Garmin GPSMAP 210 User Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 210 is a marine GPS chartplotter featuring a high-resolution 5-inch grayscale display, built-in worldwide basemap, waterproof design (IPX7), NMEA 0183 interface, external antenna input, and support for Garmin BlueChart cartography. It provides precise navigation with waypoints, routes, and tracks, along with a MOB (Man Overboard) function and trip computer. 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 Functions 8. Chartplotting Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-inch FSTN grayscale LCD, Waterproof casing, External antenna connector, NMEA 0183 data port, Power/data cable, Mounting bracket.

FeatureDescription
Display5-inch high-contrast grayscale LCD, 320 x 240 pixels
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes)
GPS Receiver12 parallel channel, WAAS enabled
BasemapBuilt-in worldwide basemap with marine navigation aids
Chart CompatibilityGarmin BlueChart and MapSource cartography
Waypoints/Routes500 waypoints, 20 reversible routes
NMEA 0183Interface for connecting to autopilots, sounders, etc.
MOB (Man Overboard)Instant mark and navigation to MOB location
Trip ComputerDisplays speed, heading, distance, time, etc.
Power Input10-40 VDC, 1 Amp max

Installation

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

  1. Mounting: Use included bracket to mount unit on flat surface. Ensure it is secure and within reach.
  2. Antenna Connection: Connect the external GPS antenna cable to the ANTENNA port on the rear. Route cable away from other electronics.
  3. Power Connection: Connect the red wire to positive (+) DC power (10-40V) and black wire to negative (-) ground. Use in-line fuse as recommended.
  4. NMEA Connection: Connect NMEA 0183 wires to compatible devices (autopilot, sounder) following wiring diagram.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Disconnect power before making connections.

First-Time Setup

Apply power; unit will begin initializing.

  1. Initial Satellite Acquisition: Place unit with clear sky view. Acquiring satellites may take several minutes on first use.
  2. Set Language and Units: Press MENU > Setup > System. Set language (default ENGLISH) and units (nautical miles, statute miles, or kilometers).
  3. Set Time and Date: In System menu, set time format (12/24 hr) and date. Can be set to Auto from GPS.
  4. Calibrate Compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen prompts if interfaced with fluxgate compass.
  5. Load Charts: Insert Garmin data card (if using BlueChart) into the card slot.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation. Do not mount in direct sunlight or near heat sources.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER key, PAGE key, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MENU key, ZOOM IN/OUT keys.

On-Screen Menus: Accessed via MENU key. Main pages: Map, Highway, Navigation Data, Trip Computer.

Setup Menu Categories: System: Contrast, Backlight, Beeper, Language, Units, Time. Navigation: Steering (Off Course Alarm, Arrival Alarm), Route Setup. NMEA: Set NMEA 0183 sentences and baud rate (4800 default). Interface: Set I/O format for connected sensors. Calibration: Compass, Water Speed (if sensors connected).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, depth sounder, or VHF radio for position data.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting.
  2. Identify NMEA IN (RX) and OUT (TX) wires on the GPSMAP 210 cable.
  3. Connect GPSMAP 210 NMEA OUT (TX) to other device's NMEA IN (RX).
  4. Connect GPSMAP 210 NMEA IN (RX) to other device's NMEA OUT (TX).
  5. Connect Ground wires together.
  6. Power on devices and configure NMEA sentences in the Setup menu.

Tip: Use shielded cable for NMEA connections and keep runs as short as possible to reduce interference.

Navigation Functions

Creating and following waypoints, routes, and tracks.

  1. Mark Waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at current location. Edit name/symbol and press ENTER to save.
  2. Go To Waypoint: From Map page, move cursor to waypoint and press ENTER > "Go To". Or use FIND menu to select waypoint.
  3. Create Route: MENU > Route > New Route. Select "Select Point" to add existing waypoints in order. Save route.
  4. Follow Route: MENU > Route > Select Route > "Navigate".
  5. MOB (Man Overboard): Press and hold the MOB/PAGE key (if assigned) or use on-screen MOB button. Instantly creates a waypoint and begins navigation back to that spot.
  6. Trip Computer: View speed, average speed, trip odometer, time to destination, etc., on the Trip Computer page.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation. Always use in conjunction with official charts and prudent seamanship.

Chartplotting Features

Using the Map page and loaded cartography.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap solution if needed. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

CAUTION! Ensure unit is dry before reapplying power. Do not allow water to enter ports.

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. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No PowerBlown fuse, loose connectionCheck in-line fuse. Verify power connections are secure and correct polarity.
"Acquiring Satellites"Poor sky view, first-time useMove to open area. Wait up to 30 minutes for first-ever acquisition.
Inaccurate PositionPoor satellite geometry, interferenceEnsure clear view. Move away from radar, radios, or other potential interference sources.
No NMEA Data OutputIncorrect wiring or settingsVerify NMEA wiring connections. Check Setup > NMEA menu for correct sentences and baud rate.
Display is dim or blankContrast/Brightness setting, powerAdjust contrast/brightness in Setup > System. Check power voltage.
Waypoint/Route fullMemory capacity reachedDelete unused waypoints or routes to free space.

Reset: To perform a master reset (erases all user data), power off. Press and hold PAGE + ZOOM IN while powering on. Confirm reset.

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

Garmin GPSMAP 210 User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025