# Unlocking Maps in Basecamp for MAC

# Unlocking BackroadMaps in Garmin Basecamp for macOS

> **Goal** – Import the `.gma` unlock key so your BackroadMaps are activated in Basecamp on a Mac.

> **Prerequisites** –  
> * Garmin Basecamp and Map Manager installed on your Mac.  
> * A `.gma` file either downloaded from your Backroad Maps account or located on the microSD card in the `Garmin` folder.

---

## 1. Locate the `.gma` Unlock Key

| Source | Where to Find It |
|--------|------------------|
| **Your account** | Log in to the Backroad Maps portal → **My Unlock Keys** → download the file (usually named *`YourUnlockKey.gma`*). |
| **microSD card** | Inside the microSD card → `Garmin` folder → file *`gmapsupp.gma`* (if the card hasn’t been updated) or *`YourUnlockKey.gma`* (if the card has been updated). |

![Unlock key locations](https://brmb.support/uploads/images/gallery/2025-03/macgms.png)

> The file is always named **`.gma`** – the name will differ based on the card’s update status.

 ![Example file names](https://brmb.support/uploads/images/gallery/2022-07/mac-gma.png)

---

## 2. Open Map Manager

1. **Navigate** to the folder containing the `.gma` file.  
2. **Double‑click** the `.gma` file.  

   *A “Map Manager” window appears, asking whether you’d like to install the maps.*  

   ![Map Manager prompt – Install](https://brmb.support/uploads/images/gallery/2025-03/macdigital13.png)

3. Click **`INSTALL`** to start the unlocking process.

   ![Map Manager prompt – Confirmation](https://brmb.support/uploads/images/gallery/2025-03/macdigital14.png)



---

## 3. Verify Successful Unlock

Once installation completes:

1. Open **Garmin Basecamp**.  
2. Go to **Maps → Manage Map Products**.  
3. The relevant BackroadMap entry should now display **“Region unlock code from …”** next to its name, indicating it is unlocked.

---

## 4. Troubleshooting

| Issue | Likely Cause | Fix |
|-------|--------------|-----|
| Map Manager doesn’t open when double‑clicking `.gma` | File not recognized | Verify the Map Manager application is installed. |
| Security block (“This application cannot be opened”) | macOS Gatekeeper | Use **System Settings → Security & Privacy → General** to allow the file, then retry. |

---

## 5. Need More Help?

* **Phone** – 1-877-520-5670  
* **Submit Support Request** – > <https://backroadmapshelp.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/requests/new>   

We’re here to help you get your maps up and running as quickly as possible!