How to Update Lowrance GPS Navigation Maps on PC: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lowrance is a well-known brand in the world of GPS navigation, particularly for boating, fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts. Their products, including fishfinders, chartplotters, and GPS devices, have become indispensable tools for those who rely on accurate and up-to-date navigation. However, as with any GPS device, ensuring your maps are updated is crucial for optimal performance. This article will guide you on how to update Lowrance GPS navigation maps on your PC, ensuring that your device is equipped with the latest information for smooth and efficient navigation.

Importance of Map Updates for Lowrance GPS Devices

Lowrance GPS devices rely on digital maps for navigation. These maps include not only land-based features but also underwater topography, water depths, hazards, and other essential elements for boating and fishing. As water bodies and landmasses change over time, it’s vital to keep your GPS system up to date.

Here are a few reasons why updating your Lowrance GPS maps is essential:

New Features: Map updates often come with new features or improvements, such as better resolution or additional points of interest.
Corrected Data: Errors in older maps, such as incorrect water depths, hazards, or boundaries, can lead to dangerous situations. Updates correct these issues.
Compatibility: Newer software versions on Lowrance devices may require map updates to maintain full functionality.
Fresh Data: Maps can reflect updated data on roads, landmarks, water bodies, and more, which is important for outdoor navigation.

The process of updating the maps on your Lowrance device can seem daunting at first, but with a few simple steps and some basic tools, you’ll be able to update your maps in no time.

To update your Lowrance GPS maps on your PC, follow the steps below. These instructions will help ensure that you’re using the latest maps for the best navigation experience.

Step 1: Gather Your Equipment

Before starting the update process, ensure you have all the necessary equipment:

Lowrance GPS device (the device you want to update)
MicroSD card (depending on your Lowrance model)
A computer with an internet connection
A USB cable to connect your Lowrance device to the PC
Lowrance’s software, "Navico" or "C-MAP" (depending on your device model)

Navico and C-MAP are the two primary map and software systems that support Lowrance GPS devices. Ensure that you know which system is compatible with your device.

Step 2: Install Lowrance’s Software on Your PC

To start the process, you need to install the necessary software for map updates. If you don’t already have the software installed on your PC, you can download it from Lowrance's official website.

For Navico users, the "Lowrance GoFree" or "Navico Download" software allows you to access and update your charts. Similarly, C-MAP provides its own update software for users who have devices with C-MAP charts.

Once installed, launch the software on your PC.

Step 3: Connect Your Lowrance GPS Device to Your PC

Using a USB cable or a microSD card reader, connect your Lowrance GPS device to your PC. Some devices allow direct connections via USB, while others may require a microSD card inserted into the device to transfer the data.

In some cases, the software you’ve installed may automatically recognize the connected GPS device, while in other cases, you may need to manually select your device from a list within the software.

Step 4: Access the Map Update Section

Within the Lowrance software, look for the "Update Maps" or "Chart Updates" section. This option allows you to check for new updates or patches for your navigation maps. If your software recognizes that your device is connected, it will prompt you to check for the latest available maps and updates.

Make sure your device is connected properly and is powered on during the process.

Step 5: Download the Map Updates

After accessing the update section, you will see a list of available map updates, based on your device and location. Select the map updates you want to install, or you can opt to download all available updates.

This step may take some time depending on the size of the map files and the speed of your internet connection. Once the download begins, the software will automatically start updating the navigation map on your Lowrance device.

Step 6: Install the Maps onto Your Lowrance GPS

Once the map updates have been downloaded, the next step is transferring them to your Lowrance GPS device. If you are using a microSD card, the software will prompt you to insert the card into your PC or directly into the GPS device.

Make sure that your device has enough storage space for the map update files. Some Lowrance GPS devices may require a specific type of microSD card or have storage limits, so it’s worth checking your device specifications beforehand.

The software will guide you through the process of installing the new maps onto the device or microSD card. Once the installation is complete, safely eject the device from your PC.

Step 7: Verify the Update on Your Lowrance Device

After you’ve completed the update process, power on your Lowrance GPS device. Navigate through the device’s menus to check that the updated maps are now available and working correctly.

You may also want to verify the map’s accuracy by cross-referencing it with other navigation sources or by checking known landmarks in your area.

Alternative Methods for Updating Lowrance GPS Maps

While updating via a PC is the most common method, there are other ways to update Lowrance maps:

Wi-Fi Updates: Certain Lowrance devices with Wi-Fi capabilities allow users to download and install map updates directly through Wi-Fi without needing a PC. Check if your device supports Wi-Fi updates by reviewing the user manual or settings menu.
Memory Card Updates: You can also use an SD card to download the update files from the Lowrance website or an authorized retailer, then transfer the files onto the memory card and insert it into your Lowrance device for installation.
Using an SD Card Reader: For some older models, an SD card reader can be used to update maps by downloading the updates onto your PC and then transferring them manually onto the SD card, which can then be inserted into the Lowrance device.

Tips for Maintaining Updated Lowrance Maps

Check for Regular Updates: Map updates for Lowrance devices are frequently released, so make it a habit to check for updates regularly to ensure you’re always using the latest maps.
Backup Your Data: Before performing any updates, always back up your data. This includes waypoints, routes, and other stored information that could be overwritten during the map update process.
Update Your Software: Besides maps, keep your Lowrance device’s software up to date. Software updates often include improvements and bug fixes that can enhance the performance of your device.
Utilize Subscription Services: Some Lowrance users benefit from subscribing to a chart update service like C-MAP or Navionics to access continuous, up-to-date charts and maps.
Ensure Adequate Storage: Before starting the update, check that your Lowrance device has enough storage space for the map updates, as some maps can take up significant space.

Conclusion

Updating the maps on your Lowrance GPS device is a straightforward process that ensures you have access to the latest, most accurate navigation data. Whether you’re navigating a local waterway, exploring new fishing grounds, or planning a road trip, updated maps can make a world of difference in ensuring a safe and efficient journey. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily perform updates on your Lowrance GPS device using your PC. Be sure to regularly check for updates to keep your navigation system current and enjoy a smoother, more reliable outdoor experience.

How to Update Lowrance GPS Navigation Maps on PC: A Step-by-Step GuideUpdated 3 months ago