Garmin GPS software update question...

[jpollman]

Hello folks,

I've got a Garmin GPSmap76S that I bought about a year ago. It's a very nice unit but I've only used it a couple of times. I just got it out and decided to start playing with it and trying to learn how to use all of its features. I looked at the system information and found that I'm running software version 3.21. According to the Garmin web site, they're currently up to version 3.6 for my particular unit. I'd like to download it and upgrade. I think it would be wise. It looks like they've made quite a few changes and bug fixes according to the list of upgrades that were done. What I'd like to know is have any of you ever done this and is it difficult ? I can't imagine it would be that hard but I don't want to open up a can of worms either. :)
I'm assuming that I just download the upgrade to my PC and then hook up the cable and then download the new software to the unit. I'll do some reading but I just thought that I'd see what your experiences have been before I attempt it.

Thanks very much in advance for any input.

John

[jpollman]

Nevermind. :)

I did a little reasearch and it looked pretty easy so I gave it a try. I downloaded the software and unzipped the files. All I had to do was plug the serial cable in to the computer and GPS. Then turn the GPS on and click on the "Updater" program and it took off and did its thing. It took about 3 minutes and it was done.

[The Nailer]

John,
Sorry I didn't see this until you already figured it out. They are easy to download, but check their sight every couple of months because they are constantly upgrading. That is one of the things I like about Garmin, you can upgrade at NO CHARGE!!

[fishwitch44]

Not to get off subject but do either of you know anything about the 162 or 182..I am thinking of upgrading from the 128 so I can have the blue chart capabilities and was wondering which was the better value...Thanks..Bob

[ESOX]

After much consideration, I ended up with neither of those choices, I got the 172, I wanted the color display, which although not as big as the 162, is a lot easier to see bluechart detail on and is very easy to see in direct sunlight. I figured it was hte best bang for the buck. If you go to Garmins site, you can do a side by side comparison of all three of them at once. Look in marine chartplotters, not gps's.

[fishwitch44]

Esox..I see the msrp is about $750 fot the 172..Franks in Linwood has these for $619.00 right now..Does this come with the blue chart or do you still have to buy that??...How hard are these to learn to use??..i thought this was going to be an easy decision.. :bash:

[ESOX]

You buy the Blue Chart separatly. Like any Garmin, it has a really easy to learn GUI. I have a buddy with the 182, and I have played with it a lot, but for my uses, I couldn't justify the extra 500 bucks.