Garmin GPSMAP 62s Handheld GPS Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 62s is a rugged, high-sensitivity handheld GPS receiver featuring a 2.6-inch sunlight-readable color TFT display, 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, barometric altimeter, preloaded worldwide basemap, 1.7 GB internal memory, microSD card slot, and supports paperless geocaching, wireless data sharing, and customizable profiles. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix satellite prediction, electronic compass, barometric altimeter, color display, USB interface, and wireless connectivity.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and prepare for initial use.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries (NiMH or lithium recommended).
2. Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display activates.
3. Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop for secure handling.
4. Charge via USB (optional): Connect to computer for data transfer and charging (if using NiMH batteries).

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not expose to extreme temperatures during initial setup.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear sky view; wait for GPS fix (may take several minutes first time).
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
3. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions; rotate device slowly in a circle.
4. Configure profiles: Select activity profile (Recreation, Geocaching, Marine, etc.).
5. Set time/date: Automatic from GPS or manual entry.

CAUTION! Ensure proper compass calibration away from magnetic interference (metal objects, vehicles).

Specifications

• Display Size: 2.6 inches diagonal.
• Resolution: 160 x 240 pixels.
• GPS: High-sensitivity WAAS-enabled, HotFix satellite prediction.
• Sensors: 3-axis electronic compass, barometric altimeter.
• Memory: 1.7 GB internal, microSD card slot (supports up to 4 GB cards).
• Interface: USB 2.0, NMEA 0183, serial (optional).
• Wireless: ANT+ for data sharing (waypoints, tracks, geocaches).
• Battery: 2 AA batteries (up to 16 hours).
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15° to 60°C (5° to 140°F).

Controls and Settings

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

Side Buttons: ZOOM IN/OUT, MARK (waypoint creation).

Navigation: Map, Compass, Trip Computer, Altimeter, Geocaching, Main Menu. Settings: System (language, display, units), Navigation (routing preferences), Sensors (compass/altimeter calibration), Profiles (activity customization). Map: Orientation (North Up, Track Up), Detail level, Points of Interest. Tracks: Record, Clear, Save. Routes: Create, Follow, Reverse.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect to computer for data transfer and software updates. ANT+: Wireless connection to other Garmin devices for data sharing.

1. Turn off device before connecting cables.
2. Use included USB cable to connect to computer.
3. For ANT+ sharing: Enable wireless in SETUP menu, select device to share with.
4. For external power: Use optional power adapter or cigarette lighter adapter.

Tip: Ensure USB connection is secure; device will enter mass storage mode automatically.

Navigating with GPS

Supports waypoint navigation, track recording, and route following.

1. Create waypoint: Press MARK to save current location; edit name/symbol.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Select from waypoint list, choose GOTO.
3. Follow track: Enable track recording; view on map page.
4. Create route: Select points on map or from waypoint list to create multi-point route.
5. Use compass page: Shows bearing, distance to destination, and heading.
6. Trip computer: Monitor speed, distance, time, elevation.
7. Return to start: Use TRACK BACK feature to reverse your path.
8. Sun/Moon info: Access from main menu for sunrise/sunset times.

WARNING! GPS accuracy may be reduced in dense forest, urban canyons, or indoors. Always carry a paper map as backup.

Geocaching Features

Paperless geocaching: Load GPX files via USB, view cache details, log finds.

1. Load geocaches: Connect to computer, copy GPX files to /Garmin/GPX folder.
2. Find geocaches: Select Geocaching from main menu, choose cache from list.
3. Navigate to cache: Press GOTO for compass guidance.
4. Log activity: Mark as found, add field notes.
5. Hint decryption: View encrypted hints directly on device.
6. Multi-cache support: Enter stages and final coordinates.

Note: Requires GPX files from geocaching website subscription.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and remove batteries before cleaning. Use damp cloth with mild detergent; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not submerge while charging port cover is open. Keep away from corrosive materials.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. Contains FCC ID: IPH-00257. IC: 1792A-00257. For EU: Complies with R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-913-397-8200.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Press and hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER (Up) for soft reset if device freezes.

Service: 1-913-397-8200; www.garmin.com/support