I have the embroidery module for my Bernina 440 QE and I love it. It came with the Art Design program. I downloaded a rather extensive manual for free from the internet. I took the class which helped tremendously. I have downloaded hundreds of free embroidery designs from various sites on the internet and have purchased some as well. You can use ART and PES files with the software provided with the module. If you want to be able to digitize your own designs then you would need to purchase the more expensive software. Would I like to be able to do that? Yes. Can I justify the extra expense, not right now. However, you can add lettering to existing designs and combine designs.
Sandpat, does Explorations software work with Bernina?
PV quilter, I emailed Bernina about compatibility with Windows 7 and they said it would with certain service packs and drivers. I can't copy and paste what they sent, but if you emailed them you could get the info.