Delete Lifetime Map files

It's not needed for the next update, HOWEVER, I would recommend making a BACKUP on DVD or some other removable media.

Because if for some reason you need to reload the maps, you won't be able to if you no longer have the file. You can only download it from Garmin for 21 days.

I did exactly what MM suggested. After downloading and installing the 2010.10B lifetime map update, I burned it to a DVD (too large to fit on a CD) and then deleted the file off my PC's hard drive to free up the space.

But with the lifetime updates wouldn't that file always be available from Garmin to that subscriber incase something happens????

I bought the Lifetime maps on April 12. I just logged in to myGarmin website and it shows that I have purchased the Lifetime maps, however, the ability to download it expired on April 26. That's a 14 day download window.

That's why I burned it to a DVD.

Right ok,,i'll be doing the same i just bought the LT updates yesterday for my 350 and will do this too,so if your computer crashes or something your not screwed.

how did you burn yours,did you use a secondary program like NERO or something??

Yeah, I used Nero Express actually and just selected to burn data files to DVD (non-bootable).

K thanks!!!!

Thanks for the reminder. This is a very good point.

Thank for the answers. I do remember downloading a 2G file. But I can't find it. I found a Garmin folder in my C:/ drive but it is only 93mb. All the files are bunch of xxxx.dll files. That can't be the right folder to copy. Is it?

That's not the file you are looking for. When you downloaded it, you had to select what folder to save it in, so it could be anywhere on you PC.

The file name will be something like: Garmin_RMU_CNNANT2010.exe

But there was also an "A" and a "B" version. If it were me, I would use the Windows Search function, select Files and Folders and search for the string CNNANT2010 to locate the file. This should find the file regardless of the version you downloaded.

I guess it pays to read the fine print, I would be good to have a back up just in case!

Just do a search like Gary explained,you'll find it if it's there still..

Does anyone know why that download time limit exists for lifetime map subscribers? Is it to control the bandwidth used on Garmin's servers?

No idea. But likely it serves a couple of purposes.

1) It makes sure that the user downloads the map in a timely manner so that they don't purchase it and then wait an extended period of time to download it (ie AFTER then next update is released). Note that the previous update typically isn't available from Garmin after the next one is released.

2) It helps them modulate the amount of server traffic. Since the map updates are big files, allowing unfettered access could potentially cause undue strain on their servers.

Just a guess, though.

If You using windows try folder named My Documents (it shows usually on desktop as well). Very often it is default place to save files for most programs. You may want to check if this downloaded file isn't placed directly on desktop. You can check size of file by clicking on its icon with right mouse button and then clicking Properties in menu that shows. It will display window in which on tab named "General" You will see size of file there. If it is about 2gb it may be your file. And "Type of file" should be "Application". Then just double click on it and follow instructions on screen.

Thanks again for the great info. I decided to d/l the update again and it is now on my desktop called Garmin_RMU_CNNANT2010C.exe. Is this the folder I should copy onto a DVD or external HD for back up? Is that mean I need to do the same for the next update?

Yes, the large single file Garmin_RMU_CNNANT2010C.exe you found is what you want to back up onto DVD, external hard disk or whatever. If pressed for space on your computer's hard drive, the file on your desktop can then be deleted after you've used it to install the map to your Mapsource and GPS unit.

And yes, when the future updates come along (probably 4x/year for lifetime map folks), you'll want to follow the same procedure of backing them up, installing and possibly deleting the original download after installation.

Thanks for the answer. Yes, I am pressed for space. I will delete the folder.