Garmin GPSMAP 5208 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 5208 is a high-performance marine chartplotter featuring an 8-inch sunlight-readable display, built-in worldwide basemap, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, support for radar, sonar, and autopilot integration, NMEA 2000 and 0183 connectivity, touchscreen interface with keypad control, and rugged, waterproof design (IPX7). Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 8-inch LCD display, Power/NMEA 2000 cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Documentation.

Feature	Description
Display	8-inch diagonal, 800 x 600 pixels, sunlight-readable, LED backlight
Charting	Preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, built-in worldwide basemap
Connectivity	NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet (Garmin Marine Network)
Input/Output	Video input, Audio output, SD card slot
Interfaces	Touchscreen and physical keypad
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power	10–32 V DC
Compatibility	Garmin radar, sonar, autopilot, VHF, instrumentation
Waypoints/Routes	3000 waypoints, 100 routes with 250 points each
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled

Installation

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

1. Mount the unit: Use included bracket; secure to flat surface using provided hardware.
2. Connect power: Route power/NMEA 2000 cable to power source (10–32 V DC). Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-).
3. Connect antennas: Attach GPS antenna cable to appropriate port.
4. Connect optional devices: Use Ethernet cable for Garmin Marine Network devices; connect NMEA 0183 devices per wiring diagram.
5. Apply power: Ensure all connections are secure before turning on.

WARNING! Disconnect power before making connections. Ensure wiring is protected from chafing and moisture. Use appropriate circuit protection (fuse).

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Select language: Choose from available options (default ENGLISH).
2. Configure units: Set distance, speed, depth, temperature, and pressure units (e.g., nautical miles, knots, feet).
3. Calibrate sensors: Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate compass and water speed sensor if connected.
4. Set up charts: Verify preloaded charts; insert SD card with additional charts if needed.
5. Configure communications: Set up NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 interfaces for connected devices.

CAUTION! Perform compass calibration away from magnetic interference (engines, speakers, large metal objects).

Specifications

• Display Size: 8 inches diagonal.
• Resolution: 800 x 600 pixels (VGA).
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7.
• Power Supply: 10–32 V DC, 2 A max.
• Memory: Internal chart storage; expandable via SD card (up to 32 GB).
• GPS: High-sensitivity receiver, WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS enabled.
• Interfaces: NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183 (2 ports), Ethernet, Video input (NTSC/PAL), Audio output, SD card slot.
• Operating Temperature: -15°C to 55°C (5°F to 131°F).
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 226 x 177 x 61 mm (8.9 x 7.0 x 2.4 in).
• Weight: 1.36 kg (3.0 lbs).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen or physical keys (POWER, PAGE, ROCKER, ENTER, MARK, ZOOM IN/OUT).

Main Pages: Chart, Sonar, Radar, Highway, Data, Menu.

Settings: System (Language, Units, Time, Alarms), Communications (NMEA, Network), Display (Backlight, Color Mode, Contrast), Navigation (Route Planning, Waypoint Management), Sonar (Frequency, Gain, Range), Radar (Range, Gain, Tune).

Quick Keys: Press and hold PAGE to cycle pages; press MARK to create waypoint; use rocker to pan chart or adjust values.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to backbone using included power cable or T-connector. NMEA 0183: Connect to compatible devices using provided wiring diagram. Ethernet: Connect to Garmin Marine Network devices (radar, sonar, other chartplotters). Video: Connect to external camera (NTSC/PAL). Audio: Connect to external speaker for audible alarms.

1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
2. Use appropriate cables and connectors; ensure waterproof seals are intact.
3. Configure each device in the Communications menu (set NMEA sentences, baud rates).

Tip: Label cables during installation for easier identification and troubleshooting.

Navigation & Chartplotting

View charts, create routes, mark waypoints, and navigate.

1. View chart: From Home, select Chart page. Use ZOOM keys or touch gestures to zoom.
2. Create waypoint: Press MARK or touch chart location and select "Create Waypoint."
3. Create route: Menu > Route Planning > New Route. Touch chart to add points; save when complete.
4. Navigate: Select a waypoint or route, then choose "Go To" or "Navigate." Follow course line and data displays.
5. Use data pages: Display speed, course, depth, wind, etc., on customizable data screens.
6. Set alarms: Configure anchor drag, arrival, off-course, and depth alarms in System menu.

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

Sonar & Radar Features

When connected to compatible Garmin devices.

Sonar: Display fishfinder data; adjust frequency, range, gain, and palette. Use split-screen to view chart and sonar simultaneously. Set depth alarms and fish symbols.

Radar: Overlay radar image on chart. Adjust range, gain, tune, and sea clutter. Use guard zones for collision avoidance with audible alarms.

Autopilot Integration: Control compatible Garmin autopilot directly from chartplotter screen; engage, adjust course, and set navigation modes.

Care & Maintenance

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap solution. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or ammonia-based products.

Periodically check cable connections and seals for corrosion or damage. Ensure mounting hardware remains tight.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on unit. Ensure all port covers are securely closed 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 it does not cause harmful interference. IC: Complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s).

Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart, GPSMAP, and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

For software updates, documentation, and support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit will not power on	Power connection, fuse	Check voltage at power terminals; verify fuse is intact; ensure connections are secure and correct polarity.
No GPS position	Antenna connection, view of sky	Ensure GPS antenna cable is connected; check for clear view of sky; allow time for initial satellite acquisition.
Charts not displaying	Chart data, SD card	Verify chart region is installed; reinsert SD card; check for corrupt data.
No communication with devices	NMEA settings, wiring	Verify NMEA 0183 wiring and baud rate settings; check NMEA 2000 network for proper termination and power.
Touchscreen unresponsive	Screen calibration, debris	Clean screen; perform touchscreen calibration in System Settings.
Display is dim	Backlight setting, sunlight	Adjust backlight intensity in Display Settings; use sun cover in bright conditions.

Reset: System Settings > Restore Defaults (note: this erases user waypoints and routes—back up first).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or an authorized Garmin dealer. Do not open the unit; no user-serviceable parts inside.