Garmin GPS 55 Manual

The Garmin GPS 55 is a portable, 8-channel GPS receiver designed for marine, aviation, and outdoor navigation. It features a waterproof case, backlit display, NMEA 0183 output, and provides accurate position, speed, and course information. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 8-channel GPS receiver, waterproof housing, backlit LCD display, external antenna port, NMEA 0183 data output, and power/data cable.

Feature	Description
GPS Channels	8 parallel channels for fast acquisition and tracking
Display	Backlit LCD with position, speed, course, and time data
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes
NMEA 0183 Output	Standard marine data output for chartplotters and autopilots
External Antenna Port	For connection to external active GPS antenna
Waypoint Storage	500 user-defined waypoints with name and symbol
Route Storage	20 reversible routes with up to 30 waypoints each
Track Log	Automatic track recording with 10 saved tracks
Power Input	10-40 VDC, typical 12V marine/automotive systems
Data Interface	RS-232 serial interface for PC connection

Installation

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

1. Mount unit: Use provided bracket to mount in secure location with clear sky view.
2. Connect power: Red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) of 10-40 VDC source.
3. Connect antenna: Attach external antenna if needed for better reception.
4. Connect NMEA devices: Connect NMEA OUT wires to compatible chartplotter or autopilot.
5. Secure all connections and protect from moisture.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Do not exceed 40 VDC input.

First-Time Setup

Apply power; unit will begin satellite acquisition.

1. Initial acquisition: Allow 5-15 minutes for first-time satellite lock (cold start).
2. Set display contrast: Press MENU, navigate to SETUP, adjust contrast for viewing conditions.
3. Set position format: Select LAT/LON, UTM, or other coordinate system in SETUP menu.
4. Set units: Choose nautical, statute, or metric units for distance and speed.
5. Set time: Configure local time offset and daylight saving settings.

CAUTION! Ensure unit has clear view of sky during initial satellite acquisition.

Specifications

• Receiver Type: 8-channel parallel tracking GPS receiver.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Accuracy: Position: 15 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Acquisition Time: Cold start: 45 seconds typical, Warm start: 15 seconds typical.
• Datum: WGS-84 (user selectable).
• Interfaces: NMEA 0183 v2.0, RS-232 serial.
• Power Requirements: 10-40 VDC, 1.5W typical.
• Operating Temperature: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Dimensions: 6.2 x 3.1 x 1.5 inches (157 x 79 x 38 mm).
• Weight: 12 ounces (340 grams).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, ENTER, PAGE, GOTO, MARK, QUIT, arrow keys for navigation.

Display Pages: POSITION (lat/lon, speed, course), COMPASS (bearing pointer), HIGHWAY (course deviation), MAP (plotter display), MENU (system setup).

Setup Menu: Position format, units, time, alarms, system reset, interface settings. Navigation Settings: CDI scale, alarm thresholds, route preferences. System: Backlight timeout, contrast, diagnostic tests.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible marine electronics. PC: RS-232 serial connection for data transfer.

1. Turn off all devices before making connections.
2. Connect NMEA OUT+ to receiving device's NMEA IN+.
3. Connect NMEA OUT- to receiving device's NMEA IN-.
4. For PC connection, use null-modem serial cable to COM port.
5. Configure baud rate (4800 default) to match connected device.

Tip: Use shielded cable for NMEA connections and keep runs under 50 feet.

Navigation Operation

Basic navigation functions and display usage.

1. View position: Press PAGE to cycle through display pages.
2. Create waypoint: Press MARK at current position, edit name/symbol if desired.
3. Navigate to waypoint: Press GOTO, select waypoint from list or enter coordinates.
4. Follow route: Select route from route list, press NAVIGATE.
5. Track recording: Automatic track log records path; can save up to 10 tracks.
6. Alarms: Set anchor, arrival, and off-course alarms in SETUP menu.
7. Simulator mode: Practice navigation without GPS signal in SETUP options.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation; always use traditional navigation methods as backup.

Waypoints & Routes

Manage navigation data storage and organization.

1. Create waypoint: Press MARK or use MENU > NEW WAYPOINT.
2. Edit waypoint: Select waypoint from list, edit position, name, or symbol.
3. Create route: MENU > ROUTES > NEW, add waypoints in sequence.
4. Navigate route: Select route, press NAVIGATE, follow on-screen guidance.
5. Reverse route: Useful for return trips; option available in route menu.
6. Delete data: Clear individual or all waypoints/routes through MENU options.

Note: Waypoints and routes are retained in memory when power is removed.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with fresh water after saltwater use. Use mild soap and soft cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or high-pressure sprays. Ensure connectors are dry before applying power.

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 Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection	Check voltage at unit; verify polarity; check fuse.
No satellite reception	Antenna/view	Ensure clear view of sky; check antenna connection; allow time for acquisition.
Inaccurate position	Satellite geometry	Wait for better satellite geometry; ensure current almanac.
No NMEA output	Cabling/settings	Verify wiring; check baud rate settings; test with known-good device.
Display problems	Contrast/power	Adjust contrast; check voltage; reset unit.
Waypoints lost	Memory/battery	Internal memory battery may need replacement; contact service.

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + ENTER while powering on for master reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.