, mostly around my town but it's proven to be exactly what I had expected!

Very neat gadget. I plan on making some long distance trips this summer (New Hampshire is one destination on the list) and I will report back on how well the unit works for me.

I'll post some pictures later when I find the cable for my camera! (I moved recently and still unpacking and trying to find things)

[badboyzbadboyz]

While I havn't used this Garmin device I cannot speak highly enough of the TomTom Go. Not only do the most recent versions include all roads of the UK and Europe on a 2 gig hard drive but it also has bluetooth capabilities to use for traffic updates and can also be used as a hand free device for your phone. TomTom also give free software updates which can be downloaded on release (about every 3 months), although updated maps do have to be purchased. Like I say I havn't used this Garmin so I can't compare but I thought I would add my input for anybody thinking of purchasing a navigation device.


Andrew

[eukreign]

I was at one point almost decided on getting the Tom Tom Go mainly because it looked like a good gadget and has excellent reviews no matter where you look. I didn't get it for two reasons though: 1. It seems to be more for the European market than the US. 2. They will be coming out with new models very soon and I felt like I would have an outdated device if I got a Tom Tom now (granted the Garmin 2610 is not a very new device either but it does have a very good reputation and it doesn't look like there is anything new on the horizon from Garmin to replace it).

In short, I would have definitely gotten the Tom Tom Go if the traffic reports and other 'live' features where also available in the US and not just for the European market. Once the TomTom gains more ground in the US I may consider it though.

Maybe someone who has a Tom Tom Go in the US can give more input though.

[badboyzbadboyz]

I didn't realise the American version was different so my bad

Its always healthy to look at the competition and see what else you can get for your money, and this is clearly something you have done. I hope all goes well with your Garmin.

Andrew