Warning buying MS product

news.microsoft.com wrote:
"Bob I" wrote in message
...

Since the software works, and that isn't what your beef is, WHY are you
ranting here? Also thanks for telling the world you are a self proclaimed
thief!


I bought it for the hardware (included GPS transponder). Certainly didn't
care if I had S&T as I already have OziExplorer, Garmin Mapsource, MapPoint
(later ver than the S&T) and MapSend. I'll repeat, the included hardware
doesn't work hence I should be able to get a refund which I can't as no-one
takes any responsibility. That's what the rants about!


This pretty much sums it up
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894511

news.microsoft.com wrote:
"Bob I" wrote in message
...

Since the software works, and that isn't what your beef is, WHY are you
ranting here? Also thanks for telling the world you are a self proclaimed
thief!


I bought it for the hardware (included GPS transponder). Certainly didn't
care if I had S&T as I already have OziExplorer, Garmin Mapsource, MapPoint
(later ver than the S&T) and MapSend. I'll repeat, the included hardware
doesn't work hence I should be able to get a refund which I can't as no-one
takes any responsibility. That's what the rants about!


This pretty much sums it up
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894511

"Bob I" wrote in message
...


news.microsoft.com wrote:
"Bob I" wrote in message
...

Since the software works, and that isn't what your beef is, WHY are you
ranting here? Also thanks for telling the world you are a self proclaimed
thief!


I bought it for the hardware (included GPS transponder). Certainly didn't
care if I had S&T as I already have OziExplorer, Garmin Mapsource,
MapPoint (later ver than the S&T) and MapSend. I'll repeat, the included
hardware doesn't work hence I should be able to get a refund which I
can't as no-one takes any responsibility. That's what the rants about!


This pretty much sums it up
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894511


Been there, tried all methods on 3 separate pcs. Everything appears ok
software wise and it certainly should get a signal when it's 100' (laptop
first then dragged two separate desktops out on extension cord trying) or so
facing south into 2 acre+ freshly mowed field (BIG lawn . Damn thing has
come alive occasionally but goes dead after few minutes use is "best"
experience to date. Just wanted the thing to permanently mount on 4x4 with
old laptop running OziExplorer (preferred as it uses very hi-res aerial
photos of local area I have rather than canned commercial maps) when back in
woods rather than having to use new Garmin handheld (which works with all
systems over all software).

I'm far from rich, old geezer limited pension. Money I spent wasn't trivial
to me and I feel like I've been robbed, e.g. someone just reached in took
from me and left nothing of value.

"Bob I" wrote in message
...


news.microsoft.com wrote:
"Bob I" wrote in message
...

Since the software works, and that isn't what your beef is, WHY are you
ranting here? Also thanks for telling the world you are a self proclaimed
thief!


I bought it for the hardware (included GPS transponder). Certainly didn't
care if I had S&T as I already have OziExplorer, Garmin Mapsource,
MapPoint (later ver than the S&T) and MapSend. I'll repeat, the included
hardware doesn't work hence I should be able to get a refund which I
can't as no-one takes any responsibility. That's what the rants about!


This pretty much sums it up
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894511


Been there, tried all methods on 3 separate pcs. Everything appears ok
software wise and it certainly should get a signal when it's 100' (laptop
first then dragged two separate desktops out on extension cord trying) or so
facing south into 2 acre+ freshly mowed field (BIG lawn . Damn thing has
come alive occasionally but goes dead after few minutes use is "best"
experience to date. Just wanted the thing to permanently mount on 4x4 with
old laptop running OziExplorer (preferred as it uses very hi-res aerial
photos of local area I have rather than canned commercial maps) when back in
woods rather than having to use new Garmin handheld (which works with all
systems over all software).

I'm far from rich, old geezer limited pension. Money I spent wasn't trivial
to me and I feel like I've been robbed, e.g. someone just reached in took
from me and left nothing of value.

news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

news.microsoft.com wrote:
"Bob I" wrote in message
...


news.microsoft.com wrote:

"Bob I" wrote in message
...


Since the software works, and that isn't what your beef is, WHY are you
ranting here? Also thanks for telling the world you are a self proclaimed
thief!


I bought it for the hardware (included GPS transponder). Certainly didn't
care if I had S&T as I already have OziExplorer, Garmin Mapsource,
MapPoint (later ver than the S&T) and MapSend. I'll repeat, the included
hardware doesn't work hence I should be able to get a refund which I
can't as no-one takes any responsibility. That's what the rants about!


