Keeping your Furuno GPS updated is essential for maintaining accurate navigation, improved system performance, and compatibility with the latest marine charts and accessories. Installing the latest GPS updates can improve satellite reception, fix software issues, enhance stability, and add new navigation features.

Whether you use a Furuno NavNet TZtouch series, GP-39 GPS Navigator, GP-1971F, GP-1871F, or another Furuno marine navigation device, the installation process usually involves downloading the correct update files, transferring them to an SD card, and installing them through the device menu.

This guide explains how to install Furuno GPS update step by step and how to troubleshoot common installation problems.

Why Install Furuno GPS Updates?

Regular Furuno GPS updates provide several important improvements, including:

• Better GPS positioning accuracy
• Faster satellite acquisition
• Improved navigation reliability
• Bug fixes and system improvements
• Enhanced chart compatibility
• Better communication with radar and sonar systems
• Improved touchscreen and menu performance
• Support for new accessories and features

Keeping your GPS software current helps prevent navigation errors and improves overall system reliability.

Supported Furuno GPS Devices

Furuno GPS updates are available for many marine navigation systems, including:

• Furuno NavNet TZtouch
• Furuno NavNet TZtouch2
• Furuno NavNet TZtouch3
• Furuno GP-39
• Furuno GP-1971F
• Furuno GP-1871F
• Furuno GP-3700
• Furuno Multifunction Displays (MFDs)
• Furuno Integrated Navigation Systems

The exact installation steps may vary slightly depending on your model.

Before Installing Furuno GPS Update

Before starting the update process, prepare your device carefully.

Backup Your Data

Save:

• Routes
• Waypoints
• Tracks
• Custom settings

This prevents accidental data loss during the update.

Check Your Current Software Version

Find your current version by:

1. Turning on the Furuno GPS.
2. Opening the main menu.
3. Selecting System Information.
4. Recording the current software version.

Ensure Stable Power

During installation:

• Connect to a reliable power source.
• Avoid updating while underway.
• Do not interrupt power during installation.

A power interruption may damage the software.

What You Need for Installation

Prepare the following:

• Computer with internet access
• Compatible SD or microSD card
• SD card reader
• Latest Furuno GPS update files
• Furuno GPS device
• Stable power supply

Step 1: Download the Furuno GPS Update

Download the correct update package for your specific Furuno model.

Make sure the update includes:

• Compatible firmware/software files
• Installation instructions
• Release notes

Before downloading, confirm:

• Device model
• Region compatibility
• Software version requirements

Using incorrect update files may cause installation failure.

Step 2: Prepare the SD Card

The update is commonly installed using an SD card.

Follow these steps:

1. Insert the SD card into your computer.
2. Format the card if required.
3. Extract the downloaded update files.
4. Copy the update files onto the SD card.
5. Keep the original file structure.
6. Safely eject the card.

Do not rename or modify update files.

Step 3: Insert the SD Card into Your Furuno GPS

1. Turn off the Furuno GPS unit.
2. Insert the prepared SD card into the card slot.
3. Turn the device back on.
4. Wait for the GPS to detect the update.

Some Furuno models automatically recognize the update files.

Step 4: Start the GPS Update Installation

If the update does not start automatically:

1. Open the Menu.
2. Go to System Settings.
3. Select Maintenance.
4. Choose Software Update.
5. Select the available update.
6. Confirm installation.

The GPS will begin updating.

Step 5: Wait for the Update to Complete

The installation process may take:

5–30 minutes

During installation:

• Do not turn off the GPS.
• Do not remove the SD card.
• Do not disconnect power.
• Do not press unnecessary buttons.

The device may restart automatically during the process.

Step 6: Restart the Furuno GPS

After installation:

1. Remove the SD card if instructed.
2. Restart the GPS.
3. Allow the system to complete startup.

The first boot after updating may take longer than normal.

Step 7: Verify the GPS Update

After restarting:

1. Open System Information.
2. Check the new software version.
3. Confirm GPS positioning.
4. Test chart display.
5. Check connected marine devices.

Verify that:

• GPS signal is available.
• Routes and waypoints are present.
• Navigation functions work correctly.

Installing Furuno Map Updates After GPS Software Updates

After updating GPS software, you may also want to update your marine charts.

Map updates provide:

• Updated coastlines
• New waterways
• Corrected depth information
• Updated navigation markers
• New ports and marinas

Keeping both software and charts updated ensures maximum navigation accuracy.

Common Furuno GPS Update Installation Problems

Update Files Not Detected

Possible causes:

• Incorrect update files
• Wrong SD card format
• Unsupported card
• Incorrect file placement

Solutions:

• Verify the update matches your GPS model.
• Reformat the SD card.
• Copy files again carefully.

Installation Stops During Update

Possible causes:

• Power interruption
• Corrupted files
• Faulty SD card

Solutions:

• Restart the process.
• Download the update again.
• Use another SD card.

GPS Won't Start After Update

Possible causes:

• Failed installation
• Incorrect firmware
• Corrupted software

Solutions:

• Perform a restart.
• Reinstall the correct update.
• Check power connections.

GPS Cannot Find Satellites After Update

Possible causes:

• Temporary satellite reacquisition
• Antenna problem
• Configuration issue

Solutions:

• Move to open water.
• Wait 10–20 minutes.
• Check antenna connections.
• Restart the GPS.

Charts Missing After Update

Possible causes:

• Chart compatibility issue
• Missing chart files
• License problem

Solutions:

• Reinstall chart data.
• Update charts separately.
• Verify chart compatibility.

Tips for a Successful Furuno GPS Update

Follow these best practices:

• Use only official Furuno update files.
• Confirm your exact GPS model before downloading.
• Keep power connected throughout installation.
• Backup important navigation data.
• Use a high-quality SD card.
• Update firmware before charts.
• Test your system after installation.

How Often Should You Install Furuno GPS Updates?

Check for updates:

• Every few months
• Before boating season
• Before offshore trips
• After adding new marine equipment
• When performance issues appear
• Whenever new software is released

Regular updates help maintain reliable navigation performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a Furuno GPS update myself?

Yes. Most Furuno GPS systems allow users to install updates using an SD card and the correct software files.

Will installing a Furuno update delete my saved data?

Usually, updates do not erase routes and waypoints, but backing up your navigation data before installation is recommended.

How long does a Furuno GPS update installation take?

Most installations take between 5 and 30 minutes, depending on the model and update size.

What happens if power is lost during installation?

A power interruption can corrupt the software installation. You may need to reinstall the update using the correct files.

Should I update charts after installing GPS software?

Yes. Updated firmware and current marine charts work together to provide the best navigation experience.

Conclusion

Installing a Furuno GPS update is an important maintenance task that helps improve navigation accuracy, system stability, and compatibility with modern marine equipment. By downloading the correct update files, preparing an SD card properly, following the installation steps carefully, and verifying the system afterward, you can keep your Furuno GPS operating efficiently. Regular software updates, current charts, and proper maintenance ensure reliable performance and safer navigation on every trip.