Garmin GPS 650T Manual

The Garmin GPS 650T is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS navigator featuring a 2.6-inch color display, preloaded topographic maps, a 3-axis electronic compass, barometric altimeter, wireless data sharing, and support for BirdsEye Satellite Imagery. It is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and provides reliable navigation for hiking, hunting, fishing, and geocaching. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, and maintenance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Navigation Basics 7. Map & Data Management 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Rugged waterproof housing (IPX7), 2.6-inch color TFT display, 3-axis electronic compass with barometric altimeter, preloaded 100K topographic maps, wireless data sharing (ANT+), BirdsEye Satellite Imagery compatibility, microSD card slot, and USB interface.

FeatureDescription
Display2.6-inch, 160 x 240 pixels, sunlight readable color TFT
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Compass & Altimeter3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass; barometric altimeter
Preloaded Maps100K topographic maps of the U.S.
Wireless ConnectivityANT+ for sharing waypoints, tracks, and routes with compatible devices
Satellite ImageryBirdsEye Satellite Imagery subscription (optional)
Battery2 AA batteries (NiMH or lithium recommended)
MemoryInternal memory; expandable via microSD card slot
GPS ReceiverHigh-sensitivity GPS with HotFix satellite prediction
InterfaceUSB port for data transfer and charging (with optional adapter)

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and configure initial settings.

  1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert two AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display activates.
  3. Initial configuration: Follow on-screen prompts to set language, units, time, and date.
  4. Acquire satellite signal: Go outdoors with clear view of sky; allow several minutes for first fix.

WARNING! Use only recommended battery types. Do not mix old and new batteries.

First-Time Use

After initial setup, familiarize yourself with basic navigation.

  1. View current location: From main menu, select "Where To?" or "Map" to see your position.
  2. Mark a waypoint: Press and hold ENTER/MARK button to save current location.
  3. Navigate to a waypoint: Select "Where To?" > "Waypoints" and choose a saved location.
  4. Calibrate compass: When prompted, follow on-screen instructions to calibrate electronic compass.

CAUTION! For accurate compass readings, calibrate away from metal objects and magnetic sources.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via physical buttons and on-screen menus. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER/MARK, ROCKER (up/down/left/right), MENU, BACK/LIGHT.

Button Functions: POWER turns unit on/off; PAGE cycles through main pages; ENTER/MARK confirms selections or marks waypoints; ROCKER navigates menus and maps; MENU accesses context-sensitive options; BACK/LIGHT returns to previous screen or controls backlight.

Main Pages: Map, Compass, Elevation Plot, Main Menu, Trip Computer. Settings: System (language, units, display), Navigation (routing preferences), Tracks (track log settings), Sensors (compass/altimeter calibration).

Navigation Basics

Basic navigation includes waypoints, tracks, and routes.

  1. Creating a waypoint: Press and hold ENTER/MARK, edit details if needed, select "Save".
  2. Following a track: Tracks are recorded automatically; view under "Track Manager".
  3. Creating a route: Main Menu > "Route Planner" > "Create Route", add waypoints in sequence.
  4. Navigating to a point: "Where To?" > select category (Waypoints, Cities, etc.) > choose destination > "Go".

Tip: For best accuracy, ensure GPS has acquired satellite lock (solid signal bars).

Map & Data Management

Manage maps, waypoints, tracks, and routes via USB connection or microSD card.

  1. Transferring data: Connect to computer via USB cable; unit appears as removable drive.
  2. Loading maps: Copy compatible map files (IMG format) to microSD card or internal memory.
  3. Managing data: Use Garmin BaseCamp software (free download) to organize waypoints, tracks, and routes.
  4. Updating software: Check for updates at www.garmin.com/software using Garmin Express.

WARNING! Safely eject device from computer before disconnecting USB cable.

Advanced Features

Wireless Sharing: Share waypoints, tracks, and routes with other ANT+ compatible Garmin devices. BirdsEye Satellite Imagery: Download high-resolution satellite photos via subscription for enhanced map detail. Geocaching: Supports paperless geocaching; download GPX files from geocaching websites. Area Calculation: Measure area and perimeter for hunting or land management.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives. Store in a cool, dry place. Replace batteries when charge is low. For long-term storage, remove batteries.

CAUTION! Do not immerse while charging port cover is open. Ensure all seals are clean and intact for waterproofing.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that it does not cause harmful interference. Contains FCC ID: IPH-00217. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit will not power onDead batteriesInstall fresh AA batteries; check polarity.
Poor GPS accuracyObstructed view of skyMove to open area; ensure GPS is enabled in settings.
Compass inaccurateNeed calibrationCalibrate compass following on-screen instructions.
Display is dimBacklight settingAdjust backlight brightness in Display settings.
Computer does not recognize deviceUSB connection/driverTry different USB port/cable; install Garmin USB drivers if needed.
Buttons not respondingUnit lockedPress and hold POWER to force restart.

Reset: For persistent issues, perform a master reset (erases all user data): Turn off, press and hold PAGE + ROCKER (Up) + POWER simultaneously until unit beeps.

Service: 1-800-800-1020; support.garmin.com

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