The last update that came out I received a notification on my hand held asking if I wanted to update. I hit update and it connected and updated in a couple of minutes.previously I had used a cable and the Garmin app.

Kyle

The Garmin units come with basic maps already loaded

There are more advanced mapping options available to download,

Such as satellite/Birds Eye views

I have never found a need for them for hunting although I have considered the idea of having public land boundaries on the unit

Downloads are done with a computer and a data cable to the unit

Not really complicated

You may also use the Micro SD card option under the battery.. Many topo and boundary maps are avaliable.. I do remember when Northwind sold sucessional habitat maps on the SD cards for that purpose..

Garmin 300i, TT-15 and the watch
 

My collars are old too, still working though. Keeping for training and buck up use. My new set up is the 300i, TT-25 and the wristwatch. About 1300.00 for all of it. This set up is tits...(-: Oh, everything is up$$$ My new puppy was double what my retired 13 1/2-year-old cost in 2011. Don't cheap out this gear is worth every cent! I have been using my set for about 5-6 weeks now and have learned its ins and outs and love it, the watch is great addition. It vibrates when pup is on point, like that and keeps my hands completely free for shooting the bird! Heads up my collar stopped feeding sat info screen showed only one bar and no hook-up. That sucked bad while running pup, totally blind in the field! After the second day of same I called support. The feller on the other end helped me cable up to my computer and download needed up-dates and now its back working. I did not do any upgrades when unpacking the collar new, I did not think it needed it as it worked perfect out of the box, my bad! If you're on an extended hunt, make sure to have your computer, charger cable along and your passwords for log in if there would be an issue. I also have my older GPS collar in the truck and charged up.

As Kenny stated, do the updates. I can loan you Elaine who's an expert, but it'll cost ya.:rotf:

Gun Dog Supply is running a special sale on the Alpha 200 and 200i.

I use the Alpha 200 with a TT25 collar on my English Setter, and love it. No complaints whatsoever.

I have no connection to GDS, other than being a happy customer.

Dave

Free shipping and $200 off right now on the 200i. Plus free shipping.

After receiving the input from my original post in May I went ahead and purchased the Garmin 300i and 2 Alpha TT25 collars. We have used them extensively this summer exercising and training the dogs. I'm still learning features but will happily use them this fall. I really like the extended battery life. Thanks again to all who provided input and the sale info on the 200's.

Several of the mature hunters will probably get a laugh on my collars:
1. Many years ago (based in Tucson, AZ) I bought a Tri-Tronics Series 70. I still use it when I'm on the prairie and I can keep visual contact with the dog. I've sent it to the Collar Clinic several times over the years to be fixed. Tri-Tronics was bought out by Garmin 15-20 years ago.
2. My New Collar is a Garmin 550 Plus and I highly recommend it if you run multiple dogs (up to 3) and can't always have a visual of your dogs.
These have worked for me and my type of hunting.