This pretty much sums it up
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894511



Been there, tried all methods on 3 separate pcs. Everything appears ok
software wise and it certainly should get a signal when it's 100' (laptop
first then dragged two separate desktops out on extension cord trying) or so
facing south into 2 acre+ freshly mowed field (BIG lawn . Damn thing has
come alive occasionally but goes dead after few minutes use is "best"
experience to date. Just wanted the thing to permanently mount on 4x4 with
old laptop running OziExplorer (preferred as it uses very hi-res aerial
photos of local area I have rather than canned commercial maps) when back in
woods rather than having to use new Garmin handheld (which works with all
systems over all software).

I'm far from rich, old geezer limited pension. Money I spent wasn't trivial
to me and I feel like I've been robbed, e.g. someone just reached in took
from me and left nothing of value.



If the store refuses to take it back and Pharos says thats the method of
fixing the issue perhaps you paid with a credit card, and have some
recourse there?

news.microsoft.com wrote:
"Bob I" wrote in message
...


news.microsoft.com wrote:

"Bob I" wrote in message
...


Since the software works, and that isn't what your beef is, WHY are you
ranting here? Also thanks for telling the world you are a self proclaimed
thief!


I bought it for the hardware (included GPS transponder). Certainly didn't
care if I had S&T as I already have OziExplorer, Garmin Mapsource,
MapPoint (later ver than the S&T) and MapSend. I'll repeat, the included
hardware doesn't work hence I should be able to get a refund which I
can't as no-one takes any responsibility. That's what the rants about!


This pretty much sums it up
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894511



Been there, tried all methods on 3 separate pcs. Everything appears ok
software wise and it certainly should get a signal when it's 100' (laptop
first then dragged two separate desktops out on extension cord trying) or so
facing south into 2 acre+ freshly mowed field (BIG lawn . Damn thing has
come alive occasionally but goes dead after few minutes use is "best"
experience to date. Just wanted the thing to permanently mount on 4x4 with
old laptop running OziExplorer (preferred as it uses very hi-res aerial
photos of local area I have rather than canned commercial maps) when back in
woods rather than having to use new Garmin handheld (which works with all
systems over all software).

I'm far from rich, old geezer limited pension. Money I spent wasn't trivial
to me and I feel like I've been robbed, e.g. someone just reached in took
from me and left nothing of value.



If the store refuses to take it back and Pharos says thats the method of
fixing the issue perhaps you paid with a credit card, and have some
recourse there?

"Shenan Stanley" wrote in message
...
news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx


That's a guideline no company is forced to follow so it's a lot like
insurance bureau, better business bureau etc. and basically is the self
serving make people feel good before fact bs common to all.

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

S&T 2008 with included GPS. Installed fine, validated etc. no problem and
software itself works. Less than 2 months old in original packaging. Isn't
the warranty from date of purchase and not date plastic was put on package?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MS supports the software but all indications from all support angles
indicate they pass off any hardware problems to that manufacturer even
though there's no mention of any other than MS involved on packaging when
making purchase decision. Hence the subject line.


MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Been there, done that, as said hardware good-bye and go see hardware
manufacturer.


Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html


I't does look like perhaps Pharos is going to make some effort anyway. They
refused anything to do with it via email support but after a phone call and
an argument about "How can a consumer that goes into a store to buy
something supposed to know that product was made 'x' time ago so no longer
under warranty." they have agreed to "take a look at it" with no promises
provided I send everything to them including even the USB extension cable.
Now have to remember which of the 1/2 dozen of those is the one came with
the unit as I tried a few during debugging sessions and I have a feeling
they'll use any excuse to avoid any sense of responsibility.

"Shenan Stanley" wrote in message
...
news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx


That's a guideline no company is forced to follow so it's a lot like
insurance bureau, better business bureau etc. and basically is the self
serving make people feel good before fact bs common to all.

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

S&T 2008 with included GPS. Installed fine, validated etc. no problem and
software itself works. Less than 2 months old in original packaging. Isn't
the warranty from date of purchase and not date plastic was put on package?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MS supports the software but all indications from all support angles
indicate they pass off any hardware problems to that manufacturer even
though there's no mention of any other than MS involved on packaging when
making purchase decision. Hence the subject line.


MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Been there, done that, as said hardware good-bye and go see hardware
manufacturer.


Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html


I't does look like perhaps Pharos is going to make some effort anyway. They
refused anything to do with it via email support but after a phone call and
an argument about "How can a consumer that goes into a store to buy
something supposed to know that product was made 'x' time ago so no longer
under warranty." they have agreed to "take a look at it" with no promises
provided I send everything to them including even the USB extension cable.
Now have to remember which of the 1/2 dozen of those is the one came with
the unit as I tried a few during debugging sessions and I have a feeling
they'll use any excuse to avoid any sense of responsibility.

