Keeping your Furuno firmware up to date is essential for ensuring reliable navigation, improved GPS accuracy, and optimal performance of your marine electronics. Firmware updates provide bug fixes, security improvements, enhanced compatibility with marine charts, and support for new features. Whether you own a Furuno NavNet TZtouch, GP-39, GP-1971F, GP-1871F, or another compatible Furuno navigation system, installing the latest firmware helps keep your equipment operating smoothly.

If you're searching for how to update Furuno firmware, this comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know, from preparing your device to completing the installation and troubleshooting common update issues.

What Is Furuno Firmware?

Firmware is the built-in software that controls how your Furuno GPS, chartplotter, radar, fish finder, or multifunction display operates. It manages essential functions such as:

• GPS positioning
• Navigation calculations
• Chart display
• Radar integration
• Sonar operation
• Network communication
• User interface functionality
• System security

Updating the firmware ensures your device continues to operate efficiently and remains compatible with the latest navigation technologies.

Why Update Furuno Firmware?

Installing the latest firmware offers several important benefits.

Improved GPS Accuracy

Firmware updates can enhance satellite acquisition and positioning accuracy for more dependable navigation.

Better System Stability

Updates often resolve software bugs that may cause freezing, crashes, or unexpected restarts.

Enhanced Performance

Many firmware releases improve overall speed, touchscreen responsiveness, and menu navigation.

New Features

Some updates introduce additional navigation tools, display improvements, or expanded compatibility with new accessories.

Improved Compatibility

Firmware updates help ensure your Furuno device works correctly with:

• Marine charts
• Radar systems
• Fish finders
• AIS receivers
• Autopilot systems
• NMEA 2000 and Ethernet networks

Security Improvements

Software updates may also include fixes that improve system reliability and protect against software vulnerabilities.

Which Furuno Devices Can Receive Firmware Updates?

Many Furuno products support firmware upgrades, including:

• Furuno NavNet TZtouch Series
• Furuno NavNet TZtouch2
• Furuno NavNet TZtouch3
• Furuno GP-39 GPS Navigator
• Furuno GP-1971F
• Furuno GP-1871F
• Furuno GP-3700
• Furuno Multifunction Displays (MFDs)
• Furuno Radar Systems
• Furuno Fish Finders
• Furuno Integrated Navigation Systems

The exact update process may differ slightly depending on your model.

Before Updating Furuno Firmware

Preparation helps ensure a successful installation.

Before you begin:

• Back up your routes and waypoints.
• Save important system settings.
• Verify your current firmware version.
• Ensure the vessel has a stable power supply.
• Use a compatible SD or microSD card if required.
• Read the firmware installation instructions for your specific model.

Avoid performing updates while your vessel is underway.

What You'll Need

Prepare the following:

• A computer with internet access
• A compatible SD or microSD card
• SD card reader
• Latest Furuno firmware package
• Your Furuno navigation device
• Reliable onboard power

Step 1: Check the Current Firmware Version

Before installing an update:

1. Turn on your Furuno device.
2. Open the Menu.
3. Select System Settings.
4. Choose System Information.
5. Note the installed firmware version.

Comparing the installed version with the latest available version helps determine whether an update is necessary.

Step 2: Download the Latest Firmware

Locate the firmware package for your exact Furuno model.

Download:

• Latest firmware
• Installation instructions
• Release notes
• Supporting update files if required

Always verify that the firmware matches your specific model before installation.

Installing incompatible firmware may prevent the device from operating correctly.

Step 3: Prepare the SD Card

Insert the SD card into your computer.

Then:

1. Format the card if recommended.
2. Extract the downloaded firmware package.
3. Copy the update files to the SD card.
4. Do not rename any files or folders.
5. Safely eject the card.

Correct file placement is essential for successful installation.

Step 4: Insert the SD Card into the Furuno Device

1. Turn off the Furuno unit.
2. Insert the prepared SD card into the appropriate slot.
3. Turn the device back on.
4. Wait for the system to detect the firmware files.

Some models recognize the update automatically, while others require manual installation.

