Garmin GPS 315 Manual

The Garmin GPS 315 is a rugged, portable GPS receiver designed for aviation, marine, and land navigation. Featuring a 12-parallel-channel receiver for quick satellite acquisition, a built-in worldwide database, and intuitive interface with dedicated navigation pages. It provides essential navigation data including position, speed, course, bearing, distance, and estimated time of arrival. Below are key sections for operation, features, setup, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-channel GPS receiver, backlit LCD display, waterproof case, external antenna port, dedicated navigation pages, and worldwide database.

Feature	Description
12-parallel-channel receiver	Fast satellite acquisition and tracking
Built-in worldwide database	Includes cities, airports, VORs, NDBs, intersections
Waterproof case	Meets IEC 529 IPX7 standards
Backlit display	For low-light conditions
External antenna port	For optional external antenna connection
Dedicated nav pages	POSITION, NAVIGATION, HIGHWAY, MAP
Waypoint storage	Up to 500 user-defined waypoints
Route storage	Up to 20 reversible routes with 30 legs each
Track log	Automatic track recording with 10 saved tracks
Power source	4 AA batteries or external DC power

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries or connect to external power.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. External antenna (optional): Connect to external antenna port on top of unit.
3. External power: Use optional power cable for continuous operation.
4. Mounting: Use optional mounting bracket for fixed installation.

WARNING! Do not obstruct antenna view of sky. Ensure secure mounting in vehicles.

First-Time Use

Power on unit; follow initialization procedure.

1. Initialization: Turn on with clear view of sky. Unit will search for satellites.
2. Acquisition: Wait for "Ready to Navigate" message (typically 1-2 minutes).
3. Set preferences: Use MENU to set units (statute/nautical/metric), time format, etc.
4. Enter position: If prompted, enter approximate position for faster acquisition.

CAUTION! Keep unit stationary during initial satellite acquisition.

Specifications

• Receiver: 12 parallel channels, all-in-view tracking.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Acquisition Time: Warm start: 15 seconds; Cold start: 45 seconds.
• Accuracy: Position: <15 meters RMS; Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Dynamics: Up to 999 knots; Altitude limit: 18,000 meters (60,000 feet).
• Database: Worldwide with cities, airports, navaids.
• Waypoints: 500 user-defined; 20 routes with 30 legs each.
• Display: 5.6 x 3.8 cm LCD, 100 x 160 pixels, backlit.
• Power: 4 AA batteries (12-24 hours); External: 10-40 VDC.
• Waterproof: IEC 529 IPX7 standard (submersible 1 meter, 30 minutes).
• Dimensions: 15.2 x 5.8 x 3.3 cm; Weight: 255 grams (with batteries).
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).

Controls and Display

Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, GOTO, MARK, QUIT, ROCKER keypad.

Display Pages: POSITION (lat/lon, altitude, time), NAVIGATION (bearing, distance, ETA), HIGHWAY (graphic course indicator), MAP (moving map display).

MENU Functions: Setup (units, time, display), Waypoint Management, Route Management, System (interface, alarms, initialization).

Basic Navigation

Navigate to waypoints from database or user-defined locations.

1. Select GOTO: Press GOTO button.
2. Choose waypoint: Select from database or enter coordinates.
3. Follow navigation: Use NAVIGATION or HIGHWAY page to follow course.
4. Arrival: Unit alerts when approaching destination.

Tip: Use MARK to save current position as waypoint during navigation.

Advanced Functions

Route planning, track log, proximity waypoints, and alarms.

1. Create route: MENU > Routes > New Route, add waypoints in sequence.
2. Activate route: Select route and choose "Navigate Route."
3. Track log: Automatically records path; can save up to 10 tracks.
4. Proximity waypoints: Set alarm radius around specific points.
5. Alarms: Anchor drag, arrival, off-course, and proximity alarms.
6. Simulator mode: Practice navigation without satellite signals.

WARNING! GPS signals may be unavailable or inaccurate; always use with other navigation methods.

Waypoints & Routes

Store and manage navigation points and planned courses.

Waypoint Entry: Manual (enter coordinates), From Map (select on map), From Position (current location). Waypoint Symbols: Choose from 24 icons for identification.

Route Management: Create, edit, reverse, and activate routes. Route Legs: Each route can have up to 30 legs (waypoint-to-waypoint segments).

Care & Maintenance

Clean with damp cloth; avoid harsh chemicals. Store in dry place.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for extended periods. Replace batteries regularly to prevent leakage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Corporation. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries/connections	Check battery installation; try fresh batteries; check external power connection.
No satellite acquisition	Obstruction/location	Move to open area with clear sky view; ensure not indoors.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Wait for better satellite alignment; ensure latest almanac.
Display difficult to read	Contrast settings/lighting	Adjust contrast via setup menu; use backlight in low light.
Waypoints not saving	Memory full	Delete unused waypoints to free memory.
Buttons not responding	Moisture/damage	Ensure unit is dry; if submerged, dry thoroughly before use.

Reset: Remove batteries for 30 seconds to perform soft reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support for repair options.