Garmin dropping sync

[kavanaughmark]

On our 2019 C 30 CB, the Garmin 14” inch displays initially shows engine RPM, and then at some point will stop showing RPM for no apparent reason. RPM is always visible on the Volvo display in saloon, but don’t have a full Volvo display on command bridge. Once the RPM display drops from Garmin, it doesn’t come back unless I restart. The next time I go out I can get the RPM to display, but the problem happens again. Any thoughts on what is happening and how I can fix?

 

[SJI Sailor]

We had intermittent issues between them until we got in the habit of always fully starting up the Garmin systems before even unlocking the Volvo. No issues since then. Garmin wants to be first, it seems.

Another thing I would check is all the NMEA connections in the cabinet behind the helm, make sure they are solid.

 

[FlyMeAway]

Second the recommendation that the Garmin be powered on first.

Would also make sure you are running the latest Garmin firmware. Sometimes that fixes the gremlins.

 

[kavanaughmark]

Thanks, will start Garmin first and check the connections too. Not sure what that entails but will look.

It is possible the Garmin system has never been updated. To update the Garmin system, is it just as easy as getting on Wi-Fi while at the dock and going to the Garmin web site via the onboard boat system? Thanks again.

 

[SJI Sailor]

There are a few ways to update but IMO the easiest is to download a PC or Mac “updater” from Garmin, and run that on your computer to make an SDcard update disk. Insert that into the chart plotter and it will update everything. OTOH this requires an SDcard writer (very cheap, like $10) for your computer. https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=NqgIU9cKKr2BgssIJpAee5

Using the ActiveCaptain app is another method but it has never worked for me, not sure why (works for many). Unless you want that for other reasons it is probably overly complicated. They also have the Garmin Express PC/Mac app which is helpful if you want to update charts as well ($$ for those). Those also go on an SDcard.

 

[kavanaughmark]

Thanks, I will try ActiveCaptain first, and then probably have to use your process.