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Owners
Manual &
Reference

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Software Version 2.0 or above

1996 GARMINCorporation, 1200 E. 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas66062 USA
GARMIN(Europe), Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 9AQ UK
All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic
or manual, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose without the express written permission of GARMIN.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. GARMIN reserves the right to change or improve its
products and to make changes in the content without obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes or
improvements.
GARMIN, GPS II, Personal Navigator, AutoLocate, TracBack, and MultiTrac8 are all trademarks of GARMIN
Corporation and may not be used without the expressed permission of GARMIN.
August 1996 Part # 190-00118-00 Rev. A Printed in Taiwan.

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Thank You!
Thanks for choosing the GARMIN GPS II the smallest, easiest-to-use GPS navigator
for outdoor use! The GPS II represents GARMINs continuing commitment to provide quality navigation information in a versatile and user-friendly flexible design youll enjoy for
years. To get the most from your new GPS, take the time to read through the owners manual in order to understand the operating features of the GPS II. This manual is organized
into three sections for your convenience:
Section One (Read Me First!) takes you through step-by-step instructions to initialize
the receiver for first-time use.
Section Two (Getting-Started Tour) introduces you to the basic features of the unit
and provides a quick-start orientation to the GPS II.
Section Three (Reference) provides details about the advanced features and operations of the GPS II by topic.

Before getting started with

your GPS, check to see that
your GARMINGPS II package includes the following
items. If you are missing any
parts, please contact your
dealer immediately.
Standard Package:
GPS II Unit
Wrist Strap
GPS II Owners Manual
Velcro Mount

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CAUTION!
CAUTION!

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is operated by the government of the United States, which is solely
responsible for its accuracy and maintenance. The system is subject to changes which could affect the accuracy and
performance of all GPS equipment. Although the GPS II is a precision electronic NAVigation AID (NAVAID), any
NAVAID can be misused or misinterpreted and, therefore, become unsafe.

For vehicular applications, it is the sole responsibility of the owner/operator of the GPS II to secure the GPS unit
so that it will not cause damage or personal injury in the event of an accident. Do not mount the GPS II over airbag
panels or in a place where the driver or passengers are likely to have an impact with it in an accident or collision. The
mounting hardware provided by GARMIN is not warranted against collision damage or the consequences thereof.

WARNING
!

WARNING

#
!

ii

For vehicular operations, it is the sole responsibility of the operator of the vehicle to operate his or her vehicle in
a safe manner, maintain full surveillance of all driving conditions at all times, and never become distracted by the GPS
II to the exclusion of safe operating practices. It is unsafe to operate the GPS II while you are driving. Failure by the
operator of a vehicle equipped with a GPS II to pay full attention to operating the vehicle and road conditions while the
vehicle is in motion could result in an accident or collision with property damage and personal injury.

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FCC COMPLIANCE
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC limits for Class B digital devices. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
There is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to other equipment, which can be determined by
turning the affected equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference by relocating the equipment or connecting the equipment to a different circuit than
the affected equipment.
Consult an authorized dealer or other qualified service technician for additional help if
these remedies do not correct the problem. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
(1) This device cannot cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
The GPS II does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only be made by
an authorized GARMINservice center. Unauthorized repairs or modifications could void your
warranty and your authority to operate this device under Part 15 regulations.

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UNIT FEATURES
Antenna

Function Keys

Rocker Keypad

LCD Display
Battery Door

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION ONE Read Me First!
Keypad Usage/Operating Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
What is GPS? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Satellite Acquisition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Battery Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Screen Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
SECTION TWO Getting-Started Tour
Initializing the Receiver/Power On . . . . . . . . . . . .7-9
Page Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-19
SECTION THREE Reference
Satellite Status Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-25
Position Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-28
Creating and Using Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . . .29-39
GOTO and MOB Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40-41

TracBack Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42-45

Creating and Using Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46-55
Compass and Highway Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56-59
Moving Map Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-68
Menu Page and Auxiliary Functions . . . . . . . . .69-80
Simulator Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81-82
Appendix ABattery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Appendix BDashboard Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Appendix CSpecifications and Wiring . . . . . .85-88
Appendix DExternal Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Appendix EMessages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90-91
Appendix FMap Datums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92-95
Appendix GTime Offset Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
Appendix GIndex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97-99
Appendix HNavigation Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . .100

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KEYPAD USAGE/OPERATING TERMS

(POWER) Turns the unit on and off, and controls
three-levels of screen backlighting intensity.

Mode
Field

(PAGE) Scrolls the main pages in sequence and

returns the display from a submenu page to a main page.
(MARK) Captures your present position and displays
the mark position window.
(GOTO) Displays the GOTO waypoint window, allowing you to select the destination waypoint.
(ENTER) Activates highlighted fields and confirms
menu options and data entry.
(QUIT) Returns the display to a previous page or
restores a data fields previous value.
(ZOOM) Provides 12 adjustable fields by selecting
either the in or out keys from the map page.
(KEYPAD) Controls the movement of the cursor and
is used to select options and positions, and to enter data.

CURSOR Solid black bar which can be moved up,

down, left, and right with the keypad to select individual
fields.
DEFAULT A system-selected format, built into a software program or the units memory, that will be followed
unless the user chooses a different setting.
FIELD The location on a page where a group of characters or option is entered and displayed.
HIGHLIGHT The act of using the cursor to select a
field for the purpose of entering data.
SCROLL Moving through characters or options from
a selected field.

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READ ME FIRST!
What is GPS?
GPS is a system of 24 satellites which circle the earth twice a day in a very precise orbit and transmit information to earth. The GPS II must continuously see at
least three of these satellites to calculate your position and track your movement.
By using an almanac (a timetable of satellite numbers and their orbits) stored in
the receivers memory, the GPS II can determine the distance and position of any
GPS satellite and use this information to compute your position.
Your GPS receiver can only see satellites above the horizon, so it needs to know
what satellites to look for at any given time. To use this almanac data, your GPS
needs to either be told its general location or given the opportunity to find itself, or
initialize. Once you initialize the unit to a position, it will usually compute a fix
within a few minutes.
Initialization is only necessary under the following conditions:
The first time you use your GPS II (from the factory).
After the GPS II has been moved over 500 miles from the last time you
used it (with the power off).
If the GPS IIs memory has been cleared and all stored data has been lost.

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READ ME FIRST!

To prevent accidental battery

power loss, the GPS II will
automatically shut off 10 minutes after the last keystroke if
the unit is not tracking at least
one satellite and has never
acquired a position fix.

Satellite Signals
Because the GPS II relies on satellite signals to provide you with navigation guidance, the receiver needs to have an unobstructed, clear view of the sky for best performance. In a nutshell, the GPS receivers view of the sky will generally determine
how fast you get a position fix or if you get a fix at all. GPS signals are relatively
weak and do not travel through rocks, buildings, people, metal, or heavy tree cover,
so remember to keep a clear view of the sky at all times for best performance.
Once the GPS II has calculated a position fix, youll usually have anywhere from
four to eight satellites in view. The GPS II will then continuously select the best satellites in view to update your position. If some of the satellites in view get blocked or
shaded, the receiver can simply use an alternate satellite to maintain the position
fix. Although a GPS receiver needs four satellites to provide a three-dimensional (3D)
fix, the GPS II can maintain a two-dimensional (2D) fix with only three satellites. A
three-dimensional fix means the unit knows its latitude, longitude, and altitude,
while a two-dimensional fix means the unit knows only its latitude and longitude.

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READ ME FIRST!
Battery Installation
The GPS II operates on 4 AA batteries, which are installed at the base of the
unit. Normal battery life is approximately 15 hours, and up to 20 hours when the
unit is in battery saver mode.
To install the batteries:

Polarity
Markings

1. Flip up the metal ring at the base of the unit, and turn the ring 90 degrees counter
clockwise.
2. Install the batteries (Fig. 5), and close the battery compartment door.
3. Lock the door in the closed position by rotating the metal ring 90 degrees
clockwise.

Battery life varies due to a variety of factors, including temperature,

backlighting, and whether the unit is in battery saver mode. You may find
that you get more or less battery life in different conditions.
When replacing the GPS IIs batteries, observe the polarity
markings engraved in the plastic case.

Fig. 5

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READ ME FIRST!
Screen Orientation

Fig. 6b

Fig. 6a

The GPS II has a unique screen orientation feature for switching from a horizontal mounting position in a vehicle or on a bike to a vertical orientation for handheld
outdoor use, such as hunting or hiking. The GPS IIs rocker keypad and single-use
keys are designed to function in the same manner, no matter if youre using the unit
vertically (Fig. 6a) or horizontally (Fig. 6b).
To change the screen orientation:
1. Press and hold PAGE.

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Initializing Your GPS II
To initialize the GPS II, take the receiver outside and find an open area where
the antenna has a clear view of the sky. You may either hold the receiver at a comfortable height with the external antenna pointing up (Fig. 7a), or mount the receiver on the dash of a vehicle (Appendix B) or on a bike. (Likewise, when you use your
GPS II in a vehicle, make sure the antenna is pointing up.)
To turn the GPS II on, press and hold the power key.
The welcome page will be displayed while the unit conducts a self test. Once
testing is complete, the welcome page will be replaced by the satellite status page.
Youll see the EZ init prompt, which asks you to choose an initialization method.
Note: If the EZinit prompt has not automatically appeared, press ENTER.
To initialize your unit:

Fig. 7a

1. Press ENTER (Fig. 7b). (The word COUNTRY in the first prompt will already be highlighted.)
2. Use the rocker keypad to scroll up or down through the list of countries to select your
country/state/region. If the country youre in isnt listed, select another country within
500 miles of your present position, and press ENTER.

Fig. 7b

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR

Check the satellite status page

for 2D or 3D navigation to
verify a position fix.

Fig. 8b

Fig. 8c

This usually provides a position fix in 3-5 minutes*. Youll know you have a fix
when the unit automatically transitions from the satellite status page to the position
page (Figs. 8b-8c). Your receiver is now ready for everyday use!
To turn the unit off:
1. Press and hold the red power key for three seconds (Fig. 8a).

Fig. 8a

*(The almanac data stored in your GPS memory is typically valid for 3-6
months. If your unit has older data, the time required for initialization may take 15
to 30 minutes.)

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
If you have trouble initializing or getting a position fix, check the following:
Does the receiver have a clear view of the sky?
If there are large buildings or mountains, or if there is heavy tree cover, the receiver
may not be receiving enough satellite signals to calculate a fix. Also, if youre using
the GPS II on a car dash, make sure the unit is placed so that it has the clearest possible view of the sky. Your GPS will only be able to detect satellites that it can see
through your vehicles windshield. Depending on the slope of your dash or the overall surface area of the window, it may be necessary to mount an external antenna on
your vehicles roof or trunk in order to give the unit a better view of the sky. (Contact
your local GARMIN dealer and inquire about the GA26 low-profile remote antenna,
part number 010-10052-02)
Have you selected the right country/state/region from the EZinit list?
Check for the correct approximate lat/lon on the position page, or reselect the appropriate country from the list to restart the initialization.
Have you moved more than 500 miles from the last calculated position
with the receiver off?
Reinitialize the receiver by selecting the country/state/region of your new location
from the EZinit list.

