Garmin GPS G6 Manual

The Garmin GPS G6 is a compact, high-sensitivity GPS handheld device designed for outdoor navigation, featuring a sunlight-readable color display, preloaded topographic maps, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, microSD card slot for additional maps, waterproof construction (IPX7), long battery life, track logging, waypoint marking, and wireless data sharing. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, Color TFT display, Power button, Rocker key, Menu button, USB port, microSD card slot, Battery compartment.

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity GPS	For accurate positioning even in tree cover or canyons
Sunlight-readable display	2.6-inch color TFT, 160 x 240 pixels
Barometric altimeter	Tracks elevation changes and plots pressure over time
Electronic compass	Provides heading information when stationary
Preloaded maps	Includes topographic maps with terrain details
Waterproof rating	IPX7 standard (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes)
Battery life	Up to 16 hours on 2 AA batteries (varies by use)
Track logging	Stores up to 10,000 track points and 20 saved tracks
Waypoints	Stores up to 1,000 waypoints with custom symbols and names
Wireless sharing	Exchanges waypoints, tracks, and routes with compatible units

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries observing polarity.
2. Charge (if using NiMH): Use optional AC adapter or USB cable for rechargeable batteries.
3. Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop on device for secure handling.
4. Power on: Press and hold POWER button until display activates.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries. Keep away from extreme temperatures.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Acquire satellite signal: Go outdoors with clear sky view; allow several minutes for first fix.
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
3. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions; rotate device slowly in a circle.
4. Set time/date: Choose automatic GPS time or manual entry.
5. Configure map display: Adjust detail level, orientation (North Up or Track Up).

CAUTION! Calibrate compass away from metal objects and magnetic sources for accuracy.

Specifications

• Display: 2.6-inch color TFT, 160 x 240 pixels, sunlight-readable.
• GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS enabled.
• Sensors: Barometric altimeter, electronic compass.
• Memory: Internal memory for maps; microSD card slot for expansion.
• Battery: 2 AA batteries (alkaline, NiMH, or lithium); up to 16 hours.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Interface: USB 2.0 for data transfer and power.
• Wireless: ANT+ technology for data sharing.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Weight: Approximately 150g with batteries.

Controls and Settings

Access menus via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, Rocker key (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MENU, BACK.

On-screen: Map, Satellite, Compass, Altimeter, Trip Computer, Main Menu.

Settings: System (language, units, time), Display (backlight, contrast), Tracks (log interval, color), Routes (create/edit), Profiles (hiking, geocaching, marine). Map: Orientation, detail, zoom levels. Altimeter: Calibration, pressure trends. Compass: Calibration, declination adjustment.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect to computer for data transfer and software updates. microSD: Insert card for additional maps.

1. Turn off device before inserting/removing microSD card.
2. Use provided USB cable to connect to computer.
3. Install Garmin BaseCamp software (optional) for advanced map management.

Tip: Ensure device is powered via USB or has sufficient battery before data transfer.

Navigation Features

Supports waypoint navigation, track following, and route creation.

1. Mark waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at current location; edit name/symbol.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint from list, choose "Go To".
3. Create route: In Route Planner, add waypoints in desired order.
4. Follow track: Load saved track and choose "Follow Track".
5. Trackback: Retrace your path using the active track log.
6. Area calculation: Measure area of a plotted polygon.
7. Sun/Moon times: View sunrise, sunset, moon phase for current location.
8. Geocaching: Use specific geocaching mode with paperless support.

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

Accessibility Features

Display: Adjustable backlight, contrast, and text size. Audio: Turn key beeps on/off. Vibration: Enable vibration alerts for notifications.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and remove batteries before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth; avoid solvents. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater exposure.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Ensure battery compartment is dry before reinstalling batteries.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries	Check battery polarity; install fresh batteries; clean contacts.
Poor GPS accuracy	Signal obstruction	Move to open area; ensure WAAS enabled; allow time for satellite acquisition.
Compass inaccurate	Calibration needed	Recalibrate compass away from metal/magnetic sources.
Display unreadable	Settings/lighting	Adjust contrast and backlight; avoid direct sunlight glare.
USB not recognized	Connection/software	Try different USB port/cable; install Garmin USB drivers.
Waypoints not saving	Memory full	Delete unused waypoints; ensure memory not exceeded.

Reset: System > Reset > Restore Defaults (note: erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support; www.garmin.com