Garmin GPS V Owners Manual

The Garmin GPS V is a high-performance GPS receiver with detailed street mapping, turn-by-turn navigation, and autorouting capabilities. It features a sunlight-readable display, waterproof construction, WAAS-enabled accuracy, and extensive points of interest. 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 Devices 7. Navigation Features 8. Map Management 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPS receiver with built-in basemap, external antenna connector, PC interface port, power/data cable, and mounting hardware.

FeatureDescription
DisplaySunlight-readable, 256-color TFT display
GPS Receiver12 parallel channel, WAAS-enabled
Waterproof RatingIPX7 standard (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Memory19 MB internal, expandable via data cards
BatteryAA batteries (2) or external power
AutoroutingTurn-by-turn directions on detailed maps
Points of InterestExtensive database with search capability
Tracks10,000 point automatic track log
Routes50 reversible routes with 50 waypoints each
Waypoints500 user waypoints with graphic symbols

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose appropriate mounting location.

  1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries.
  2. Mount unit: Use included bracket for secure vehicle mounting.
  3. Connect power: Plug power/data cable into vehicle power outlet.
  4. External antenna: Connect optional external antenna for improved reception.

WARNING! Mount securely to avoid distraction while driving. Ensure clear view of sky for GPS reception.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initial setup prompts.

  1. Acquire satellites: Place unit outdoors with clear sky view for initial fix.
  2. Set language: Select preferred language from setup menu.
  3. Configure units: Choose metric or statute units for distance.
  4. Set time format: Select 12-hour or 24-hour time display.
  5. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions for electronic compass.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes. Ensure adequate battery power.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and ENTER buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, ROCKER keypad.

Main Functions: PAGE cycles through main screens (Map, Navigation, Satellite, Main Menu). ENTER selects highlighted items. ROCKER moves cursor and adjusts settings.

Settings Menu: System (units, time, language), Route (calculation method, avoidances), Map (orientation, detail level), Tracks (log interval, color), Alarms (anchor, proximity).

Connecting Devices

PC Interface: Serial cable connection for data transfer. External Power: Vehicle adapter. External Antenna: MCX connector.

  1. Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
  2. Connect serial cable to PC COM port and GPS data port.
  3. Install MapSource software on PC for map transfers.
  4. Select appropriate COM port in software settings.

Tip: Use fresh batteries or external power during data transfers to prevent interruption.

Navigation Features

Supports point-to-point navigation and autorouting with detailed maps.

  1. Create waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at current location.
  2. Navigate to waypoint: Select from waypoint list, choose "Go To".
  3. Create route: From Main Menu, select Routes, add waypoints in sequence.
  4. Follow route: Select route, choose "Navigate".
  5. Autorouting: Enter destination address, unit calculates turn-by-turn directions.
  6. Track back: Retrace path using saved track log.
  7. Proximity alarms: Set alerts for waypoints or custom points.
  8. Trip computer: Monitor speed, distance, time, and elevation.

WARNING! GPS navigation should not distract from safe driving. Program routes before driving.

Map Management

Load detailed maps via PC interface. Basemap includes major highways and cities.

  1. Install MapSource software on PC.
  2. Connect GPS to PC with serial cable.
  3. Select map regions in MapSource software.
  4. Transfer maps to GPS unit memory.
  5. Manage map sets: Enable/disable specific map regions as needed.

Note: 19 MB memory holds approximately 19 MB of map data. Use MMC/SD cards for additional storage.

Care & Cleaning

Use soft, damp cloth for cleaning. Avoid solvents or abrasive materials.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water beyond rated depth. Keep connectors clean and dry.

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. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite receptionObstructed view, weak batteriesMove to open area; replace batteries; ensure proper initialization.
Poor accuracySignal interference, WAAS disabledMove away from structures; enable WAAS in setup menu.
Unit won't power onDead batteries, power connectionReplace batteries; check power cable connections.
Map display incorrectWrong map segment enabledCheck enabled map regions; verify map data is loaded.
PC connection failedWrong COM port, cable issueVerify COM port settings; check cable connections; restart both devices.
Autorouting not workingNo detailed maps, settingsLoad detailed street maps; verify routing preferences are set.

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + POWER while turning on for system reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support for warranty service.

Garmin GPS V Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025