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Scrolling Through the Main Pages

Status Page

Position Page

Map Page

Navigation Page

Menu Page

Fig. 10

The GPS II features five main pages which are linked together in a chain (Fig. 10). You
can quickly scroll through the pages in either direction using PAGE or QUIT. Lets briefly
tour each of these pages in order to give you some insight into how they help you navigate.
Well go over all of them in much more detail in the reference section of this manual.
This tour assumes that you have only initialized the receiver and have not changed any
of the factory settings (units of measure, selectable fields, etc.). If you have changed any of
the default settings, the pictures and descriptions in the tour may not match your unit.
Also, make sure your units screen is orientated horizontally.

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Satellite Status Page

Fig. 11

Lets start with the satellite status page, which is the page youll view while your
unit is getting a position fix. If youre not already on this page, press PAGE or QUIT
until it appears. The satellite status page shows you status information that helps you
understand what the receiver is doing at any given time, and its a page that youll
want to occasionally refer back to as you use your unit. It features a sky view of
available satellites, signal strength bars, the status of your current position fix
(acquiring, 2D, 3D, etc.), and your estimated position error (EPE). You can also tell
how much battery power is remaining (Fig. 11). Once your GPS II has acquired sufficient satellites, the satellite status page will automatically be replaced by the position page (as long as you havent pressed any other buttons).

The signal strength bars give

you an indication of what
satellites are visible to the
receiver, whether or not theyre
being used to calculate a position fix, and the signal quality.

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Position Page
The position page (Fig. 12) shows you where you are, what direction youre
heading, and how fast youre going and its the page youll want to use when you
dont have an active destination selected.
A graphic compass display at the top of the page shows your direction of travel,
while five data fields below display your track and speed, a trip odometer, and your
position and altitude. The trip and altitude fields are user-selectable, which means
you can change them to display other navigation information. Well cover more
about those fields in the reference section of this manual.

Fig. 12

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Marking a Position
GPS is really about marking and going to places called waypoints. Before we can
use our GPS II to guide us somewhere, we have to mark a position as a waypoint.
To mark a position:
1. Press MARK.

Fig. 13

The mark position page will appear, showing the captured position and a default
3-digit waypoint name. Lets change the default name to something a little more
meaningful, like HOME (Fig. 13).
To name a waypoint:
1. Use the keypad to highlight the name field, and press ENTER.
2. Enter the waypoint name HOME, and press ENTER.
3. Highlight SAVE?, and press ENTER.

The mark position page will be replaced by the position page (the page displayed before pressing MARK). The HOME waypoint is now stored in the GPS IIs
memory, which is maintained by an internal lithium battery.

If you try to mark a position

without a position fix, you will
be alerted with a No Position
message.

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Using the Position Page

You can even time yourself

with the GPS IIs on-screen
clock.

Now that youve marked a position, its time to take a brisk walk using the position and moving map pages to watch your every move. You should still be on the
position page.
To get the most from this tutorial, walk in a straight line for 3-4 minutes at a fast
pace and watch the position page. (Because the GPS system typically has a margin of
error of approximately 15 meters, youll need to walk this long to ensure that you
travel far enough to register useful information. Youll also get a much better indication of how the GPS IIs steering guidance and mapping features work to guide you.)
Youll see that the direction you are moving (track), your speed, and how far
youve gone displayed in the middle of the screen, just below the graphic compass
display. The latitude, longitude and approximate altitude of your position are displayed at the bottom of the page, with the time of day displayed below.
To continue the tour, lets move on to the next page:
1. Press PAGE.

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Moving Map Page
The GPS IIs next page, the moving map page, shows your movement as a realtime track log (electronic breadcrumb trail), and your present position as a diamond
icon in the center of the map. Youll notice the black square below the diamond,
which represents the position you just created (HOME), and the line between the
two, which shows your track (Fig. 15a).
Nearby waypoints are represented as squares, with the waypoint name listed
above the square. When you want to change the map scale, simply use the zoom
keys (in and out) to select the desired scale. Well cover more about other information you can obtain from this field in the reference section.

Fig. 15a

1. Now turn 90 to your right and continue walking at a fast pace for another 2-3 minutes.
Notice how the display changes, always keeping the direction you are moving at the
top of the map. (Fig. 15b)

Fig. 15b

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Going To a Waypoint
Once youve stored a waypoint in memory, you can use the GPS II to guide you
to it by performing a simple GOTO. A GOTO is really nothing more than the receiver drawing a straight-line course from your present position to the destination youve
selected. To see how it works, lets try navigating back to our starting position, the
HOME waypoint.
Fig. 16a

To select a GOTO destination:

1. Press GOTO.
2. Highlight the HOME waypoint, (Fig. 16a) and press ENTER.

Youll notice that youll automatically be on the default navigation page, the compass page (Fig. 16b). Lets navigate back to HOME using this page.

Fig. 16b

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Compass Page
The compass page is the default navigation page for the GPS II, and provides a
rotating compass in the middle of the page. The compass ring shows your actual
direction of travel while youre moving, and the pointer arrow in the middle points
to your destination (selected waypoint). As you move toward HOME, notice how
the compass rose and the pointer arrow provide a clear picture of the direction
youre moving and the direction of HOME. Note: The pointer arrow may not give
accurate direction guidance unless you are moving at a fast pace.
The bearing and distance to a waypoint are displayed at the top of the screen,
and your current track and speed are shown below. The default ETE field, at the
bottom of the screen between the track and speed fields (Fig. 17a), is a user-selectable field that can provide a variety of navigation information. Well cover more
about that field in the reference section of this manual.
As you get close to HOME, youll be alerted to press PAGE. The GPS II will give
you the message Approaching HOME (Fig. 17b). Once youve arrived, youll notice
the distance field will read 0.00.
To continue the tour, lets move on to the next page:
1. Press PAGE.

Fig. 17a

Fig. 17b

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Menu Page
Youve already seen the first four pages in action by acquiring satellites, marking
a position, and navigating to a destination. The last page available from the main
page sequence is the menu page (Fig. 18a), which provides access to the GPS IIs
waypoint management, route, and setup features.
Fig. 18a

Clearing the Track Log

After youve practiced and used the GPSII for a few trips, you may find that
your map display has become cluttered with track plots of your every move. To get a
feel for how the map and track features work, lets clear the track log (the plot points
left on the map page) weve just created during the Getting Started tour.
To clear the track log:
1. Scroll to the map page, and press ENTER.
2. Highlight the track setup field, and press ENTER.
3. Highlight the clear log? field (Fig. 18b), and press ENTER.

Fig. 18b

18

4. Highlight Yes?, and press ENTER.

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GETTING-STARTED TOUR
Congratulations! Youve just completed the Getting-Started Tour! You now know
enough about the GPS II to go out and have some fun with it.
We strongly recommend that you read on and explore the Reference section, which
contains a closer look at all of the exciting features of the GPS II. The first two sections of
this manual have only explored a small part of what this unit can do for you. The next
section will describe GARMINs state-of-the-art operating system, which is second to
none in the world of GPS receivers. In fact, because there are so many things this unit
can do for you, you wont be using it to its full capacity unless you read on. As you delve
further into the GPS II and become more familiar with its many features, youll find that
its one navigation tool that youll grow into for years to come.
To turn your GPS II off:
1. Press and hold the red power key (Fig. 19).

Fig. 19

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REFERENCE

Fig. 20a

Fig. 20b

20

Satellite Status Page

The GPS IIs satellite status page provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition and position. As the receiver locks onto satellites, a signal strength bar will
appear for each satellite in view, with the appropriate satellite number (1-32) underneath each bar. The progress of satellite acquisition is shown in three stages:
No signal strength bars the GPS II is looking for the satellites indicated.
Hollow signal strength bars the GPS II has found the satellite(s) and is
collecting data (Fig. 20a).
Solid signal strength bars the GPS II has collected the necessary data and
the satellite(s) is ready for use (Fig. 21b).
Each satellite has a 30-second data transmission that must be collected (hollow
bar status) before that satellite may be used for navigation (solid bar status). Once a
fix has been calculated, the GPS II will then update your position, track, and speed
by selecting and using the best satellites in view. You can also access the GPS IIs contrast feature from this page (see pg 73).
To adjust the screen contrast:
1. Press the rocker keypad, adjust the level of contrast (Fig. 20b), and press ENTER.

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REFERENCE
Sky View and Signal Strength Bars
The sky view and signal strength bars give you an indication of what satellites
are visible to the receiver, whether or not they are being used to calculate a position
fix, and the signal quality. The satellite sky view shows a birds-eye view of the position of each available satellite relative to the units last known position. The outer circle represents the horizon (north up); the inner circle 45 above the horizon; and the
center point directly overhead. You can use the sky view to help determine if any
satellites are being blocked, and whether you have a current position fix (indicated
by a 2D NAV or 3D NAV (Fig. 21b) in the status field.
When the receiver is looking for a particular satellite, the corresponding signal
strength bar will be blank and the sky view indicator will be highlighted. Once the
receiver has found the satellite, a hollow signal strength bar will appear, indicating
that the satellite has been found and the receiver is collecting data from it (Fig. 21a).
The satellite number in the sky view will no longer appear highlighted. As soon as
the GPS II has collected the necessary data to use the satellite for positioning, the
hollow bar will become solid.

Fig. 21a

Fig. 21b

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REFERENCE

Fig. 22a

Fig. 22b

22

Receiver Status and EPE

Receiver status is indicated at the top left of the page, with the current horizontal
accuracy (estimated position error, in feet or meters) at the top right. The status will
be shown as one of the following conditions:
Searching the GPS II is looking for any available satellites in view (Fig. 22a).
AutoLocate the GPS II is initializing and collecting new almanac data. This
process can take 7.5 to 30 minutes, depending on satellites currently in view.
Acquiring the receiver is collecting data from available satellites, but has not
collected enough data to calculate a 2D fix.
2D Navigation at least three satellites with good geometry have been locked
onto and a 2-dimensional position fix (latitude and longitude) is being calculated. 2D Diff will appear when you are receiving DGPS corrections in 2D mode.
3D Navigation at least four satellites with good geometry have been locked
onto, and your position is now being calculated in latitude, longitude and altitude. 3D Diff will appear when you are receiving DGPS corrections in 3D mode.
Poor GPS Coverage the receiver isnt tracking enough satellites for a 2D or
3D fix due to bad satellite geometry (Fig. 22b).

