Garmin software updates
 

G'day all, am thinking of acquiring a 196 or 296 and was wondering how the software updates work, i.e. up to date maps etc... Does one just simply log onto the Gramin website to get these? And if so at what sort of cost? And..., how often are they available?, are they updated as often as conventional paper maps? And one more, anyone have a Garmin in good condition they would like to off load? Cheers. :cool:

Hi Biggles. Try and stretch for the new 495 model. Similar unit, but faster updates than the 296 and has a better screen.

Updates to the firmware can be loaded at any time as they are released on the Garmin website. Jeppensen (airspace) updates you need to purchase from the site as they are released, perhaps quarterly, from memory about US$40 each.

Updating is pretty easy via the USB cable. Unfortunately I haven't come across anyone that knows how to do dodgey free updates. Would be interested to hear if someone has cracked the Garmin code.