The Bushnell Excel Watch has revolutionized the golf experience by offering features like GPS range finder, score tracking, and course mapping. However, a common issue that some users have encountered is the watch not displaying local courses in the list. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you're eager to use the watch on your local links. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the causes of this issue and provide a detailed, step-by-step solution to fix it.
Understanding the Issue
The problem with local courses not appearing could stem from several factors:
- Incorrect Region Settings
- Outdated Software/Firmware
- Courses Not Updated or Added in the Database
- User Location Not Detected Correctly
Checking and Updating Region Settings
One of the primary reasons you might not see local courses is if your watch’s region settings are not correctly set. Here’s how you can verify and correct these settings:
- Enter Settings Mode: On your watch, navigate to the settings menu.
- Select Region: Find the option for region or location settings.
- Choose Correct Region: Ensure your region matches the area where you are playing golf. For instance, if you are in the US, set it to US or North America.
✅ Note: Remember that some regions might not have as extensive course coverage as others. If your local golf course is not within the database, you might need to wait for an update or consider adding it yourself.
Updating the Software/Firmware
Outdated software can lead to various issues, including the inability to display courses correctly. Here’s how to update:
- Connect to PC/Mac: Use the USB cable provided with your watch to connect it to a computer.
- Launch Software: Open the Bushnell Excel watch companion software on your computer.
- Check for Updates: Look for an option to check for software or firmware updates.
- Install Updates: If there are updates available, install them as directed.
| Current Version | Latest Version | Update Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1.3.5 | 1.4.6 | Yes |
🔄 Note: Updating firmware can take some time, make sure the watch remains connected to your computer during the entire process to avoid corruption or interruption.
Ensuring Courses are in the Database
Even with correct settings and updated software, local courses might not show up if they aren’t in the database. Here’s how you can help add a new course:
- Contact Bushnell: Submit a request to add your local course through Bushnell’s support channels.
- Use GPS Coordinates: If possible, provide accurate GPS coordinates to expedite the process.
- Join the Community: Some watches allow community updates. Look for forums or community areas where users can contribute course information.
🌐 Note: Adding courses requires patience as it involves collaboration between Bushnell and the golf course or community members.
Location Detection and Syncing
Sometimes, the watch might not be syncing your location correctly, which can cause the issue:
- Check Location Services: Ensure your phone’s location services are enabled if you use the companion app.
- Allow Location Access: On your watch, go to settings and give permissions for location use.
- Manual Course Search: If automatic syncing doesn’t work, manually search for your course by name or location.
🧭 Note: Regularly check and update your watch’s settings to ensure it has the latest information about courses nearby.
In sum, resolving the issue of no local courses on your Bushnell Excel Watch involves a few key steps: ensuring correct region settings, keeping your watch's software up-to-date, verifying the course is in the database, and syncing location services. With these actions, you can significantly improve the chances of seeing your local golf course appear on your watch, making your golf outings more enjoyable and convenient.
How do I know if my watch’s software is outdated?
+
If your watch software is outdated, it might not display the latest courses or features. Check for updates through the companion software on your computer.
Why might some regions have limited course coverage?
+
Region coverage depends on several factors including market demand, agreements with golf courses, and community involvement in updating course data.
Can I add a course myself?
+
In some cases, users can submit new course information for inclusion in the database. Check with Bushnell support for specific instructions.
