Garmin GPS 545s Manual

The Garmin GPS 545s is a high-performance marine GPS chartplotter featuring a 5-inch color display, built-in high-sensitivity GPS receiver, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, sonar capability (when connected to a compatible sounder), NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 connectivity, waterproof design (IPX7), track plotting, waypoint management, and support for various marine data overlays. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-inch color TFT display, GPS antenna, Power/data cable, NMEA 0183/NMEA 2000 interfaces, SD card slot, Waterproof housing.

Feature	Description
Display	5-inch diagonal, 480 x 640 pixel color TFT with backlight
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled
Charts	Preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts
Sonar	Supports connection to compatible sounder module (optional)
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Connectivity	NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000, SD card slot for additional maps/data
POWER	Turns unit on/off
PAGE	Cycles through display pages (Chart, Sonar, Highway, etc.)
ZOOM IN/OUT	Adjusts chart scale
MOB (Man Overboard)	Marks immediate position and initiates navigation back to point

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location on vessel.

1. Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to securely mount bracket in a location with clear view of sky and operator.
2. Connect power: Route power/data cable to 12-24V DC power source. Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-).
3. Connect optional devices: Attach NMEA 0183 wires to compatible devices (autopilot, VHF radio). Connect NMEA 2000 network if used.
4. Secure the unit: Snap the GPS 545s onto the mounted bracket and tighten security screw.

WARNING! Ensure all electrical connections are secure and protected from moisture. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial prompts.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit in open sky view. Initial acquisition may take several minutes.
2. Set language and units: Use MAIN MENU > Settings > System to select language, nautical/statute units, depth, temperature, etc.
3. Calibrate sensors (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate compass or water speed sensor if connected.
4. Configure chart display: Adjust chart detail, orientation (North Up/ Course Up), and data overlays.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving the vessel during initial setup. Ensure secure mounting before use underway.

Specifications

• Display Size: 5 inches diagonal, color TFT.
• GPS: High-sensitivity receiver, WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Chart Storage: Internal memory with preloaded charts; expandable via SD card.
• Interfaces: NMEA 0183 (2x input, 1x output), NMEA 2000, Power/Data combo port.
• Sonar: Supports frequencies 50/200 kHz (with compatible sounder module).
• Power Requirements: 12-24V DC, 1.5A max.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 55°C (5°F to 131°F).

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons and on-screen menus. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ZOOM IN, ZOOM OUT, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MOB.

Menu Navigation: Press ROCKER key to highlight menu items, press ENTER to select. Use PAGE to switch between Chart, Sonar, Highway, Compass, and Data pages.

Settings: Access via MAIN MENU. Configure System (Language, Units), Navigation (Route Preferences, Alarms), Chart (Detail, Orientation), Sonar (Setup, Alarms), Communications (NMEA settings).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, VHF DSC radio, AIS receiver. NMEA 2000: Connect to compatible network for engine data, tank levels, etc. Sonar: Connect to compatible Garmin sounder module.

1. Turn off power to all devices before making connections.
2. Refer to wiring diagrams in appendix for NMEA 0183 pin connections.
3. For NMEA 2000, ensure proper termination and power on the backbone.
4. Select appropriate data sources in MENU > Settings > Communications.

Tip: Use marine-grade, tinned copper wire for all connections and protect with heat-shrink tubing.

Navigation & Chartplotting

Create and follow routes, mark waypoints, track your path.

1. Mark Waypoint: Press and hold ENTER on chart at desired location.
2. Create Route: MENU > Route > New Route. Use ROCKER to place points, press ENTER to add.
3. Navigate To: Select a waypoint or route, choose "Go To" or "Navigate".
4. Track: Tracks are automatically recorded. View/Manage via MENU > Tracks.
5. Chart Tools: Use ZOOM, measure distance with cursor, view tide stations and marine services.
6. Data Overlays: Display water temperature, speed, course, depth (with sounder) on chart.

WARNING! Always use up-to-date official charts for navigation. This device is an aid to navigation, not a replacement for prudent seamanship and official sources.

Sonar Features

When connected to a compatible sounder module, displays depth, water temperature, and bottom contour.

Sonar Page: Displays traditional sonar chart. Adjust range, sensitivity, and frequency. Set depth alarms. Fishfinder Mode: Identify fish arches and suspenders (requires appropriate transducer).

Care & Maintenance

Use a soft, damp cloth with fresh water to clean display and casing. Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Ensure power is disconnected before cleaning connections. Keep connectors free of corrosion. Store in a dry place when not in use for extended periods.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. Contains transmitter module FCC ID: IPH-00273. IC: 1792A-00273. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No Power	Blown fuse, loose connection	Check fuse (3A) in power cable; verify secure connections at unit and power source.
Poor GPS Signal	Obstruction, antenna issue	Ensure clear view of sky; check for damage to GPS antenna area; allow time for cold start.
No Data from NMEA Device	Incorrect wiring, settings	Verify NMEA wiring connections and polarity; check baud rate settings match connected device.
Chart Not Displaying	Corrupt data, wrong region	Ensure preloaded charts are enabled; check SD card for damage; verify unit is in correct geographic area.
Display is Dim	Backlight setting, power	Adjust backlight intensity in Display settings; check input voltage is sufficient.

Reset: MENU > Settings > System > Restore Defaults (caution: erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center. Do not open unit; no user-serviceable parts inside.