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REFERENCE
Not Usable the receiver is unusable, possibly due to incorrect initialization or
abnormal satellite conditions. Turn the unit off and back on to reset, and reinitialize the receiver if necessary.
Simulator the receiver is in simulator mode (Fig. 23a).

EZinit Option Prompt

The satellite status page also provides access to the EZinit prompt whenever a
position fix has not been calculated (Fig. 23b) The unit must be in searching,
AutoLocate, acquiring, simulator, or poor coverage mode. This allows you to reinitialize the unit (see page 7), and is useful if you have traveled over 500 miles with
the receiver off and must initialize your new position. (The EZinit prompt will automatically appear if the receiver needs to be initialized. The prompt may also appear
during normal use if the antenna is shaded or the unit is indoors.)

Fig. 23a

Fig. 23b

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REFERENCE
Battery Level Indicator
The satellite status page also features a battery level indicator, located to the left of the
sky view, which displays the strength of the units batteries (Fig. 24).

Fig. 24

#
!

The battery level indicator is calibrated for alkaline batteries. Ni-Cad and lithium
batteries will inaccurately display the battery level at one-half its proper level
due to voltage differences. No other receiver functions are affected by using NiCad or lithium batteries.

The GPS II features an internal lithium battery that will maintain the units memory
for up to 10 years, regardless of whether the four AA batteries are installed.

24

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Screen Backlighting
The GPS IIs backlight feature illuminates the screen display for a user-defined
interval (the default is 15 seconds) after every keystroke. There are three stages of
backlighting. When backlighting is on, a bulb icon will appear at the bottom left of
the sky view (Fig. 25). To adjust the duration of the screen backlighting, refer to the
operation setup section (see page 71).
To turn the screen backlighting on:
1. Press the red power key.
2. Cycle through the three levels of backlight by pressing the red power key.

Fig. 25

To turn the screen backlighting off:

1. Press the red power key.

Whenever the GPS IIs backlighting is off, the bulb icon disappears from the
satellite status page.

Note: Using the screen backlighting can greatly reduce

battery life. If youre using
your GPS primarily in daylight hours, you should keep
the backlight timeout at the
default 15-second setting.

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The graphic compass display is

designed to show your current
track and doesnt serve as a
true magnetic compass while
youre standing still.

26

Position Page
The second page in the GPS IIs main page sequence is the position page. This
page shows you where you are, what direction youre heading, and how fast youre
going (up to 103 mph), and is most useful when you are traveling without an active
destination waypoint. The graphic heading display at the top of the page indicates
the direction youre heading (only while youre moving).
Directly below this display are the track, speed, and trip odometer fields
(default). Track is the compass direction representing your actual course over the
ground, and speed is how fast youre moving. The lower left-hand corner of the page
shows your current latitude and longitude in degrees and minutes. The GPS II uses
this basic information to mark exact positions as waypoints, which help guide you
from one place to another. The lower right-hand corner of the page contains the altitude field (default).
Both the trip odometer and the altitude fields are user selectable, and both offer
a trip odometer, trip timer, and elapsed time so that you can always be sure of viewing this information regardless of the option youve selected to view in the other
user-selectable field.

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Available user-selectable options on the position page are:
Trip Odometer (TRIP) shows the total distance traveled since last reset.
Trip Timer (TTIME) total (cumulative) time in which a ground speed has
been maintained since last reset.
Elapsed Time (ELPSD) shows the overall hours and minutes since last reset.
Average Speed (AVSPD) calculates the average speed traveled.
Maximum Speed (MXSPD) shows the maximum speed traveled since last
reset.
Altitude (ALT) measurement of a vertical distance above sea level.
To reset a timer, speed measurement, or odometer:
1. Highlight the user-selectable field, and press ENTER.
2. Press ENTER to confirm the RESET? prompt, or QUIT to exit.

The trip odometer, trip timer, and average speed fields are linked, so resetting
one of these options in one user-selectable field will automatically reset the corresponding data in the other. That way, the information provided in these fields is relative to your current trip.

The position format and units

of measure for speed, distance,
position, and altitude are all
user-selectable through the
navigation setup page (see
pages 74). The 12/24 hour
clock and time offset options
are available from the system
setup page (see page 72).

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Maximum Speed Field
To obtain the most accurate reading of average speed, keep in mind that due to
the sensitivity of the GPS IIs antenna, your maximum speed value may include the
effects of rapid movement, such as swinging your arm while holding the unit.
To reset the maximum speed field:
Fig. 28a

1. Highlight the maximum speed field, and press ENTER.

2. Press ENTER to confirm the RESET? prompt (Fig. 28a).

Altitude Field
When the GPS II is acquiring satellites or navigating in the 2D mode, the last
known altitude will be used to compute your position. If the altitude shown is off by
several hundred feet, you can manually enter your altitude for greater accuracy. In
cases where the GPS II has only 2D coverage, entering your approximate altitude will
enable the receiver to determine a 3D fix.
To enter an altitude:
Fig. 28b

28

1. Highlight the alt field, and press ENTER (Fig. 28b).

2. Enter a value, and press ENTER.

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Marking and Saving Waypoints
The GPS II allows you to mark, store, and use up to 250 positions as waypoints.
Waypoints serve as electronic markers that let you keep track of starting points, destinations, navaids, etc. A waypoint position can be entered by taking an instant electronic fix, by manually entering a coordinate, or by referencing a bearing and distance to an existing waypoint.
To mark your present position:

Fig. 29

1. Press MARK. The mark position page will appear, showing the captured position and a
default three-digit waypoint name (Fig. 29).
2. Press ENTER.

If you try to mark a waypoint

without having a position fix,
youll be notified with a No
Position message.

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Marking a Position
When marking a position, you may also choose to change the default name or
add the waypoint to a route.
To change the default position name:
1. Highlight the name field, and press ENTER.

Fig 30a

2. Enter a value in the appropriate character field (Fig. 30a), highlight SAVE?, and press
ENTER.

If youd like to add this waypoint to a route:

1. Highlight the add to route number field, press ENTER, and enter a route number (Fig. 30b).
2. Press ENTER to confirm the route number, and ENTER again to save the waypoint.

To save the marked waypoint:

1. Highlight SAVE?, and press ENTER.

Fig. 30b

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Waypoint Pages

Fig 31

The GPS II has three waypoint pages that let you manage a large number of waypoints quickly. These pages nearest waypoints, waypoint list, and waypoint definition can be accessed through the menu page.
To select a waypoint page:

Use the function prompts on

the left side of the waypoint
definition page to review,
rename, or delete stored waypoints, and to create new waypoints manually.

1. Access the menu page, and highlight a waypoint page (Fig. 31).
2. Press ENTER.

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Fig. 32a

Nearest Waypoints Page

The nearest waypoints page shows the nine nearest waypoints that are within
100 miles of your present position, with the bearing and distance noted for each
waypoint (Fig. 32a). This page will also let you retrieve a waypoint definition page or
GOTO a selected waypoint right from the list.
To review the waypoint definition page of a highlighted waypoint from
the list:
1. Highlight a waypoint.
2. Press ENTER.

To return to the nearest waypoint page:

1. Highlight DONE? (Fig. 32b).
2. Press ENTER.

To GOTO a highlighted list waypoint:

Fig. 32b

32

1. Highlight a waypoint, and press GOTO.

2. Press ENTER.

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Waypoint List Page
The waypoint list page provides a complete list of all waypoints currently stored
in the GPS II. If a waypoint is currently used in a route, the lowest route number
will be indicated to the left of the waypoint name. The total number of empty and
used waypoints is indicated above the waypoint list. From the waypoint list page,
you can retrieve a waypoint definition page, delete all user-defined waypoints, or
GOTO a selected waypoint.
To review the waypoint definition page of a highlighted list waypoint:

Fig. 33a

1. Follow the steps outlined on the previous page.

To delete all user-defined waypoints:

1. Highlight DEL ALL WPTS? (Fig. 33a), and press ENTER.

A warning page will appear, asking if you are sure you want to delete all userdefined waypoints and routes.
If you want to continue and delete:
1. Highlight Yes? (Fig. 33b), and press ENTER.

Fig. 33b

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Waypoint Definition Page
The waypoint definition page lets you create new waypoints manually, or review
and edit existing waypoints. To create a new waypoint manually, youll need to know
its position coordinates or its approximate distance and bearing from an existing
waypoint.
To create a waypoint by entering coordinates:
Fig. 34a

1. From the waypoint definition page, highlight NEW? (Fig. 34a), and press ENTER.
2. Enter a waypoint name, and press ENTER
3. Enter your position (Fig. 34b), and press ENTER.
4. Highlight DONE?, and press ENTER.

Fig. 34b

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Reference Waypoints
To create a new waypoint manually without knowing its position coordinates,
youll need to enter its bearing and distance from an existing waypoint or your present position.
To create a new waypoint by referencing a stored waypoint:
1. From the waypoint definition page, highlight NEW?, and press ENTER.

Fig. 35a

2. Enter a waypoint name, and press ENTER.

3. Highlight the reference field (Fig. 35a), and press ENTER.
4. Enter a reference waypoint name (Fig. 35b) (or leave the field blank to use your present
position), and press ENTER.
5. Enter the bearing and distance of your new waypoint fromthe reference waypoint.
6. Press ENTER to confirm the DONE? prompt.

Fig. 35b

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Editing Existing Waypoints
The waypoint definition page also allows you to change the name, coordinates,
comment, or reference waypoint field for a stored waypoint (Figs. 36a-36c).
To edit the coordinates, comment, or reference waypoint field:
1. Highlight the field you want to edit, and press ENTER.

Fig. 36a

Fig. 36b

36

2. Enter new data, and press ENTER.

Fig. 36c

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Waypoint Comments
Each waypoint stored in the GPS II has a user-defined 16-character comment
field. The default comment is the UTC (or Greenwich mean time) date and time of
the waypoints creation.
To change or add a comment:
1. Highlight the comment field.
2. Press ENTER (Fig. 37a).

Fig. 37a

3. Make changes or enter a comment (Fig. 37b).

4. Press ENTER.

Fig. 37b

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Renaming and Deleting Waypoints
The rename and delete function fields are located along the right side of the
waypoint definition page.
To rename a stored waypoint:
1. Highlight RENAME? (Fig. 38a), and press ENTER.

