PC Card FAQs

PC CARD FAQS DESCRIPTION

Question	Answer
Where do we buy the flash memory or adaptors, and what do we ask for?	You need a PCMCIA type II adaptor and a flash memory chip. You can purchase them at a computer, or office supply store. The card is the same size and shape as the PC card in the HDS. Adaptors that accept multiple flash types are not recommended.
What memory flash chips will work with what adaptors?	The flash memory devices that have been tested include Compact Flash (CF), and ATA style (like the card in the HDS). Other card types and flash memory chips may work, but have not been tested.
What capacity card do 1 need for this function?	A memory chip with capacity of 64 MB to 2 GB will work. The two files moved to the card during export are less than a megabyte in size. You can purchase an adapter and flash memory card at a computer or office supply store.
Should the dealer have a dedicated PC card for the Export and Import navigation function?	Yes, treat the PC card as a dedicated special tool that you can use any time you need to transfer the navigation personal files to a new navigation unit on '08 or later vehicles.
What device can 1 use to maintain the PC card, and delete files	Any computer store sells USB style PC card readers that accept the card, and a allow you to do file maintenance on your card. Most laptops also accept the card.
Can we move the client's data to different models (like moving RL navigation data to a TSX)?	No, the files are model specific and will only load into a navigation ECU with the same part number.
Can we move the client's data to the same vehicle with a different software version (Like moving from version 4.41 version 4.51)?	The client's files can only be transferred to a new navigation control unit if the Model and the Program Flash shown on the Version screen are the same. Files cannot be transferred from a RL to a TSX (different model code), or '08 to '11 RL (different versions)
Why is the Export button grayed out?	A PC card with its media memory chip is not inserted properly. Check the card's edge connector, and the pins inside the navigation unit (with a flashlight) for damage.
Why is the Import button grayed out?	A PC card with its media memory chip is not inserted. The model code of the files stored during export do not match the model code of the new navigation ECU. The version of the files from the original navi ECU are not the same as the version in the new navigation ECU.
Will other files on the card like images or music files prevent the Export/Import function from working?	No, the system simply adds two small files that are recognized by the new navigation unit when doing the import function. However, if the card is full, the Export function won't work correctly.
Do I have to delete the files on the card after each transfer of the personal data?	After the transfer of personal data to the new navigation control unit, the files remain on the card. Since this is confidential information, Acura recommends deleting these files after the transfer. Please note that each time you export navigation files of the same model and version, the files are overwritten. If you do not delete the file after use, overtime the PC card accumulates two files for each version of the Honda navigation equipped models.
If the memory card needs formatting, what format should I use?	It is unlikely that the card will ever need formatting, however, if it does, use the FAT (file allocation table) file system.
I can't enter the navigation diagnostic mode to do the Export/Import function. How can I transfer the personal data?	Some internal navigation ECU failures may make it impossible to use the Export/Import function.
Why won't the Export or Import functions work? What do 1 check as part of troubleshooting?	The card may not be fully inserted into the slot. Eject the card, and inspect for warping or damage to the edge connector. Never use excessive force to insert a card. This can damage the pins in the rear of the slot. The card may not contain files that are recognized by the new navigation unit. Navigation data can only be transferred between navigation units with the same Model code, and with the same navigation Program flash version. The flash memory chip type may not be accepted by the system. Only Compact Flash, and ATA cards have been tested. The card's PCMCIA adaptor may prevent a known-good card from being recognized. Avoid multi slot type PCMCIA adaptors that accept several different flash memory types The card may be full and as a result the files are stored, but without any data. Export and import appear to function, but move nothing. Delete unused files from the card. There may not be any files on the card. If the card has a write protection switch, make sure it is turned off before using the Export function. Although flash memory chips are reliable, occasionally they develop bad sectors or other formatting errors that prevents them from accepting files. The card should be reformatted using the FAT format. The card may have been formatted using the format NTFS. Only the FAT format is accepted by the system. Hard Disc Drive (HDD) cards may not work properly in the system and can overheat or quit functioning, particularly in a hot vehicle. They are not recommended. Before doing the import function, ensure that the original navigation DVD is loaded into the new navigation unit and working properly.
Are there any error messages to tell me what is wrong?	There are no error messages associated with the Import/Export feature. Follow the troubleshooting steps above.