"news.microsoft.com" pjp_is_located_@_hotmail_dot_com wrote in message
...


"Shenan Stanley" wrote in message
...
news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx


That's a guideline no company is forced to follow so it's a lot like
insurance bureau, better business bureau etc. and basically is the self
serving make people feel good before fact bs common to all.

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

S&T 2008 with included GPS. Installed fine, validated etc. no problem and
software itself works. Less than 2 months old in original packaging. Isn't
the warranty from date of purchase and not date plastic was put on
package?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MS supports the software but all indications from all support angles
indicate they pass off any hardware problems to that manufacturer even
though there's no mention of any other than MS involved on packaging when
making purchase decision. Hence the subject line.


MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Been there, done that, as said hardware good-bye and go see hardware
manufacturer.


Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html


I't does look like perhaps Pharos is going to make some effort anyway.
They refused anything to do with it via email support but after a phone
call and an argument about "How can a consumer that goes into a store to
buy something supposed to know that product was made 'x' time ago so no
longer under warranty." they have agreed to "take a look at it" with no
promises provided I send everything to them including even the USB
extension cable.

Don't the instructions say NOT to use any kind of extension or USB hub, that
the GPS needs to be plugged directly into a USB port?
--
SC Tom


Now have to remember which of the 1/2 dozen of those is the one came with
the unit as I tried a few during debugging sessions and I have a feeling
they'll use any excuse to avoid any sense of responsibility.

"news.microsoft.com" pjp_is_located_@_hotmail_dot_com wrote in message
...


"Shenan Stanley" wrote in message
...
news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx


That's a guideline no company is forced to follow so it's a lot like
insurance bureau, better business bureau etc. and basically is the self
serving make people feel good before fact bs common to all.

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

S&T 2008 with included GPS. Installed fine, validated etc. no problem and
software itself works. Less than 2 months old in original packaging. Isn't
the warranty from date of purchase and not date plastic was put on
package?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MS supports the software but all indications from all support angles
indicate they pass off any hardware problems to that manufacturer even
though there's no mention of any other than MS involved on packaging when
making purchase decision. Hence the subject line.


MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Been there, done that, as said hardware good-bye and go see hardware
manufacturer.


Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html


I't does look like perhaps Pharos is going to make some effort anyway.
They refused anything to do with it via email support but after a phone
call and an argument about "How can a consumer that goes into a store to
buy something supposed to know that product was made 'x' time ago so no
longer under warranty." they have agreed to "take a look at it" with no
promises provided I send everything to them including even the USB
extension cable.

Don't the instructions say NOT to use any kind of extension or USB hub, that
the GPS needs to be plugged directly into a USB port?
--
SC Tom


Now have to remember which of the 1/2 dozen of those is the one came with
the unit as I tried a few during debugging sessions and I have a feeling
they'll use any excuse to avoid any sense of responsibility.

"SC Tom" wrote in message
...

"news.microsoft.com" pjp_is_located_@_hotmail_dot_com wrote in message
...


"Shenan Stanley" wrote in message
...
news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx


That's a guideline no company is forced to follow so it's a lot like
insurance bureau, better business bureau etc. and basically is the self
serving make people feel good before fact bs common to all.

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

S&T 2008 with included GPS. Installed fine, validated etc. no problem and
software itself works. Less than 2 months old in original packaging.
Isn't the warranty from date of purchase and not date plastic was put on
package?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MS supports the software but all indications from all support angles
indicate they pass off any hardware problems to that manufacturer even
though there's no mention of any other than MS involved on packaging when
making purchase decision. Hence the subject line.


MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Been there, done that, as said hardware good-bye and go see hardware
manufacturer.


Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html


I't does look like perhaps Pharos is going to make some effort anyway.
They refused anything to do with it via email support but after a phone
call and an argument about "How can a consumer that goes into a store to
buy something supposed to know that product was made 'x' time ago so no
longer under warranty." they have agreed to "take a look at it" with no
promises provided I send everything to them including even the USB
extension cable.

Don't the instructions say NOT to use any kind of extension or USB hub,
that the GPS needs to be plugged directly into a USB port?
--

Yes, that is one of the debugging steps. As mentioned tried that on a laptop
and two desktops. Think that is mostly to guard against a bad extension
cable though as clearly if it's directly connected to the usb port on a pc
it has restricted access to the sky to pick up sats. Using a known good
extension cable hasn't been any different than without in how reliable the
product is.

