18.2 Software Update for Simrad GO XSE, Evo2, Evo3, S2009 and S2016

Simrad has released its 18.2 software update for GO XSE, Evo2, Evo3, S2009 and S2016, with a Range of exciting new features.

18.1 was released earlier in the year, boasting additions such as FishReveal, high contrast StructureScan for NSS Evo3, MotorGuide integration and Dock-to-Dock Autorouting/ EasyRouting. Now thanks to the new 18.2 update, you’ll have more functionality than ever before.

As a guide, the 18.2 update number refers to the year of the update (2018), followed by the release number for the year (ie. 2 being second release).

Check out the new improvements below!

Minute Markers

Minute Markers appears at the top of the sounder display. It's a strip of alternating dashes that represent time, with each black and white strip in the Line representing 1 minute.

This provides a quick visual reference of time taken since you passed over a Fish school or feature – which is handy for towing lures, or for commercial trawlers who want to know when the target enters their net.

Colour Mark & Colour Erase

Colour Mark allows you to change selected colours that appear on the sounder to a colour of your choice. This is useful in that it lets you highlight Fish that are hard on the bottom, or a specific target strength that you are Targeting – so it’s much easier to see at a glance.

Meanwhile, Colour Erase lets you filter out certain colours from your display – so you can remove any unwanted Sonar returns such as >Thermoclines, small bait Fish or other smaller targets without changing your gain.

When you use the two together, this acts as a powerful tool to focus on desired returns.

GO XSE, Evo2 or Evo3 only

Buy Charts straight from your MFD

You can now buy and download CMAP Genesis charts from your MFD instead of having to use a PC.

Simply select the 'Store' icon at the bottom of the homepage to go to the GoFree store. All you need is a GoFree account and an internet connection, and you'll be able to download charts straight to your SD Card. You'll also be able to buy feature upgrades like Halo Velocity Track.

Yamaha & Mercury Engine Integration

Thanks to this latest upgrade, you can fully integrate your Yamaha or Mercury engine with your GO XSE, Evo2 or Evo3.

The upgrade also means there’s now the option for your Yamaha to be completely gauge-less! Simply use your Yamaha gateway module (6YG-8A2D0-00-00) instead of the CL7 gauge to unlock the Yamaha features on your MFD.

1. CL7 gauge not required – completely gauge-less!
2. Engine Trim or Tank calibration
3. Fuel Flow
4. Maintenance Intervals
5. Alarm Configuration
6. Fault Code Reporting

18.2 also gives your Mercury extra functionality, with updates for the latest engine models, and the ability to purchase feature upgrades straight from the MFD. There have also been improvements to the Autopilot and Vessel Control interfaces.

Evinrude Engine Integration

When your Simrad is connected to an Evinrude Engine Control >Head via NMEA 2000, Evinrude engine monitoring and functionality is automatically enabled – meaning you can monitor and control the engine from your MFD.

Adjust your Trim Assist or IPS controls, calibrate Trim and tilt and configure your fuel tanks all from your Simrad unit.

Bluetooth Call & Text Notifications

View incoming phone calls and messages from a Bluetooth-connected smartphone on your Evo3 or GO XSE! If you have an Android phone, you can also reply or send texts from the MFD.

Although if you’d prefer not to be bothered and you’re out on the water to get away from everyone, you don’t have to connect the Bluetooth – or you can also set up an automated reply to say you’re out fishing. The choice is up to you!