Garmin GPSMAP 500 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 500 is a rugged, waterproof marine chartplotter featuring a high-resolution sunlight-readable display, built-in worldwide basemap, support for BlueChart g2 and LakeVü g2 cartography, NMEA 0183/2000 connectivity, sonar compatibility, and advanced navigation functions. 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. Sonar Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-resolution display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Remote control (optional).

Feature	Description
Display	Sunlight-readable, waterproof, 5-inch diagonal
Built-in Basemap	Worldwide coastline and depth contours
Chart Compatibility	BlueChart g2, LakeVü g2, and others
Connectivity	NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 compatible
Sonar Ready	Supports Garmin sonar modules (optional)
Waypoints/Routes	Store up to 3000 waypoints, 50 routes
Power Input	10-32 V DC
Waterproof Rating	IPX7
Mounting	Flush, bracket, or RAM® ball compatible
Controls	Front-panel buttons and optional remote

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location carefully.

Select Mounting Location: Ensure clear view, within reach, and protected from spray.
Mount Unit: Use provided template to mark holes; secure bracket or flush mount.
Connect Power: Route power/data cable to 10-32 V DC source; use in-line fuse.
Connect NMEA Devices: Attach NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000 network cables if used.
Connect Sonar: Attach transducer cable to appropriate port (if applicable).

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts.

Language/Units: Select language and preferred units (nautical, statute, metric).
Initial Position: Allow GPS to acquire satellites automatically.
Chart Selection: Install compatible marine charts via SD card.
Calibrate Compass: Follow on-screen instructions if external heading sensor is connected.
Configure Alarms: Set anchor drag, arrival, and other safety alarms.

CAUTION! Perform initial setup in open sky for best GPS reception.

Specifications

Display Size: 5 inches diagonal.
Display Resolution: 480 x 640 pixels.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
Power: 10-32 V DC, 1.5 A max.
GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS enabled.
Waypoints/Routes: 3000 waypoints, 50 routes.
Data Storage: SD card slot for charts and data.
Operating Temp: -15° to 70°C.
Dimensions: 6.3" W x 4.4" H x 2.8" D.

Controls and Settings

Access menus via front-panel buttons. Main Controls: POWER, PAGE, ROCKER (up/down/left/right), ENTER, QUIT/MENU.

Menu Navigation: Use PAGE to cycle screens; MENU to access settings for current page.

Chart Settings: Chart detail, orientation (North-up, Course-up), depth shading, spot soundings. Navigation Settings: Route planning, waypoint management, arrival alarms, track recording. System Settings: Units, time, backlight, contrast, NMEA output format, system information.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible instruments (speed, depth, wind). NMEA 2000: Connect to network for advanced data sharing. Sonar: Connect compatible Garmin transducer.

Turn off power before making connections.
Use appropriate cables and connectors; ensure waterproof seals are intact.
Configure NMEA data sources in System > Interface settings.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier troubleshooting.

Navigation & Chartplotting

Basic navigation functions and chart usage.

Create Waypoint: Press MARK at current location or move cursor and press ENTER.
Create Route: Use Route Planner to add waypoints in sequence.
Follow Route: Select route and press NAVIGATE.
Track Recording: Enable track log to record path.
Chart Details: Zoom in/out with rocker keys; press MENU for chart options.
Measure Distance: Use Measure function from cursor menu.
Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold MARK button to mark MOB position and navigate back.

WARNING! Always verify chart data and use navigation as an aid, not sole means.

Sonar Features

When connected to compatible sonar module.

Display Modes: Standard sonar, A-scope, flasher. Adjustments: Sensitivity, depth range, noise rejection, chart speed. Fish Symbols: Enable/disable fish ID symbols. Depth Alarms: Set shallow and deep water alarms.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, damp cloth for cleaning; mild soap if needed. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Ensure unit is powered off and disconnected before cleaning. Keep connectors clean and dry.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check voltage at unit; verify in-line fuse is intact; ensure connections are secure and waterproof.
Poor GPS reception	Obstruction/interference	Ensure clear view of sky; move away from radar or other strong RF sources.
Charts not displaying	SD card/chart format	Ensure SD card is properly inserted; verify chart is compatible (BlueChart g2, etc.).
No data from NMEA devices	Wiring/settings	Check wiring connections and polarity; verify NMEA output is enabled on source device and input is configured on GPSMAP.
Display is dim or unreadable	Backlight settings/sunlight	Adjust backlight and contrast in System settings; use sun cover if necessary.

Reset: System > Settings > System > Restore Defaults (note: erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.