How to Update Your Lowrance GPS Map? 

Lowrance GPS devices are widely used by boaters, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts for navigation and mapping. Keeping your Lowrance GPS up-to-date is essential to ensure that you have the latest maps, charts, and software for accurate navigation. Whether you're heading out on the water or exploring new terrain, updated maps will provide better routing, new points of interest (POIs), and enhanced safety features.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to update your Lowrance GPS map and software step-by-step.

Why Should You Update Your Lowrance GPS Map?

Updating your Lowrance GPS maps ensures that you have access to the latest features, improvements, and data. Here are a few reasons why updating your maps is important:

1. New and Updated Charts: For boating and fishing, map updates include the latest depth charts, shorelines, and navigational markers.
   
   

2. Improved Accuracy: Maps get refined and corrected over time. Updating ensures that the GPS device reflects the most accurate information possible.
   
   

3. New Points of Interest (POIs): Whether it's marinas, restaurants, or emergency services, updated maps will include the latest points of interest.
   
   

4. Safety Enhancements: New updates often include updated hazard information, such as shallow areas, submerged objects, or areas with heavy traffic.
   
   

5. Software Improvements: Lowrance GPS devices occasionally release software updates that improve system performance, fix bugs, or add new features.
   
   

What You Need to Update Your Lowrance GPS Map

Before you begin, make sure you have everything required for the update process:

1. Lowrance GPS Device: This could be a standalone GPS or a device integrated into your boat's system.
   
   

2. Computer with Internet Access: You’ll need a computer to download the map updates.
   
   

3. USB Cable: If you’re updating a standalone Lowrance device, you’ll need a USB cable to connect the GPS to your computer.
   
   

4. SD Card or MicroSD Card: Many Lowrance devices use SD cards or microSD cards to store maps. Make sure you have one with enough free space.
   
   

5. Lowrance Update Software: Lowrance provides specific software tools for map and software updates, such as Lowrance Hook, Navico SonarChart Live, or Navico Insight Genesis.
   
   

6. Lowrance Account: You may need a Lowrance or Navico account to access the updates.
   
   

Step-by-Step Guide to Update Your Lowrance GPS Map

Step 1: Install Lowrance Update Software

To get started, you’ll need to install the Lowrance software that will help you manage the map update process.

1. Download the Software: Go to the official Lowrance website and find the download page for Lowrance Update Software. This could be either Navico Update Tool or Lowrance Chart Update.
   
   

2. Install the Software: Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the instructions to install the software on your computer. Ensure that the software is compatible with your operating system.
   
   

Step 2: Log Into Your Lowrance Account

Before you can download map updates, you’ll need to log into your Lowrance or Navico account.

1. Create an Account: If you don’t already have one, go to the Lowrance website and sign up for an account. You’ll need to provide your email address and create a password.
   
   

2. Log In: After creating your account, log into the Lowrance software using your credentials.
   
   

Step 3: Connect Your Lowrance GPS Device to Your Computer

Next, you need to connect your Lowrance GPS device to your computer so the software can detect it.

1. Use the USB Cable: Plug the USB cable into both your GPS unit and your computer. If you are using an SD card, remove the card from the GPS and insert it into your computer’s card reader.
   
   

2. Turn On Your Device: Power on your Lowrance GPS device or ensure the SD card is properly inserted and recognized by the computer.
   
   

3. Launch the Lowrance Software: Open the Lowrance software that you installed earlier.
   
   

Step 4: Check for Available Updates

Now that your device is connected, the Lowrance software will scan for available updates.

1. Scan for Updates: The software should automatically detect your device. Click the option to “Check for Updates” or “Start Update”.
   
   

2. View Available Updates: The software will display any available updates for your device, including new map charts, software updates, or additional features.
   
   

Step 5: Download the Map Updates

Once you've confirmed that updates are available, you can begin the download process.

1. Select the Updates: You may be given the option to update maps, charts, or the device’s software. You can choose to download individual updates or all available updates.
   
   

2. Download the Files: Click on the “Download” button to start the process. This can take some time depending on the size of the updates and your internet connection speed.
   
   

Step 6: Install the Map Updates on Your Lowrance GPS Device

After the updates have been downloaded, you will install them onto your Lowrance GPS device.

1. Install the Updates: The software will guide you through the installation process. Follow the on-screen prompts to begin installing the maps and software onto your GPS device or SD card.
   
   

2. Wait for Installation to Complete: The installation can take several minutes, depending on the size of the update. Ensure you don’t disconnect the device or remove the SD card during this process.
   
   

3. Device Reboot: After installation, your device may restart automatically to apply the new updates.
   
   

Step 7: Safely Eject Your Lowrance GPS Device

Once the installation is complete, make sure to safely eject your GPS device or SD card to avoid data corruption.

1. Eject the Device or SD Card: In the software, click the “Eject” button to safely remove your Lowrance GPS or SD card.
   
   

2. Disconnect the USB Cable: If you're using a USB cable, unplug it from both your GPS device and your computer once the device is safely ejected.
   
   

Step 8: Verify the Map Update

After the update is installed, it’s important to verify that the new maps and software have been successfully applied.

1. Power On Your GPS Device: Turn on your Lowrance GPS device and navigate to the settings or “About” section to check the map version number.
   
   

2. Check the Map Version: Make sure the new map version is displayed. If you updated the software, check the software version as well.
   
   

3. Test Navigation: Set a route or explore new areas that should be included in the updated maps to ensure everything is working properly.
   
   

Updating the Lowrance GPS App (If Applicable)

If you are using a Lowrance GPS integrated with a smartphone or tablet app, the process for updating might differ slightly.

1. Open the App: Launch the Lowrance navigation app or the Lowrance mobile companion app on your smartphone or tablet.
   
   

2. Check for Updates: Go to the settings or updates section in the app to check for any available map or software updates.
   
   

3. Download and Install Updates: If updates are available, follow the app’s prompts to download and install the latest maps.
   
   

4. Restart the App: After installation, restart the app to apply the updates.
   
   

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Lowrance GPS Device

1. Regularly Check for Updates: Map updates for Lowrance devices are typically released every few months. Check for updates regularly to ensure you’re using the latest data.
   
   

2. Keep Backup Files: It's a good idea to back up your existing map files before installing new ones, just in case something goes wrong. You can save older map versions on your computer or an external drive.
   
   

3. Use a Reliable Internet Connection: Make sure you’re using a stable, fast internet connection when downloading updates to avoid interruptions and incomplete downloads.
   
   

4. Free Up Storage: Ensure your device or SD card has enough space for the new maps and updates. If you’re running low on storage, consider deleting older maps or unnecessary files to free up space.
   
   

5. Install Updates Before Your Trip: Always update your GPS device ahead of time to ensure you have the most up-to-date maps and charts for your travels, especially if you’re going on a boating or fishing expedition.
   
   

Conclusion

Lowrance GPS map Update is an essential part of keeping your device functioning optimally, whether you're boating, fishing, or simply navigating unfamiliar terrain. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily download and install the latest map updates, ensuring accurate navigation and enhanced safety on your adventures. Regular updates will help you make the most of your Lowrance GPS and ensure that you have the best, most up-to-date information available.