8000-NEX: All the guide mentions is going to Pioneer NaviExtras, and I've downloaded the Navi Toolbox software, but what exactly do I do?
Do I have to actually connect my computer to the GPS via USB? (I definitely don't have a USB A to A cable)...
I would appreciate any help you guys have to offer.
You need a 2gb usb stick, connect it to usb1 of the unit. go to setting while in sat nav screen, scroll to the last screen and press the nav tool button, it will transfer the details of your unit to usb stick. take that stick to you computer and run the navi toolbox, it will update. once done, take the usb stick and reverse the process on your nex.
Koush
You need a 2gb usb stick, connect it to usb1 of the unit. go to setting while in sat nav screen, scroll to the last screen and press the nav tool button, it will transfer the details of your unit to usb stick. take that stick to you computer and run the navi toolbox, it will update. once done, take the usb stick and reverse the process on your nex.
Koush
Naviextras instructions say minimum 8GB stick. I tried with a 4GB stick and it didn't do anything on my 8000.
You need a 2gb usb stick, connect it to usb1 of the unit. go to setting while in sat nav screen, scroll to the last screen and press the nav tool button, it will transfer the details of your unit to usb stick. take that stick to you computer and run the navi toolbox, it will update. once done, take the usb stick and reverse the process on your nex.
Koush
Nice. Thank you for the information! I'll have to check this out. Any clue how often the maps are updated?
Ok so to follow up, I followed the instructions perfectly, but when I go back into the GPS with the USB stick installed and run Synctool, I receive a message stating: "An error occurred during initialization". Ugh, any thoughts?
Nice. Thank you for the information! I'll have to check this out. Any clue how often the maps are updated?
If they update as often as Kenwood, then never. 
You need 8 GB thumbnail drive, not 2.
This thread might be helpful. Specifically post #10:
http://avic411.com/index.php?/topic/80463-how-do-we-back-up-our-map-locations/?hl=naviextras
This thread might be helpful. Specifically post #10:
http://avic411.com/index.php?/topic/80463-how-do-we-back-up-our-map-locations/?hl=naviextras
Good info, thank you! I've followed these directions precisely but still run into the same error. I saw there was a place inside Naviextras to submit a Tech Support inquiry, which I have done now.
FYI, I called Pioneer about this problem and they are aware of the map updates not working on some of the NEX models. I have the 8000 Nex and have the same problem as the OP. Pioneer told me a fix was is the works.
Wow, that's great news, thanks for sharing!
I hope the fix is a firmware update for the AVIC-5000NEX that fixes (1) album art - impossible to see, and (2) increase sensitivity of screen - I know it isn't capacitative but can be tweaked.
I had planned on upgrading to an AVIC-8000NEX, but holding out until the price comes down. Even on eBay its about $1000.
FYI, I called Pioneer about this problem and they are aware of the map updates not working on some of the NEX models. I have the 8000 Nex and have the same problem as the OP. Pioneer told me a fix was is the works.
Great information, thank you very much for sharing! I appreciate it.
sorry, yes 8gb stick, sorry for the late reply.
Koush