Raymarine Evolution 100 Software Update

[sailingjazz]

So, I have a Raymarine Evolution 100. I use the OOTB control head. I don't have a MFD, I use OpenCPN. I have OpenCPN integrated into both my NMEA 2000 & 0183 networks and appreciate the flexibility and low cost. My question is, has anyone found a way to update the software on the Evolution ACU without a Raymarine MFD? I know Raymarine says you either need a AXIOM or other Raymarine MFD or you need to send the unit back to Raymarine to get it updated. I have to believe it could be updated from a PC, has anyone heard anything about this? I really don't want to buy a AXIOM just to update the software, it would just sit in a drawer the rest of the time. Oh and don't tell me you can't use OpenCPN at the helm, I've been doing it for 10 years.

Thanks,
Kevin

 

[jssailem]

One option would be to disconnect the ACU and take it to a Raymarine Dealer. (Raymarine indicates that is an option, though some dealers are reluctant to do this service). They have the ability to connect the ACU to a computer with the proprietary software and upgrade the system.
Or if you get the ACU disconnected, you might be able to do the upgrade with a friend who has the needed Raymarine MFD.

 

[chuckwayne]

I removed my ACU and used a friends Axiom as suggested by jsailem, but then found a used A series for short money. I added a tee and a long spur cable to my seatalk ng network so I could connect the A series mfd (the rest of Escape runs on NMEA 2k).