Garmin GPS Dakota 20 Manual

The Garmin Dakota 20 is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS unit featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, 2.6-inch color TFT display, paperless geocaching support, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, microSD card slot, and USB connectivity. It supports mapping, track logging, waypoint management, and is compatible with Garmin Custom Maps and BirdsEye Satellite Imagery. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, 2.6-inch color TFT display, barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass, microSD card slot, USB port, and waterproof casing (IPX7).

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and prepare for initial use.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert 2 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display illuminates.
3. Initial satellite acquisition: Go outdoors with clear sky view for first GPS fix (may take several minutes).
4. Install optional maps: Insert microSD card with preloaded maps or connect to computer via USB.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not expose to extreme temperatures during initial setup.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Select language: Choose from available languages in setup menu.
2. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate electronic compass.
3. Set units: Choose metric or imperial units for distance, elevation, and pressure.
4. Configure GPS: Ensure WAAS/EGNOS is enabled for improved accuracy (North America/Europe).
5. Set time: Choose automatic GPS time or manual time setting.

CAUTION! Compass calibration requires holding device level and rotating slowly as directed.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 2.3" x 4.5" x 1.4" (5.8 x 11.4 x 3.6 cm).
• Weight: 5.6 oz (159 g) with batteries.
• Display: 2.6-inch color TFT, 160 x 240 pixels.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Battery: 2 AA batteries (NiMH or lithium recommended), up to 20 hours.
• Memory: 850 MB internal, microSD card slot.
• GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity with HotFix, WAAS/EGNOS support.
• Sensors: Barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass.
• Interface: USB 2.0, NMEA 0183 compatible.
• Operating Temp: -4°F to 158°F (-20°C to 70°C).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER button, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right/ENTER), PAGE button, QUIT button, ZOOM IN/OUT buttons.

Menu Navigation: Use ROCKER to navigate menus, ENTER to select, QUIT to go back. Main Pages: Map, Compass, Trip Computer, Altimeter, Main Menu.

Settings: System (language, units, display), GPS (mode, WAAS), Sensors (compass calibration, altimeter settings), Tracks (log interval, clear track), Geocaching (symbols, hints). Map Setup: Orientation (North Up, Track Up), Detail level, Shading. Display: Backlight timeout, brightness, color mode.

Connecting Devices

USB Connection: For data transfer and software updates. microSD Card: For additional maps and data storage.

1. Connect to computer: Use included USB cable to connect to computer port.
2. Mass Storage Mode: Device appears as removable drive for file transfer.
3. Install maps: Copy map files to \Garmin folder on device or microSD card.
4. Update software: Use Garmin WebUpdater or Garmin Express for firmware updates.

Tip: Ensure device is powered on when connecting via USB. Use genuine Garmin cables for reliable connection.

Using GPS Functions

Basic Navigation: Mark waypoints, create routes, follow tracks.

1. Mark waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at location, select "Mark Waypoint" and edit details.
2. Navigate to waypoint: From Main Menu > Waypoints, select destination and choose "Go".
3. Create route: Main Menu > Routes > Create New, add waypoints in sequence.
4. Track logging: Tracks are automatically recorded; view via Main Menu > Tracks.
5. Area calculation: Use Area Calculation tool to measure irregular areas on map.
6. Sun/Moon information: View sunrise/sunset and moon phase data for planning.
7. Project waypoint: Create new waypoint at specified distance and bearing from current location.

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

Geocaching Features

Paperless Geocaching: Download .GPX files from geocaching websites and transfer via USB.

1. Load geocaches: Copy .GPX files to \Garmin\GPX folder on device.
2. Find geocaches: Main Menu > Geocaches to view list of nearby caches.
3. Navigate to cache: Select cache and choose "Go" for navigation guidance.
4. Log finds: Mark cache as found, add field notes, log later on geocaching website.
5. View details: Access cache description, hints, recent logs, and difficulty/terrain ratings.

Tip: Use "Found" feature to filter out located caches. Download new caches regularly for fresh adventures.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off device before cleaning. Use soft, slightly damp cloth for display; dry cloth for casing.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials. Ensure battery compartment is dry before inserting batteries. Rinse with fresh water if exposed to salt water or contaminants.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. CE Compliance: Meets European Union requirements. Industry Canada: Complies with RSS-210. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact your local Garmin distributor.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER up for 10 seconds to perform master reset (erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com for warranty information and repair services.