SC Tom


Now have to remember which of the 1/2 dozen of those is the one came with
the unit as I tried a few during debugging sessions and I have a feeling
they'll use any excuse to avoid any sense of responsibility.

"SC Tom" wrote in message
...

"news.microsoft.com" pjp_is_located_@_hotmail_dot_com wrote in message
...


"Shenan Stanley" wrote in message
...
news.microsoft.com wrote:
Bought a copy of MS Streets & Trips short time ago. I already had a
number of GPS programs but bought the package because it included a
small GPS receiver that connects to a usb port.

S&T works as expected, GPS receiver doesn't work anywhere near
reliably, perhaps 5% of time (at first, doesn't seem to do more
than light up now) and has never kept working longer than a few
minutes.
And that's across 4 pcs so I think it safe to assume it's toast
given everything works properly when I hook up my standalone Garmin
GPS to any of these software packages.

MS takes no responsibility for the peice of hardware, even stating
in the packaging (only readable after opening) to go to Pharos (GPS
manufacturer) for support for it. Pharos simply stated 'take it
back and get your money back'!!! Dealer won't take it back as it
was old stock when I bought it at a loss already for him instead
telling me to "send it in for warranty".
WHAT F***ING WARRANTY does one have when both pass the buck for
brand new item.

So I end up swallowing another cost for something that doesn't work
and never did.

MS, you wonder why I will try first and sometimes continue to use
"pirated" software. You steal money out of my pocket continually
for defective products so it's the only way to protect myself.

Microsoft North American Retail Product Refund Guidelines
http://www.microsoft.com/mscorp/prod...nd/refund.mspx


That's a guideline no company is forced to follow so it's a lot like
insurance bureau, better business bureau etc. and basically is the self
serving make people feel good before fact bs common to all.

What *exact* Streets and Trips version is this and what was the date of
purchase?

S&T 2008 with included GPS. Installed fine, validated etc. no problem and
software itself works. Less than 2 months old in original packaging.
Isn't the warranty from date of purchase and not date plastic was put on
package?

- Streets & Trips 2006 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=9977)
- Streets & Trips 2007 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=11947)
- Streets & Trips 2008 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=12565)
- Streets & Trips 2009 with GPS Locator
(http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?p1=13795)
- Streets & Trips 2010 with GPS Locator
(LifeCycle not listed yet)

The reason for the query should be obvious.

Tried to get help from Microsoft if it is still a supported product?

MS supports the software but all indications from all support angles
indicate they pass off any hardware problems to that manufacturer even
though there's no mention of any other than MS involved on packaging when
making purchase decision. Hence the subject line.


MapPoint / Streets & Trips / AutoRoute Solution Center
http://support.microsoft.com/ph/1058#tab0

Specifically:
Contact a support professional by E-mail, Online, or Phone
http://support.microsoft.com/gethelp...=ph;en-us;1058

Been there, done that, as said hardware good-bye and go see hardware
manufacturer.


Reasonable questions, I think.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html


I't does look like perhaps Pharos is going to make some effort anyway.
They refused anything to do with it via email support but after a phone
call and an argument about "How can a consumer that goes into a store to
buy something supposed to know that product was made 'x' time ago so no
longer under warranty." they have agreed to "take a look at it" with no
promises provided I send everything to them including even the USB
extension cable.

Don't the instructions say NOT to use any kind of extension or USB hub,
that the GPS needs to be plugged directly into a USB port?
--

Yes, that is one of the debugging steps. As mentioned tried that on a laptop
and two desktops. Think that is mostly to guard against a bad extension
cable though as clearly if it's directly connected to the usb port on a pc
it has restricted access to the sky to pick up sats. Using a known good
extension cable hasn't been any different than without in how reliable the
product is.

SC Tom


Now have to remember which of the 1/2 dozen of those is the one came with
the unit as I tried a few during debugging sessions and I have a feeling
they'll use any excuse to avoid any sense of responsibility.

If they say not to use an exten sion cable, I wouldn't.

I have a Brother laser printer. It will only work a maximum of 6 feet cable.
Extensions of any kind do not work and it states it in their manual.

Yes, that is one of the debugging steps. As mentioned tried that on a
laptop and two desktops. Think that is mostly to guard against a bad
extension cable though as clearly if it's directly connected to the usb
port on a pc it has restricted access to the sky to pick up sats. Using a
known good extension cable hasn't been any different than without in how
reliable the product is.

SC Tom


Now have to remember which of the 1/2 dozen of those is the one came
with the unit as I tried a few during debugging sessions and I have a
feeling they'll use any excuse to avoid any sense of responsibility.