Garmin GPSMAP 620 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 620 is a high-performance chartplotter designed for marine navigation, featuring a bright 6-inch color display, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, built-in GPS receiver, sonar compatibility, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, and support for various marine sensors. 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 Navigation Features 8. Sonar Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6-inch color LCD display, Power/Data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Preloaded BlueChart g2 charts.

FeatureDescription
Display6-inch diagonal, 480 x 640 pixel, sunlight-readable color TFT
ChartsPreloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts with detailed coverage
GPS ReceiverHigh-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver
Sonar CompatibilitySupports Garmin GSD 22/24 sounder modules
ConnectivityNMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet network compatible
Power Input10–35 Vdc
Water RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Waypoints/Routes3000 waypoints, 100 routes with 250 points each
Tracks10,000 points, 50 saved tracks
AlarmsAnchor drag, arrival, off-course, proximity waypoint

Installation

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

  1. Mount the unit: Use included bracket and hardware to secure to helm or console.
  2. Connect power: Route power cable to battery, observing polarity (red to positive, black to negative).
  3. Connect data cables: Attach NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, or Ethernet cables as needed.
  4. Connect sonar: Attach compatible GSD sounder module if using fishfinder features.
  5. Secure all cables with cable ties and protect from moisture and abrasion.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are secure and waterproof. Disconnect power before making connections.

First-Time Setup

Apply power to unit; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Initial GPS fix: Place unit in open sky view; allow several minutes for first satellite acquisition.
  2. Set language: In SYSTEM settings, select preferred language.
  3. Configure units: Set distance, speed, depth, and temperature units (nautical/statute).
  4. Calibrate sensors: Follow prompts to calibrate compass and water speed if connected.
  5. Load charts: Verify preloaded charts; insert optional data card for additional regions.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around unit; avoid blocking heat dissipation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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

On-Screen Controls: Touchscreen interface for direct chart interaction, waypoint creation, and menu navigation.

Navigation: Chart, compass, highway, data pages. Sonar: Traditional, A-scope, flasher. System: Display settings, alarms, communications, units, language. Chart: Orientation (north up, course up, head up), detail level, chart appearance. Routes: Create, edit, navigate, reverse routes.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to compatible network for engine data, wind, depth, etc. NMEA 0183: Connect to legacy devices for GPS data output/input. Ethernet: Network multiple Garmin plotters for data sharing. Sonar: Connect GSD 22/24 module for depth and fishfinding.

  1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
  2. Use appropriate Garmin cables and connectors.
  3. Configure data sources in SYSTEM > Communications menu.

Tip: Seal all connections with dielectric grease and heat-shrink tubing for marine environment.

Using Navigation Features

Supports waypoint navigation, route planning, track recording.

  1. Create waypoint: Press MARK or touch chart location and select "Create Waypoint."
  2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint from list or chart, choose "Go To."
  3. Create route: Press MENU > Route > New Route, add points from chart or list.
  4. Follow route: Select route, choose "Navigate Route."
  5. View data: Cycle through data pages (trip computer, fuel, engine) with PAGE key.
  6. Set alarms: Configure anchor drag, arrival, off-course in SYSTEM > Alarms.
  7. Use tides/currents: Access tide station predictions from chart.

WARNING! Always verify chart data and use prudent seamanship. GPS is an aid to navigation.

Sonar Features

With GSD sounder module: View traditional sonar, adjust frequency, range, sensitivity. Use A-scope for real-time bottom detail. Set fish alarms and depth alarms.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use fresh water and mild soap with soft cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on unit; ensure seals are intact for waterproofing.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and GPSMAP are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection/fuseCheck battery connections; verify inline fuse (3A) is intact; ensure power switch is on.
Poor GPS receptionAntenna obstructionMove to open sky view; check for metal obstructions; verify GPS mode is enabled.
No chart displayChart data/cardEnsure chart region is loaded; reinsert data card; check for corrupt data.
No data from sensorsNetwork connectionsVerify NMEA 2000/0183 connections and power; check device configuration in menu.
Touchscreen unresponsiveCalibration/screen protectorRecalibrate touchscreen in SYSTEM > Display settings; remove aftermarket screen protector.
Sonar not workingModule connection/transducerVerify GSD module connections; check transducer installation and frequency settings.

Reset: Hold PAGE + POWER for 10 seconds to soft reset (does not erase data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.

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