Garmin GPS Nuvi 50 Manual

The Garmin Nuvi 50 is a portable 5-inch automotive GPS navigator with preloaded street maps, spoken turn-by-turn directions, lane assist, speed limit display, and points of interest (POI) database. It features a sunlight-readable touchscreen, easy-to-use interface, and includes vehicle mount, USB cable, and power adapter. 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. Customizing Your Device 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

FeatureDescription
Display5-inch WQVGA color touchscreen, sunlight readable
MapsPreloaded street maps of your region
Voice GuidanceTurn-by-turn spoken directions
Lane AssistShows proper lane for approaching turns
Speed Limit DisplayShows speed limit for current road
Points of InterestMillions of preloaded POIs (gas, food, hotels)
MountVehicle suction cup mount with integrated power connector
PowerVehicle power cable and AC adapter included
InterfaceUSB mass storage for map updates and data transfer
BatteryRechargeable lithium-ion (up to 1 hour use)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install in vehicle properly.

  1. Charge device: Connect to AC adapter or vehicle power cable before first use.
  2. Mount device: Clean windshield area, attach suction cup mount, secure device.
  3. Power connection: Route vehicle power cable from mount to 12V accessory socket.
  4. Position device: Place where it doesn't obstruct driver's view.

WARNING! Do not mount where it obstructs airbag deployment or driver's view. Secure cables to avoid entanglement.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Initial setup: Select language, agree to terms, set time zone.
  2. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear sky view for first GPS fix.
  3. Calibrate touchscreen: Follow on-screen calibration procedure.
  4. Set home location: Enter your home address for quick navigation.
  5. Update maps: Connect to computer with Garmin Express for updates.

CAUTION! Do not operate device while driving. Program destination before driving.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen. Power button on top edge.

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

Navigation Settings: Route preferences (Fastest Time, Shortest Distance, Avoidances), Vehicle type (Car, Truck, Bus, Emergency). Display Settings: Brightness, Color Mode (Day/Night/Auto), Volume. System Settings: Language, Units (Miles/Kilometers), Time Format, Restore Defaults. Map Settings: Detail level, POI display, Map Share corrections.

Connecting to Computer

Use included USB cable to connect to computer.

  1. Install Garmin Express software from Garmin website.
  2. Connect device to computer via USB cable.
  3. Garmin Express will detect device and offer updates.
  4. Transfer custom POIs, routes, or backup data via mass storage mode.

Tip: Keep device connected until updates complete. Do not disconnect during transfer.

Navigation Basics

Basic navigation steps to any destination.

  1. Tap "Where To?" on main menu.
  2. Select destination by: Address, Points of Interest, Recent, Favorites, or Coordinates.
  3. Follow on-screen prompts to select specific location.
  4. Tap "Go!" to start navigation.
  5. During navigation: View turn-by-turn directions, estimated arrival time, distance remaining.
  6. Detour: Tap detour icon to avoid current road segment.
  7. Stop navigation: Tap "Stop" button on navigation screen.

WARNING! Always verify route safety. GPS may not reflect recent road changes or temporary closures.

Customizing Your Device

Add personal preferences and data.

  1. Favorites: Save frequently visited locations for quick access.
  2. Recent Destinations: View last 50 destinations.
  3. Custom POIs: Load additional points of interest via computer.
  4. Routes: Create and save custom routes.
  5. Vehicle Icon: Change car icon in map settings.
  6. Voice Selection: Choose different voice guidance languages/styles.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care ensures long device life.

  1. Cleaning: Use soft, lint-free cloth. Dampen with water only if needed.
  2. Storage: Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  3. Battery: For long storage, charge to 50% and power off.
  4. Screen protection: Consider anti-glare screen protector.
  5. Mount maintenance: Clean suction cup regularly for better adhesion.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Do not immerse in water.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. Contains FCC ID: IPH-00270. Industry Canada ID: 2417C-00270. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBattery depleted, connection issueConnect to power source; check cable connections; reset device.
Poor GPS signalObstructed view, indoor useMove to open area; ensure clear view of sky; wait for acquisition.
Touchscreen not respondingScreen dirty, calibration neededClean screen; recalibrate in settings; remove screen protector if applicable.
No voice guidanceVolume low, mute enabledIncrease volume; check mute setting; verify voice is selected.
Incorrect routeOutdated maps, wrong settingsUpdate maps via Garmin Express; check route preferences; verify destination.
Device freezesSoftware issuePerform soft reset (hold power button 10 seconds); restore defaults if needed.

Reset: Tools > Settings > System > Restore Defaults.

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

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