no need to register with humminbird.if the unit doesnt have sd card with it you can buy one of those cheap sand disk cards. one gig. would be plenty big.go to this sight and download the latest software update for your unit.you dont have to but i would recommend that you restore the unit to factory default before and after update.heres the link to site Login this is also the best site to learn and feel free to ask for any help that you need with your humminbird.there really good people there. good luck