Garmin GPS Model Nuvi 50LM Manual

The Garmin Nuvi 50LM is a portable GPS navigator featuring a 5-inch touchscreen display, preloaded lifetime maps for North America, spoken turn-by-turn directions, lane assist with junction view, speed limit indicator, and points of interest (POI) database. It includes a vehicle suction cup mount, vehicle power cable, and USB cable. 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 to Computer 7. Navigation Basics 8. Map Updates & Lifetime Maps 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-inch touchscreen display, Vehicle suction cup mount, Vehicle power cable, USB cable, Preloaded lifetime maps.

FeatureDescription
Display5-inch WQVGA color touchscreen
MapsPreloaded lifetime maps of North America
Voice GuidanceSpoken street names and turn-by-turn directions
Lane AssistShows proper lane for approaching turns or exits
Junction ViewDisplays realistic highway signs and junctions
Speed Limit IndicatorShows current speed limit on most roads
Points of InterestIncludes millions of businesses, attractions, etc.
MountVehicle suction cup mount with quick release
PowerVehicle power cable and internal rechargeable battery
ConnectivityUSB port for updates and data transfer

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install in vehicle safely.

  1. Mount device: Clean windshield area, attach suction cup mount, press to secure.
  2. Attach Nuvi: Slide device onto mount until it clicks.
  3. Connect power: Plug vehicle power cable into Nuvi and vehicle's 12V accessory socket.
  4. Position device: Adjust for clear view without obstructing driver's vision.

WARNING! Do not mount in a location that blocks airbags or driver's view. Follow all local laws regarding windshield mounting.

First-Time Setup

Power on Nuvi; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Initial startup: Select language, agree to terms, set time zone.
  2. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear sky view for faster GPS signal acquisition.
  3. Set home location: Enter your home address for quick navigation home.
  4. Configure preferences: Set volume, display brightness, route preferences (fastest/shortest).

CAUTION! Do not operate device while driving. Set up while parked.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen. Power button on top edge.

Main Screens: Where To?, View Map, Tools.

Settings: Volume/Brightness, Language, Units (miles/kilometers), Time Format, Map Display, Route Preferences (Fastest Time/Shortest Distance/Avoidances). Navigation: Lane Assist, Junction View, Speed Limit Display. System: About, Restore Defaults, Software Update.

Connecting to Computer

Use USB cable to connect Nuvi to computer for updates and data transfer.

  1. Turn on Nuvi and connect to computer via USB cable.
  2. On Nuvi, select "Mass Storage" mode when prompted.
  3. Computer will recognize device as removable drive.
  4. Use Garmin Express software (download from Garmin website) for map and software updates.

Tip: Ensure Nuvi is fully charged or connected to power during updates.

Navigation Basics

Enter destinations and follow guided routes.

  1. Tap "Where To?" on main menu.
  2. Select destination by: Address, Points of Interest, Recent Destinations, Favorites, or Coordinates.
  3. Follow on-screen and voice prompts.
  4. View route details: Tap vehicle icon to see turn list, trip data, or detour options.
  5. Stop navigation: Tap "Stop" on map screen.

WARNING! Always pay attention to road conditions and traffic signs. GPS is an aid, not a substitute for safe driving.

Map Updates & Lifetime Maps

Lifetime Maps entitlement provides map updates when available.

  1. Install Garmin Express on your computer.
  2. Connect Nuvi to computer.
  3. Garmin Express will check for updates and guide you through installation.
  4. Keep device connected until update completes.

Note: Updates may require significant storage space and time to download/install.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and disconnect from power before cleaning. Use soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to conditions that device does not cause harmful interference. Contains FCC ID: IPH-00254A. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and Nuvi are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBattery drained/power cableCharge using vehicle power cable; check cable connection.
Poor GPS signalObstructions/locationMove to open area with clear view of sky; wait for signal acquisition.
Touchscreen not respondingScreen dirty/calibrationClean screen; restart device; calibrate touchscreen in Settings > System.
Maps not displayingMap data corruptedUpdate maps via Garmin Express; restore defaults if needed.
No voice guidanceVolume settings/muteCheck volume settings; ensure mute is off; select a voice in Settings > Language.

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

Service: 1-800-800-1020; support.garmin.com

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