Garmin GPSMAP 230 User Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 230 is a marine GPS chartplotter featuring a high-resolution display, preloaded coastal charts, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, waterproof construction (IPX7), NMEA 0183 interface, track plotting, waypoint management, and route planning. Designed for marine navigation, it includes a built-in worldwide basemap, external antenna capability, and support for optional BlueChart g2 maps. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-resolution LCD display, Waterproof casing, Power/data cable, External antenna port, NMEA 0183 interface, Card slot for optional maps.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location on vessel.

1. Mount the unit: Use included bracket; select location with clear view of sky.
2. Connect power: Attach red wire to positive (+), black to negative (-) on 10-40 VDC source.
3. Connect antenna: Attach external GPS antenna to port if using.
4. Connect NMEA devices: Wire NMEA 0183 leads to compatible devices (autopilot, sounder).
5. Secure all cables and protect from moisture.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Drill mounting holes carefully to avoid damaging vessel structure.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial prompts.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit with clear sky view; wait for satellite lock.
2. Set preferences: Use MENU > Setup to configure units (nautical/statute), time format, language.
3. Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions.
4. Load optional charts: Insert BlueChart g2 card into slot.
5. Set home waypoint: Mark current location as home for quick navigation.

CAUTION! Ensure unit is securely mounted before vessel movement.

Specifications

• Display Size: 5-inch diagonal LCD.
• GPS: 12 parallel channel WAAS-enabled receiver.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Waypoints: 1000 with name and symbol.
• Routes: 50 reversible routes with up to 50 waypoints each.
• Tracks: 10 saved tracks, 10,000 points total.
• Interface: NMEA 0183 (4800 baud).
• Power: 10-40 VDC, 1 Amp max.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
• Dimensions: Approx. 15.2 x 11.4 x 5.8 cm.

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front-panel buttons and on-screen menus.

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

Menu Navigation: Use MENU to access main functions: Map, Satellite, Waypoint, Route, Track, Setup.

Setup Options: Units (nautical/statute), Time (12/24 hr), Language, Display contrast/brightness, Alarms (anchor, arrival), NMEA settings, System info.

Map Settings: Detail level, orientation (north up/course up), zoom levels, chart data fields.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, depth sounder, or other compatible devices.

1. Turn off power to all devices.
2. Identify NMEA IN/OUT wires on GPSMAP 230 cable.
3. Connect NMEA OUT (yellow) to device's NMEA IN.
4. Connect NMEA IN (blue) to device's NMEA OUT.
5. Connect ground (black) to common ground.
6. Power on and configure NMEA sentences in Setup menu.

Tip: Refer to your device manuals for specific NMEA wiring requirements.

Navigation & Chartplotting

Use preloaded charts or optional BlueChart g2 for detailed navigation.

1. View map: Press PAGE to cycle to Map page.
2. Zoom: Use ZOOM IN/OUT buttons or on-screen controls.
3. Pan: Use ROCKER key to move map cursor.
4. Follow track: Current track is displayed as solid line.
5. View data: Configure data fields to show speed, course, distance, etc.
6. Use chart features: Display depth contours, buoys, marinas, and hazards.
7. Set alarms: Configure anchor drag or arrival alarms in Setup.

WARNING! Always use updated charts and verify navigation with other sources. GPS is an aid to navigation.

Waypoints & Routes

Create and manage waypoints and routes for trip planning.

Waypoints: Press MARK to create waypoint at current location. Edit via Waypoint menu (name, symbol, position). Navigate to waypoint by selecting "Go To" from waypoint page.

Routes: Create route via Route menu: Add waypoints in sequence. Activate route for navigation; unit will guide between route points. Reverse route for return trip.

Tracks: Track log records path; save tracks for later use or to create routes.

Care & Maintenance

Wipe display with soft, damp cloth. Use mild detergent if needed; rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives. Ensure connectors are dry before connecting/disconnecting. Store in dry place when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device must not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. Contains transmitter module FCC ID: IPH-002. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin International at 1-913-397-8200.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Hold PAGE + POWER during startup for system reset (waypoints/routes may be lost).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support: 1-913-397-8200; www.garmin.com