Keeping your Furuno navigation system updated is one of the best ways to ensure reliable performance, accurate positioning, and safe marine navigation. Software and firmware updates provide important improvements such as bug fixes, enhanced GPS accuracy, improved chart compatibility, and support for new features. Whether you use a Furuno chartplotter, multifunction display (MFD), radar, fish finder, or an integrated navigation system, installing the latest updates helps your equipment perform at its best.

This guide explains how to update a Furuno navigation system, what you need before starting, and how to resolve common update issues.

Why Update Your Furuno Navigation System?

Regular updates improve both the functionality and reliability of your navigation equipment.

Benefits of updating include:

• Improved GPS positioning accuracy
• Better system stability and performance
• Bug fixes and security improvements
• Enhanced chart compatibility
• Support for new navigation features
• Improved radar and sonar integration
• Better networking between onboard devices
• Increased overall reliability during voyages

Updating your system before boating season or long offshore trips helps ensure safe and dependable navigation.

Which Furuno Navigation Systems Can Be Updated?

Many Furuno products support firmware and software updates, including:

• Furuno NavNet TZtouch Series
• Furuno NavNet TZtouch2
• Furuno NavNet TZtouch3
• Furuno GP-39 GPS Navigator
• Furuno GP-1971F
• Furuno GP-1871F
• Furuno Multifunction Displays (MFDs)
• Furuno Radar Systems
• Furuno Fish Finders
• Furuno Integrated Bridge Systems
• Compatible marine navigation networks

The update process may vary slightly depending on the model.

Before Updating Your Furuno Navigation System

Preparation helps reduce the risk of installation problems.

Before starting:

• Back up your routes, waypoints, and settings.
• Ensure your boat has a stable power supply.
• Check the current software version.
• Use a compatible SD card if required.
• Download the correct firmware for your model.
• Read the installation instructions included with the update.

Avoid performing updates while your vessel is underway.

What You'll Need

Gather the following items:

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

Step 1: Check the Current Software Version

Before downloading updates:

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

This helps you determine whether an update is available.

Step 2: Download the Latest Firmware

Locate the latest firmware package for your exact Furuno model.

Download:

• Latest firmware
• Software update files
• Installation guide
• Release notes

Always verify that the firmware matches your specific device model before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare the SD Card

Insert the SD card into your computer.

Then:

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

Proper file placement is essential for successful installation.

Step 4: Insert the SD Card into the Navigation System

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

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

Step 5: Install the Update

Navigate to:

Menu → System → Maintenance → Software Update

Select:

• Firmware Update
• System Update
• Install Update

The system will begin installing the new software.

Do not remove power or the SD card while the update is in progress.

Step 6: Allow the Installation to Complete

Depending on the model, installation usually takes 5 to 30 minutes.

During this time:

• Do not turn off the device.
• Do not press unnecessary buttons.
• Do not remove the SD card.
• Wait for any automatic restart to finish.

Interrupting the process may result in software corruption.

Step 7: Restart the Navigation System

After installation:

• Remove the SD card if instructed.
• Restart the Furuno system.
• Allow all connected devices to initialize.

The first startup may take longer than usual.

Step 8: Verify the Update

After the system restarts:

1. Return to System Information.
2. Confirm the new firmware version.
3. Test the GPS, charts, radar, and sonar functions.
4. Ensure all connected devices communicate properly.

If everything operates normally, the update was successful.

Updating Charts Along with Firmware

Firmware updates improve system performance, while chart updates provide the latest navigation data.

Updated charts may include:

• New waterways
• Updated coastlines
• Harbor modifications
• Revised depth contours
• Navigation markers
• Restricted areas
• Marina information

For the best navigation experience, keep both firmware and charts current.

Tips for a Successful Furuno Update

To minimize problems:

• Use only official firmware.
• Install updates in a dry, stable environment.
• Ensure uninterrupted power.
• Back up all navigation data.
• Follow the included instructions carefully.
• Verify device compatibility before installation.
• Update one device at a time if using a networked system.

Common Furuno Navigation System Update Problems

Update Not Detected

Possible causes:

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

Solution:

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

Installation Stops or Freezes

Possible reasons:

• Corrupted firmware files
• Power interruption
• Faulty SD card

Solution:

• Restart the process.
• Use a different SD card.
• Download a fresh copy of the firmware.

GPS Cannot Acquire Satellites

After updating:

• Move to an open area.
• Wait several minutes for satellite acquisition.
• Restart the GPS receiver.
• Check antenna connections.

Missing Routes or Waypoints

If user data appears missing:

• Restore from your backup.
• Import saved GPX files.
• Verify storage settings.

Backing up before updating helps prevent data loss.

Connected Devices Not Communicating

If radar, sonar, or autopilot devices fail to connect:

• Restart the entire network.
• Check network cables.
• Verify software compatibility across all devices.
• Update connected units if required.

Best Practices After Updating

Once the update is complete:

• Verify GPS accuracy.
• Test route planning.
• Confirm chart loading.
• Check radar operation.
• Test sonar performance.
• Verify autopilot communication.
• Review saved routes and waypoints.

Testing your system before leaving the dock helps identify any issues early.

How Often Should You Update Your Furuno Navigation System?

Check for updates:

• Every 3–6 months
• Before boating season
• Before offshore trips
• When new firmware is released
• After installing new accessories
• Whenever chart updates become available

Routine maintenance helps ensure long-term reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my Furuno navigation system myself?

Yes. Most Furuno systems allow owners to install firmware updates using an SD card by following the official installation instructions.

Does updating erase my saved routes?

Typically, firmware updates do not delete user data. However, backing up routes and waypoints before updating is strongly recommended.

How long does a Furuno navigation system update take?

Most updates complete within 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the device model and update size.

Can I update charts and firmware at the same time?

Yes. Many users update both during the same maintenance session to ensure full compatibility and optimal performance.

What should I do if the update fails?

Restart the device, verify that you downloaded the correct firmware, check the SD card, and repeat the installation process according to the official instructions.

Conclusion

Regularly updating your Furuno navigation system helps maintain accurate positioning, dependable operation, and compatibility with the latest marine technologies. Firmware updates improve performance, resolve software issues, and add new features, while chart updates provide the latest navigation data for safer route planning. By following the steps in this guide—backing up your data, installing the correct firmware, verifying the update, and testing your equipment afterward—you can keep your Furuno navigation system operating efficiently and confidently on every voyage.