Garmin 2010 or 2006 software updating help needed....

[marlinmike]

I have just installed a 2010C and used the supplied Preprogrammed Data Card for updated, but it is still not the 5.0 version that is on the web site.

I search through Garmin and the manuals for a way I can use my USB unit to upload the latest upgrade to the data card, but unfortunately it is not obvious, yet the site allows for a USB version??

Anyone do this?

Thanks!!

[Big E]

marlinmike-

The version on the data card was probably not current. It should be labeled with the version number, though.

You can buy blank GARMIN proprietary data cards and download areas of your choice (at a price, of course), from the Map Source Blue Charts CD-ROMs. To do that you need a card programmer to handle the unique card that GARMIN uses. That card programmer is a USB device that runs about $60-65. This device will also allow you to download software updates to a data card and then insert into your unit to perform an update.

There is also available an 18 pin, 3-way AC/PC Adapter. It runs about $40. It is a cable that has a built in AC/DC transformer that plugs into your house current, an 18 pin connector identical to the one that plugs into your unit on the boat,and a 3rd connection that connects to a serial port on your computer. You hook up your GARMIN to your computer and then download directly fron the GARMIN web site. You need to first download the GARMIN executable file and install(unzip) it. Then download the appropriate software update and upload to your unit. This cable is suitable to download updates and to save your GPS data (waypoints, routes, etc) to your PC or vice versa. It would not be useful to download Blue Charts from a CD to a blank data card.

I use the 18 pin 3-way cable. I have my 2010c for over a year and in that time there have been about 4 or 5 updates that I downloaded from the GARMIN site. I also use it to save my stored points and routes to my computer. I installed the GARMIN "Points of Interest" software which allows me to create new way points or plot routes at home and then upload them to my GPS. There are some "freeware" versions like "EASY GPS" that a lot of captains use, as well.

Hope this helps!

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[marlinmike]

Big E thanks for the help, but I already have the USB unit and the charts loaded to a blank chip, that was the easy part.

I also have another chip that came with the GSD 20 for updating the operating system of the main unit, but it was version 4.02, which was actually a lower version then what I originally had 4.04.

Any case not overly documented within Garmin manuals or web site, but thankfully I was able to get them quickly on the phone line support (forget email, 5-7 day response) and all you need to do is down load the USB version, unzip and run the "Card Program" application and it writes the latest release (5.0) to the chip, then plug the chip into slot one of the unit and it will prompt you to update.

Real nice way to update the system without the need to remove unit, or move a PC to the unit, added benefit to the USB programmer.

Very impress so far with this product, the usablity is great and intuitive.

[Big E]

I didn't realize that you already had the USB programmer. I was trying to give you pluses/minuses of either if you needed to purchase .

I love being able to bring my unit home and save any new data as well as pre-plot an offshore trip a few days ahead and then upload to the GPS.

If you are considering purchasing the 18 pin AC/PC adapter, it fits a lot of units. If you have buddies, you might be able to pool the funds and make a "community" purchase!

I have been very impresssed with the 2010C and GARMIN in general. The GSD 20 is a good addition as well, but it needs some improvemntes, IMO.

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[Recovery Room]

If you haven't tried it, download the update off the internet. When you execute it, it should walk you through the update. I just downloaded and updated my 2006c using the serial connection. The USB is supposed to work the same way.

Recovery Room

[BW23]

On another note, how can you determine the version date of a "Blue Chart" if it is not printed on the data card ?

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[silverg]

You have to have a blank card to be able to download the upgrade to 5.0 off the internet for USB mode. You can call Garmin and request an upgrade card. They will send the upgrade card to you for you to upgrade your unit and then you return the card to them.

[Think Tweiss]

My Garmin is permanently mounted in the dash. When I installed it, I installed a serial computer cable as well...connecting it to the Garmin supplied in the box NMEA in/out cable. You wire it in as one of the NMEA channels (pick one) and set that channel to Garmin In/Out. I ran the wire into a storage locker in the cabin so it stays nice and dry.

By doing this, I am able to easily move tracks, waypoints and routes back and forth between my laptop computer and the garmin unit....as well as easily update the software.

Highly recommended if you permanently mount a Garmin unit into your dash....and you don't need Garmin's special computer cable...just buy a serial cable at your local computer store, cut off one end and connect the right wires.