Fig. 38a

2. Enter the new waypoint name (Fig. 38b), and press ENTER.
3. Press ENTER to confirm the Yes? prompt.

To delete a stored waypoint:

1. Highlight DELETE?, and press ENTER.
2. Select Yes?, and press ENTER.

Fig. 38b

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Scanning Waypoints
As you manually enter a waypoints name, the GPSIIs waypoint scanning feature
will automatically display the first numerical or alphabetical match of the character
you have entered to that point. This helps eliminate the need to always enter a waypoints complete name.
To scan waypoints from a waypoint field:
1. Highlight the waypoint name field, and press ENTER.
2. Press the left side of the keypad to clear the name field.
3. Scroll through the waypoints.
4. When you find the desired waypoint, press ENTER.

The waypoint scanning feature

will offer the first waypoint
that matches the character or
characters you have entered to
that point. If you have more
than one waypoint that begins
with the same letter or number, move to the next character
position as needed.

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Selecting a GOTO Destination
The GPS II provides four ways to navigate to a destination: GOTO, MOB,
TracBack, and route navigation. The most basic method of selecting a destination is
the GOTO function, which lets you choose any stored waypoint as the destination
and quickly sets a direct course from your present position.
To activate the GOTO function:
Fig. 40a

1. Press GOTO.
2. Select the waypoint you want to navigate to (Fig. 40a), and press ENTER.

Once a GOTO waypoint has been activated, the compass page or highway page
will provide steering guidance to the destination until either the GOTO is cancelled
or the unit has resumed navigating the active route (see page 53).
To cancel an active GOTO:
1. Press the GOTO key.

Fig. 40b

40

2. Highlight CANCELGOTO? (Fig. 40b), and press ENTER.

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Man Overboard Function
The GPS IIs man overboard function (MOB) lets you simultaneously mark and
set a course to a position for quick response to passing positions.
To activate the MOB mode:
1. Press GOTO twice. The GOTO waypoint page will appear with MOB selected (Fig. 41a).
2 Press ENTER to begin MOB navigation (Fig. 41b).

Fig. 41a

The GPS II will now guide you to the MOB waypoint until the MOB GOTOis
cancelled. If you want to save the MOB waypoint, be sure to rename it (Fig. 41c)
because it will be overwritten the next time a MOB is activated.

Fig. 41b
Fig. 41c

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TracBack Navigation
The TracBack function allows you to quickly and easily retrace your path using
the track log automatically stored in the receivers memory. The advantage of the
TracBack feature is that it eliminates the need to mark waypoints along the way and
manually create and activate a route back to where you began your trip.
Fig. 42a

Once a TracBack route is activated, it will lead you back to the oldest track log
point stored in memory, so its usually a good idea to clear the existing track log at
the start of each trip.
To clear the track log and define a starting point for a TracBack route:
1. From the map page, press ENTER.
2. Highlight the track setup option, and press ENTER.
2. Highlight CLEARLOG? (Fig. 42a), and press ENTER.
3. Highlight Yes? (Fig. 42b), and press ENTER.

Fig. 42b

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To activate a TracBack route:
1. Press GOTO, and highlight TRACBACK? (Fig. 43a).
2. Press ENTER.

Once the TracBack function has been activated, the GPS II will take the track log
currently stored in memory and divide it into segments called legs (Fig. 43b). Up to
30 temporary waypoints (e.g., T001) will be created to mark the most significant
features of the track log in order to duplicate your exact path as closely as possible.
The active route page will appear, showing a route from your present position to
the oldest track log point in memory. Steering guidance to each waypoint will be provided back to the starting point of your track log (Fig. 43c).

Fig. 43a

Fig. 43b
Fig. 43c

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Tips on Creating and Using the TracBack Feature
To get the most out of the TracBack feature, remember the following tips:
Always clear your track log at the exact point that you want to go back to (trail head,
truck, dock, etc.).
The record option on the track log setup page must be set to the YES position.
There must be at least two track log points stored in memory to create a TracBack
route.
If there are not enough available waypoints in memory to create a TracBack route,
you will be alerted with a waypoint memory full message, and the receiver will use
any available waypoints to create a TracBack route with an emphasis on the track log
closest to the destination (the oldest track log point in memory).
If the method option on the track log setup page is set to a time interval, the
TracBack route may not follow your exact path. (Keeping the criteria set to automatic
will always provide the most detailed TracBack route.)

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REFERENCE
If the receiver is turned off or you lose satellite coverage during your trip, the
TracBack route will simply draw a straight line between any point where coverage
was lost and where it resumed.
If the changes in direction and distance of your track log are very complex, 30
waypoints may not be enough to accurately mark your exact path. The receiver will
then assign the 30 waypoints to the most significant points of your track, and simplify segments with fewer changes in direction.
If you want to save a TracBack route, copy route 0 to an open storage route before
activating another TracBack. Activating another TracBack or storage route will overwrite the existing TracBack route. (Well cover more on route management in the
following pages.)
Whenever a TracBack route is activated, the receiver will automatically erase any
temporary waypoints (e.g., T001) that are not contained in routes 1-19. If there
are temporary waypoints stored in routes 1-19, the receiver will create any new
temporary waypoints using the first three-digit number available.

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REFERENCE
Route Definition Page
The last form of navigating to a destination with the GPS II is by creating a userdefined route. The GPS II lets you create and store up to 20 routes of 30 waypoints each.
C

Fig. 46

46

The route navigation feature lets you plan and navigate a course from one place to
another using a set of pre-defined waypoints. Routes are often used when its not practical,
safe, or possible to navigate a direct course to a particular destination (e.g., through a
body of water or impassable terrain) (Fig. 46).

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Route Definition Page (cont.)
The right side of the route definition page features several function fields which
let you copy, clear, invert, or activate the displayed route. Routes 1-19 are used as
storage routes, with route 0 always serving as the active route you are navigating. If
you want to save a route thats currently in route 0, be sure to copy it to another
open route, as it will be overwritten by the next route activation.
Routes can be copied, cleared, inverted, and activated (Fig. 47a) through the
route definition page.
To select the route definition page:

Fig. 47a

1. Highlight ROUTES from the menu page, and press ENTER.

The route number field is displayed at the top of the page (Fig. 47b), with a 16character user comment field to the right. If no user comment is entered, the field
will display the first and last waypoint in the route. The waypoint list on the left side
of the page accepts up to 30 waypoints for each route, with fields for desired track
and distance between legs. The total distance of the route is indicated below the
waypoint list.

Fig. 47b

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Creating and Navigating Routes
To create a route from the route definition page:
1. Highlight the route number field, and press ENTER.
2. Enter a route number, and press ENTER. (Only open routes will be available.)
3. Press ENTER to begin entry of a route comment, if desired (Fig. 48a).

Fig. 48a

4. Enter your comment, and press the ENTER key.

5. Enter the first waypoint of your route, and press ENTER. As you continue entering the
rest of your waypoints, the list will automatically scroll down as needed (Fig. 48b).

Fig. 48b

48

Just like the Tracback feature, routes are broken down and navigated in smaller
segments called legs. The waypoint youre going to in a leg is called the active to
waypoint, and the waypoint immediately behind you is called the active from waypoint. The line between the active to and the active from waypoint is called the
active leg.
Whenever you activate a route, it will automatically select the route leg closest to
your position as the active leg. As you pass each waypoint in the route, the receiver
will automatically sequence and select the next waypoint as the active to waypoint.

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Activating and Inverting Routes
After a route has been entered, it can be either activated in sequence or inverted
from the route definition page. The process of activating or inverting a stored route
takes a storage route (routes 1-19) and copies it into the active route (route 0) for
navigation. The storage route is now no longer needed and will be retained in its
original format under its existing route number.
This system allows you to have an active route that you may edit during navigation and save as an entirely new route from the original. You will have to copy the
active route to an unused storage route to save it, since new route or TracBack activation overwrites route 0.
To activate a route:

Fig. 49a

1. From the route definition page, highlight the route number field.
2. Enter the route number to be activated, and press ENTER.
3. Highlight ACT? (Fig. 49a), and press ENTER.

To activate a route in inverted order:

1. Follow the steps above, but select INV? (Fig. 49b), and press ENTER.

Fig. 49b

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Fig. 50a

Active Route Page

Once a route has been activated, the active route page will display the waypoint
sequence of your route with the estimated time enroute (ETE) at your present speed
and the distance to each waypoint (Fig. 50a). As long as you are navigating an active
route, the active route page will become part of the main page sequence. The active
route page will also allow you to change the ETE field to display desired track
(DTK) or estimated time of arrival (ETA) for each leg. You can also clear or invert the
active route.
To display DTK or ETA for each leg:
1. Highlight ETE, and press ENTER (Fig. 50b).
2. Select DTK or ETA, and press ENTER.

The active route page also allows you to clear (stop navigating) or invert the
active route without using the route definition page.
To invert a route from the active route page:
Fig. 50b

50

1. Highlight INV?, and press ENTER.

To clear the active route and stop route navigation:

1. Select CLR?, and press ENTER.

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Copying and Clearing Routes
The route definition page is also used to copy a route to another route number.
This feature is useful when you make changes to the active (or TracBack) route and
want to save the route in its modified form for future use.
To copy a route:
1. Highlight the route number field, and press ENTER (Fig. 51a).
2. Enter the route number to be copied, and press ENTER.

Fig. 51a

3. Highlight the copyto field, and press ENTER.

4. Scroll through the available routes and select a destination route number. (Only open
routes will be available.) Press ENTER to copy the route.

To clear a route from memory:

1. Highlight the route number field, and press ENTER.
2. Enter the route number, and press ENTER.
3. Select CLR? (Fig. 51b), and press ENTER.
4. Highlight Yes?, and press ENTER.

Fig. 51b

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Editing Routes
Once a route has been created and stored, it can be edited at any time.
To edit a route from the active route page or the route definition page:
1. Select the waypoint you want to edit, and press ENTER (Fig. 52a).

Fig. 52a

Fig. 52b

52

An on-screen menu of editing choices will appear, with options for reviewing,
inserting, deleting, or changing the waypoint field highlighted (Fig. 52b). This field
contains the following options:
Review? reviews the waypoints definition page
Insert? adds a new waypoint that precedes the selected waypoint
Remove? deletes a selected waypoint
Change? replaces the selected waypoint with a new waypoint
If you add, delete, or change the first or last waypoint of a route, the default
comment (first and last waypoint) will automatically be updated after your changes.
Note: Editing the original storage route will not affect route 0. If you want to save an
edited version of route 0, save it to an open storage route.

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On-Route GOTOs
At the beginning of this section, we mentioned that the GPS II will automatically
select the route leg closest to your position as the active leg. This will give you steering guidance to the desired track of the active leg. Note that the first waypoint selected as the destination waypoint will be of the route leg closest to your present position This may mean youre not navigating to the first waypoint in the active route
you may be navigating to the last. If you prefer to navigate a route out of sequence,
you can perform an on-route GOTO from the active route page.

