Garmin GPS 551s Manual

The Garmin GPS 551s is a 5-inch chartplotter-sonar combo designed for marine navigation, featuring a sunlight-readable display, built-in GPS, CHIRP traditional sonar, CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar, preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts, support for NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 networks, and rugged, waterproof construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-inch sunlight-readable display, Power/data cable, Transducer, Mounting hardware, Protective cover.

Feature	Description
Display	5-inch WVGA (800 x 480 pixels) sunlight-readable color LCD
GPS	Built-in high-sensitivity GPS receiver
Sonar	CHIRP traditional sonar (50/77/83/200 kHz) and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar
Charts	Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts
Connectivity	NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 network support
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power Input	10–32 Vdc
Data Storage	microSD card slot for additional maps and data
Buttons	Power, Page, Zoom In/Out, Enter, Back
Audio Alerts	Built-in speaker for alarms and prompts

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location with clear view of sky for GPS reception.

1. Mount the unit: Use included bracket to mount on dash or console. Ensure secure fit.
2. Connect power: Route power/data cable to battery. Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-). Use in-line fuse as specified.
3. Install transducer: Mount transducer on transom according to instructions for proper sonar operation.
4. Connect network: If using NMEA 2000 network, connect to backbone with appropriate T-connector.
5. Secure all cables: Use cable ties to prevent snags and water ingress.

WARNING! Disconnect battery before making electrical connections. Ensure all connections are waterproofed.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Language selection: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
2. Units setup: Set nautical/miles, feet/fathoms, Celsius/Fahrenheit as desired.
3. GPS acquisition: Allow unit to acquire GPS satellites (may take several minutes first time).
4. Sonar setup: Configure transducer type and frequency settings.
5. Chart orientation: Set to North Up or Course Up.

CAUTION! Ensure unit is securely mounted before operating vessel.

Specifications

• Display Size: 5 inches diagonal.
• Display Resolution: 800 x 480 pixels.
• Sonar Frequencies: Traditional: 50/77/83/200 kHz; ClearVü: 455/800 kHz.
• GPS: High-sensitivity WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Power: 10–32 Vdc, 1.5 A typical.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temperature: -15°C to 55°C (5°F to 131°F).
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F).
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.4 x 5.6 cm (6.5 x 4.5 x 2.2 in).
• Weight: 0.68 kg (1.5 lb).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via Page button or touchscreen (if equipped). Front Panel: Power, Page, Zoom In/Out, Enter, Back.

On-screen: Home screen provides quick access to Chart, Sonar, Combination views, and Settings.

Navigation Settings: Waypoints, Routes, Tracks, Chart details, Alarm zones. Sonar Settings: Frequency, Sensitivity, Color scheme, Depth range, A-scope. System Settings: Display brightness, Backlight timeout, Units, Language, System information.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to network for engine data, fuel flow, etc. NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible devices using serial interface. External antenna: Not typically needed (built-in GPS).

1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
2. Use appropriate cables and connectors for NMEA network.
3. Configure data sources in Settings > Communications.

Tip: Use marine-grade connectors and seal against moisture.

Using Navigation Features

Preloaded charts show depth contours, navigation aids, harbors.

1. View chart: Press Page to select Chart view.
2. Create waypoint: Mark current position or cursor location.
3. Create route: Add waypoints in sequence to define path.
4. Navigate: Select Go To for waypoint or Follow for route.
5. Track: Record path for later review.
6. Alarms: Set anchor drag, arrival, proximity alarms.
7. Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold Enter to mark MOB position.

WARNING! Always maintain situational awareness; do not rely solely on electronic navigation.

Using Sonar Features

Traditional sonar for fish arches; ClearVü for detailed bottom structure.

1. Select sonar view: Press Page to select Sonar or Split-screen view.
2. Adjust frequency: Choose appropriate frequency for depth and conditions.
3. Adjust sensitivity: Auto or manual to optimize display.
4. Use A-scope: Real-time vertical display of sonar returns.
5. Depth range: Set manually or auto for best view.
6. Fish symbols: Enable/disable in settings.

Note: Sonar performance affected by water conditions, speed, and transducer placement.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use fresh water and mild soap on exterior. Wipe display with soft, damp cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure spray. Ensure connectors are dry before reconnecting power.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. IC Compliance: Complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © 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	Power connection/fuse	Check battery connections; verify in-line fuse is intact.
No GPS signal	Obstruction/antenna	Ensure clear view of sky; check GPS antenna connection if external.
No sonar display	Transducer/power	Verify transducer connection; ensure unit is powered on; select sonar view.
Display dim	Brightness setting	Adjust display brightness in settings.
Unit freezes	Software	Restart unit; update software via Garmin Express if available.

Reset: Settings > System > Reset to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.