Garmin GPS III Manual

The Garmin GPS III is a handheld GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation, featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, detailed basemap, waypoint and route management, track log recording, and rugged, waterproof construction. It provides reliable positioning and navigation for hiking, boating, and automotive use. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS antenna, LCD display, Power button, Rocker key, ENTER key, PAGE key, external antenna port, data/power connector.

Feature	Description
GPS Receiver	12-channel parallel receiver for fast acquisition and tracking
Basemap	Preloaded detailed map with cities, highways, and waterways
Waypoints	Store up to 500 user-defined locations with names and symbols
Routes	Create and follow routes with up to 50 waypoints each
Track Log	Record and save track points for retracing your path
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 standard, submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes
Power Source	4 AA batteries or external 12V DC power
Display	High-contrast LCD, 4-level grayscale, 160 x 120 pixels
Interface	NMEA 0183 and proprietary Garmin data format
Backlight	Adjustable for night use

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries or connect to external power.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. External power: Connect optional 12V DC power cable to data/power connector.
3. External antenna: Attach optional external GPS antenna to antenna port for improved reception.
4. Mounting: Use optional mounting bracket for vehicle or marine installation.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Ensure battery compartment is securely closed, especially in wet conditions.

First-Time Setup

Power on the GPS III; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Acquire satellite signal: Go outdoors with clear view of sky; unit will automatically search for satellites.
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default is ENGLISH).
3. Set units: Choose metric or statute units for distance, speed, and elevation.
4. Set time: Configure time format (12/24 hour) and time zone.
5. Initialize position: If prompted, enter approximate location to speed up satellite acquisition.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes. Ensure you are in an open area away from tall buildings and dense foliage.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 5.3" W x 2.2" H x 1.3" D (13.5 x 5.6 x 3.3 cm).
• Weight: 7.5 oz (213 g) with batteries.
• Display: 2.1" diagonal, 160 x 120 pixel LCD.
• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channels.
• Accuracy: <15 meters RMS.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Dynamics: Supports speeds up to 999 knots.
• Altitude Limit: Up to 18,000 meters (60,000 feet).
• Battery Life: Up to 20 hours (typical use with alkaline batteries).
• Operating Temp: 5°F to 158°F (-15°C to 70°C).
• Storage Temp: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C).

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel keys and on-screen menus.

Front Panel: POWER, ROCKER (up/down/left/right), ENTER, PAGE, QUIT.

Menu Navigation: Use ROCKER to highlight options, ENTER to select, PAGE to cycle through main pages (Satellite, Map, Navigation, Menu).

Setup Menu: System (contrast, backlight, battery type), Units (distance, speed, elevation), Time (format, time zone), Interface (NMEA output).

Navigation Settings: Route preference (Direct, Auto, Off-road), North reference (True, Magnetic).

Connecting Devices

External antenna: For improved reception in vehicles or under canopy. Data cable: For connecting to a PC or other NMEA 0183 compatible device.

1. Turn off GPS unit before connecting cables.
2. Align connector pins carefully; do not force.
3. Secure connection with locking ring or screws.
4. For PC connection, use Garmin PC Interface Cable and compatible software.

Tip: Ensure the data/power connector port is clean and dry before attaching cables.

Navigation Basics

Using the GPS III for basic point-to-point navigation.

1. Mark a Waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at your current location. Edit name and symbol if desired.
2. Go To a Waypoint: From the MENU page, select 'Waypoints'. Choose a saved waypoint and select 'Go To'.
3. Follow the Bearing: The Navigation page will show bearing, distance, and estimated time to destination.
4. Create a Route: From the MENU page, select 'Routes' > 'New'. Add stored waypoints in sequence.
5. Follow a Route: Select a saved route and choose 'Navigate'. The unit will guide you to each waypoint in turn.
6. Use Track Log: Enable track log recording in the TRACK LOG menu. Later, you can save the track or use it to backtrack.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be degraded by environmental factors. Always use common sense and traditional navigation skills as a backup.

Advanced Features

Projected Waypoints: Create a waypoint at a specified bearing and distance from your current location. Area Calculation: Use the track log to calculate the area of a closed loop. Sun & Moon Information: Access tables for sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset times for your location.

Care & Maintenance

Clean the unit with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents. Ensure the data/power connector cover is securely closed when not in use. Store in a cool, dry place. For long-term storage, remove batteries.

CAUTION! Do not immerse the unit beyond its rated depth (1 meter). If the unit gets wet, dry it thoroughly before opening the battery compartment or connecting cables.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Contains transmitter module FCC ID: IPH-002. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit will not power on	Dead batteries, improper installation	Install fresh batteries; check polarity; ensure compartment is closed securely.
Cannot acquire satellites	Poor sky view, unit not initialized	Move to an open area; ensure unit is stationary during initial acquisition; re-initialize position.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry, signal blockage	Wait for satellite geometry to improve; move away from obstructions.
Waypoint or route data lost	Batteries removed for extended period	Internal memory backup lasts only a short time without main batteries. Save important data to a PC regularly.
No data output to PC	Wrong interface setting, faulty cable	Set Interface mode to 'GARMIN' or 'NMEA'; check cable connections; try a different cable.
Display is dim or unreadable	Low battery, contrast setting	Replace batteries; adjust contrast in the Setup menu.

Reset: To perform a master reset (erases all user data), power off. Press and hold PAGE + ENTER while powering on. Confirm reset.

Service: For repairs, contact Garmin Product Support or an authorized service center.