Garmin GPS 696 Manual

The Garmin GPS 696 is a rugged, high-performance aviation GPS navigator featuring a large sunlight-readable display, integrated weather and communication capabilities, worldwide terrain and obstacle databases, moving map display, flight planning, approach procedures, and extensive aviation-specific features. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Large sunlight-readable display, integrated GPS/WAAS receiver, XM Weather and Audio capability, terrain and obstacle awareness, moving map, flight planning, and aviation databases.

Feature	Description
Display	Large, high-resolution, sunlight-readable color display
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled for precision navigation
XM Weather	Real-time NEXRAD, METARs, TAFs, lightning, and more (subscription required)
Terrain & Obstacle	Worldwide terrain and obstacle databases with alerts
Aviation Databases	Jeppesen NavData (updated regularly)
Flight Planning	Direct-to, flight plan creation, and approach procedures
Audio	XM Satellite Radio capability (subscription required)
Connectivity	USB, serial, and audio input/output ports
Power	10-32 VDC aircraft power input
Mounting	Yoke or panel mount options

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate mounting location in aircraft.

1. Mount unit: Secure yoke or panel mount as per instructions.
2. Connect power: Connect to aircraft 10-32 VDC power source.
3. Connect antenna: Attach external GPS antenna if required.
4. Connect XM antenna: For weather/audio, install XM antenna.
5. Connect audio: For audio alerts or XM audio, connect to aircraft audio panel.

WARNING! Installation should be performed by a qualified avionics technician. Ensure mounting does not obstruct aircraft controls or visibility.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Initial location: Allow GPS to acquire satellite signals.
2. Set preferences: Configure units (nm/km), time format, and display settings.
3. Load databases: Insert data card or connect to computer for initial database load.
4. Activate XM: If subscribed, activate XM Weather and Audio services.
5. Calibrate sensors: Follow prompts for altimeter and attitude calibration if applicable.

CAUTION! Do not perform setup during critical phases of flight. Ensure aircraft is stationary for initial calibration.

Specifications

• Display Size: Large format color TFT.
• GPS Receiver: WAAS-enabled, high-sensitivity.
• Weather: XM Satellite Weather (subscription).
• Databases: Jeppesen NavData, worldwide terrain, obstacles.
• Power: 10-32 VDC, typical draw 2.5A.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 55°C.
• Storage Temp: -40°C to 85°C.
• Dimensions: Refer to installation manual.
• Weight: Approximately 3.5 lbs.
• Certifications: TSO'd for enroute IFR (check specific model).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via dedicated buttons and on-screen controls. Front Panel: POWER, Direct-to, FPL (Flight Plan), MENU, ENT (Enter), CLR (Clear), cursor keys, and volume knobs.

On-screen: Map, Nearest, Waypoint, and Aux pages. Settings: System Setup (Units, Time, Display), Navigation Setup (CDI, OBS), Traffic & Terrain, and XM Setup.

Map Display: Adjust orientation (North Up, Track Up), range, and data fields. Flight Plan: Create, edit, activate, and reverse flight plans. Nearest: Lists nearest airports, NAVAIDs, intersections, and airspace.

Connecting Devices

External Power: Aircraft power connector. Antennas: GPS and XM antenna ports. Audio: Audio in/out jacks. Data: USB and serial ports for database updates and external devices.

1. Ensure power is OFF before connecting cables.
2. Use appropriate connectors and secure connections.
3. For data transfer, use Garmin-provided cables and software (e.g., Garmin Flight Planner).

Tip: Route cables away from sources of interference and ensure they do not interfere with aircraft controls.

Navigation & Flight Planning

Supports VFR and IFR navigation with flight planning capabilities.

1. Direct-to Navigation: Press Direct-to key, enter identifier.
2. Create Flight Plan: Press FPL, add waypoints from database.
3. Activate/Deactivate: Activate flight plan for navigation.
4. Approaches: Select and load instrument approach procedures.
5. Hold: Create and execute holding patterns.
6. Nearest: Quickly find nearest airports or alternates.
7. Airspace: Display and alert for special use airspace.
8. Terrain: View terrain profile and receive alerts.

WARNING! This device is an aid to navigation. Always have current paper charts and verify information. Pilot is responsible for navigation.

Weather & Communication

XM Weather: Displays NEXRAD, METARs, TAFs, lightning, turbulence, icing, winds aloft. Requires active XM subscription. XM Audio: Provides satellite radio entertainment. Audio Panel Interface: Allows audio alerts and music integration.

Note: Weather data is for strategic planning only and should not be used for tactical penetration of hazardous weather.

Care & Cleaning

Power off and disconnect from aircraft power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn smudges, lightly dampen cloth with water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on unit. Keep vents clear of obstructions.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Aviation Approvals: Refer to Approved Model List (AML) for specific TSO approvals (e.g., C146a, C129a). Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Jeppesen data provided under license. For support, visit www.garmin.com/aviation or contact Garmin Aviation Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No Power	Power connection, fuse	Check aircraft power and inline fuse. Ensure proper voltage.
Poor GPS Reception	Antenna, obstruction	Ensure clear view of sky; check antenna connection.
No XM Weather/Audio	Subscription, antenna	Verify XM subscription is active; check antenna connection and location.
Database not loading	Data card, corruption	Re-insert data card; try another card; update via Garmin software.
Screen unresponsive	Software lock	Perform soft reset (power cycle). If persistent, contact support.

Reset: Power cycle unit. For persistent issues, consult maintenance manual for hard reset procedures.

Service: Contact Garmin Aviation Support or an authorized Garmin dealer.