Garmin GPS 2797 Manual

The Garmin GPS 2797 is a high-performance marine chartplotter featuring a 7-inch sunlight-readable display, preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts, built-in GPS/GLONASS receiver, support for Garmin radar and sonar modules, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, touchscreen interface, and rugged, waterproof design (IPX7). Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 7-inch WVGA touchscreen display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts.

Feature	Description
Display	7-inch sunlight-readable, capacitive touchscreen, 800 x 480 pixels
Charts	Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts with relief shading
GPS Receiver	Built-in high-sensitivity GPS/GLONASS receiver
Connectivity	NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet (Garmin Marine Network)
Radar Support	Compatible with Garmin GMR xHD2 and xHD3 radar domes
Sonar Support	Supports Garmin CHIRP traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü sonar
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power Input	10-32 V DC
Data Storage	Accepts microSD card for additional charts and updates
Mounting	Includes swivel mount for flush or surface mounting

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location with clear view and easy access.

1. Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to secure swivel mount to helm or console.
2. Route the cables: Connect power/data cable to unit, route to power source and other devices.
3. Connect to power: Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) on 10-32V DC source.
4. Connect to NMEA network: Attach NMEA 2000 drop cable to backbone for sensor data.
5. Secure the unit: Snap chartplotter into mount and tighten locking knob.

WARNING! Ensure all power is OFF during installation. Use appropriate marine-grade wire and fuses. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

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

1. Language and Region: Select language, measurement units (nautical/statute), and time format.
2. Agree to Terms: Read and accept the license agreement.
3. GPS Setup: Allow unit to acquire satellite signals (may take several minutes).
4. Chart Setup: Verify preloaded charts are active. Install additional charts via microSD if needed.
5. Configure Networks: Set up connections to NMEA 2000 devices, radar, or sonar modules.
6. Calibrate Compass: Follow on-screen instructions if using internal heading sensor.

CAUTION! Perform initial GPS acquisition in an open area with clear sky view for best results.

Specifications

• Display Size: 7 inches diagonal.
• Display Resolution: 800 x 480 pixels (WVGA).
• Touchscreen: Capacitive, multi-touch.
• Waterproof Standard: IPX7.
• GPS Receiver: GPS/GLONASS.
• Preloaded Charts: BlueChart g3 coastal charts.
• Power Supply: 10-32 V DC.
• Max Power Consumption: 2.5 A @ 12 V.
• Communication Ports: NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet, microSD card slot.
• Operating Temperature: -15° to 55°C (5° to 131°F).
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 209 x 134 x 56 mm (8.2" x 5.3" x 2.2").

Controls and Settings

Primary interface is via the touchscreen. Physical buttons: Power button on top edge.

Home Screen: Provides quick access to Navigation, Sonar, Radar, Media, and Settings.

Settings Menu: System (Language, Units, Time), Display (Brightness, Night Mode), Communications (Network, NMEA), Navigation (Routing Preferences, Alarms), Sonar/Radar Setup.

Chartplotter Functions: Create Waypoints, Plan Routes, View Tracks, Measure Distance, Set Anchor Alarm.

Sonar Views: Traditional, ClearVü (down-looking), SideVü (side-scan). Adjust frequency, range, and sensitivity.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect drop cable to backbone for engine data, wind, depth, speed. NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible autopilots or older instruments. Ethernet: Connect to other Garmin Marine Network devices (e.g., another chartplotter, radar).

1. Ensure unit is powered OFF.
2. Identify correct port on rear of unit (labeled).
3. Use appropriate Garmin cables or approved third-party cables.
4. Secure connections and protect from moisture.
5. Power on unit and configure the connected device in Settings > Communications.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier future maintenance.

Navigation & Chartplotting

Use preloaded BlueChart g3 charts for detailed coastal navigation.

1. Go To: Touch a point on chart or search for destination, then select "Go To".
2. Route Planning: Touch "Route" > "New Route", add waypoints by touching chart.
3. Waypoints: Touch and hold on chart to create waypoint; edit name/symbol.
4. Tracks: View and save track history. Clear track log as needed.
5. Chart Details: Adjust chart orientation (North Up, Course Up, Head Up). Use split-screen for chart and data.
6. Data Overlays: Display depth contours, tide stations, marinas, and nautical alerts.
7. Alarms: Set anchor drag, arrival, off-course, and depth alarms.

WARNING! Always use official paper charts as primary means of navigation. Electronic charts are an aid only.

Sonar & Radar Features

Sonar: When connected to a compatible transducer, access sonar views from Home screen. Adjust frequency (e.g., 50/200 kHz for CHIRP) for target separation. Use A-Scope and Fish ID features.

Radar: When connected to a Garmin radar, access Radar from Home screen. Use for collision avoidance, weather monitoring, and navigation. Adjust gain, sea clutter, and rain clutter for optimal image.

Overlay: Radar image can be overlaid on the chart for situational awareness.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with fresh water. For stubborn stains, use a mild, non-abrasive soap solution. Do not use chemical cleaners, solvents, or ammonia-based products.

CAUTION! Ensure the unit is powered off and connectors are protected from moisture during cleaning. Do not spray liquids directly onto the unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. IC Compliance: This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and Garmin are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For the latest software updates and support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit will not power on	Power connection, fuse	Check voltage at power terminals; verify inline fuse is intact; ensure connections are secure and corrosion-free.
No GPS position	Signal obstruction, antenna	Move to open area; ensure no metal obstructions overhead; verify GPS mode is enabled in settings.
Touchscreen unresponsive	Screen protector, calibration	Remove aftermarket screen protector; clean screen; restart unit. Recalibrate touchscreen in Settings > Display.
Charts not displaying	Chart region, card error	Verify correct chart region is selected; ensure microSD card is properly inserted and formatted; update chart software.
No communication with NMEA devices	Cabling, settings, power	Check NMEA cable connections and terminations; verify correct NMEA sentences are enabled in Communications settings; ensure NMEA network has power.
Radar/Sonar not detected	Cables, network, power	Check Ethernet/power cables to module; ensure module is powered on; verify network connection in Settings.
Display is dim	Brightness settings, power	Adjust brightness in Settings > Display; check for low input voltage.

Reset: Settings > System > Reset > Restore Defaults. This will erase user waypoints/routes/tracks unless backed up.

Service: For technical support, contact Garmin at 1-800-800-1020 or visit www.garmin.com/support.