Garmin GPS296 Manual

The Garmin GPS296 is a high-performance aviation GPS receiver featuring a large color display, Jeppesen database compatibility, moving map, terrain awareness, weather data interface (with optional equipment), and extensive navigation capabilities for VFR and IFR operations. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Large sunlight-readable color TFT display, internal GPS antenna, external antenna connector, data card slot (for Jeppesen database), serial and audio ports, power/data cable interface.

Feature	Description
Display	Sunlight-readable 256-color TFT, 5.2-inch diagonal
GPS Receiver	12 parallel channel, WAAS enabled
Database	Jeppesen NavData (aviation), basemap
Moving Map	Detailed aviation charts with ownship position
Terrain Awareness	Optional terrain database and alerting
Weather Data	Interface for XM Satellite Weather (optional)
Flight Planning	Direct-to, multi-leg flight plans, nearest airports
Power Input	10-32 VDC, typical aircraft power
Audio Output	For audible alerts and communication
Data Card Slot	For database updates (Jeppesen)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Designed for panel-mount or portable use with yoke mount.

1. Choose Mounting Location: Ensure clear view of sky for GPS reception, within pilot's reach and line of sight.
2. Connect Power: Route power/data cable to aircraft's 10-32 VDC bus. Connect red wire to positive, black wire to ground.
3. Install External Antenna (if used): Connect optional external GPS antenna to rear connector for improved reception.
4. Secure Unit: Install in panel cutout or attach to yoke mount bracket securely.

WARNING! Installation should be performed by qualified personnel. Ensure wiring does not interfere with aircraft controls.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial prompts.

1. Acquire Satellite Signal: Place unit with clear sky view; allow several minutes for initial acquisition.
2. Set System Preferences: Press MENU, go to Setup > System. Set units (nm, km), time format, north reference.
3. Load Aviation Database: Insert Jeppesen data card. The unit will prompt to load current database.
4. Calibrate Sensors (if applicable): Follow on-screen prompts for optional magnetometer or pressure altitude.
5. Configure Alerts: Set up terrain, airspace, and proximity alerts as desired.

CAUTION! Database must be current for navigation. Verify database effective dates before flight.

Specifications

• Display: 5.2-inch diagonal, 320 x 240 pixels, 256-color TFT.
• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channels, WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Database: Jeppesen NavData (airports, navaids, intersections, airways).
• Memory: Internal for flight plans/routes; expandable via data card.
• Interfaces: 2 serial ports (RS-232), audio out, external antenna.
• Power Requirements: 10-32 VDC, 1.5A max.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
• Dimensions: Panel mount: 6.25" W x 3.75" H x 2.5" D.
• Weight: Approximately 1.5 lbs.

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER button, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right/ENTER), QUIT, MENU, PAGE, Direct-to, CLR, and numeric keypad.

On-Screen Menus: Accessed via MENU button. Main pages: Map, Navigation, Active Flight Plan, Nearest, Auxiliary (Setup).

Setup Categories: System (units, time), Display (contrast, backlight), Alerts (terrain, airspace), Interface (serial port settings), Navaid (VOR/ILS tuning). Navigation: Direct-to entry, flight plan creation/edit, holding patterns, procedure loading (SIDs/STARs/Approaches). Map: Zoom, pan, declutter, track up/north up.

Connecting Devices

External Power: Via power/data cable. Serial Devices: Connect to COM1/COM2 for data exchange with autopilot, fuel computer, or weather receiver. Audio: Connect audio out to aircraft intercom or headset for audible alerts.

1. Ensure aircraft power is OFF before making connections.
2. Use appropriate connectors and secure wiring.
3. Configure serial port data format (baud rate, protocol) in Setup > Interface to match connected device.

Tip: Use shielded cables for serial connections to reduce interference.

Navigation & Flight Planning

Supports VFR/IFR navigation with active flight plan guidance.

1. Direct-to Navigation: Press D→, enter identifier (airport, navaid, waypoint), press ENTER.
2. Create Flight Plan: Press FPL, select New, then sequentially add waypoints from database.
3. Activate Flight Plan: With flight plan open, press MENU, select "Activate Leg".
4. Load Procedures: For an airport, select Arrival/Approach/Departure to load published SID, STAR, or approach.
5. Nearest Functions: Press NRST to list nearest airports, navaids, intersections, with bearing/distance.
6. Map Usage: On Map page, ownship position shown; zoom with IN/OUT keys; pan with ROCKER.
7. Altitude Alerting: Set altitude alert in Navigation page for climb/descent reminders.

WARNING! GPS is supplemental. Always have backup navigation means and current paper charts.

Database Management

Jeppesen NavData updates required every 28 days. Terrain and obstacle databases also updated periodically.

1. Obtain update data card from Jeppesen or authorized dealer.
2. Power off unit. Insert new data card into slot.
3. Power on. Unit will recognize new card and prompt to load database.
4. Follow on-screen instructions. Loading may take several minutes.
5. Verify effective date on Database Information page (Setup > System).

CAUTION! Do not remove data card during update. Ensure unit is powered adequately.

Care & Cleaning

Power off and disconnect from aircraft power before cleaning. Use soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Avoid moisture entering ports or card slot. Do not spray liquids directly on unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with applicable aviation TSO standards for supplemental navigation. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Jeppesen data provided under license. For technical support, contact Garmin Aviation Support or visit www.garmin.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection, fuse	Check aircraft power; verify power cable connection; check inline fuse.
Poor GPS reception	Obstruction, antenna	Ensure clear view of sky; verify external antenna connection if used.
Database not loading	Data card, contacts	Ensure data card is fully inserted and clean; try re-seating card.
No display/ dim display	Backlight setting, power	Adjust backlight (Setup > Display); check power voltage.
Serial data not received	Port configuration, wiring	Verify baud rate and protocol match source; check wiring continuity.
Inaccurate position	Satellite acquisition	Allow time for full acquisition; ensure not in simulated mode.

Reset: Power cycle unit. For persistent issues, Master Reset option in Setup > System (erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Aviation Product Support. Do not attempt internal repair.