Garmin GPSMAP 440sx Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 440sx is a high-resolution 4-inch color chartplotter designed for marine navigation. It features a sunlight-readable display, built-in worldwide basemap, support for BlueChart g2 and g2 Vision cards, NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 connectivity, internal GPS receiver, fishfinder capability (when connected to a compatible transducer), and rugged, waterproof construction (IPX7). 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 & Chartplotting 8. Fishfinder Operation 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-inch color TFT display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Internal GPS antenna, SD card slot.

FeatureDescription
Display4-inch diagonal, 480 x 640 pixels, sunlight-readable, waterproof
GPS ReceiverHigh-sensitivity internal receiver with WAAS/EGNOS
Chart CompatibilityBuilt-in worldwide basemap, supports BlueChart g2/g2 Vision
ConnectivityNMEA 0183/NMEA 2000, SD card slot for data and charts
FishfinderSupports Garmin ClearVü and traditional sonar (transducer required)
Power Input10–32 V DC
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
ControlsFront-panel buttons for menu, zoom, cursor, and power
Waypoints/RoutesStores up to 3000 waypoints and 50 routes
Tracks10,000 points, 20 saved tracks

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location with clear view of sky for GPS reception.

  1. Mounting: Use included bracket to mount on flat surface. Ensure it is within reach and does not obstruct view.
  2. Power Connection: Connect red wire to positive (+) and black wire to negative (-) on boat's 10–32 V DC system. Use in-line fuse as recommended.
  3. Data Connections: Connect NMEA 0183 wires to compatible devices (autopilot, sounder) per wiring diagram.
  4. Transducer (for fishfinder): Connect compatible transducer to appropriate port on power/data cable.
  5. SD Card: Insert BlueChart or data card into slot.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Language/Units: Select language (default ENGLISH) and preferred units (nautical, statute, metric).
  2. GPS Acquisition: Place unit in open sky view. It will automatically acquire satellite signals.
  3. Calibration: Calibrate compass (if applicable) and water speed/temperature sensors.
  4. Chart Setup: Load detailed charts via SD card. Select chart orientation (North Up, Course Up).
  5. System Settings: Configure alarms, display backlight, and data fields.

CAUTION! Do not power on until all connections are complete and dry.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via front-panel buttons: POWER, PAGE, MENU, ZOOM IN/OUT, ROCKER (cursor control).

Main Pages: Navigation Map, Sonar, Compass, Highway, Active Route, Trip Computer.

Map Settings: Chart detail, orientation, depth shading, spot soundings. Navigation Settings: Route planning, waypoint creation, proximity alarms. Sonar Settings: Frequency, sensitivity, range, noise rejection. System Settings: Units, time, backlight, alarms, system information.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, VHF radio, instruments. NMEA 2000: Connect to compatible network via adapter. Sonar: Connect compatible transducer.

  1. Turn off power to all devices before connecting.
  2. Refer to wiring diagrams for NMEA 0183 connections (Tx/Rx, ground).
  3. For NMEA 2000, ensure proper termination and power on backbone.
  4. Select data sources in menu > Settings > Communications.

Tip: Use marine-grade, tinned wire and heat-shrink tubing for all connections.

Navigation & Chartplotting

Supports detailed chart navigation, route planning, and waypoint management.

  1. View Map: Press PAGE to select Navigation Map. Use ZOOM to adjust scale.
  2. Create Waypoint: Move cursor to location, press MENU > Mark Waypoint.
  3. Create Route: MENU > Route > New Route. Add waypoints along desired path.
  4. Follow Route: Select route from list, press MENU > Navigate.
  5. Go To: Select waypoint, press MENU > Go To.
  6. Data Fields: Customize map screen to show speed, course, distance, etc.
  7. Tracks: Automatically records track; can save and navigate back.

WARNING! Always use updated charts and verify navigation information. This device is an aid only.

Fishfinder Operation

When connected to a compatible transducer.

  1. Press PAGE to select Sonar page.
  2. Adjust settings: MENU > Sonar Setup for frequency, range, sensitivity.
  3. For ClearVü: Ensure compatible scanning transducer is connected and selected in source.
  4. Interpret display: Bottom contour, fish arches, structure, thermoclines.
  5. Use A-Scope or Split Zoom for detailed view.

Note: Performance depends on transducer type, installation, and water conditions.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use fresh water and mild soap with soft cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Ensure connectors are dry before reconnecting power. Store in cool, dry place when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that it does not cause harmful interference. Contains FCC ID: IPH-00209A. IC: 1792A-00209A. 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.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBlown fuse, loose connectionCheck fuse; verify secure power connections (red/black wires).
No GPS signalObstructed view, poor satellite conditionsMove to open area; ensure no metal obstructions overhead.
Charts not displayingSD card not seated, corrupt dataReinsert SD card; try another known-good chart card.
No depth/sonar dataTransducer not connected, wrong sourceCheck transducer connection; select correct sonar source in menu.
NMEA data not receivedIncorrect wiring, baud rate mismatchVerify wiring per manual; ensure baud rates match connected device.
Display dim or unreadableBacklight setting, direct sunlightAdjust backlight in System settings; use sun shade if provided.

Reset: Hold POWER button for 10 seconds to force restart. For factory reset: System > Reset > Master Reset (erases all user data).

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

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