Garmin GPSMAP 451s Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 451s is a 4-inch waterproof chartplotter with built-in BlueChart g2 U.S. coastal charts, a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, and a sunlight-readable color display. It features a microSD card slot for additional mapping, NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 connectivity, and support for Garmin radar, sounder, and autopilot modules. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-inch color TFT display, Waterproof housing (IPX7), Built-in BlueChart g2 U.S. coastal charts, High-sensitivity GPS receiver, microSD card slot, NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 support, Power/data cable.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location carefully.

1. Select mounting location: Choose a location with clear view of sky for GPS reception and easy viewing by operator.
2. Mount the unit: Use included bracket or flush mount kit. Ensure mounting surface is strong and flat.
3. Connect power/data cable: Route cable to power source and connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-).
4. Connect to NMEA network: If interfacing with other instruments, connect NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000 wires as per manual.
5. Secure cables: Use cable ties to secure loose cables and protect from damage.

WARNING! Disconnect boat's battery before making electrical connections. Ensure all connections are waterproofed.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit in open area with clear view of sky. Wait for GPS fix (may take several minutes).
2. Set language: In System Settings, select preferred language (default is ENGLISH).
3. Configure units: Set distance, speed, depth, and temperature units (nautical miles, knots, feet/meters, °C/°F).
4. Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions for magnetic compass calibration.
5. Set time: Configure time zone and format (12/24 hour).

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

Specifications

• Display Size: 4 inches diagonal.
• Display Resolution: 480 x 272 pixels.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7.
• GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled.
• Charts: Built-in BlueChart g2 U.S. coastal charts.
• Memory: microSD card slot (supports up to 32GB).
• Waypoints/Routes: 3000 waypoints, 100 routes.
• Track Log: 10,000 points, 20 saved tracks.
• Power Input: 10-32 V DC.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 55°C (5°F to 131°F).
• Dimensions: 14.2 x 10.4 x 5.6 cm (5.6" x 4.1" x 2.2").

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and MENU buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, MENU, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER).

Display Pages: Navigation, Map, Sonar (with compatible sounder), Radar (with compatible radar), Information.

Settings: System (Language, Units, Time), Navigation (Route Planning, Alarms), Display (Backlight, Contrast), Communications (NMEA Settings). Map: Chart Orientation (North Up, Course Up), Detail Level, Waypoint Display. Sonar: Frequency, Sensitivity, Range (with compatible sounder).

Connecting Devices

Power: Red to positive (+), black to negative (-). NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible instruments for data exchange. NMEA 2000: Connect to NMEA 2000 network for plug-and-play integration. microSD: Insert card for additional maps or data storage.

1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
2. Match wires according to wiring diagrams in manual.
3. Use waterproof connectors for all external connections.
4. Insert microSD card with label facing up until it clicks.

Tip: Test all connections before final installation and sealing.

Using Navigation Features

Create and follow waypoints, routes, and tracks.

1. Create waypoint: Press MARK at current location or use cursor to select location on map and press ENTER.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint from list, press GOTO.
3. Create route: Press MENU > Route Planning > Create New Route. Add waypoints in desired order.
4. Follow route: Select route from list, press NAVIGATE.
5. Track recording: Press MENU > Tracks > Record Track to log your path.
6. Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold MARK button to mark MOB position and navigate back.

WARNING! Always have paper charts as backup. GPS is an aid to navigation, not a replacement for proper seamanship.

Chartplotter Functions

Use map display for navigation and planning.

1. Zoom in/out: Use ROCKER up/down or +/- buttons.
2. Pan map: Use ROCKER left/right to move cursor, press ENTER to center.
3. Change chart orientation: Press MENU > Chart Setup > Orientation.
4. Display chart details: Press MENU > Chart Setup > Detail.
5. Measure distance: Press MENU > Measure Distance, move cursor to point.
6. View tide stations: Select tide station icon on chart for tide information.
7. View marine services: Select marina, fuel dock, or other service icons for information.

Note: Chart details vary by region and chart card installed.

Care & Maintenance

Use fresh water and mild soap to clean exterior. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Do not spray water directly into connectors. Ensure unit is powered off and disconnected before cleaning. Store in dry place when not in use.

Regulatory Information

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. NMEA Registered: Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart g2 is a trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Press and hold POWER button for 10 seconds to force restart. For master reset, see manual.

Service: 1-800-800-1020; www.garmin.com/support