Specific question
Do I need to register a unit before before I can check for mapping updates? Or can this unit not accept updates beyond V7.....
That's two questions isn't it? Here's three answers!
I think you have to register the unit before you can check for updates.
I think your only chance of a free update will be one step up the ladder.
I think your unit will accept CN2008 (non NT) if you pay for it, or otherwise acquire an unlock code and a disc.