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Updating a Compatible Marine Device With the ActiveCaptain Application

ActiveCaptain allows for wireless updates to the internal firmware of some Garmin devices. The steps below will guide you through this process.


 NOTE: It is recommended that you backup all user data before performing the software update. Please refer to the Owner's Manual of the device for instructions to backup user data. 


1.  Ensure your Garmin device is compatible with wireless software updates

    • STRIKER Plus 7/9" Models
    • echoMAP Plus 6/7/9" Models
    • echoMAP Ultra series
    • echoMAP UHD series
    • GPSMap 10x2 series
    • GPSMap 12x2 series
    • GPSMap
    • GPSMap 7x2 series
    • GPSMap 7x2 Plus series
    • GPSMap 9x2 series
    • GPSMap 9x2 Plus series
    • GPSMap 7400/7600
    • GPSMap 8000 Series

2.  Make sure the smart device is paired with the Garmin device. See Related Content below for pairing instructions.

3.  Within the ActiveCaptain application select My Marine Devices

4.  The application will search for updates for your device. If there is an update available, select Download

5.  A data connection will be required to download the update. Disconnect from the Garmin device Wi-Fi and either connect to a Wi-Fi network to provide internet access or use a cell data plan.

6.  Once the update has been fully downloaded, reconnect to your Garmin device Wi-Fi

7.  When the devices are connected again, the update will automatically start transferring to the chartplotter. The Garmin device will display the message "Software updates are ready for installation on your system"

8.  Select Review

9.  Select Install Now

Please be patient while the update is being installed. Do not disconnect or power off the device while the update is in progress. 

Once the update is complete, the Garmin device will restart. Depending on the smart device's Wi-Fi settings, it may need to be reconnected to the Garmin device's Wi-Fi network to continue using other ActiveCaptain features. 

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