Fig. 53a

1. Highlight the desired route waypoint, and press GOTO.

2. Once the GOTO waypoint page appears with the waypoint highlighted (Fig. 53a), press
ENTER.

Note that after you reach the on-route GOTO waypoint, the GPS II will automatically resume navigating the rest of the route in sequence (Fig. 53b).
Fig. 53b

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Fig. 54a

Fig. 54b

54

Selecting a User-Defined Navigation Page

Once youve selected a GOTO destination or activated a TracBack, MOB, or
route, the GPS II will provide graphic steering guidance to the destination with one
of two navigation pages:
The compass page (default) provides a directional pointer to the destination,
with a rotating compass display to show your direction of travel (Fig. 54a). The
compass page provides better steering guidance for car travel, hiking, or biking,
where straight-line navigation usually is not possible.
The highway page provides a graphic highway that shows your movement relative to the desired course, with an emphasis on your crosstrack error (the distance and direction you are off course) (Fig. 54b). The highway page is well
suited for water or off-road recreation where straight-line navigation is possible.
Both pages provide a digital display of the bearing and distance to the destination, your current speed and track over the ground, and a course deviation indicator
(CDI). You can switch to either navigation page at any time.
To select either navigation page:
1. Press ENTER from the existing navigation page, and ENTER again to change the page.

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The ETE field, located in the middle of the bottom of both pages, is a user-selectable field that
allows you to display a variety of navigation values for your trip.
To access the user-selectable field:
1. Highlight ETE, and press ENTER.
2. Use the keypad to scroll through the possible options.

The following data options are available from the navigation pages (see Appendix H):
Estimated Time Enroute (ETE) the time left to your destination based on your present
speed and track.
Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) the time of day of your arrival at a destination, based on
current ground speed and track.
Course to Steer (CTS) the bearing which will give you the most efficient way to stay on
course to your destination.
Crosstrack Error (XTK) the distance you are off the desired course in either direction.
Velocity Made Good (VMG) the speed you are traveling toward the destination.
Turn (TRN) the amount of correction in degrees needed to travel directly to your destination.

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Fig. 56

56

Using the Compass Page

The GPS IIs compass page (Fig. 56) provides graphic steering guidance to a
destination waypoint. The middle of the page features a rotating compass that
shows your course over ground while youre moving (track up), and a pointer arrow
in the center indicates the direction of the destination relative to the direction youre
moving.
The compass rose and pointer arrow work independently to show at a
glance the direction of your movement and the direction to your destination. The
bearing and distance to a waypoint are displayed at the top of the screen, and
your current track and speed are shown below.
This page provides better steering guidance for travel at slower speeds and
for travel with many directional changes. When you are one minute away from the
destination (based on your current speed and track over the ground), the GPS II will
alert you with a flashing on-screen message box.

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Bearing to
Waypoint

Destination
Waypoint

Pointer to
Waypoint

Distance to
Waypoint

Graphic
Compass

Speed Over
Ground

Track Over
Ground
Selectable
Field

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Fig. 58

58

Using the Highway Page

The GPS IIs highway page (Fig. 58) also provides graphic steering guidance to a
destination, with a greater emphasis on the straight-line desired course and the distance and direction you are off course. As you head toward your destination, the
middle of the screen provides visual guidance to your waypoint on a moving graphic highway.
Your present position is represented by the diamond in the center of the course
deviation scale. The line down the middle of the highway represents your desired
track. As you navigate toward a waypoint, the highway will actually move, indicating the direction youre off course, relative to the position diamond on the CDI
scale. To stay on course, simply move toward the center of the highway.
If you do get off the desired course by more than 1/5th of the selected CDI
range, the exact distance you are off course will be displayed where the CDI scale
setting normally appears. If you get too far off course (the highway has disappeared), a message box will appear to indicate what course to steer to get back on
course. For information on how to set this scale, see page 76.

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REFERENCE
Bearing to
Waypoint

Destination
Waypoint

CDI
Scale

Distance to
Waypoint

Graphic
Highway

Speed Over
Ground

Track Over
Ground
Estimated Time
Enroute

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GETTING STARTED

Fig. 60

60

Moving Map Page

The GPS II features a powerful real-time moving map (Fig. 60) that can do much
more than just plot your course and route. The map page also provides you with a
target cursor that will let you pan ahead to nearby waypoints, determine the distance
and bearing to any map position, and mark new waypoints while you navigate. The
GPS II also features dedicated zoom keys for instant zooming. The map portion of
the page displays your present position as a diamond icon, with your track and/or
route displayed as small points. Nearby waypoints are represented as squares, with
the waypoint name listed. You may select which features are shown through the map
setup submenu page (see pages 65-66).
The four corners of the map page are used to display various navigation data,
including the bearing and distance to a destination waypoint and your current track
and speed over the ground. The two fields at the top corners of the map show your
bearing and distance to one of three selectable destinations: an active destination
waypoint; a highlighted on-screen waypoint; or the panning target crosshair. If you
are not navigating to a waypoint or using the panning function, the top data fields
will not be displayed. Your current track and speed are shown at the bottom corners
of the display.

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REFERENCE
Bearing to
Waypoint

Track Over
Ground

Distance to
Waypoint

Present
Position

Speed Over
Ground

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Zooming and Panning
There are three main functions you can perform from the map page zooming,
panning, and pointing. The moving map has 12 map scales (from 0.2 to 320 miles,
or 0.5 to 600 km.) which are selected by selecting the IN and OUT zoom keys.
These ranges are measured vertically.
To use the zoom keys:
Fig. 62a

1. From the map page, press either IN or OUT (Fig. 62a).

2. To see the current map scale, press and hold either button down. A pop-up window will
display the current scale (Fig. 62b).

The second function on the map page is the pan function, which allows you to
move the map with the keypad in order to view areas outside the current map.
To activate the pan function:
1. Use the keypad to move the map in any direction, including diagonally.

Fig. 62b

62

As you begin to move the map, a crosshair will appear. This crosshair will now
serve as a target marker for the moving map. The distance and bearing to a destination will now be replaced by the distance and bearing from your present position to
the target crosshair.

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REFERENCE
As you pan around the map, youll notice that the target crosshair will snap to
on-screen waypoints and highlight the waypoint name (Fig. 63a). Once a waypoint
name is highlighted, you can review its waypoint definition page or execute a GOTO
function right from the map page (Fig. 64b).
To review the definition page for a waypoint highlighted on the map
page:
1. Press ENTER.

Fig. 63a

To GOTO a waypoint highlighted on the map page:

1. Press GOTO.
2. Press ENTER to confirm the GOTOwaypoint page.

To stop the panning function:

1. Press QUIT.

Fig. 63b

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REFERENCE
Using the Cursor to Mark and GOTO Waypoints
During panning, the crosshair represents a target position right on the moving
map, with the range and bearing to the target displayed at the top corners of the
screen. You can also use the target crosshair to mark a new waypoint position or as a
GOTO destination right from the map field.
To mark the target crosshair position as a new waypoint:
Fig. 64a

1. Press MARK (Fig. 64a).

2. Enter a name and/or route number, and press ENTER.

You can also use the target crosshair as an instant GOTO destination. Similar to
the MOB mode, this function will mark and instantly set a course for a new waypoint called MAP.
To GOTO the target crosshair:
1. Press GOTO, and press ENTER (Fig. 64b).

Fig. 64b

64

If you want to save the MAP waypoint, be sure to rename it because it will be
overwritten the next time a map GOTO is executed.

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REFERENCE
Accessing the Map Setup and Track Setup Windows
You can access two additional pages the map setup page and the track setup
page by pressing ENTER while on the map page (Fig. 65a). The map setup and
track setup window will appear, ready for you to select one.
To select map setup or track setup:
1. Highlight either field, and press ENTER.

Map Setup Page and Orientation

The map setup page lets you select map orientation and specify what items are
displayed. The map may be oriented to NORTH UP, TRACK UP (the direction of
current travel), or DTK UP (desired track up, or the direction of travel to stay on
course). The default setting is track up.
To change the map orientation:

Fig. 65a

1. Highlight the map field, and press ENTER (Fig. 65b).

2. Select the desired orientation, and press ENTER.

The rest of the map setup page lets you specify what items are displayed or plotted on the map page by selecting YES or NO in the appropriate field.

Fig. 65b

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REFERENCE
Rings displays the three present position range rings on the map.
Route plots the straight leg lines between waypoints of an active route and displays
all route waypoint names.
Nearest shows the nine nearest waypoints to your present position (not to the target
cursor) on the map.
Names displays the waypoint name for the nine nearest waypoints.

To turn a map item on or off:

66

On-screen range rings help

you estimate distances relative
to your present position. The
value of each ring is determined by the current zoom
scale. The distance value of
each ring is equal to 1/5 of the
current zoom range, with the
interval of each ring noted
below the first range ring.

1. Highlight the confirmation (YES or NO) field for the map item, and press ENTER.
2. Select YES or NO, and press ENTER.

Track Setup Page

The track setup page lets you manage the GPS IIs track log data. From this page,
you can select whether to record a track log and define how it is recorded.
To turn the track log on or off:
1. Highlight the TRACK LOG field, and press ENTER.
2. Select YES or NO, and press ENTER. (Note: Turning the track recording off will disable the tracback feature.)

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REFERENCE
Track Method
The stored track method determines how often positions are stored in the track
log. The default setting is automatic, which will store a track based on resolution.
This setting gives you the most efficient use of track memory and provides the most
accurate TracBack route.
To change the method to record points based on a specific time interval:
1. Highlight the method field, and press ENTER.

Fig. 67a

2. Select TIME INTERVAL (Fig. 67a), and press ENTER twice (Fig. 67b).
3. Enter a value in hours, minutes, and seconds, and press ENTER.

Track Log Display

The track log option sets the number of points the unit will attempt to display
on the map page. The default setting of 250 points provides good resolution with
minimal screen clutter. The maximum setting is 768 points. Once youve reached the
maximum number of track points, the older points will be lost as new points are
added. Note that adjusting the track points displayed will not affect whether the
receiver records a track log or the ability to create a TracBack route.

Fig. 67b

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REFERENCE
Managing and Clearing the Track Log

Fig. 68
Its a good idea to clear the
track log at the end of the trail
head, etc., in order to make the
best use of the tracback feature.

The rest of the track setup window displays the percentage of available memory
currently used to store track log data and function fields to clear the track log memory and activate the backtrack feature.
To clear the track log:
1. Highlight CLEAR LOG? (Fig. 68), and press ENTER.
2. Highlight Yes, and press ENTER.

