Garmin GPS 2006C Manual

The Garmin GPS 2006C is a high-performance marine GPS chartplotter featuring a 6-inch color display, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, built-in worldwide basemap, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, waterproof design (IPX7), NMEA 0183 interface, track plotting, waypoint management, and trip computer functions. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6-inch color TFT display, Waterproof casing, GPS antenna, Power/data cable, Mounting bracket, External antenna connector.

Feature	Description
Display	6-inch diagonal, 256-color TFT, sunlight readable
GPS Receiver	WAAS-enabled, 12 parallel channels
Charts	Preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power Input	10-40 VDC, 1.5A max
Data Interface	NMEA 0183 input/output
Waypoints	3000 with name and symbol
Tracks	10,000 points, 20 saved tracks
Routes	50 reversible routes with up to 50 waypoints each
Backlight	Adjustable for day/night viewing

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Select mounting location with clear view of sky.

1. Mount bracket: Use provided hardware to secure bracket to helm or console.
2. Connect power: Route power cable to 10-40 VDC source; connect red to positive, black to negative.
3. Connect antenna: Ensure GPS antenna has clear sky view; connect to ANT port if using external antenna.
4. Connect NMEA devices: Wire NMEA 0183 devices to DATA IN/OUT terminals as needed.
5. Secure unit: Snap GPS 2006C onto mounting bracket; tighten security screw.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit in open sky view; wait for "GPS Ready" message.
2. Set language: In MAIN MENU > SETUP > SYSTEM, select language (default ENGLISH).
3. Set units: Configure nautical/statute units, depth, temperature, and coordinate format.
4. Calibrate compass: If equipped, follow on-screen instructions for magnetic compass calibration.
5. Set time: Configure time zone, daylight saving, and time format.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving vessel. Complete setup while docked or anchored.

Specifications

• Display: 6-inch diagonal, 480 x 640 pixels, TFT color.
• GPS: 12-channel WAAS-enabled receiver.
• Accuracy: Position: <10 meters, Velocity: 0.1 knot.
• Charts: Preloaded BlueChart g2; accepts BlueChart g2 Vision cards.
• Waypoints: 3000 user-defined.
• Tracks: 10,000 points, 20 saved tracks.
• Routes: 50 reversible routes.
• Power: 10-40 VDC, 1.5A max.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
• Dimensions: 18.3 x 14.5 x 7.6 cm.

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons and on-screen menus.

Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, ROCKER (up/down/left/right), BACKLIGHT, ZOOM IN/OUT.

Main Pages: Map, Compass, Highway, Active Route, Trip Computer, Sonar (if connected).

Settings Menu: System (language, units, time), Navigation (route preferences, alarms), Chart (detail, appearance), NMEA (interface settings), Display (backlight, contrast).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible instruments (depth sounder, speed, autopilot). External antenna: For improved reception in enclosed spaces.

1. Turn off power to all devices before connecting.
2. Connect NMEA devices: Wire transmit/receive lines per wiring diagram in manual.
3. Connect external antenna: Plug active GPS antenna into ANT port.
4. Configure NMEA: In SETUP > NMEA, set sentences and baud rate (default 4800).

Tip: Use marine-grade connectors and seal connections with waterproof tape.

Navigation Functions

Basic navigation: Go To, Routes, Tracks.

1. Create waypoint: Press ENTER on map to mark location; name and save.
2. Go To: Select waypoint from list, choose "Go To" for direct navigation.
3. Create route: In ROUTE PLANNER, add waypoints in sequence; save route.
4. Follow route: Activate route; navigation page shows course and deviation.
5. Track recording: Enable track log to record path; save for later use.
6. Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold ENTER to mark MOB position and navigate back.
7. Trip computer: View speed, distance, time, and fuel data (if connected).

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation. Always use traditional navigation methods and maintain proper lookout.

Chartplotting Features

Chart display: Zoom, Pan, Chart detail, Tides, and Mariner's Eye 3D view (with compatible charts).

1. Zoom: Use ZOOM buttons or on-screen controls.
2. Pan: Use rocker to move chart; press ENTER to center.
3. Chart detail: Adjust level of detail in SETUP > CHART.
4. Object information: Select chart object (buoy, light) to view details.
5. Tides: View tide stations and predictions on chart.
6. Mariner's Eye: With BlueChart g2 Vision, toggle 3D perspective view.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use fresh water and mild soap with soft cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

CAUTION! Ensure connectors are dry before reconnecting power. Store in dry place when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. Contains GPS technology subject to U.S. export controls. © 2006 Garmin Ltd. Garmin, BlueChart, and GPS 2006C are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 913-397-8200.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection	Check fuse (3A); verify 10-40 VDC at connector; ensure polarity correct.
Poor GPS reception	Obstruction/antenna	Move to open area; check antenna connection; ensure clear view of sky.
No chart display	Chart card/mode	Ensure chart card fully inserted; verify chart detail not set to "Least".
Inaccurate position	Satellite reception	Wait for 3D fix (3+ satellites); ensure WAAS enabled in SETUP.
NMEA data not received	Wiring/baud rate	Check wiring connections; verify baud rate matches connected device.
Screen dim/unreadable	Backlight setting	Adjust backlight in SETUP > DISPLAY; check for sunlight glare.

Reset: Press and hold POWER while powering on for system reset (does not erase user data).

Service: 913-397-8200; www.garmin.com/support