Congrats on a great choice of
software. CE is very capable and because of the many functions, there is a
learning curve. Learn the keyboard shortcuts and mouse operations if you want to get the best use of it.
Start with the
documentation that comes with the program, and read the manual. If you don't have a manual, start the program and press the F1 function key at the top of your keyboard. In the "getting started" Help section, look for the sub-section titled: "Setting up instruments". Other HELP screens will answer your other questions. You should read the
documentation thoroughly before you ask questions here. It will also tell you how to get product support from the company.
Now to answer your question about getting the GPS to be recognized, turn on the GPS and then start the program. After your GPS has warmed up and has a fix, choose 'Configure Vessel and Electronics" and then choose "Data Ports" then choose "Auto Detect".
If the program doesn't get a GPS fix, then report back and include all details about how you have connected your GPS to the computer.