Garmin GPS 220 Manual

The Garmin GPS 220 is a rugged, waterproof marine GPS receiver designed for navigation on the water. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, intuitive interface, waypoint and route management, track logging, and NMEA 0183 compatibility for interfacing with other marine electronics. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof case, high-contrast display, control buttons, external antenna connector, power/data cable port.

Feature	Description
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled
Display	High-contrast LCD, backlit for night use
Waypoints	Store up to 500 user-defined waypoints
Routes	Create and store up to 20 reversible routes
Tracks	Automatic track log with 10,000 point capacity
NMEA 0183	Compatible for data sharing with chartplotters, autopilots
Power Input	10-32 VDC, typical marine electrical system
Mounting	Includes bracket for flush or surface mounting
Backlight	Adjustable for day/night viewing

Installation

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

1. Mount the unit: Use provided bracket to mount in a location protected from direct spray but with open sky view.
2. Connect power: Route the power/data cable to the unit. Connect red wire to positive (+) DC source (10-32V), black wire to negative (-) or ground.
3. Connect antenna (if external): If using an external antenna, connect to the antenna port on the back of the unit.
4. Secure connections: Ensure all connections are waterproofed using marine-grade heat shrink or sealant.

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

First-Time Setup

Apply power to the unit; follow on-screen initialization.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit with clear view of sky. It will automatically begin searching for satellites. This may take several minutes on first use.
2. Set preferences: Press MENU, navigate to SETUP. Set units (nautical/statute), time format, and backlight settings.
3. Calibrate compass (if applicable): If model includes electronic compass, follow on-screen prompts to calibrate.
4. Set initial waypoint: Mark your current position as a waypoint for easy return.

CAUTION! For accurate navigation, ensure the GPS has acquired a 3D fix (shown on satellite page) before departing.

Specifications

• Physical: Waterproof (IPX7), rugged plastic case.
• Display: High-contrast LCD, 4-level adjustable backlight.
• GPS: High-sensitivity receiver, WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Memory: 500 waypoints, 20 routes, 10,000 track points.
• Interface: NMEA 0183 output (supports GGA, GLL, GSA, GSV, RMC, VTG, ZDA).
• Power: 10-32 VDC, 1 Watt typical power consumption.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Dimensions: Varies by model; consult unit label.
• Weight: Approximately 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs).

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons: POWER, PAGE, ENTER/MARK, ROCKER (up/down/left/right), MENU.

Key Functions: POWER turns unit on/off. PAGE cycles through main display pages (Map, Compass, Highway, Position, etc.). ENTER/MARK marks current location as a waypoint. ROCKER navigates menus and moves cursor. MENU accesses context-sensitive options.

Settings Menu: System (Units, Time, Backlight, Alarms), Navigation (Routing Method, Off Course Alarm), Interface (NMEA Settings), Tracks & Routes (Clear Log, Setup).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to chartplotter, autopilot, or VHF radio for position data.

1. Identify NMEA wires in power/data cable: Typically NMEA OUT+ (blue) and NMEA OUT- (brown).
2. Connect to receiving device's NMEA IN+ and IN- terminals.
3. Configure the GPS 220's interface setting to output desired NMEA sentences (e.g., RMC, GGA).
4. Configure the receiving device to accept NMEA input at 4800 baud.

Tip: Always consult both devices' manuals for specific wiring diagrams. Ensure connections are secure and insulated.

Navigation Basics

Core navigation functions: Going to a waypoint, following a route, tracking your path.

1. Mark a Waypoint: Press and hold ENTER/MARK from any page. Edit name/symbol if desired, press ENTER to save.
2. Go To a Waypoint: From the Compass or Highway page, press MENU, select "Go To". Choose from list of waypoints.
3. Create a Route: MENU > Routes > Create Route. Add existing waypoints in sequence.
4. Follow a Route: MENU > Routes > Select Route > Navigate.
5. View Track: The Tracks page shows your path. Can be saved or cleared.
6. Man Overboard (MOB): Quickly press ENTER/MARK twice to mark an MOB position and begin navigation back to it.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation. Always maintain situational awareness, use charts, and practice traditional navigation skills.

Advanced Features

NMEA Data Output: Share position, speed, and time data with compatible devices. TracBack®: Retrace your path by following your saved track log in reverse.

Care & Maintenance

Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use. Wipe display with soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Ensure power is disconnected before cleaning. Do not open the case; no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to interference. Contains FCC ID: [Insert FCC ID from unit label]. This product uses a GPS chipset subject to U.S. export controls. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin® and TracBack® are registered trademarks. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No Power	Blown fuse, loose wiring, incorrect voltage	Check fuse (2A). Verify wiring (red+/black-). Ensure power source is 10-32 VDC.
No GPS Signal	Obstructed view, first-time acquisition	Move to open area. Wait up to 15 minutes for cold start acquisition.
Inaccurate Position	Poor satellite geometry, multipath	Ensure clear sky view. Check satellite page for strong signal strength.
NMEA Data Not Received	Incorrect wiring or settings	Verify NMEA wire connections. Confirm GPS is set to output NMEA sentences and receiving device is set to correct baud rate (4800).
Display Faded or Blank	Backlight setting, extreme temperature	Adjust backlight level. Allow unit to acclimate to ambient temperature.

Reset: To restore factory defaults, power off. Press and hold PAGE + ENTER/MARK while powering on. Release buttons when "Clear All User Data?" appears (use caution).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support. Do not attempt to repair unit yourself.