Garmin GPS III Manual Download

The Garmin GPS III is a rugged, handheld GPS receiver featuring a high-contrast LCD display, 12 parallel channel GPS receiver, built-in worldwide basemap, 1MB internal memory for storing additional map data, WAAS-enabled for improved accuracy, waterproof design (IPX7), external antenna capability, NMEA 0183 interface for marine applications, track log with 10,000 point capacity, and customizable data fields. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-contrast LCD display, 12-channel GPS receiver, internal memory, waterproof case, external antenna port, serial data interface.

Feature	Description
12-Channel GPS Receiver	Parallel channel design for fast satellite acquisition and tracking
Built-in Worldwide Basemap	Includes cities, highways, rivers, lakes, and borders
1MB Internal Memory	For uploading detailed MapSource map data
WAAS Enablement	Wide Area Augmentation System for improved position accuracy
Waterproof Design (IPX7)	Can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes
External Antenna Port	For connecting optional external GPS antenna
NMEA 0183 Interface	Standard marine data output for connecting to autopilots and chartplotters
Track Log	Stores up to 10,000 points with automatic or manual recording
Customizable Data Fields	Up to 4 data fields per navigation screen
Backlit Display & Keypad	For easy viewing in low-light conditions

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and perform initial satellite acquisition.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA alkaline batteries (not included).
2. Initial satellite acquisition: Turn unit ON outdoors with clear view of sky; allow 5-15 minutes for first fix.
3. Set preferences: Use MENU > SETUP to configure units, time format, north reference, etc.
4. Connect to PC (optional): Use PC interface cable to upload maps or transfer waypoints.

WARNING! For initial satellite acquisition, ensure you are outdoors with minimal obstructions. Indoor acquisition may fail.

Basic Operation

Power on unit; view satellite status page to verify GPS fix.

1. Turn ON/OFF: Press and hold PWR key for 2 seconds.
2. View satellite status: Use PAGE key to cycle to satellite page; check signal strength.
3. Navigate to waypoint: Use GOTO key, select waypoint from list, follow on-screen compass.
4. View position: Use PAGE key to cycle to position page showing coordinates, altitude, etc.

CAUTION! Avoid using near strong electromagnetic interference sources. Battery life approximately 20 hours (alkaline).

Specifications

• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channels, WAAS-enabled.
• Accuracy: Position: <15 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Acquisition Time: Warm: ~15 seconds, Cold: ~45 seconds, AutoLocate®: ~5 minutes.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Display: 5.6 x 3.0 cm (2.2" x 1.2") high-contrast LCD, 120 x 160 pixels.
• Memory: 1MB internal, stores up to 500 waypoints, 20 reversible routes.
• Interface: Serial (RS-232) NMEA 0183, GARMIN data transfer protocol.
• Power: 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH), 20 hours typical use.
• Waterproof: IEC 60529 IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).

Navigation Functions

Access navigation screens via PAGE key. Front Panel: PWR, PAGE, GOTO, MARK, ENTER, ROCKER keypad.

Navigation Screens: Satellite Status, Map, Compass, Highway, Position, Menu.

GOTO: Navigate to any stored waypoint. TRACK: Display and follow recorded track. ROUTE: Follow pre-defined sequence of waypoints. MOB (Man Overboard): Mark current position and navigate back instantly. Data Fields: Speed, Heading, Bearing, Distance, ETA, etc.

Waypoints & Routes

Store up to 500 waypoints with 6-character names and symbols. Create 20 routes with up to 50 waypoints each.

1. Mark waypoint: Press MARK, edit name/location if needed, press ENTER to save.
2. Edit waypoint: MENU > WAYPOINTS > select waypoint > EDIT.
3. Create route: MENU > ROUTES > NEW, add waypoints in sequence.
4. Navigate route: MENU > ROUTES > select route > NAVIGATE.

Tip: Use descriptive waypoint names (e.g., CAMP01, TRAILHD) for easy identification.

Map & Data Management

Upload detailed maps via PC interface cable using Garmin MapSource software.

1. Connect to PC: Use serial interface cable (included with some packages).
2. Install MapSource: Install software from CD (purchased separately).
3. Select map regions: Choose map segments within 1MB memory limit.
4. Upload to GPS: Use MapSource "Send to Device" function.
5. Manage data: Backup waypoints/routes/tracks to PC for safekeeping.

WARNING! Map data upload erases previous map data. Backup waypoints before uploading new maps.

Interface & Connectivity

NMEA 0183 output for marine systems; PC interface for data transfer.

Marine Connection: Connect NMEA output wires to chartplotter or autopilot. PC Connection: Use serial cable to exchange waypoints/routes/tracks with PC software. External Antenna: Optional GA 27C or similar for improved reception in covered areas.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with damp cloth; avoid solvents. Store in cool, dry place. Replace batteries when low.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for extended periods. Use only recommended batteries.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Contains GPS receiver regulated under FCC Part 15. Industry Canada ICES-003: Class B digital apparatus. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries	Replace with fresh AA batteries; ensure proper orientation.
No satellite acquisition	Obstructed view, outdated almanac	Move to open area; allow 5+ minutes for reacquisition; ensure WAAS is enabled.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry, multipath	Wait for satellite geometry to improve; move away from large reflective surfaces.
PC interface not working	Wrong cable/port, driver issues	Use correct serial cable; ensure proper COM port selection in software.
Display difficult to read	Low contrast, backlight off	Adjust contrast in setup menu; turn on backlight (press PWR briefly).

Reset: Press and hold PWR + PAGE + GOTO while powering on for master reset (erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.