Thread: Garmin GPS updates

'hadn't looked at the Garmin site for updates (for my 296) in a few months.... was surprised to see it jumped several versions (5.40 to 5.80) in that short time. It looks like there were similar updates for the whole X96 series. I was alerted to the fact by Garmin tech support who suggested I update to the latest, as he said there were some significant fixes and changes. One thing he said had changed was the way the units re-acquire satellites after they've been off for a while. Sometimes mine was taking 10-15 minutes to acquire after not being used for a few weeks.

I haven't tried it since updating... but hope it solves that little problem.

Tim

I've just updated my GPS396 to 5.00 (dated 18 Nov 2009) and have found no issues. Sadly, the GPS396 is now listed as discontinued. Sigh.
I also had a slow startup issue with my first two units, replaced under warranty. The third works well. The problem is the
second internal battery not holding charge. Its used to keep the clock running when the unit is off. So, after a period of inactivity,
turn on your GPS and look at the date & time. If incorrect, its probably the internal battery. To charge, run the unit on external
power for at least 8 hrs; it must be turned on. Then test the clock again. If it still has clock problems, factory
service is required. The battery is *not* user replacable, don't try to open the unit, that voids the warranty.
There are some undocumented reset sequences - see
http://home.online.no/~sigurdhu/GPSm...C_commands.htm
No warranty expressed or implied if you try that.

Garmin comments on my problem -
Once you have confirmed or downloaded the new software version, start with your GPS unit turned off. Next, press and hold the OUT button on the GPS. While you are holding the OUT button down, turn on the power to
the unit. Continue holding the OUT button down for approximately 12 seconds. After 12 seconds, release the OUT button and be sure to agree to the terms on the start-up page by pressing ENTER. You should see the word ?Auto Locate.? From here, you must leave the unit turned on and left outside with a clear view of the sky for a full 30 minutes.
You will also need to recharge the Internal battery. To charge this battery, you must connect the GPS to external power and leave the GPS powered ON for 8 hours. You will then disconnect your GPS from external power and let it run off battery power until it completely shuts itself off. Repeat those two steps a second time.

Thanks,
Garmin tech said there was a couple of secret start-up routines we could try if the firmware didn't fix things... 'looks like you've saved me another phone call!

Tim