Do not use the latest driver from Windows Update or the standard Prolific website, as it will disable your device. Instead, download the legacy driver package.
By following these steps, your BU-353S4 should work perfectly with navigation software like OpenCPN, Google Earth Pro, or ESRI ArcGIS on Windows 11.
Open the utility, select your , and set the Baud Rate to 4800 .
The GlobalSat BU-353S4 is a legendary USB GPS receiver known for its accuracy and durability. However, getting this older Prolific-based hardware to work on Windows 11 can be challenging due to driver compatibility changes. G Star Iv Gps Driver Download Bu-353s4 Windows 11
Right-click the installer file (usually PL2303_Prolific_DriverInstaller.exe ) and select .
This 2,500-word guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the —from identifying your chipset to troubleshooting COM port errors.
stopped working or showed as an unknown device. The fix involves installing a compatible Prolific driver, even though it may be labeled for Windows 10. Download the Driver: Use the recommended Prolific PL23XX driver installer (e.g., Roadsoft's hosted version GlobalSat site Run the installer ( PL23XX_Prolific_DriverInstaller_v408.zip or similar) to install the driver on your computer. Plug in the Device: Plug your BU-353S4 USB GPS into your computer. Verify/Update in Device Manager: Device Manager Ports (COM & LPT) Do not use the latest driver from Windows
Another driver is claiming the USB interface (often the Microsoft USB Serial Driver). Fix:
Installing a BU-353S4 / G-Star IV GPS on Windows 11 requires identifying the device chipset and selecting the correct signed driver (CP210x or PL-2303). Follow manufacturer downloads, verify COM port operation using a serial terminal, and troubleshoot using the steps above.
This comprehensive guide covers how to bypass this restriction, download the working driver, and correctly configure your puck GPS receiver for navigation software like OpenCPN or Coastal Explorer. Why Windows 11 Rejects the BU-353S4 By Default GlobalSat BU-353S4 Open the utility, select your , and set
If you need help finding the for the legacy files, or if you want step-by-step instructions for configuring specific navigation software like OpenCPN , let me know! Share public link
The G-Star IV BU-353S4 has an LED indicator light that tells you its exact status: