New Lowrance Update for HDS Gen 2 models

[wicklundrh]

There is a new Firmware update for the Lowrance HDS Gen 2 models. It came out in February and I believe the number is 2.5

I loaded it on three of our units (two HDS 7's and One HDS 5).

I did not notice a tone of changes HOWEVER, I also run an LSS 1 module and when you go to the "structure" screen, it has changed. You used to have a section to view "Structure" plus "down Image" side by side, or a tri-screen with sonar. This update took away that interface and now you see "structure" + "structure".

I wrote a letter to Lowrance tech support. Basically stating that "if this is a known issue, how do I roll back my unit?" Structure + Structure is worthless to me as I do not need to see the same thing on a split screen. I received a reply back last night. Below is the reply:

"When you have the structure scan displayed, press menu one time, enter on view, enter on down".

I have not tried this yet. Hopefully it changes the interface so I do not have to do the above on every single time I want to see structure and down image. I will test it out and let everyone know.

I would NOT update your unit until I test it (unless you do not have an LSS module) or you do not utilize down image and structure scan side by side.

[wicklundrh]

Ran the test and everything is good. If you install the update and you don't have structure scan, you won't notice a thing other than some updated map features.

If you do have structure scan, do the above fix and down scan will return to your menu.

[brettw]

Why should I update? I like my current software and not buying the Spotlight.

[Drifty4]

It doubles the speed that the GPS updates itself, giving you more precise coordinate calculations.

It also lets you read any PDF file that you want to keep on your chip. It is a handy place to deep owners manuals.

It updates a lot of other things having to do with Ethernet connections and map sharing.

[brettw]

Thanks
The GPS thing is needed

[wicklundrh]

One thing to note is that Lowrance has free updates for all of their gear. Some of the other manufacturers will either force you to upgrade your unit, buy an add on, or live with what you have as they produce new stuff. Check their site every year in March. The last three years they have come out with new updates.

They also update their standard maps with this same software.

[Eatmorecrappie]

What if you just purchased an hds a month ago, still update?

[Drifty4]

I updated mine right after I bought it.

I did the update again this year. If you look in the manual that comes with your unit, in the front I believe it tells you that there are going to be updates coming and where to get them.

Pretty simple process, and it is free. Why not?

[Eatmorecrappie]

Thanks Drifty4!