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REFERENCE
Menu Page
The GPS IIs menu page provides access to additional pages (submenus) that are
used to select and customize operation and navigation setup. These eight pages are
divided into categories by function. The waypoint and route management pages are
discussed in their own respective sections. Well now address the rest of these pages
in the order they appear on the menu page.
To select a submenu page from the menu page:

Fig. 69a

1. Highlight the page (Fig. 69a), and press ENTER (Fig. 69b).
2. To return to the menu page, press QUIT.

Fig. 69b

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Distance and Sun Calculation
The distance and sun calculation submenu page will give you the distance and
bearing between any two waypoints or between your present position and a waypoint. It will also calculate the sunrise and sunset (in local time) for a particular date
at either your present position or any stored waypoint.
To perform a distance and sun calculation:
Fig. 70a

1. Highlight the from field, enter the desired waypoint (Fig. 70a), and press ENTER.
2. Highlight the to field, enter the destination waypoint, and press ENTER.
3. The date field will become highlighted (Fig. 70b). Enter the date youll arrive at your
destination, and press ENTER.

If you havent marked your present position as a waypoint or you leave the to
field blank (Fig.70b), the sunrise and sunset at your present position will be provided.
Fig. 70b

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REFERENCE
System Setup
The system setup submenu page (Fig. 71a) is used to select the operating mode,
time offset, and screen preferences. The GPS II has three operating modes:
Normal Mode operates the unit at maximum performance, and provides a
battery of life up to 12 hours on alkaline batteries.
Battery Saver Mode (Fig. 71b) is suitable for most applications, and extends
battery life to up to 20 hours on alkaline batteries by reducing the receivers
update rate when navigational conditions permit (e.g., youre traveling a steady
course without significant variations in speed or heading). Since battery saver
mode changes the update rate based solely on navigational conditions, the battery life will vary accordingly.

Fig. 71a

Simulator Mode allows you to operate the unit without acquiring satellites,
and is ideal for practicing or entering waypoints and routes while at home.
To select an operating mode:
1. Highlight the mode field, and press ENTER.

Fig. 71b

2. Select a mode, and press ENTER.

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Fig. 72a

Date and Time Setup

The date and time is located directly below the mode field. Note: Date and time
information is derived from the GPS satellites and cannot be changed by the user.
Because the time shown is UTC (Greenwich mean time) time, you will need to enter
a time offset to display the correct local time for your area. To determine the time
offset for your area, note your position and refer to the chart in Appendix F.
To enter the time offset:
1. Highlight the offset field (Fig. 72a), and press ENTER.
2. Enter the time offset, and press ENTER.

Time Format
The time display shown on the system setup and position pages may be set to
display the time in a 12- or 24-hour format.
To select the time format:
Fig. 72b

1. Highlight the hours field (Fig. 72b), and press ENTER.

2. Select 12- or 24-hour display, and press ENTER.

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REFERENCE
Screen Contrast
The GPS II has adjustable screen contrast controlled by an on-screen bar scale.
To set the screen contrast:
1. Highlight the contrast field, and press ENTER.
2. Adjust the bar scale to the desired contrast, and press ENTER.

Note: The screen contrast can also be adjusted by pressing the rocker keypad
while on the satellite status page (see pg 20).
Screen Backlighting
The screen backlight timer is adjustable for 0, 15, 30, 60, 120, and 240 seconds.
The 0 setting will keep backlighting on continuously. Whenever backlighting is on,
a bulb icon will appear on the status page.
To set the backlight timer:
1. Highlight the light timeout field, and press ENTER (Fig. 73b).
2. Select the desired setting, and press ENTER.
3. To turn lighting on and off, press the red power key briefly.

Fig. 73b
Battery life will be significantly affected by the amount of
time you have the backlight
on. To ensure the longest battery life, keep the screen backlighting at the default 15-second option.

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REFERENCE
Navigation Setup
The navigation setup submenu page (Fig. 74a) is used to select units of measurement for position formats, map datums, CDI scale, units, and heading information.

Fig. 74a

Position Formats
The default position format for the GPS II is latitude and longitude in degrees
and minutes (hdddmm.mmm). You may also select degrees, minutes and seconds
(hdddmmss.s); degrees only (hddd.ddddd); UTM/UPS coordinates; or British,
German, Irish, Maidenhead, Swedish, Swiss, or Taiwan, or User grid formats.
To select a position format:
1. Highlight the posn field, and press ENTER (Fig. 74b). Select the desired setting, and
press ENTER.

User Grid Option

The user grid option lets you create a user-defined position format by establishing factors such as longitude of origin, scale, and false Easting or Northing.
Fig. 74b

74

To define a user grid:

1. Select User Grid, and press ENTER. Enter values for longitude origin, scale, and false
Easting and Northing, and press ENTER. Highlight SAVE?, and press ENTER.

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REFERENCE
Map Datums
The map datum field is located just below the position format field, and comes
with a WGS 84 default setting. Although 106 total map datums are available for use
(see Appendix F for map datums), you should only change the datum if you are
using maps or charts that specify a different datum than WGS 84.
To select a map datum:
1. Highlight the datum field, and press ENTER.
2. Select the desired setting, and press ENTER.

To define a user datum:

1. Highlight the datum field, and press ENTER.

The user datum function is

recommended only for individuals trained in creating
map/chart datums. Incorrect
entries may result in substantial position errors.

2. Scroll through the map datum options until USER appears, and press ENTER.
3. Enter values for DX, DY, DZ, DA, and DF using the rocker keypad, and press
ENTER.
4. Highlight SAVE?, and press ENTER. The setup menu will reappear.

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REFERENCE
CDIScale Settings
The course deviation indicator (CDI) scale definition field lets you select the +/range of the CDI bar scale. Three scales are available: +/- 0.25 (default), 1.25, and
5.0 miles or kilometers.
To enter a CDI scale setting:
Fig. 76a

1. Highlight the cdiscale field (Fig. 76a), and press ENTER.

2. Select the desired setting, and press ENTER.

Units of Measure
The GPS II lets you select nautical (default), statute, or metric units of measure
for all speed and distance fields.
To change the unit of measure:
1. Highlight the units field (Fig. 76b), and press ENTER.
2. Select the desired unit of measure, and press ENTER.

Fig 76b

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REFERENCE
Magnetic Heading Reference
The GPS IIs heading information can be displayed referencing magnetic north
(auto or user-defined), true north, or calculated grid headings. The default setting is
automatic magnetic north, which is suitable for most applications.
To select a heading reference:
1. Highlight the heading field (Fig. 77a), and press ENTER.
2. Select the desired heading preference, and press ENTER.

Fig. 77a

To enter a user-defined magnetic heading:

.

1. Select User Mag and press ENTER (Fig. 77b).

2. Enter the degrees and direction of magnetic variation, and press ENTER.

Fig 77b

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REFERENCE
Interface Setup
The GPS IIs interface page lets you specify the formats for connecting external
devices. There are six options: GRMN/GRMN, None/None, RTCM/None,RTCM/NMEA,
NMEA/NMEA, and None/NMEA. Each option lists the input format first, followed by
the output format.
To select I/O format:
1. Highlight the I/O field, and press ENTER.
2. Select the desired setting, and press ENTER.

During data transfer, the number of packets being exchanged

will be displayed on screen.

The GRMN/GRMN setting is a proprietary format that lets you exchange information such as waypoints, routes, and track logs between two GARMIN GPS devices or a
GARMIN GPS and a PC. There are eight data transfer options: send alm, send wpt,
send trk, send rte, request alm, request wpt, request trk, request rte.
To select a transfer option:
1. Highlight HOST, and press ENTER.
2. Select a desired setting, and press ENTER.

78

To disable all interfacing capabilities, select the None/None setting. If you want to
output NMEA 0183 data without any differential input capability, select None/NMEA.

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REFERENCE
DGPS Interface
The last two format settings allow the differential-ready GPS II to accept RTCM
DGPS corrections in RTCM 104 version 2.0 format. Using DGPS corrections will
improve receiver accuracy to 5-10 meters, regardless of errors induced by the governments Selective Availability (SA) program. The RTCM/NONE format will allow
connection to any manually-tuned beacon receiver by using the proper output interface. The baud rate is selectable from the GPS II.
The RTCM/NMEA selection controls the GARMIN GBR-21 differential beacon
receiver. Once a RTCM setting has been selected, the GPS II will either automatically
try to tune the last frequency and bit rate you selected or will switch to the default
frequency of 304.0 kHz with a bit rate of 100 bps if no previous beacon has been
tuned. You may also enter your own frequency and bit rate if desired.
To enter a DGPS beacon frequency:

Fig. 79a

1. Highlight the freq field (Fig. 79a), and press ENTER.

2. Enter the desired frequency, and press ENTER.
3. Highlight the rate field (Fig. 79b), and press ENTER.
4. Select the desired transmission rate, and press ENTER.

Fig. 79b

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REFERENCE

The message page will alert

you to any problems relating to
DGPS operation. You may also
monitor the DGPS status from
the status field on the interface
setup page.

80

When the GPS II is receiving DGPS corrections from the GBR-21, the beacon
receiver section of the I/O setup page will display the beacon frequency and signal
strength, as well as the distance from the transmitter to the beacon receiver. At the
bottom of the beacon receiver field, a status message will keep you informed of
DGPS activity:
A tuning message will be displayed while a beacon signal is being tuned.
Once the beacon signal has been tuned, a receiving message will be displayed.
If a beacon signal is tuned and no corrections are being received, a no data
message will be displayed.
If a beacon signal cannot be tuned, a no status message will be displayed.
The GPS II will also display one of three alert messages concerning DGPS operation through the message page:
No DGPS Position not enough data is available to compute a DGPS position.
No RTCM Input the beacon receiver is not properly connected or the baud
rates do not match.
RTCM Input Failed DGPS data was being received but has been lost.

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REFERENCE
Navigation Simulator
The GPS IIs simulator mode lets you practice all aspects of its operation without
active satellite acquisition. You can plan and practice trips, enter new waypoints and
routes, and save them for use during normal operation. The simulator is activated
from the system setup page, with speed and heading controlled from the position,
compass or highway pages.
To activate the simulator:

Fig. 81a

1. From the menu page, highlight SYSTEMSETUP, and press ENTER.

2. Highlight the mode field, and press ENTER.
3. Select Simulator? (Fig. 81a), and press ENTER.

Once the simulator mode has been activated, use the position, compass, or highway page to set your speed and track. You may also enter a new position if you
desire (only from the position page).
To enter a track, speed, and position:
1. Highlight the track field, and press ENTER.
2. Enter a track heading (Fig. 81b), and press ENTER.

Fig. 81b

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REFERENCE
3. Highlight the speed field, and press ENTER.
4. Enter a speed, and press ENTER.
5. Highlight the position field, and press ENTER (Fig. 82a).
6. Enter a position, and press ENTER.

Fig. 82a

#
!

The GPS II does not track satellites in simulator mode. Although you can
create and save waypoints and routes while using the simulator mode,
never attempt to use the simulator mode for actual navigation.

