Garmin GPS 196 User Manual

The Garmin GPS 196 is a portable aviation GPS receiver featuring a high-resolution display, comprehensive aviation databases, moving map navigation, flight planning capabilities, and rugged construction for cockpit use. It supports VFR/IFR navigation, provides terrain and obstacle alerts, includes Jeppesen database compatibility, and offers multiple power options. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-brightness LCD display, internal GPS antenna, data card slot, external antenna connector, serial data port, audio alert speaker, and ruggedized case.

Feature	Description
Display	High-resolution, sunlight-readable FSTN LCD
GPS Receiver	12-channel parallel receiver with WAAS capability
Aviation Databases	Includes Jeppesen data for airports, nav aids, and obstacles
Moving Map	Detailed aviation mapping with ownship position
Flight Planning	Create and store flight plans with up to 30 waypoints
Power Options	Internal NiMH batteries or external 10-32V DC input
Data Card Slot	For database updates and additional map storage
External Antenna Port	BNC connector for optional external GPS antenna
Serial Port	For connection to autopilot or external display
Audio Alerts	Programmable audio warnings for proximity alerts

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location in cockpit.

1. Mount unit: Use provided yoke or panel mount bracket. Ensure clear view of sky for GPS reception.
2. Connect power: Use aircraft power cable to 10-32V DC source (fused at 1A).
3. Connect external antenna (optional): Attach to BNC connector on top of unit.
4. Install data card: Insert Jeppesen data card into slot on side.

WARNING! Ensure mounting does not obstruct aircraft controls or pilot visibility. Secure all cables away from moving parts.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initial configuration prompts.

1. Acquire satellite signal: Place unit with clear sky view; allow 2-15 minutes for first fix.
2. Set preferences: Configure units (nm/km, ft/m), time format, and north reference.
3. Initialize database: Accept database agreements; verify current database effective dates.
4. Calibrate sensors: Follow on-screen prompts for altimeter calibration if equipped.
5. Create user waypoints: Enter frequently used locations if desired.

CAUTION! Do not rely solely on GPS for navigation. Always have backup navigation methods available.

Specifications

• Display: 5.2-inch diagonal, 234x320 pixel FSTN LCD with backlight.
• GPS: 12 parallel channels, WAAS-enabled, position accuracy <15 meters.
• Database: Jeppesen NavData (updated quarterly), includes airports, VORs, NDBs, intersections.
• Memory: 8 MB internal, expandable via data card.
• Power: 10-32V DC external, or internal NiMH batteries (approx. 4 hours).
• Interface: RS-232 serial port (NMEA 0183, Aviation format).
• Environmental: Operating temperature -15°C to 70°C, waterproof to IPX7.
• Dimensions: 6.3" W x 3.5" H x 2.2" D (160 x 89 x 56 mm).
• Weight: 1.2 lb (0.54 kg) with batteries.

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER button, PAGE rocker, ENTER key, CURSOR pad, QUIT button.

Interface: Use PAGE to cycle through main pages (Map, Nav, Waypoint, Nearest, etc.). Use CURSOR to highlight fields, ENTER to select.

System Setup: Access via pressing and holding PAGE. Configure system (units, time, display contrast), interface (serial port settings), sensor calibration, and system information.

Navigation Setup: Configure map orientation (North Up, Track Up), declutter levels, terrain and obstacle alerts, airspace warnings.

Flight Plan Setup: Create, edit, activate, and reverse flight plans. Set approach and departure procedures.

Connecting Devices

External Power: 10-32V DC input. External Antenna: BNC connector. Serial Data: 9-pin D-sub for autopilot/Nav display.

1. Ensure power is OFF before making connections.
2. Connect external power using supplied cable (red to positive, black to ground).
3. For serial connection: Configure port in Interface setup menu (baud rate, protocol).
4. For external antenna: Connect to BNC port; ensure antenna has clear sky view.

Tip: Use ferrite beads on power and data cables to reduce RF interference in aircraft environment.

Navigation & Flight Planning

Provides VFR/IFR enroute and terminal navigation.

1. Direct-to Navigation: Press DIRECT button, enter waypoint identifier, press ENTER.
2. Flight Plan Creation: Select Flight Plan page, press MENU, select "New Flight Plan".
3. Adding Waypoints: Select empty line, enter identifier or choose from nearest list.
4. Activating Flight Plan: Highlight plan, press MENU, select "Activate".
5. Following Active Route: Use Nav page for course deviation, distance, ETA, and fuel calculations.
6. Approach Procedures: Select approach from airport information page when within 30 nm.
7. Nearest Functions: Quickly find nearest airports, nav aids, intersections, or airspace.
8. Simulator Mode: Practice navigation on ground (enable in System Setup).

WARNING! GPS signals may be unavailable or inaccurate. Always verify position with other navigation sources.

Database Management

Jeppesen Database: Contains airports, runways, frequencies, procedures, nav aids, airspace, and obstacles.

Database Updates: Purchase updated data cards quarterly. Power off unit, insert new card, power on. Follow prompts to load new database.

User Waypoints: Create and store up to 500 user-defined waypoints. Enter via coordinates or relative position.

Flight Plan Storage: Save up to 20 reversible flight plans with 30 waypoints each.

Track Log: Automatically records track (configurable interval). Save or clear from Track Log page.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning display and case. For stubborn stains, dampen cloth with water only.

Battery Care: For internal NiMH batteries, fully discharge and recharge monthly to maintain capacity. Replace if runtime drops below 2 hours.

Data Card Contacts: Keep clean and dry. Insert and remove cards with unit powered OFF.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents, chemicals, or abrasive cleaners. Avoid extreme temperatures during storage or operation.

Regulatory Information

FCC ID: IPH-00216A. Complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. This device may not cause harmful interference and must accept any interference received. TSO-C146a compliant for supplemental navigation. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Jeppesen data © Jeppesen Sanderson, Inc. For technical support, contact Garmin Aviation Product Support at 1-800-800-1020 or visit www.garmin.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/batteries	Check external power connection; install/charge internal batteries; verify fuse.
No GPS reception	Antenna view/database	Ensure clear view of sky; allow time for acquisition; verify database current.
Inaccurate position	Satellite geometry/WAAS	Check satellite page for PDOP < 6; ensure WAAS enabled if available.
Display blank/dim	Backlight/contrast	Adjust contrast and backlight settings; check power voltage.
Database not loading	Data card/contacts	Clean data card contacts; ensure card fully inserted; try different card.
Serial port not communicating	Cable/settings	Verify cable connections; check baud rate and protocol settings match connected device.

Reset: Press and hold POWER + PAGE + ENTER while powering on for master reset (erases user data).

Service: 1-800-800-1020; www.garmin.com/aviation