Garmin GPSMAP 298 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 298 is a high-performance marine GPS chartplotter featuring a sunlight-readable color display, built-in worldwide basemap, detailed coastal charts, fishfinder capability with optional transducer, NMEA 0183 interface, waterproof construction (IPX7), track plotting, waypoint management, and route planning. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sunlight-readable color TFT display, GPS antenna, Power/data cable, NMEA 0183 interface, Transducer port, SD card slot for chart updates.

Installation

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

1. Mount display unit: Use included bracket; secure to flat surface using stainless steel hardware.
2. Connect power: Route power/data cable to 12-24V DC source; install inline fuse (3 amp).
3. Install transducer: For fishfinder, mount transducer according to instructions.
4. Connect NMEA devices: Wire NMEA 0183 leads to compatible instruments or autopilot.
5. Insert chart data card: Load optional BlueChart card into SD slot.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Route cables away from engine ignition sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit with clear sky view; allow 2-5 minutes for first fix.
2. Set language: In SYSTEM menu, select ENGLISH (default).
3. Set units: Choose nautical, statute, or metric units.
4. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions if external fluxgate connected.
5. Set time: Choose local time or UTC; enable daylight saving if needed.

CAUTION! Do not power on until all connections are secure and waterproofed.

Specifications

• Display: 5-inch diagonal, 256-color TFT, 320 x 240 pixels.
• GPS: 12 parallel channel, WAAS/EGNOS enabled.
• Waypoints: 3000 with name and symbol.
• Routes: 50 reversible routes with up to 50 waypoints each.
• Track Log: 10,000 points, 20 saved tracks.
• Fishfinder: Dual-frequency (50/200 kHz), depth to 2500 ft (762 m).
• Interface: NMEA 0183, RS-232 data transfer.
• Power: 10-40 VDC, 1 amp max.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15° to 70°C (5° to 158°F).

Controls and Settings

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

On-Screen Menus: PAGE cycles through display pages (Chart, Highway, Compass, Data, Fishfinder). MENU accesses context-sensitive options.

Chart Settings: Detail, Orientation (North Up, Course Up, Head Up), Shallow/Deep Water Alarms. Navigation: Waypoint creation, Route planning, Go To guidance. System: Units, Language, Time, Backlight, NMEA settings. Fishfinder: Frequency, Range, Gain, Noise Reject, Surface Clarity.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, wind, speed, depth instruments. PC: RS-232 cable for data transfer. Transducer: For fishfinder operation.

1. Turn off power before making connections.
2. Use marine-grade wire for NMEA connections; observe polarity.
3. Seal connections with waterproof heat-shrink or sealant.
4. For PC connection, use Garmin data cable and MapSource software.

Tip: Test NMEA devices before final installation.

Using Chartplotter Functions

Basic navigation operations:

1. Create waypoint: Press MARK at current location or cursor position.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint from list, choose GOTO.
3. Create route: MENU > Route > New Route, add waypoints in sequence.
4. Follow route: Select route, choose NAVIGATE.
5. Track recording: Enable in TRACK menu; save when full.
6. Chart zoom: Use ZOOM IN/OUT buttons or on-screen controls.
7. Measure distance: Use cursor to measure between points.
8. Set alarms: For anchor drag, arrival, off-course, shallow/deep water.

WARNING! Always verify chart data against official sources. GPS is an aid to navigation.

Fishfinder Operation

With optional transducer installed:

1. Select Fishfinder page: Press PAGE until fishfinder display appears.
2. Set frequency: Choose 50 kHz (wide area) or 200 kHz (detailed).
3. Adjust range: Auto or manual depth range.
4. Adjust gain: Increase to see weaker returns; decrease to reduce clutter.
5. Use A-Scope: Real-time vertical display of echoes.
6. Set alarms: For shallow water, fish, or temperature.

Note: Transducer performance depends on proper installation and water conditions.

Care & Maintenance

Use fresh water and mild soap to clean exterior. Rinse after saltwater use. Use soft cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure spray. Ensure connectors are dry before reconnecting. Store in dry place when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with Canadian ICES-003. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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 at 1-913-397-8200.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Hold PAGE + POWER during startup for system reset (erases user data).

Service: 1-913-397-8200; www.garmin.com/support