Garmin GPS V Manual

The Garmin GPS V is a portable GPS navigation device featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, detailed street mapping, turn-by-turn routing, automatic route calculation, WAAS-enabled accuracy, and a backlit display for day/night use. It includes a basemap of North America, supports MapSource detailed maps, stores up to 500 waypoints, 20 reversible routes, and has a track log of 10,000 points. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPS receiver with built-in antenna, LCD display, Power button, Rocker keypad, Enter/Mark button, Page button, Zoom buttons, Data cable connector, External antenna port.

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity GPS receiver	For accurate positioning even under tree cover or in urban canyons
Detailed street mapping	Includes major highways, roads, and points of interest
Turn-by-turn routing	Provides voice and visual prompts for navigation
WAAS-enabled	Improves accuracy to within 3 meters
Backlit display	Adjustable for day and night viewing
Basemap of North America	Preloaded map covering the United States, Canada, and Mexico
MapSource compatible	Supports detailed regional maps via PC connection
Waypoint storage	Stores up to 500 user-defined locations
Route storage	20 reversible routes with up to 50 waypoints each
Track log	10,000 point automatic track log

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Includes GPS unit, mounting bracket, power/data cable, vehicle power adapter, PC interface cable, and documentation.

1. Mount the unit: Attach mounting bracket to vehicle dashboard or windshield using suction cup.
2. Connect power: Plug vehicle power adapter into 12V DC outlet and connect to GPS unit.
3. External antenna (optional): Connect to external antenna port for improved reception.
4. Turn on device: Press and hold Power button to start.

WARNING! Mount device where it does not obstruct driver's view. Ensure all connections are secure while driving.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Acquire satellite signal: Place unit outdoors with clear view of sky; wait for satellite acquisition.
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select ENGLISH (default).
3. Configure preferences: Set time format, units (miles/kilometers), north reference.
4. Calibrate compass (if equipped): Follow on-screen instructions.
5. Load detailed maps: Connect to PC using interface cable and use MapSource software.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Complete setup while parked.

Specifications

• Display: 2.2-inch LCD, 160 x 240 pixels, 4-level grayscale.
• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channel, WAAS-enabled.
• Accuracy: 15 meters (49 feet) RMS; 3 meters (10 feet) RMS with WAAS.
• Storage: 500 waypoints, 20 routes, 10,000 track points.
• Interface: RS-232 serial interface for PC connection.
• Power Source: 12V DC vehicle adapter or 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH).
• Battery Life: Up to 20 hours with alkaline batteries.
• Operating Temp: 5°F to 158°F (-15°C to 70°C).
• Waterproof: IEC 60529 IPX7 standard (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via Page button and Rocker keypad. Front Panel: Power button, Rocker keypad (up/down/left/right), Enter/Mark button, Page button, Zoom In/Out buttons.

Key Functions: POWER (on/off), ENTER/MARK (confirm selection or mark waypoint), PAGE (cycle through display pages), ROCKER (navigate menus/map).

Setup Menu: Language, Units, Time, Display contrast, Backlight timeout, System settings. Navigation Settings: Route preferences (fastest time/shortest distance), Avoidances (tolls/ferries), Map orientation (north up/track up).

Connecting Devices

PC Connection: Use PC interface cable to RS-232 serial port. External Antenna: Connect to external antenna port. Vehicle Power: Use 12V DC adapter.

1. Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
2. Connect PC cable to serial port and GPS data connector.
3. For data transfer, use MapSource software to upload/download waypoints, routes, and maps.

Tip: Ensure proper serial port configuration (4800 baud, N-8-1) for PC communication.

Using Navigation Features

Supports point-to-point navigation, route following, and track back.

1. Find destination: Use FIND button to search by name, category, or recently found.
2. Create route: Select GO TO for direct navigation or use Route Planner for multi-point routes.
3. Follow route: Turn-by-turn guidance appears on map page; audible alerts for turns.
4. Waypoint management: Mark current location with ENTER/MARK; edit waypoint name/symbol.
5. Track log: View track on map; save or clear track log.
6. Simulation mode: Practice navigation without GPS signal (SETUP > System > Simulation Mode).

WARNING! Always pay attention to road conditions. GPS is a navigation aid, not a substitute for safe driving.

Accessibility Features

Backlight Adjustment: Adjust display brightness for day/night use. Large Font Option: Available in display settings for improved readability. Audible Alerts: Turn-by-turn prompts and proximity alarms.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for display; damp cloth for casing. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Do not submerge unit while connected to power. Keep away from extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European market. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries/power connection	Check battery installation; ensure power cable is securely connected.
Poor satellite reception	Obstructions/location	Move to open area; ensure clear view of sky; check external antenna connection.
Inaccurate position	WAAS/signal interference	Enable WAAS in setup; avoid areas with heavy interference.
Display is blank	Backlight/contrast	Adjust contrast and backlight settings; check power source.
PC connection fails	Cable/port settings	Verify cable connection; check PC serial port configuration; restart both devices.
Buttons not responding	Unit locked	Press and hold POWER to reset; check for stuck buttons.

Reset: Press and hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER (up) for 10 seconds to master reset (erases all user data).

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