Garmin GPSMAP 5008 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 5008 is a high-performance 8-inch marine chartplotter featuring a sunlight-readable display, built-in worldwide basemap, support for BlueChart g2 and LakeVü g2 cartography, sonar compatibility, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, touchscreen interface, 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. Using Charts & Navigation 8. Sonar & Fishfinding 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 8-inch WVGA display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Documentation.

FeatureDescription
Display8-inch diagonal, 800 x 480 pixels, sunlight-readable, resistive touch
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Built-in MapsWorldwide basemap with shaded depth contours
Chart CompatibilityBlueChart g2, BlueChart g2 Vision, LakeVü g2, LakeVü g3
Sonar SupportCompatible with Garmin GSD™ series sounder modules
ConnectivityNMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet (for radar, sonar, network)
Power Input10–32 Vdc
Internal MemoryAccepts microSD™/SD™ card for charts and data
Waypoints/RoutesStores up to 5000 waypoints, 100 routes
AntennaInternal GPS/GLONASS receiver

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location with clear view and access.

  1. Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to secure bracket to dash or console.
  2. Connect power/data cable: Route cable to power source (10–32 Vdc) and NMEA network.
  3. Connect optional devices: Attach sonar, radar, or other sensors via Ethernet or NMEA ports.
  4. Secure the unit: Snap the chartplotter onto the mounted bracket.

WARNING! Ensure all wiring is protected from moisture and chafing. Use appropriate circuit protection (fuse).

First-Time Setup

Apply power; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Select language: Choose from available options (default is English).
  2. Configure units: Set nautical/miles, feet/fathoms, °C/°F as preferred.
  3. Calibrate touchscreen: Follow calibration wizard if prompted.
  4. Install charts: Insert microSD card with purchased chart data.
  5. Set initial position: Allow GPS to acquire satellites automatically.

CAUTION! Do not power the unit before all connections are secure and checked for correct polarity.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Primary interface via touchscreen. Physical buttons: POWER, VOLUME, BACKLIGHT.

Touchscreen Menus: Home screen provides shortcuts to Chart, Sonar, Radar, Settings, etc.

Chart Settings: Orientation (North Up, Course Up, Head Up), Detail, Overlays (Depth, Tides, Currents). Navigation Settings: Waypoint creation, Route planning, Track recording. System Settings: Units, Time, Alarms, Network configuration, System Information.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to compatible sensors (wind, speed, depth) via backbone. NMEA 0183: For legacy devices (autopilot, AIS). Ethernet: For Garmin radar, sonar modules, and network sharing.

  1. Turn off power before making connections.
  2. Use appropriate Garmin cables and connectors.
  3. Configure connected devices in Settings > Communications.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier future maintenance.

Using Charts & Navigation

Supports detailed marine and lake cartography.

  1. View Chart: From Home, touch "Chart".
  2. Create Waypoint: Touch and hold desired location on chart, select "Save as Waypoint".
  3. Create Route: Touch "Route" > "New Route", touch points on chart to add waypoints.
  4. Navigate: Select a waypoint or route, touch "Go To".
  5. View Data: Customize data fields to show Speed, Course, Distance, etc.
  6. Use Tracks: Enable track recording to retrace your path.
  7. Access Mariner's Eye: (With BlueChart g2 Vision) View 3D perspective of chart areas.

WARNING! Always use official charts and maintain situational awareness. This device is an aid to navigation.

Sonar & Fishfinding

When connected to a compatible GSD sounder module.

  1. Access Sonar: From Home, touch "Sonar".
  2. Adjust Settings: Touch to adjust frequency, range, gain, and color scheme.
  3. Interpret Display: Identify bottom contour, structure, and fish arches.
  4. Use A-Scope: Real-time vertical depth column.
  5. Split Screen: View chart and sonar simultaneously.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with fresh water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly onto the unit. Ensure the protective cover seal is clean and intact for waterproofing.

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. IC Compliance: Complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact your local Garmin dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection/fuseCheck voltage at unit; verify fuse is intact; ensure connections are secure and correct polarity.
No GPS signalObstruction/antennaEnsure clear view of sky; check internal antenna connection via cable.
Touchscreen not respondingCalibration/screen protectorRecalibrate touchscreen in Settings; remove any non-Garmin screen protector.
Charts not displayingChart card/formatEnsure chart card is fully inserted; verify card is formatted for this device.
No data from sensorsNetwork wiring/settingsCheck NMEA 2000 backbone power and terminations; verify device configuration in network settings.

Reset: Settings > System > Master Reset (erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or an authorized dealer.

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