Garmin GPS eTrex 30 User Manual

The Garmin eTrex 30 is a high-sensitivity, handheld GPS receiver featuring a 2.2-inch color display, worldwide basemap, 1.7 GB of internal memory, microSD card slot, paperless geocaching support, barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass, wireless data sharing, and ANT+ technology for connecting to compatible sensors. It is waterproof to IPX7 standards and powered by 2 AA batteries. 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. Navigation & Waypoints 8. Geocaching Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, 2.2-inch color TFT display, Rocker key, Page button, Zoom buttons, Power button, microSD card slot, USB port.

FeatureDescription
High-sensitivity GPSAccurate positioning under tree cover and in canyons
2.2-inch color displaySunlight-readable, 65K color TFT
Internal memory1.7 GB for storing maps and data
microSD card slotExpandable storage for additional maps
Barometric altimeterTracks changes in pressure to determine elevation
3-axis electronic compassWorks when device is held level or not
ANT+ wireless technologyConnects to heart rate monitors, speed/cadence sensors
Wireless data sharingShare waypoints, tracks, routes, and geocaches with compatible devices
Paperless geocachingDownload and view geocache information directly
Waterproof ratingIPX7 standard (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and optional accessories.

  1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert 2 AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Insert microSD card (optional): Open slot cover, insert card label side up until it clicks.
  3. Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop on top of device.
  4. Power on: Press and hold Power button.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not force battery cover or card slot.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Acquire satellite signal: Go outdoors with clear view of sky; device will acquire satellites automatically.
  2. Set language: In Setup > System menu, select preferred language.
  3. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate electronic compass.
  4. Set time and format: Configure time zone, time format, and units (metric/imperial).
  5. Load maps (optional): Connect to computer via USB to transfer maps to internal memory or microSD card.

CAUTION! Ensure proper calibration of compass for accurate readings.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via Page button or Menu key. Front Panel: Rocker key (up/down/left/right/Enter), Page button, Zoom buttons (+/-), Power button.

Menu Navigation: Use Rocker to highlight options, press Enter to select. Press Page to cycle through main pages (Map, Compass, Trip Computer, etc.).

Setup Menu: System (language, display, time), Tracks, Routing, Geocaches, Sensors. Map Settings: Orientation, Detail, Lock on Road. Compass Settings: Calibration, Declination. Trip Computer: Customize data fields.

Connecting Devices

USB: For data transfer and charging (with optional adapter). ANT+: For heart rate monitors, speed/cadence sensors.

  1. Turn off device before connecting cables.
  2. Connect USB cable to computer for data transfer.
  3. Pair ANT+ sensors: Go to Setup > Sensors > Add New.
  4. Wireless data sharing: Enable in Setup > Wireless > Data Sharing.

Tip: Ensure ANT+ sensors are in pairing mode and within range (3 meters).

Navigation & Waypoints

Create and navigate to waypoints, routes, and tracks.

  1. Mark waypoint: Press and hold Enter key at location.
  2. Navigate to waypoint: Select Where To? > Waypoints, choose destination, select Go.
  3. Create route: Main Menu > Routes > Create New, add points in sequence.
  4. Follow track: Load existing track and select Follow Track.
  5. View trip data: Trip Computer page shows speed, distance, time, etc.
  6. Save track log: Enable in Setup > Tracks; view or clear track log.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environmental factors. Always carry a map and compass as backup.

Geocaching Features

Paperless geocaching: Download .gpx files via USB or wireless transfer.

  1. Load geocaches: Connect to computer, copy .gpx files to GPX folder on device or microSD card.
  2. Find geocaches: Select Where To? > Geocaches, choose cache, select Go.
  3. Log finds: Mark found, add note, update status.
  4. View details: Description, hint, recent logs, difficulty/terrain ratings.

Note: Requires .gpx files from geocaching website.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and disconnect from power before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not submerge while ports are open. Dry thoroughly before charging or connecting cables.

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. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBatteriesReplace with fresh AA batteries; ensure correct polarity.
Poor GPS receptionLocation/satellitesMove to open area with clear sky view; wait for satellite acquisition.
Compass inaccurateCalibrationRecalibrate compass in Setup > Sensors > Compass.
Device not connecting to computerUSB cable/driversUse provided USB cable; ensure device is in Mass Storage mode; install Garmin USB drivers if needed.
Screen difficult to readBrightness/contrastAdjust display settings in Setup > Display.
ANT+ sensor not pairingDistance/batteryMove sensor within 3 meters; replace sensor battery; ensure sensor is in pairing mode.

Reset: Hold Power button for 10 seconds to force restart.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com.

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