customer service is a big part of the overall package, call LOWRANCE get help, call HUMMINBIRD get help, had HUMMINBIRD, now I don't good product,but after owning a lowrance got to say they are pretty easy to use. I like the 7 better than the 8, now on the customer service part. I'm old, lazy, get up late, go to bed early, don't like many,and most don't like me. now having said that I never have had a problem with lowrance customer service NEVER. always got what I ask for, and most of the time I just email and bam answer and problem fixed, most problems were my fault for not reading,and taking advice from C.C members, so keep asking, checking and when you make a decision it will be informed and you will be ahead of the game. once again good luck on your choice,