garmin chart plotter

[nzfisher]

I have a 2011 r25sc and sometimes when I start out in the morning I get various errors before the Garmin chart plotter finally boots up. Most frequently I get a system missing or a refusal to load. After turning it off and on again 2-3 times it finally loads but it leaves me with a nervous feeling like this could be the last time it comes up. Anyone else have a similar experience? I jiggle all the wires and do the other things that a non expert would do but doesn't seem to matter. If you have had this problem and found a solution it would be great to know about it.

Kenny says to make sure all of the breakers are on for autopilot etc before turning it on but I'm sure I do that.

Thanks

 

[TugWatters]

I had a similar problem with mine sometimes not booting and dropping off unexpectedly. We finally isolated the problem to a bad radar. I had the radar replaced (under warranty) and no further problems. You may want to make sure you have the latest software update too.

I also had the same concern regarding loss of the chart plotter. In response, I mounted a ball socket mount from RAM Mounts and mounted my IPAD port side of the helm station and downloaded GARMIN Blue Chart Mobile on the IPAD. It works great as a back up nav unit. I have the version with cell service which has a built in GPS. That combination works great as a standby. I do not leave port without it.

TugWatters
R-27

 

[RProffer]

I recommend doing a software update to the latest update. I had similar problems and reinstalling the software fixed it. I searched Garmin's site and found a page that described how to reinstall the operating system upon start up. It involved downloading the latest software update on a SD card, insert the card into the chartplotter, then press and hold the power button until the word "Holding" is displayed. I did that and the operating system reinstalled and everything is working fine now. I now keep that SD card on the boat along with the instructions in case it happens again.Here is the link to Garmin that describes this.

 

[STELLA L]

nzfisher - I had basically the same problem but was not given any warning except to have the chart plotter go off. It was the radar connection at the mast. Kenny replaced the connection which was corroded and no more problems. I have the same year and boat as you so might be the cure.

 

[Levitation]

And just to chime in I had the chart plotter blues ( no radar installed).
Had to send the unit back to Garmin and they replaced mother board with a new one.
Been perfect since.

 

[Brian B]

If you do the update and use the G2 Vision feature the auto guidance will not function as it once did. This is described and the way to work around it is also explained until another update to fix the issue is released.
See:
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=3788