Garmin GPSMAP 450 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 450 is a 5-inch waterproof marine chartplotter featuring a high-resolution color display, built-in worldwide basemap, support for BlueChart g2 and LakeVü g2 cartography, sonar compatibility, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, internal GPS antenna, and SD card slot for data storage and updates. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-inch color TFT display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, SD card slot, NMEA 2000 connector, Transducer port.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Select mounting location on vessel.

1. Mount bracket: Use included hardware to secure bracket to dash or console.
2. Connect power: Route power/data cable to 10–32 V DC source; connect red to positive, black to negative.
3. Connect NMEA devices: Attach NMEA 2000 network cable or NMEA 0183 wires as needed.
4. Connect transducer: Plug compatible transducer into sonar port if used.
5. Secure unit: Slide chartplotter into bracket and tighten locking screw.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Apply power; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Select language: Choose from available options (default ENGLISH).
2. Configure units: Set distance, speed, depth, and temperature units (nautical/statute).
3. Calibrate compass: Follow prompts if external heading sensor is connected.
4. Load charts: Insert SD card with BlueChart or LakeVü data; select from chart menu.
5. Acquire GPS: Allow unit to locate satellites (may take several minutes first time).

CAUTION! Ensure secure mounting before operating vessel.

Specifications

• Display Size: 5 inches diagonal.
• Resolution: 480 x 640 pixels, 256 colors.
• GPS: Internal high-sensitivity receiver, WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Power: 10–32 V DC, 1.5 A max.
• Memory: Internal flash; expandable via SD card (up to 4 GB).
• Sonar: Supports 50/77/200 kHz traditional and ClearVü/SideVü scanning.
• Interfaces: NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, SD card slot, transducer port.
• Operating Temp: -15° to 55°C (5° to 131°F).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE, MENU, and rotary knob. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, MENU, ZOOM IN/OUT, MARK, ENTER, arrow keys.

On-screen: Main pages include Chart, Sonar, Compass, Highway, Active Route, Trip Data.

Settings: System (language, units, backlight, alarms), Navigation (route preferences, waypoint symbols), Sonar (frequency, range, sensitivity), Communications (NMEA settings). Chart: Orientation (North Up, Course Up, Head Up), Detail level, Chart appearance. Sonar: Split-screen, Frequency selection, Gain, Range.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Use certified cable to connect to NMEA 2000 network. NMEA 0183: Connect TX/RX wires to compatible devices. Sonar: Plug transducer into sonar port. SD card: Insert for charts, waypoints, routes, software updates.

1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
2. Match wire colors/pins per wiring diagrams in manual.
3. Configure NMEA sentences in Communications menu.

Tip: Use marine-grade connectors and seal connections from moisture.

Using Navigation Features

Create and follow routes, mark waypoints, view trip data.

1. Mark waypoint: Press MARK at current location; edit name/symbol.
2. Create route: MENU > Route > New Route; select points from map or list.
3. Navigate: Select Go To for single waypoint or Activate for route.
4. View data: Use Trip Data page for speed, distance, time, etc.
5. Set alarms: Configure anchor drag, arrival, off-course alarms.
6. Use tracks: Enable track log to record path; save or navigate back.
7. Chart details: Zoom with ZOOM keys; view tide stations, marinas, nav aids.

WARNING! Always verify navigation data with official charts and local conditions.

Sonar Operation

View bottom contour, fish arches, and structures.

1. Select Sonar page: Press PAGE until Sonar appears.
2. Adjust range: Use up/down arrows or auto-range.
3. Adjust gain: MENU > Sonar Setup > Gain for clarity.
4. Select frequency: Choose 50, 77, or 200 kHz for depth/ detail.
5. Use split-screen: View chart and sonar simultaneously.
6. Interpret display: Solid bottom line = hard bottom; arches = fish.

Note: Sonar performance varies with transducer type, speed, and water conditions.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth with mild soap; rinse with fresh water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device; complies with Part 15. Industry Canada ICES-003. CE compliant. © 2009 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin, GPSMAP, BlueChart, ClearVü, SideVü are trademarks. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 913-397-8200.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Hold POWER + PAGE while powering on for master reset (erases user data).

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