Garmin GPSMAP 180 Owners Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 180 is a marine GPS chartplotter featuring a high-resolution 5-inch grayscale display, built-in worldwide basemap, waterproof construction (IPX7), NMEA 0183 interface for connecting to autopilots and other instruments, track plotting, waypoint management, and route planning. It is designed for marine navigation with simple, intuitive controls. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof GPS unit, Power/Data cable, Mounting hardware, External antenna connector (optional), NMEA 0183 interface terminals.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a mounting location with clear view of sky.

1. Mount the unit: Use provided bracket to mount on a flat, stable surface (dashboard or console).
2. Connect power: Route the power/data cable to the unit and connect to a 10-40 VDC source (fused at 1A).
3. Connect optional external antenna: If required, connect to the rear antenna port for improved reception.
4. Connect NMEA devices: Wire the NMEA 0183 output/input wires to compatible instruments.
5. Secure all cables and apply power.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Route cables away from high heat and moving parts.

First-Time Setup

Power on the unit; follow initial prompts.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit with clear sky view; allow several minutes for first fix.
2. Set navigation units: In SETUP menu, select units (nautical miles/knots, statute miles/mph).
3. Set north reference: Choose TRUE or MAGNETIC north.
4. Set time: Set local time and date format (12/24 hour).
5. Calibrate compass (if interfaced): Follow on-screen prompts if connected to a fluxgate compass.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving the vessel during initial setup. Ensure secure mounting.

Specifications

• Display: 5-inch diagonal, 320 x 240 pixels, FSTN grayscale.
• GPS: 12 parallel channel receiver, WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Accuracy: Position: <15 meters, 95% typical. Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Interface: NMEA 0183 v2.0 (standard baud rate 4800).
• Power: 10-40 VDC, 1A max.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Storage Temp: -40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F).
• Dimensions: 6.0" W x 4.5" H x 2.5" D (152 x 114 x 64 mm).
• Weight: Approx. 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via the MENU key. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, QUIT/MARK, Cursor Rocker (UP/DOWN/LEFT/RIGHT).

Key Functions: POWER turns unit on/off. PAGE cycles through display pages (Map, Navigation, Highway, etc.). ENTER selects or confirms. QUIT/MARK exits menus or marks current position as a waypoint. Cursor Rocker moves highlight and pans map.

Setup Menu: Units, Time, North Reference, Alarms (Anchor, Off Course), System (Backlight, Contrast, Beeper). Navigation Pages: Map, Compass, Highway, Position, Active Route.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, depth sounder, or VHF radio for position reporting (DSC).

1. Turn off all devices before connecting wires.
2. Identify NMEA IN (to GPSMAP) and NMEA OUT (from GPSMAP) wires on the cable.
3. Connect GPSMAP NMEA OUT wires to the other device's NMEA IN terminals.
4. Connect GPSMAP NMEA IN wires to the other device's NMEA OUT terminals.
5. Ensure common ground is connected.

Tip: Refer to the wiring diagram in the manual appendix. Use shielded cable for long runs.

Navigation Basics

Primary functions: View position, navigate to waypoints, follow routes.

1. View Current Position: The POSITION page displays coordinates, speed, course, and time.
2. Go To a Waypoint: From the WAYPOINT list, select a waypoint and choose "Go To".
3. Follow a Route: From the ROUTE list, select a route and choose "Navigate".
4. Steer: Use the COMPASS or HIGHWAY page for steering guidance.
5. Pan the Map: Use the cursor rocker to move around the map view.
6. Set a MOB (Man Overboard): Press and hold the QUIT/MARK key for 2 seconds.

WARNING! This is an aid to navigation only. Always use updated charts and prudent seamanship.

Waypoints & Routes

Create Waypoint: Press QUIT/MARK at desired location, edit name/symbol, press ENTER to save.

Edit Waypoint: MENU > Waypoints > Select Waypoint > Edit.

Create Route: MENU > Routes > New Route > Add points from waypoint list or map cursor.

Navigate Route: Select route from list, choose "Navigate". The Active Route page shows legs and data.

Reverse Route: From the route list, select a route and choose "Reverse".

Care & Maintenance

Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap to clean the display and case. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Ensure the unit is powered off and disconnected before cleaning. Keep connectors free of corrosion. Periodically check mounting bracket and cable integrity.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Reset: For persistent issues, a master reset may be performed (see advanced manual). This will erase all user data.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com/support.