Garmin GPSMAP 520 User Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 520 is a high-performance marine chartplotter featuring a bright 5-inch color display, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, built-in worldwide basemap, high-sensitivity GPS receiver, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 support, water-resistant construction, and intuitive user interface. 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 Features 8. Chartplotter Functions 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5-inch color display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts.

Feature	Description
Display	5-inch diagonal, 480 x 640 pixels, sunlight readable
Charts	Preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity, WAAS enabled
Water Rating	IPX7 waterproof
Connectivity	NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, SD card slot
Power Input	10-32 V DC
Waypoints/Markers	3000 waypoints, 50 routes, 10,000 track points
Sonar Compatibility	Supports Garmin ClearVü scanning sonar
Alarms	Anchor drag, arrival, off-course, shallow/deep water
Backlight	Adjustable day/night modes

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location with clear view of sky.

Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to secure bracket to helm or console.
Connect power/data cable: Route cable to power source (10-32 V DC).
Connect NMEA devices: Attach NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183 devices for data sharing.
Secure the unit: Snap chartplotter into bracket and tighten security screw.

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.

Acquire GPS signal: Place unit in open sky view; wait for satellite acquisition.
Set language: In System menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
Configure units: Set nautical/miles, depth units (feet/fathoms/meters).
Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions if external sensor connected.
Load charts: Insert SD card with additional charts if needed.

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

Specifications

Display Size: 5 inches diagonal, color TFT.
Resolution: 480 x 640 pixels.
GPS: High-sensitivity receiver, WAAS enabled.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes).
Power: 10-32 V DC, 1.5 A max.
Memory: Internal flash memory, SD card slot.
Charts: Preloaded BlueChart g2, supports BlueChart g2 Vision.
Interface: NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, USB.
Operating Temp: -15° to 70°C (5° to 158°F).
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.7 x 6.6 cm (6.5" x 4.6" x 2.6").

Controls and Settings

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

On-screen: Touchscreen interface for direct chart interaction.

Navigation: Waypoints, routes, tracks, MOB (Man Overboard). Display: Chart orientation (North Up, Course Up, Head Up), detail level, color scheme. System: Units, language, backlight, alarms, system info. Sonar: Fishfinder settings, frequency, sensitivity. Communications: NMEA 2000 device list, data sources.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to onboard network. NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible devices. Sonar: Connect compatible Garmin sonar module. External GPS: Connect external antenna if needed.

Turn off power before connecting devices.
Use appropriate cables and connectors.
Seal connections with waterproof tape or sealant.
Configure data sources in Communications menu.

Tip: Test all connections before final installation.

Navigation Features

Supports waypoint navigation, route planning, track recording.

Create waypoint: Press MARK at current location or select point on chart.
Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint, choose GOTO.
Create route: Select Route Planning, add waypoints in sequence.
Follow route: Activate route, follow course line and navigation data.
Track recording: Enable track log to record path.
MOB function: Press and hold PAGE/MENU for MOB marker.
Dock-to-dock routing: Auto-routing between charted points (with compatible charts).
Tide and current data: View tide stations and current flow (with compatible charts).

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

Chartplotter Functions

Chart Display: Zoom in/out, pan, change orientation. Data Overlays: Display speed, course, depth, distance to destination. Sonar View: Split-screen with chart and sonar. AIS Support: Display AIS targets with compatible receiver.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth with mild soap; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure water spray. Keep connectors dry.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: Class B digital device; complies with Part 15 rules. CE Compliance: Meets EU directives. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support. Software updates available via Garmin Express.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power cable connections; verify fuse (3A) is intact.
Poor GPS signal	Obstruction/interference	Move to open area; ensure no metal obstructions overhead.
Charts not displaying	Chart data/SD card	Verify chart region is loaded; reinsert SD card; check for updates.
No data from NMEA devices	Cabling/settings	Check NMEA connections; verify data source settings in menu.
Screen unresponsive	Calibration/software	Recalibrate touchscreen; perform software update via Garmin Express.
Sonar not working	Transducer/power	Ensure transducer connected and powered; check frequency settings.

Reset: Hold PAGE + POWER for 10 seconds to soft reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support; www.garmin.com