Garmin often releases updates for devices to improve performance, correct bugs or add new features. The internal operating system software is separate from software such as mapping that may be on some handheld units.
The software update may erase user data that has been saved to the device. Before performing the software update, back up all user data (waypoints, routes, and tracks). For instruction on backing up user data from the device, please refer to the FAQ titled "How do I backup user data from my Garmin USB Device handheld?"
To update your device's software a program called Garmin Express will need to be downloaded and installed*. Once the program has been installed, please follow the prompts to add your device and then install any available updates.
If Garmin Express advised that there are updates you can select to show updates and then scroll down to view the ones shown and choose just to install Firmware updates rather than Topo Active Maps update which may need additional memory as per the information below:
Important: Garmin have been improving the detail level of the Topo European Mapping that comes pre-loaded on some units, due to these improvements if you would like to update the pre-loaded maps to the latest version you will need to use a separate blank 16gb Micro SD card in your unit to install the updates to the following units.
etrex 20,eTrex 22x, eteex30 eTrex 32x, eTrex Touch 35t,
Montana 700i & Montana 750i
Important you cannot use the mapping card that the Topo Pro Ordnance Survey Maps are supplied on as there is not enough memory on them.
Currently the GPSMap65s, GPSMap66i, GPSMap66SR & Montana 700 units have enough internal storage to install the updates to without the need to use an additional Micro Sd Card.
Please make sure your computer has all its power save settings turned off when performing the update so that your computer does not go to sleep.
N.B. Depending on your Computer & Internet Speed the Map Updates can take several Hours to fully update.
We have many more tips and training videos to get you going with your Garmin Handheld GPS device and Garmin's Basecamp planning software on our Online Training Resource - More info here
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