Memory Card Required to Update New GPSMAP 64x Series Handheld

GPSMAP 64x series handhelds come with free updates for their preloaded TopoActive mapping. Since the GPSMAP 64x series was first released in 2019, so much new information has been added to these maps that they will not all fit on the handheld's internal memory. Updating the maps is not required in order to use the handheld, but if you choose to update the maps Garmin Express will prompt you to insert a microSD card (maximum 32 GB). For more details on microSD card requirements, see -  Memory Card Size Requirements for Garmin Outdoor Handhelds

IMPORTANT: Do not use a preloaded/preprogrammed map card while updating the TopoActive maps, even if the card has available space on it. Installing a map update onto a preloaded/preprogrammed card may corrupt or overwrite the original map files on the card.

Installing a microSD Card

You can watch the following video for instructions or follow the steps in the owner's manual.

Updating the Handheld

Garmin Express can be used to update the software and TopoActive map on your handheld. The TopoActive map is updated periodically throughout the year, usually in the spring and fall. For coverage of the TopoActive map and its current version, see Related .

1. Open Garmin Express
   
   • If you do not have Garmin Express already, you can download it from www.garmin.com/express
2. Connect your handheld to the computer using a USB cable
   • NOTE: If you plan on updating the map, add a microSD card to the handheld before connecting it (see above). If you only wish to update the software on the handheld a microSD card is not required.
3. Follow the prompts to Add a Device or select your handheld by clicking on it
4. Garmin Express will then display one of the following options:
   • Available map or software updates for your handheld will give the option to Install or Install All
     
     • View Details will provide specifics on the updates that are ready to install
       • You can also install just the desired update(s) by clicking Install next to it
     • When installing any updates, ensure your computer has a strong connection to high speed internet and does not go into a sleep mode
   • If there are no map or software updates available, it will instead say that you are up to date
     • Software Version will show the last version installed to the device
     • Map Details will provide the map name(s) and version(s) last installed to the device

Looking for Something Else?

• For help choosing and buying a new map, see -  Choosing and Purchasing a Map for your Outdoor Handheld or Watch
• For how to download an already purchased map, see -  Downloading a Purchased Map with Garmin Express for an Outdoor Handheld