Update Garmin Nüvi 255 maps

Is there a way to update the GPS' (Garmin nüvi 255) maps with Ubuntu?

I'm hoping for a free (as in doesn't cost anything... I already bought the darn thing) solution.

I have installed the plugin, and it works with myGarmin, however I cannot register my device because I need to install whatever Windows software (Garmin Express) it requires, and all I can find is "Purchasing maps update"...

This is my first GPS and I just want to get the most recent maps as my local streets don't show up.

Solution 1:

I found a working solution for me. If this also work for other people, I'd like to know!

I went and got the maps from Open Street Map :

1. Backup the file gmapprom.img from your GPS device to your computer (just in case something goes wrong) using Nautilus.
2. Select the maps you want from OpenStreetMap
3. Download the osm_generic_gmapsupp.zip ("Compressed file that contains a single image that can be placed directly onto the SD-card of the GPS.") file
4. Extract the file gmapsupp.img, and rename it to gmapprom.img
5. With Nautilus, copy the extracted file on your device, replacing the old (backuped) gmapprom.img file.
6. Restart your GPS

The new maps even have extra points, like all the parks and playgrounds where I live.