The Garmin GPSMAP 440s is a 4-inch color chartplotter/sonar combo designed for marine navigation. It features a sunlight-readable display, built-in worldwide basemap, BlueChart g2 preloaded coastal charts, a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, and a dual-frequency 50/200 kHz sonar transducer. It supports NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 connectivity, waypoint management, routes, tracks, and fishfinding capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.
Key components: 4-inch QVGA color display, GPS antenna, Sonar transducer, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | 4-inch diagonal, 320 x 240 pixels, sunlight-readable, color TFT |
| GPS Receiver | High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled |
| Charts | Built-in worldwide basemap, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts |
| Sonar | Dual-frequency (50/200 kHz), depth capability to 2500 ft (762 m) |
| Waypoints/Routes | 3000 waypoints, 50 routes with up to 250 points each |
| Tracks | 10,000 track points, 50 saved tracks |
| Connectivity | NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 compatible |
| Power Input | 10–32 Vdc |
| Water Rating | IPX7 (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes) |
| Controls | Front-panel buttons, rotary knob |
Unpack and inspect contents. Select a suitable mounting location with clear view of sky for GPS reception.
WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Disconnect power before making connections. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.
Apply power to the unit; follow initial on-screen prompts.
CAUTION! Ensure proper power polarity to avoid damage. Verify transducer installation before operating sonar.
Access functions via front-panel buttons and rotary knob. Main buttons: POWER, PAGE, MENU, ENTER/MARK, ZOOM IN/OUT, ARROW keys.
Key Functions: POWER turns unit on/off. PAGE cycles through display pages (Chart, Sonar, Compass, Highway, etc.). MENU accesses context-sensitive options. ENTER/MARK marks waypoint or selects option. Rotary knob adjusts values or moves cursor.
Settings Menus: Main Menu provides access to System, Navigation, Sonar, Communications, and Display settings. Configure alarms, map orientation, chart details, sonar sensitivity, and NMEA output.
NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible devices (e.g., VHF radio, autopilot) using dedicated TX/RX wires. NMEA 2000: Connect to certified NMEA 2000 network using appropriate cable and tee.
Tip: Use marine-grade connectors and seal connections to prevent corrosion.
Supports GPS navigation, chartplotting, and fishfinding.
WARNING! Use navigation data as an aid only. Always maintain proper lookout and use official charts. Sonar readings can be affected by water conditions and boat speed.
BlueChart g2 Compatibility: Displays detailed coastal charts with depth contours, navaids, marinas, and points of interest. Chart Details: Adjust level of map detail. Map Orientation: Choose North Up, Course Up, or Head Up. Tides & Currents: View tide station data if supported by chart. Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold ENTER/MARK to instantly mark MOB location and begin navigation back to point.
Use a soft, damp cloth with mild detergent to clean display and casing. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use. Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.
CAUTION! Ensure unit is powered off and disconnected before cleaning. Do not spray water directly onto connectors. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.
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. Industry Canada (IC): Complies with RSS-210. Contains transmitter module FCC ID: IPH-00217. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and GPSMAP are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Blown fuse, loose connection, incorrect voltage | Check fuse (3 A); verify secure connections; confirm power source is 10–32 Vdc. |
| No GPS signal | Obstructed view, poor satellite geometry | Move to open area; ensure no metal obstructions; wait several minutes. |
| No sonar reading | Transducer not connected, air bubbles, incorrect settings | Check transducer connection; ensure transducer face is submerged and clean; adjust sonar gain/frequency. |
| Display is dim | Backlight setting, bright sunlight | Increase backlight level in Display settings; use sun shade if available. |
| Waypoint not saved | Memory full, user error | Delete unused waypoints; ensure ENTER/MARK is pressed correctly. |
| NMEA devices not communicating | Incorrect wiring, wrong NMEA sentences | Verify wiring per manual; ensure correct NMEA sentences are enabled in Communications menu. |
Reset: System > Reset > Reset All Settings (Note: This erases all user data).
Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com for warranty and repair information.