Garmin software updates give you access to the latest features and ensure trouble-free use, whether you’re accessing essential vessel information via your chartplotter/fishfinder or mobile device. Before updating your Garmin marine electronics, a little system maintenance is strongly recommended, however, – namely, backing up your user data, profiles, and system settings – so you can restore them later, if necessary. What do you need to backup before performing Garmin software updates?
User Data & System Profiles
Backing up your system profiles and user data like waypoints, tracks, and routes onto an SD will allow you to restore them quickly if they are lost during a software update or factory reset. To back up user data and system profiles, you will need a separate Class 10 SD card for backup that is 32 GB or smaller, FAT32 format.
● To back up system profiles:
1. Remove any micro/SD cards from your chartplotter/card readers.
2. Insert another card into the card reader. This card will hold your backup data.
3. Go the HOME screen, then select “Settings” > “My Vessel” > “System Profiles.”
4. Select “Save to Card.”
5. Select “File” or “Add New File.”
6. Name the new file. (“Backup-System Profiles Garmin Chartplotter,” etc.)
● To back up user data:
7. Remove any micro/SD cards from your chartplotter/card readers.
8. Insert another card into the card reader. This card will hold your backup data.
9. Go the HOME screen, then select “User Data,” followed by “Manage Data” (if shown).
10. Select “Data Transfer” > “Save to Card.”
11. Select the file(s) you want to save.
12. Select “Save to Card” or “Add New File,” following the prompts.
13. Name the new file. (“Backup- User Data Garmin Chartplotter,” etc.)
Digital Switching Settings
If your chartplotter offers digital switching, which is used to monitor/control the circuits of compatible systems such as interior and navigation lights and live well circuits, backing up these settings will allow you to restore them quickly in the event they are lost. To back up these settings:
1. Remove any micro/SD cards from your chartplotter/card readers.
2. Insert another card into the card reader. This card will hold your backup data.
3. Go to the HOME screen, then select “Settings” > “My Vessel” > “Switching.”
4. Select the switching network that applies to your vessel, then choose “Save to Card.”
5. Name the new file. (“Backup-Digital Switching Garmin Chartplotter,” etc.)
Afraid you’ll lose your way? J-TEK Marine is here to keep you on course with Garmin software updates and the latest marine technology. Find out if you need a Garmin software update now.