Garmin GPS 62s Manual

The Garmin GPS 62s is a rugged, high-sensitivity handheld GPS receiver featuring a 2.6-inch color TFT display, 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, barometric altimeter, worldwide basemap with shaded relief, 1.7 GB of internal memory, microSD card slot, and support for paperless geocaching. It is waterproof to IPX7 standards and offers up to 20 hours of battery life. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix satellite prediction, 3-axis electronic compass, barometric altimeter, color TFT display, USB interface, and rugged, waterproof design.

Feature	Description
Display	2.6-inch, 160 x 240 pixel color TFT with sunlight readability
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity with HotFix for fast satellite acquisition
Electronic Compass	3-axis tilt-compensated for accurate heading while stationary
Barometric Altimeter	Tracks changes in pressure to determine elevation
Memory	1.7 GB internal, microSD card slot for expandable storage
Connectivity	USB for data transfer and power, NMEA 0183 compatible
Battery Life	Up to 20 hours (2 AA batteries)
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes)
Geocaching Support	Paperless geocaching with GPX file support
Basemap	Worldwide with shaded relief

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and optional accessories.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH recommended).
2. Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop on back of unit.
3. Connect to computer: Use USB cable to connect for data transfer and charging (if using NiMH batteries with charge capability).
4. Mount on handlebar or tripod: Use optional mount accessories for secure attachment.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Ensure battery compartment is sealed properly for waterproofing.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear view of sky, wait for GPS signal acquisition.
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
3. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate electronic compass.
4. Set time and date: Choose automatic GPS time or set manually.
5. Load maps: Connect to computer via USB and use Garmin BaseCamp software to install detailed maps.

CAUTION! Calibrate compass away from magnetic interference (metal objects, vehicles).

Specifications

• Display: 2.6-inch color TFT, 160 x 240 pixels.
• GPS: High-sensitivity receiver with HotFix.
• Sensors: 3-axis electronic compass, barometric altimeter.
• Memory: 1.7 GB internal, microSD card slot.
• Interface: USB 2.0, NMEA 0183.
• Battery: 2 AA batteries (up to 20 hours).
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Dimensions: 2.4" x 6.3" x 1.4" (6.1 x 16.0 x 3.6 cm).
• Weight: 9.1 oz (258 g) with batteries.
• Operating Temp: -4°F to 158°F (-20°C to 70°C).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and MENU buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MENU, QUIT, ZOOM IN/OUT.

Side Buttons: MARK (waypoint), FIND (search), COMPASS (toggle compass page), ALTIMETER (toggle altimeter page).

Settings: SYSTEM (language, display, time), LOCATION (position format, map datum), ROUTING (navigation preferences), SENSORS (compass/altimeter calibration), DISPLAY (backlight, contrast). Tracks: Record and manage track logs. Profiles: Customize settings for different activities (hiking, geocaching, marine).

Connecting Devices

USB: For computer connection. microSD: For additional map storage. Accessory port: For external antenna or power.

1. Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
2. Connect USB cable to computer for data transfer and software updates.
3. Insert microSD card into slot under battery cover for extra maps.
4. Use optional external antenna for improved reception in dense cover.

Tip: Ensure USB connection is secure; use Garmin BaseCamp to manage waypoints, tracks, and maps.

Navigation & Mapping

Supports waypoint, route, and track navigation with detailed map display.

1. Create waypoint: Press MARK to save current location.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Use FIND to select destination, then select GOTO.
3. Follow route: Create route with multiple waypoints in Route Planner.
4. View map: Press PAGE to cycle to map page; zoom with ZOOM buttons.
5. Track recording: Enable track log to record path; save or clear as needed.
6. Use compass page: For bearing navigation with large compass display.
7. Set proximity alarms: Alert when within set distance of waypoint.
8. View trip computer: Monitor speed, distance, time, and elevation data.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by terrain, weather, and satellite geometry. Always carry a paper map and compass as backup.

Geocaching Features

Paperless geocaching: Load GPX files from geocaching websites. View cache details, hints, and log finds directly on device.

1. Load geocaches: Transfer GPX files via USB to [Garmin]GPX folder.
2. Find geocache: Press FIND, select Geocaches, choose cache to navigate.
3. Log find: Mark waypoint as found; add field notes.
4. Use compass: Navigate to cache using compass page with distance and bearing.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and remove batteries before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not submerge while charging or with ports open. Dry thoroughly after exposure to moisture.

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. 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	Dead batteries	Replace with fresh AA batteries; ensure proper orientation.
Poor GPS accuracy	Weak signal	Move to open area; ensure clear view of sky; wait for satellite acquisition.
Compass inaccurate	Need calibration	Calibrate compass away from metal objects; hold level and rotate slowly.
USB not recognized	Driver/cable issue	Install Garmin USB drivers; try different USB cable/port.
Maps not displaying	Map not enabled	Enable map in Map Setup menu; ensure map file is in correct folder.

Reset: Hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER (up) to perform master reset if unit is unresponsive (erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support; www.garmin.com/support