Garmin GPS 62s Owner's 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, wireless data sharing, paperless geocaching, microSD card slot, and support for both GPS and GLONASS satellite networks. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Navigating with GPS 8. Geocaching Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS/GLONASS receiver, 2.6-inch color display, Electronic compass, Barometric altimeter, Waterproof housing (IPX7), microSD card slot, USB port.

FeatureDescription
GPS/GLONASS ReceiverFor accurate positioning with satellite networks
3-Axis Electronic CompassProvides heading while standing still
Barometric AltimeterMeasures altitude and tracks weather changes
Wireless Data SharingShares waypoints, tracks, and geocaches with compatible units
Paperless GeocachingStores and displays geocache information
microSD Card SlotFor additional map and data storage
USB PortFor data transfer and charging
Waterproof RatingIPX7 standard (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Battery LifeUp to 20 hours (2 AA batteries)
Preloaded BasemapIncludes worldwide basemap 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).
  2. Install microSD card (optional): Insert card into slot until it clicks.
  3. Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop on back of unit.
  4. Charge via USB (optional): Connect to computer or power adapter.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Ensure battery compartment is securely closed before use in wet conditions.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear sky view; wait for GPS fix.
  2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language.
  3. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions for accurate heading.
  4. Set time and date: Configure automatically via GPS or manually.
  5. Configure profiles: Select appropriate activity profile (Hiking, Geocaching, etc.).

CAUTION! For accurate compass calibration, avoid magnetic interference from metal objects or electronics.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, QUIT, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MENU.

Side Buttons: ZOOM IN/OUT, MARK (waypoint creation).

Navigation: Map, Compass, Trip Computer, Altimeter, Geocaching. Setup: System, Display, Tones, Language, Profiles, Routing, Tracks, Marine, Geocaching. Tools: Calculator, Calendar, Hunt/Fish, Sun/Moon, Stopwatch.

Connecting Devices

USB: For data transfer and charging. ANT+: For wireless sensor connection.

  1. Connect to computer: Use USB cable to transfer maps, waypoints, tracks.
  2. Connect wireless sensors: Pair with ANT+ heart rate monitor, temperature sensor, etc.
  3. Share data wirelessly: Send waypoints, tracks, geocaches to compatible Garmin devices.

Tip: Install Garmin BaseCamp software on computer for advanced data management.

Navigating with GPS

Supports waypoint navigation, track recording, and route following.

  1. Create waypoint: Press MARK to save current location.
  2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint from list, choose GO TO.
  3. Follow track: Load saved track and select FOLLOW.
  4. Record track: Enable track recording in TRACK MANAGER.
  5. Use map: Zoom in/out with ZOOM buttons; pan with rocker.
  6. View trip data: Access TRIP COMPUTER for distance, speed, time.
  7. Set proximity alerts: Get notified when approaching waypoints.
  8. Use altimeter profile: View elevation plot and vertical speed.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by terrain, weather, and satellite geometry. Always carry backup navigation methods.

Geocaching Features

Paperless geocaching: Download GPX files, view cache details, log finds.

  1. Load geocaches: Transfer GPX files via USB or wireless sharing.
  2. Navigate to cache: Select from GEOCACHING menu, choose GO.
  3. View details: See description, hint, recent logs, difficulty.
  4. Log find: Mark as found, add field note, enter size/condition.
  5. Use compass guide: Follow arrow to cache location.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and remove batteries before cleaning. Use damp cloth with mild detergent; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not submerge while charging port cover is open. Dry thoroughly before use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite receptionObstructions/initializationMove to open area; wait several minutes for acquisition.
Compass inaccurateNeed calibration/interferenceRecalibrate compass; move away from metal objects.
Battery drains quicklyBattery type/settingsUse fresh alkaline or NiMH batteries; reduce backlight brightness.
Device won't power onBatteries/corrosionCheck battery orientation; clean contacts if corroded.
USB not recognizedCable/driverTry different USB cable; install Garmin USB drivers.
Display difficult to readContrast/backlightAdjust contrast in SETUP; increase backlight brightness.

Reset: Hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER (up) for 5 seconds to master reset (erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit authorized service center.

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