Guys, just because things were done in a certain way in the past doesn't mean that a new way is wrong. Or do you still belief that the Earth is flat?
500 SNP's are 500 unique markers in a row. If that is stretched out over 1cM or 5cM is no difference. The only difference is that recombinations are suppose to happen 5 more times (or are 5 times more likely). Check the definition for centiMorgan, it's not centimeter.
What are the chances that 500 markers are identical by chance? Can one of the Math buffs here on the list come up with an estimation?
I'm aware of all the old studies and papers written about this and yet, if you apply triangulation and you find many DNA kits that triangulate into this group plus there is a paper trail to a CA with several MRCA then it's proven for me.
Please keep in mind that based on my work in this area it's common that you have matches with a minimum of 700 SNP's / 7cM in this TG, you also have some matches that are above 500 SNP's / 5cM in the same TG and yes, some DNA kits have several (usually 2) broken up segments within the overall boundary of the TG.
The key is to apply triangulation and have at least one DNA cousin in the TG with over 700 SNP/7cM.