How to Update Lowrance Software and ActiveTarget (Step-by-Step)
Updating your unit and forward-facing sonar is one of the simplest ways to improve performance and access new features. The process is straightforward once you understand the order and a few key details.
What You Need
Start with the basics:
- A microSD or SD card (32GB or smaller)
- A computer with an SD card slot or adapter
- Alternatively, a phone with a compatible adapter
- Your unit powered on and connected to a stable power source
The storage size matters. Cards larger than 32GB will not be recognized by the unit.
Downloading the Software
Go to the Lowrance software updates page and select your unit model. This will typically be a .UPD file for units and a .RIW for Active Target.
Example:
- HDS Live users select the correct series
- Download the update file for the unit
- Download the update file for ActiveTarget (if applicable)
Once downloaded, drag both files directly onto the SD card.
Before removing the card, eject it properly from your computer. Pulling it out without ejecting can prevent files from transferring correctly.
Updating the Unit First
Insert the SD card into your unit.
Nothing will happen immediately. That is normal.
- Power the unit off
- Turn it back on
- The update will begin automatically
You will see a progress bar across the screen. Each unit on the boat must be updated individually.
This can take several minutes per unit depending on how many graphs are installed.
Keep power stable during the update. Losing power mid-update can interrupt the process.
Confirming the Unit Update
After the update completes, the unit will reboot.
To confirm:
- Press Pages
- Go to Settings
- Scroll to “About”
Check that the software version matches the latest version you downloaded.
Updating ActiveTarget
Once the unit is updated, move to the ActiveTarget module.
- Go to Pages → Storage
- Open the memory card
- Select the ActiveTarget update file
- Choose Upgrade
There is a checkbox on the right side of the screen that must be selected before starting the update.
Start the upgrade and allow it to run.
The ActiveTarget box will reboot during this process. The screen may briefly show “no source.” That is expected behavior.
Confirming ActiveTarget Update
After everything powers back on:
- Go to Pages → Settings → About
- Select Support
- Choose “Check system for updates”
If everything is correct, it will show the system is up to date and display the current version.
What Changes After Updating
Software updates can include:
- New settings options
- Adjustments to image clarity
- Additional features like depth offset
These updates directly affect how your sonar displays fish, structure, and your lure.
Where Most People Struggle
Two common issues show up repeatedly:
- Using the wrong SD card size
- Updating accessories before the unit
The correct order is always:
- Update all units
- Update accessories like ActiveTarget
Skipping that order can cause the update not to appear or fail to install properly.
Getting Better Results After Updating
Updating software changes how your unit processes data, but it does not automatically dial in your settings.
If your screen still looks unclear, cluttered, or inconsistent, that comes down to setup and interpretation.
Fishfinder Coach provides:
- PDF settings guides for Lowrance units and ActiveTarget
- Video courses showing how to read sonar in real time
Those break down what each setting actually does and how to adjust it based on conditions so you can see your lure and identify fish without guessing.
