Garmin GPSMAP 62sc User Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 62sc is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS navigator featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a 2.6-inch color TFT display, a 5-megapixel autofocus digital camera with geotagging, a built-in worldwide basemap, a microSD card slot for additional mapping, a 3-axis electronic compass, a barometric altimeter, wireless data sharing, and support for paperless geocaching. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Initial Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to Devices & Computers 7. Navigating & Using Maps 8. Using the Camera & Geotagging 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Rugged, waterproof (IPX7) housing, 2.6" color TFT display, 5MP digital camera, High-sensitivity GPS receiver, 3-axis electronic compass, Barometric altimeter, Wireless data sharing (ANT+).

FeatureDescription
Display2.6-inch, 160 x 240 pixel, color TFT, sunlight readable
Camera5-megapixel autofocus with geotagging capability
GPS ReceiverHigh-sensitivity, WAAS enabled, HotFix® satellite prediction
Sensors3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass; barometric altimeter
Memory1.7 GB internal memory, microSD card slot for expansion
ConnectivityUSB 2.0, ANT+ wireless technology for data sharing
Battery2 AA batteries (NiMH or lithium recommended)
DurabilityIPX7 waterproof standard (submersible to 1 meter for 30 min)
Preloaded MapsWorldwide basemap with shaded relief
GeocachingPaperless geocaching support (GPX file compatibility)

Installation & Initial Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and power on the device.

  1. Install Batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert two AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Power On: Press and hold the POWER button until the device starts.
  3. Initial Satellite Acquisition: Go outdoors with a clear view of the sky for first GPS fix (may take several minutes).
  4. Install Optional Maps: Use a microSD card to load detailed maps from Garmin or third-party sources.

WARNING! Use only recommended battery types. Do not mix old and new or different types of batteries.

First-Time Use

Follow on-screen prompts to configure basic settings.

  1. Set Language & Units: Navigate to Setup > System > Language and select your preferred language. Set distance, elevation, and speed units.
  2. Calibrate Compass: When prompted, follow on-screen instructions to calibrate the electronic compass (rotate device slowly).
  3. Calibrate Altimeter: For accurate elevation data, calibrate the barometric altimeter using a known elevation point.
  4. Acquire Satellites: Ensure you are outdoors. The device will automatically search for satellites. Wait for a 3D fix.

CAUTION! For accurate compass readings, calibrate away from metal objects and strong magnetic fields.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via the MENU button. Navigate using the ROCKER key and ENTER button.

Front Panel: POWER button, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right & ENTER), MENU, BACK/LIGHT, QUIT, ZOOM IN/OUT.

Main Menu Pages: Satellite Status, Map, Compass, Altimeter, Main Menu (Where To?, Track Manager, Setup, etc.).

Setup Menu: System (Language, Units, Display), Tracks, Routing, Marine, Geocaching, Sensors (Calibration).

Camera: Access via dedicated CAMERA button; review photos in the Image Viewer.

Connecting to Devices & Computers

USB Connection: For data transfer, map loading, and software updates.

  1. Turn on the device.
  2. Connect the USB cable to the device's port and to a computer's USB port.
  3. The device appears as a removable drive. Use Garmin BaseCamp™ software or drag-and-drop GPX files.
  4. Wireless Sharing (ANT+): Enable in Setup > System > ANT+ to share waypoints, tracks, and geocaches with other compatible Garmin devices.

Tip: Ensure the device is not in mass storage mode if you want to use it for navigation while connected.

Navigating & Using Maps

Create waypoints, follow tracks, and navigate to destinations.

  1. Mark a Waypoint: Press and hold the ENTER button on the map screen to mark your current location.
  2. Navigate to a Point: Select Where To? > select a category (Waypoints, Favorites, etc.) > choose destination > Go.
  3. Follow a Route or Track: Access Track Manager to view, navigate, or reverse saved tracks.
  4. Use the Map: Zoom in/out with the ZOOM buttons. Pan the map using the ROCKER key. Change map detail in Setup > Map.
  5. Add Maps: Install detailed maps via microSD card. Enable/disable map sets in Setup > Map > Map Information Select.

WARNING! Always carry a paper map and compass as a backup. GPS signals can be obstructed.

Using the Camera & Geotagging

The camera automatically tags each photo with location coordinates.

  1. Take a Photo: Press the CAMERA button to enter camera mode. Frame your shot and press ENTER to capture.
  2. Review Photos: Press MENU while in camera mode and select Image Viewer.
  3. Geotagging: Enabled by default. Coordinates are stored in the photo's EXIF data.
  4. Waypoint from Photo: While viewing a photo, press MENU and select "Save as Waypoint."
  5. Paperless Geocaching: Load GPX files via USB. Find geocaches under Where To? > Geocaches. Log your finds directly on the device.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents.

Battery Care: Remove batteries if the device will not be used for several months. Use NiMH or lithium batteries for best performance in cold weather.

CAUTION! Do not charge non-rechargeable batteries. The USB port is for data only, not for charging AA batteries.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that it does not cause harmful interference. IC Compliance: Complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin, GPSMAP, and HotFix are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power / Won't turn onDead batteries, improper installationInstall fresh batteries ensuring correct polarity. Check battery compartment is closed securely.
Poor GPS receptionObstructed view of sky, first-time acquisitionMove to an open area. Wait several minutes for initial fix. Ensure "GPS Normal" mode is enabled in Setup > System.
Inaccurate compass readingNeed for calibration, nearby metal/magnetsRecalibrate the compass (Setup > Sensors > Compass > Calibrate) away from interference.
Computer doesn't recognize deviceFaulty cable, wrong mode, driver issueTry a different USB cable/port. Ensure device is powered on. Select "Mass Storage" mode when prompted on device screen.
Camera not workingMemory full, device in wrong modeCheck available memory. Ensure you are not in a navigation screen; press the CAMERA button.
Screen is dim or unreadableBacklight setting, power save modeAdjust backlight timeout and intensity in Setup > Display > Backlight.

Reset: If the unit becomes unresponsive, remove and reinsert the batteries.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit the Garmin website for software updates and warranty information.

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