The updates are available due to the internal architecture of the chart card. We did not include this functionality in the basic HotMaps. Only Premium and Platinum for the lake map products.

The updates are good for one year from chart REGISTRATION at our online store, not from the date of purchase.

[quote=Jeff@Navionics]The updates are available due to the internal architecture of the chart card. We did not include this functionality in the basic HotMaps. Only Premium and Platinum for the lake map products.

Can the 2010 premium and platinum pay for the update?

hes saying it's not possible due to the security features in the 2010 cards. the programming cant be changed. thats why you cant plug it into an SD reader on your computer and try to open the files without it frying.

thnx ronnie

I'm looking into buying some lake maps product for Texas lakes. I have a Humminbird 788ci and want a card that is compatible with that. I've checked the Navionics web site and the list for Texas lakes for Hotmaps and Hotmaps Premium appear to be identical. I was trying to see what's the difference in the lakes offered on each one, since Bass Pro has the south region Hotmaps for $100 and Hotmaps Premium for $150. If all the lakes are the same on both, I don't see any reason to pay the extra $50. Also how do I know what year version I'm getting if I buy one at Bass Pro? Most people on TFF say the 2008 year is better and I've read several of both of your posts. Looks like 2011 versions will have some of what got lost since the 2008 version, based on what you're posting.

PM sent to both Mary-Ellen and Jeff@Navionics in case you're no longer checking this thread.

you get HD(1' contours on the premium version) which is well worth WELL WORTH the extra $50.

I had many discussions at BPS this past weekend with folks about the old 2008 data. The whole reason people last year were diggin that old chip was the creek channels/road beds/etc. Now they are bringing new data back with the 2011 chips and will be a LOT more accurate(roadbeds/creek channels). I wasnt a fan of the 2009-10 chip at all, as most can tell- I played with the new chip and it is awesome! you also get the free upgrade for a YEAR FROM REGISTRATION!! that means, since i dont work for navionics, I will say to get the chip and use it for a few months THEN register it to get some extra time out of the updates hehe.

navionics is back! they listened to us all and now there will be a mass exudus of the 2008 chips for the new 2011 chips! you just watch! ebay will be flooded with 2008 chips once people figure out the 2011 chip is better!

if you want to see for yourself, go up to BPS in garland and talk to DOUG at the marine electronics counter. he knows his stuff for sure!

HotMaps offers over 14,000 total lake maps with over 700 high-definitions lakes in 5 regions
HotMaps Premium offers over 17,000 total lake maps with over 1,000 high-definition lakes in 5 regions.

The lake listing and details for Texas lakes is the same in both product offerings.
I would recommend the HotMaps Premium in order for you to be eligible for the Freshest data program.

2011 � Navionics will manage updates thru the freshest data concept. Any Navionics 2010 HotMaps Premium, HotMaps Platinum, Fish�N Chip, Gold or Platinum+ products purchased Oct 1st 2010 onward will be eligible for unlimited updates of the gold component for one year. The customer can register his chart on the Navionics Web Store and then will be able to obtain the updates for one year at no charge.

The Freshest Data
The freshest data coming from cartographic surveys, notice to mariners and the Navionics community of user generated content are made available in a timely manner to our customers with a very simple download from the internet. When you buy Navionics 2010 HotMaps Premium, HotMaps Platinum, Fish�N Chip, Gold or Platinum+ products you are eligible for unlimited updates of the gold component for one year � this means you get the Freshest Data. In addition, when you download to your smart phone, iPad or PC you also get all the User Generated Content.

I have spoken with the Product Managers regarding new Texas data and have been informed that new fishing information has been sourced and is currently under review for inclusion to our product but I am unable to provide any dates for this.

The 2010 � 2011 version of the HotMaps Premium South for your unit is MSD/PREM-S6 and this would be the chart I would recommend.

The 2010 � 2011 version of the HotMaps South for you unit is MSD/HM-S, this chart would not qualify for the Freshest data and the new Texas data which is currently under review for inclusion would not be available for this product.

I hope I have provided the information needed in order for you to decide which product best suits your needs.

Best regards,
MEB

good info! i learned something new for sure!

THANKS Mary-Ellen, Jeff@Navionics & SkeeterRonnie! Glad I saw this thread. It certainly helped me figure out what I want to get!

P.S. Had myself a great day on Fork yesterday!

the thanks goes to "Mary-Ellen, Jeff@Navionics ", they are the folks that know. I am just a mullet trying to help other tffr's

Maybe so, but Hip Hip Hooray for tffr helpin' mullets anyway!

LOL! thanks!