To reset the altitude:

1. Highlight the altitude field, and press ENTER (Fig. 82b).
2. Press the left side of the rocker keypad.

Fig 82b

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APPENDIX A
Battery Replacement
The GPS II requires 4 AA alkaline batteries. These batteries will need to be
replaced after up to 15 hours of operation in normal mode or 20 hours of operation
in battery-saver mode. Rechargeable Ni-cad or lithium batteries may also be used.
Note: The battery level indicator is calibrated for alkaline batteries, and will be
inaccurate if Ni-Cad or lithium batteries are used.
To replace batteries:
1. Remove the battery cover by turning the thumb loop at the side of the unit 1/4 turn
counter-clockwise.
2. Remove used batteries and insert new batteries into position. The battery pole you
can still see should match the symbol marked on the case.
3. Close and secure the battery cover by turning the thumb loop 1/4 turn clockwise.

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APPENDIX B
Dashboard Mounting
The GPS II can be mounted on the dashboard of an automobile or to another convenient surface using the two
Velcro strips provided with the unit.
To mount the GPS II using the Velcro strips:
1. Select a location for the unit that provides a clear and unobstructed view of the sky.
2. Remove the paper strip liners from both pieces of Velcro.
3. Make sure the surface to which youre adhering the Velcro is
clean and dry. Place the adhesive side of the rough piece of
Velcro on the desired mounting surface, and press into place.
4. Place the adhesive side of the smooth piece of Velcro on the
bottom of the unit (between the rubber anti-skid bumps), and
press into place.
5. Mount the unit, placing one piece of Velcro on top of the
other.

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APPENDIX C
Specifications
The GPS II is constructed of high quality materials and should not require user maintenance. If
your unit ever needs repair, please take it to an authorized GARMIN service center. The GPSII has
no user-serviceable parts. Never attempt any repairs yourself. To protect your GPS II, keep it in its
carrying case (optional accessory) when not in use, and never allow gasoline or other solvents to
come into contact with the case. To clean the case and lens, use a soft cloth and a household window cleaner.
PHYSICAL

PERFORMANCE

Case: Ruggedized, gasket sealed

Receiver:

Size:

Acquisition Time: Approx. 20 seconds (warm start)

6.15H x 2W x 1.23D (15.6 x 5.1 x 1.23 cm)

Weight: Approx 9 ounces (255g) w/ batteries

Approx. 2 minutes (cold start)

Temperature Range:5 to 158F (-15 to 70C)

Memory Back Up: Internal Lithium Battery

Differential-ready MultiTrac8

Approx. 15 minutes (AutoLocate)

Update Rate:

1/second, continuous

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APPENDIX C
Specifications (cont.)
Position Accuracy: 5-10 meters (16-33 ft.) with DGPS
corrections*
15 meters (49 ft.) RMS**
Velocity Accuracy:***

86

0.1 knot RMSsteady state

(90 knots/103 mph max.)

Dynamics:

Performs to specification to 3gs

Interfaces:

NMEA 183, and RS-232 DGPS

correction

Antenna:

Detachable with standard BNC

connector

POWER
Input: Four 1.5 volt AA batteries or 10-36VDC
Current Consumption:

0.16 amps max.

Battery Life:

Up to 15 hours (normal
mode/with alkaline batteries, up to 20 hours in
battery saver mode)

Specifications subject to change without notice.

* With optional GARMINGBR 21 Beacon Receiver Input.
** Subject to accuracy degradation to 100m 2DRMS under the US
DOD-imposed Selective Availability Program.
*** Speed Limitation-GARMIN products designed for non-aviation
use will display a maximum speed of approximately 90 knots or
103 MPH. This until will not display speed or position information if this limit is exceeded.

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APPENDIX C
Specifications and Wiring (cont.)

Three optional cables are available to connect the

GPS II to an external power source or interface with
another unit or PC:
Cigarette Lighter Adapter
Allows connection to a 12- volt DC cigarette
lighter plug.
Data Cross-Load Cable
Allows data transfer between other GARMIN
GPS units.
PC Kit Data Cable
PC interface cable with 9-pin D serial data
connector.

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APPENDIX C
Specifications and Wiring (cont.)
The NMEA 0183 version 2.0 interface format is
supported by the GPS II, and enables the unit to drive
three NMEA devices:
NMEA 0183 version 2.0
Approved sentences:
GPGGA, GPGLL, GPGSA, GPGSV, GPRMB,
GPRMC, GPRTE, GPWPL, GPBOD
Proprietary sentences:
PGRME(estimated error), PGRMM (map
datum),
PGRMZ (altitude), PSLIB (beacon receiver control)

88

DGPS corrections are accepted on RTCM-104

v. 2.0 format. The GARMIN GBR 21 is the recommended beacon receiver for use with the
GPS II. Other receivers with the correct RTCM
format may be used, but may not correctly
display status or allow tuning control.

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APPENDIX D
External Antenna
The GPS IIs antenna may be removed to allow attachment of an optional remote-mount GPS antenna, such as the GARMIN GA 26.
To remove the attached antenna:
1. Rotate the antenna toward the rear of the unit as
shown.
Note: The antenna can only be removed or installed
in this position.
2. Pull the antenna gently away from the unit.
3. To install the optional external antenna, mate the
BNC connector notches with the mounting posts
and turn the knurled knob one-quarter turn clockwise.

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APPENDIX E
Messages
The GPS II uses a flashing on-screen message indicator to alert you to important information. Whenever the
message indicator appears, press PAGE to view the message page. There are two types of messages: temporary
alerts and condition alerts. Temporary alerts are cleared from the message page after viewing, while condition
alerts remain until the condition has been resolved. Pay careful attention to all messages for your own safety.
Active WPT Cant be DeletedYou have attempted to change
the active to or active from waypoint. Clear the active route or
GOTO before making your changes.
Accuracy has been DegradedThe accuracy of the GPS II
has been degraded beyond 500 meters due to poor satellite
geometry or data quality. You should check other navigational
sources to verify the position indicated.
Already ExistsThe name you are entering already exists in
the GPS IIs memory.
ApproachingYou are one minute away from reaching a destination waypoint.

90

Battery Power is LowThebatteries are low and should be

replaced.

No DGPSPositionNot enough data is available to compute

a DGPS position.
Power Down and Re-initThe GPSII cannot calculate a position due to abnormal satellite conditions. Turn the unit off, and
use other means to verify the last position shown. Try the unit
again later, possibly in a different location.
Real Time Clock has FailedThe GPS IIs internal clock has
failed. Take your unit to an authorized GARMIN dealer for
repairs.
Read Only Mem has FailedThe permanent memory has
failed and the unit is not operable. Take your unit to an authorized GARMIN dealer for repairs.
Received an Invalid WPTA waypoint was received during
upload transfer that has an invalid identifier.

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APPENDIX E
Messages (cont.)
Receiver has FailedA failure in receiver hardware has been detected.
If this message persists, do not use the unit and take it to an authorized
dealer for repair.

Route Waypoint was DeletedA route waypoint entered

does not exist in the database and has been deleted from the
route.

Route is FullYou have attempted to add more than 30 waypoints to a route.

RTCMInput has FailedDGPS data being received has been

lost. You are no longer receiving the beacon signal.

Route is not EmptyYou have attempted to copy into a route

already in use.

Searching the SkyThe GPS II is in searching the sky for

almanac data or the unit is in AutoLocateTM mode.

Route Waypoint Cant be DeletedThe waypoint you are

trying to delete is part of a route. Delete the waypoint from the
route before removing it from memory.

Stored Data was LostAll waypoints, routes, time, and

almanac data have been lost due to battery failure, or the receivers memory has been cleared.

Route Waypoint was DeletedA route waypoint entered

does not exist in the database and has been deleted from the
route.

Transfer has been CompletedThe receiver is finished

uploading or downloading information to the connected device.

RTCMInput has FailedDGPS data being received has been

lost. You are no longer receiving the beacon signal.

WPT Memory is FullYou have used all 250 waypoints in the

GPS II. Delete unwanted waypoints to make room for new
entries.

Searching the SkyThe GPS II is in searching the sky for

almanac data or the unit is in AutoLocate mode.

91

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Page 92

APPENDIX F
Map Datums

The following list shows the map datums available for the GPS II. Menu page abbreviations are listed first, followed by the corresponding map datum name and area. The default
map datum for the GPS II is WGS 84.
Adindan
Afgooye
AINELABD 70
Anna 1 Ast 65
ARC 1950

92

ARC 1960
Ascnsn Isld 58
Astro B4 Sorol
Astro Bcn E
Astro Dos 71/4
Astr Stn 52
Astrln Geod 66

Adindan- Ethiopia, Mali, Senegal,

Sudan
Afgooye- Somalia
AIN ELANBD 1970- Bahrain Island,
Saudi Arabia
Anna 1 Astro 65- Cocos Isl.
ARC 1950- Botswana, Lesotho,
Malawi, Swaziland, Zaire, Zambia,
Zimbabwe
ARC 1960- Kenya, Tanzania
Ascension Island 58- Ascension Island
Astro B4 Sorol Atoll- Tern Island
Astro Beacon E- Iwo Jima
Astro Dos 71/4- St. Helena
Astronomic Stn 52- Marcus Island
Australian Geod 66- Australia,

Astrln Geod 84
Bellevue (IGN)
Bermuda 1957
Bogata Observ
Campo Inchspe
Canton Ast 66
Cape
Cape Canavrl
Carthage
CH-1903
Chatham 1971
Chua Astro

Tasmania Island
Australian Geod 84- Australia,
Tasmania Island
Efate and Erromango Islands
Bermuda 1957- Bermuda Islands
Bogata Obsrvatry- Colombia
Campo Inchauspe- Argentina
Canton Astro 1966- Phoenix Islands
Cape- South Africa
Cape Canaveral- Florida, Bahama
Islands
Carthage- Tunisia
CH 1903- Switzerland
Chatham 1971- Chatham Island (New
Zealand)
Chua Astro- Paraguay

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Page 93

APPENDIX F
Map Datums (cont.)
Corrego Alegr
Djakarta
Dos 1968
Easter Isld 67
European 1950

European 1979

Finland Hayfrd
Gandajika Base
Geod Datm 49

Corrego Algre-Brazil
Djakarta (Batavia)- Sumatra Island
(Indonesia)
Dos 1968- Gizo Island
(New Georgia Islands)
Easter Island 1967
European 1950- Austria, Belgium,
Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,
Gibraltar, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg,
Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland
European 1979- Austria, Finland,
Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland
Finland Hayford- Finland
Gandajika Base- Republic of Maldives
Geodetic Datum 49New Zealand