Step 5: Start the Firmware Update

Navigate to:

Menu → System → Maintenance → Software Update

Select:

• Firmware Update
• System Update
• Install Update

Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the installation.

Step 6: Wait for the Installation to Complete

Firmware installation typically takes 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the model and update size.

During the process:

• Do not turn off the device.
• Do not disconnect power.
• Do not remove the SD card.
• Allow any automatic restarts to complete.

Interrupting the update could result in software corruption.

Step 7: Restart the Device

After installation:

• Remove the SD card if instructed.
• Restart the Furuno device.
• Allow the system to complete initialization.

The first startup after updating may take slightly longer than usual.

Step 8: Verify the Firmware Update

After restarting:

1. Return to System Information.
2. Confirm the firmware version has changed.
3. Test the GPS, charts, radar, sonar, and other connected systems.
4. Verify that routes and waypoints remain available.

If everything operates normally, the firmware update was successful.

Tips for a Successful Firmware Update

For the best results:

• Use firmware designed specifically for your Furuno model.
• Maintain stable power throughout the installation.
• Back up important navigation data.
• Use a reliable SD card.
• Carefully follow the installation instructions.
• Update firmware before installing new chart data.
• Test the system after completing the update.

Common Furuno Firmware Update Problems

Firmware Update Not Detected

Possible causes:

• Incorrect firmware package
• Improper SD card formatting
• Files copied incorrectly
• Unsupported SD card

Solution:

• Reformat the SD card.
• Download the firmware again.
• Verify the folder structure.

Installation Stops or Freezes

Possible causes:

• Interrupted power
• Corrupted download
• Faulty SD card

Solution:

• Restart the update.
• Use a different SD card.
• Download a fresh firmware package.

Device Won't Restart

Possible causes:

• Incomplete firmware installation
• Corrupted update files

Solution:

• Wait several minutes before restarting.
• Reinstall the firmware if necessary.
• Verify the correct firmware version.

GPS Cannot Find Satellites After Updating

Possible causes:

• GPS receiver reacquiring satellites
• Antenna issue
• Configuration change

Solution:

• Move to an open area.
• Wait 10–20 minutes.
• Inspect the antenna.
• Restart the device.

Connected Devices Not Communicating

Possible causes:

• Network configuration changes
• Firmware compatibility issues

Solution:

• Restart the marine network.
• Check Ethernet and NMEA connections.
• Update connected devices if required.

Best Practices After Updating

After completing the firmware update:

• Verify GPS accuracy.
• Test route planning.
• Confirm chart loading.
• Check radar operation.
• Test sonar functionality.
• Verify autopilot communication.
• Inspect network connections.

Testing your equipment before heading offshore helps ensure reliable operation.

How Often Should You Update Furuno Firmware?

It's recommended to check for firmware updates:

• Every 3–6 months
• Before boating season
• Before extended offshore trips
• After installing new marine electronics
• When Furuno releases new firmware
• If you experience recurring software issues

Routine updates help maintain performance and compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update Furuno firmware myself?

Yes. Most Furuno GPS units, chartplotters, and multifunction displays allow users to install firmware updates using an SD card and the appropriate update files.

Will a firmware update erase my saved routes?

Firmware updates generally do not erase routes or waypoints. However, you should always back up your navigation data before installing any update.

How long does a Furuno firmware update take?

Most firmware updates take 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the model and the size of the update package.

What happens if the firmware update is interrupted?

Interrupting a firmware installation can corrupt the software and prevent the device from operating correctly. Always maintain stable power and allow the update to finish without interruption.

Should I update charts after updating firmware?

Yes. Updating your marine charts after installing the latest firmware helps ensure compatibility and provides the most accurate navigation information.

Conclusion

Keeping your Furuno firmware up to date is one of the most effective ways to maintain accurate navigation, dependable system performance, and compatibility with the latest marine technologies. Firmware updates provide valuable improvements, including bug fixes, enhanced GPS accuracy, better network communication, and support for new features. By following the steps in this guide—checking your current firmware version, preparing the update, installing it correctly, and testing the system afterward—you can help ensure your Furuno navigation equipment remains reliable and ready for every journey on the water.