How to Upgrade a GPS System

GPS units can come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

A GPS system is a handheld or car-mounted piece of hardware with a small video screen that provides maps and directions. Different GPS devices offer a variety of bells and whistles, but the fundamental idea is to offer directions to get to a chosen destination and provide additional information about businesses and sites in the area. Over time, this data becomes outdated. To use your GPS with the most accuracy, you need to update it.

Things You'll Need

• GPS cable
• GPS map DVD

Instructions

1. Connect your GPS to your computer. Your GPS comes with a cable. One end connects to your GPS and the other end to a USB connection on your computer.

2. Install any software that the GPS loads onto your computer. Look for any updates available in the software. You might need to go to the GPS manufacturer's website to see whether there are any downloads.

3. Order a new map CD if there are no online downloads available. Some GPS systems use a DVD. When you connect the GPS to the computer, it downloads the updates.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase a new GPS device if you want more hardware options or if there are no map or other software upgrades available.

References

• Laptopmag: How To Update Your GPS