Guam 1963
Gux 1 Astro
Hjorsey 1955
Hong Kong 63
Hu-Tzu-Shan
Indian Bngldsh
Indian Thailand
Indonesia 74
Ireland 1965
ISTS 073 Astro
Johnston Island
Kerguelen Islnd
Kertau 1948
L. C. 5 Astro
Liberia 1964
Luzon Mindanao
Luzon Philippine

Guam 1963- Guam Island

Gux 1 Astro- Guadalcanal Island
Hjorsey 1955- Iceland
Hong Kong 63- Hong Kong
Hu-Tzu-Shan- Taiwan
Indian- Bangladesh, India, Nepal
Indian- Thailand, Vietnam
Indonesia 1974- Indonesia
Ireland 1965- Ireland
ISTS 073 ASTRO 69Diego Garcia
Johnston Island Kandawala- Sri Lanka
Kerguelen Island
Kertau 1948- West Malaysia, Singapore
Cayman Brac Island
Liberia 1964- Liberia
Luzon- Mindanao Island
Luzon- Philippines
(excluding Mindanao Island)

93

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Page 94

APPENDIX F
Map Datums (cont.)
NAD27 Central
Mahe 1971
Marco Astro
Massawa
Merchich
Midway Ast 61
Minna
NAD27 Alaska
NAD27 Bahamas

Mahe 1971- Mahe Island

Marco Astro- Salvage Island
Massawa- Eritrea (Ethiopia)
Merchich- Morocco
Midway Astro 61- Midway
Minna- Nigeria
North American 1927- Alaska
North American 1927Bahamas (excluding San Salvador Island)
NAD27 Canada
North American 1927- Canada and Newfoundland
NAD27 Canal Zone North Am. 1927- Canal Zone
NAD27 Caribbn
North American 1927- Caribbean (Barbados,
Caicos Islands, Cuba, Dom. Rep., Grand Cayman,
Jamaica,
Leeward and Turks Islands)

94

NAD27 CONUS
NAD27 Cuba
NAD27 Grnland
NAD27 Mexico
NAD27 San Sal
NAD83
Nhrwn Masirah
Nhrwn Saudi A
Nhrwn United A
Naparima BWI
Obsrvtorio 66

North American 1927- Central America (Belize,

Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras,
Nicaragua)
North Am. 1927- Mean Value
North American 1927- Cuba
North American 1927Greenland (Hayes Peninsula)
N. American 1927- Mexico
North American 1927- San Salvador Island
North American 1983- Alaska, Canada, Central
America, CONUS, Mexico
Nahrwn- Masirah Island (Oman)
Nahrwn- Saudi Arabia
Nahrwn- United Arab Emirates
Naparima BWI- Trinidad and Tobago
Observatorio 1966- Corvo
and Flores Islands (Azores)

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Page 95

APPENDIX F
Map Datums (cont.)
Old Egyptian
Old Hawaiian
Oman
Ord Srvy GB
Pico De Las Nv
Ptcairn Ast 67
Prov S Am 56
Prov S Chln 63
Puerto Rico
Qatar National
Qornoq
Reunion
Rome 1940
RT 90
Santo (Dos)
Sao Braz

Old Egyptian- Egypt

Old Hawaiian- Mean Value
Oman- Oman
Old Survey Grt Britn- England, Isle of Man,
Scotland, Shetland Isl., Wales
Canary Islands
Pitcairn Astro 67- Pitcairn Isl.
Prov So Amricn 56- Bolivia, Chile,Colombia,
Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Venezuela
Prov So Chilean 63- S. Chile
Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands
Qatar National- Qatar
Qornoq- South Greenland
Reunion- Mascarene Island
Rome 1940- Sardinia Island
Sweden
Santo (Dos)- Espirito Santo Island
Sao Braz- Sao Miguel, Santa

Sapper Hill 43
Schwarzeck
Sth Amrcn 69

South Asia
SE Base
SW Base
Timbalai 1948
Tokyo
Tristan Ast 68
Viti Levu 1916
Wake-Eniwetok
WGS 72
WGS 84
Zanderij

Maria Islands (Azores)

Sapper Hill 1943- East Falkland Island
Schwarzeck- Namibia
South American 69- Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil,
Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru,
Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago
South Asia- Singapore
Southeast Base- Porto Santo
and Madiera Islands
Southwest Base- Faial, Graciosa, Pico, Sao Jorge
and Terceira Islands (Azores)
Timbalai 1948- Brunei and E. Malaysia (Sarawak
and Sabah)
Tokyo- Japan, Korea, Okinawa
Tristan Astro 1968- Tristan da Cunha
Viti Levu 1916- Viti Levu/ Fiji Islands
Wake-Eniwetok- Marshall Isl.
World Geodetic System 1972
World Geodetic System 1984
Zanderij-Surinam

95

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Page 96

APPENDIX F
Time Offset Chart
The table below gives approximate UTC time offsets for various longitudinal zones. If you are in daylight savings time, add one hour to the offset.
Longitudinal Zone
W180.0 to W172.5

96

Offset
-12

Longitudinal Zone
E007.5 to E022.5

Offset
1
2

W172.5 to W157.5

-11

E022.5 to E037.5

W157.5 to W142.5

-10

E037.5 to E052.5

W142.5 to W127.5
W127.5 to W112.5

-9
-8

E052.5 to E067.5
E067.5 to E082.5

4
5

W112.5 to W097.5

-7

E082.5 to E097.5

W097.5 to W082.5

-6

E097.5 to E112.5

W082.5 to W067.5
W067.5 to W052.5

-5
-4

E112.5 to E127.5
E127.5 to E142.5

8
9

W052.5 to W037.5

-3

E142.5 to E157.5

10

W037.5 to W022.5

-2

E157.5 to E172.5

11

W022.5 to W007.5
W007.5 to E007.5

-1
0

E172.5 to E180.0

12

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Page 97

APPENDIX G
Index
A
Active Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Active Route Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Acquiring Satellite Signals . . . . .8,9,11
Altitude Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
AutoLocateTM Mode . . . . . . . . .7-8,22
Automatic Shutoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
B
Backlighting On/Off . . . . . . . . . .25,73
Backlight Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Battery Installation/Replacement . .5,83
Battery Level Indicator . . . . . . . . . .24
Battery Saver Mode . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Beacon Receiver Setup . . . . . . . . . .88
Bearing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

C
Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii
Cancel GOTO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Clearing Track Log . . . . . . . . . .18,68
CDI Scale Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . .764
Compass Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17,56
Course Made Good (CMG) . . . . . . .55
Course To Steer (CTS) . . . . . . . . . .55
Crosstrack Error (XTE) . . . . . . . . . .55
D
Date and Time Setup . . . . . . . . . . .72
Deleting Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Desired Track (DTK) . . . . . . . . . . .50
DGPS Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
DGPS Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . .79-81,88
Distance and Sun Calculation . . . . .70

E
Estimated Position Error (EPE) . . . .22
Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) . . .50
Estimated Time Enroute (ETE) . .58,17
External Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
EZinit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
G
GOTO Function . . . . . . . . . . . .16,40
GPS Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
H
Heading Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Highway Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58,59
I
Initialization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-9
Installation (wiring) . . . . . . . . . .87-88

97

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Page 98

APPENDIX H
Interface Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Interface Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . .78-80
K
Keypad Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
L
Losing Satellite Coverage . . . . . . . . .9

98

M
Magnetic Heading Reference . . . . . .77
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
Maximum Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
MOB Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Moving Map Page . . . . . . . . .15,60-61
Map Datum List . . . . . . . . . . . .92-95
Map Datum Selection . . . . . . . . . . .75
Map GOTOs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63-64
Map Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Map Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65-66

Map Zooming and Panning . . . .62-64
Marking a Position . . . . . . . . . .13,30
Menu Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18,69
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90-91
N
Navigation Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
Navigation Pages . . . . . . . . . . . .54-59
Navigation Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Navigation Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Nearest Waypoint Page . . . . . . . . . .32
NMEA Output Formats . . . . . . . . .88
O
Offset, local time . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
Operating Mode Setup . . . . . . . . . .71
Output Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

P
Packing List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .i
Page Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Panning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-64
Pointer Arrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Position Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Position Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Position Page . . . . . . . . . .12,14,26-27
Power Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Power On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
R
Range Rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Receiver Status . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-23
Reference Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . .35
Resolution, track storing . . . . . . . . .67
Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46-53
Active Route Page . . . . . . . . . . .50
Activating and Inverting . . . . . .49

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Page 99

APPENDIX H
Copying and Clearing . . . . . . .51
Creating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Editing Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
On-Route GOTOs . . . . . . . . . . .53
Route Definition Page . . . . . .46-47
S
Satellite Status Page . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Screen Backlighting . . . . . . . . . .25-73
Screen Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Screen Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Simulator Mode . . . . . . . . . . . .81-82
Sky View Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85-86
System Setup Page . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
T
Time Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
TracBack Navigation . . . . . . . . .42-45

Track Log Setup . . . . . . . . . . . .66-67

Track Recording . . . . . . . . . . . .67,68
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
U
Units of Measure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iv
UTC time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
UTMCoordinates . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
V
Velocity Made Good (VMG) . . . . . .55
W
Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29,31-39
Create Waypoints By Text . . . . .34
Deleting Waypoints . . . . . . . . . .38
Editing Waypoints . . . . . . . . . .36
Marking Waypoints . . . . . . . . . .29
Naming Waypoints . . . . . . . . . .29

Reference Waypoints . . . . . . . . .35

Renaming Waypoints . . . . . . . .38
Scanning Waypoints . . . . . . . . .39
Waypoint Comments . . . . . . . .37
Waypoint Definition Page . . . . . . . .34
Waypoint List Page . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Wiring Installation . . . . . . . . . .87-88
Z
Zoom Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-64

99

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APPENDIX H

100

Page 100

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Page 101

LIMITED WARRANTY
GARMIN Corporation warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for
one year from the date of purchase. GARMIN will, at its sole option, repair or replace any components which
fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer for parts or labor.
The customer is, however, responsible for any transportation costs. This warranty does not cover failures due
to abuse, misuse, accident or unauthorized alteration or repairs. GARMIN assumes no responsibility for special, incidental, punitive or consequential damages, or loss of use.
The warranties and remedies contained herein are exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties expressed
or implied, including any liability arising under warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, statutory or otherwise. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, which may vary from state to state.
To obtain warranty service, call the GARMIN Customer Service department for a returned merchandise
tracking number. The unit should be securely packaged with the tracking number clearly marked on the outside of the package and sent freight prepaid and insured to a GARMIN warranty service station. A copy of
the original sales receipt is required as the proof of purchase for warranty repairs. GARMIN retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit or software at its sole discretion.

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Page 102

1996 GARMIN Corporation

1200 E. 151st Street, Olathe, KS 66062 USA
GARMIN (Europe) LTD Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey SO51 9AQ UK
Part Number 190-00118-00 Rev. A