Garmin GPS V Manual Download

The Garmin GPS V is a high-performance GPS receiver featuring a detailed basemap, turn-by-turn routing capabilities, automatic track log, and rugged waterproof design. It supports both automotive and marine navigation with WAAS-enabled accuracy. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Menu Functions 6. Connecting to a PC 7. Advanced Navigation 8. Waypoints & Routes 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-contrast LCD display, Four AA battery compartment, External antenna port, Serial data port, Power connector, Mounting bracket.

FeatureDescription
BasemapDetailed street-level map of North America or Europe
Turn-by-Turn RoutingAutomatic routing on roads with voice prompt capability (with accessory)
WAAS EnabledEnhanced GPS accuracy (within 3 meters typically)
WaterproofIPX7 standard (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes)
Track LogAutomatic recording of path traveled; 10 saved tracks
Waypoints500 user-definable locations with name and symbol
Routes20 reversible routes with up to 50 waypoints each
PC InterfaceSerial connection for data transfer and map updates
External Antenna PortFor improved reception in vehicles or boats
Backlit DisplayAdjustable for night use

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert four AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH).
  2. Initial satellite acquisition: Power on unit outdoors with clear sky view; allow 5-15 minutes for first fix.
  3. Mounting: Attach to included bracket for automotive or marine use.
  4. Set preferences: Use Main Menu to set units, time format, north reference.

WARNING! For vehicle mounting, ensure bracket does not obstruct driver's view. Secure all cables to prevent entanglement.

Basic Operation

Power on GPS; view satellite status page until 3D fix is acquired.

  1. View map: Press PAGE button to cycle to map page.
  2. Navigate to waypoint: Use GOTO button, select from list or map.
  3. Follow road route: Enter destination address, select 'Follow Road' option.
  4. Save location: Press and hold ENTER/MARK button to save current position as waypoint.

CAUTION! Always verify route safety independently. GPS is a navigation aid, not a substitute for awareness.

Specifications

Menu Functions

Access via MENU button from any page. Main Menu: Map, Satellite, Trip Computer, Main Menu, Route, Waypoint, Track Log, Setup.

Key Pages: Map (shows position and route), Satellite (signal strength and position), Trip Computer (speed, distance, time).

Setup: System (battery type, backlight, contrast), Interface (serial data format), Routing (calculation preferences), Units (metric/statute), Time (format/time zone).

Connecting to a PC

Use serial cable (included) to transfer waypoints, routes, tracks, and update maps.

  1. Install Garmin MapSource software on PC.
  2. Connect cable to GPS serial port and PC COM port.
  3. Set GPS interface to GARMIN in Setup menu.
  4. Use MapSource to send/receive data.

Tip: Ensure GPS is not in battery save mode during data transfer.

Advanced Navigation

Supports off-road navigation, proximity waypoints, and backtrack.

  1. Off-road navigation: Select 'Off Road' when prompted for routing method.
  2. Backtrack: Use Track Log menu to reverse and follow saved track.
  3. Proximity waypoints: Set alarm radius around any waypoint.
  4. Sun/Moon information: View sunrise/sunset and moon phase data.
  5. Area calculation: Measure irregular plot areas using track log.

WARNING! Off-road navigation does not account for terrain difficulty or private property.

Waypoints & Routes

Create and manage navigation points and multi-point journeys.

Waypoints: Save by pressing ENTER/MARK. Edit name, symbol, location. Organize by proximity or name.

Routes: Create in Route menu by selecting existing waypoints or map points. Activate route for navigation. Reverse route for return journey.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, damp cloth. Do not use solvents. Store in cool, dry place. Replace batteries if not used for extended periods.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods. Keep connectors clean and dry.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with Canadian ICES-003. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBatteries/connectionsCheck battery orientation; replace batteries; verify external power connection.
Poor satellite receptionObstruction/initializationMove to open area; ensure clear view of sky; allow time for acquisition.
Inaccurate positionWAAS/multipathEnable WAAS; move away from tall buildings/reflective surfaces.
No data transfer to PCCable/port settingsCheck cable connection; verify COM port selection in software; ensure GPS interface set to GARMIN.
Screen difficult to readContrast/backlightAdjust contrast in Setup menu; enable backlight for low light.
Route not calculatingMap detail/routing preferencesEnsure routing is set to 'Follow Road'; verify map detail is sufficient for area.

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + POWER while turning on for system reset (erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.

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