Garmin GPSMAP 62st Manual Download

The Garmin GPSMAP 62st is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS device featuring a 2.6-inch color TFT display, high-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix satellite prediction, a built-in worldwide basemap with shaded relief, a 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, and a barometric altimeter. It supports paperless geocaching, wireless data sharing, and customizable mapping. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Navigation 6. Connecting to Devices 7. Using Maps & Waypoints 8. Geocaching Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Rugged, waterproof (IPX7) casing, 2.6" color TFT display, High-sensitivity GPS with HotFix, 3-axis electronic compass, Barometric altimeter, microSD card slot, USB port.

FeatureDescription
Display2.6-inch, 160 x 240 pixels, color TFT with sunlight-readable technology
GPS ReceiverHigh-sensitivity with HotFix satellite prediction for fast fixes
Compass3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass
AltimeterBarometric altimeter with automatic calibration
Memory1.7 GB internal memory, microSD card slot for expandable storage
ConnectivityUSB 2.0, wireless data sharing (ANT+)
Battery2 AA batteries (NiMH or Lithium recommended)
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes)
Preloaded MapsWorldwide basemap with shaded relief
GeocachingPaperless geocaching support (GPX file compatibility)

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Insert batteries and power on.

  1. Insert Batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Initial Power On: Press and hold POWER button until device starts.
  3. Acquire Satellite Signal: Go outdoors with clear sky view for initial GPS fix.
  4. Install microSD Card (Optional): For additional maps, insert into slot until it clicks.
  5. Connect to Computer: Use USB cable to transfer data or install maps via Garmin BaseCamp.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and secure for waterproofing.

First-Time Use

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Set Language & Region: Use SETUP menu to select language, units (metric/imperial), time format.
  2. Calibrate Compass: Follow on-screen instructions for 3-axis compass calibration.
  3. Calibrate Altimeter: Set known elevation or enable automatic calibration.
  4. Configure Tracks & Routes: Set recording intervals and route preferences.
  5. Load Maps: Use Garmin BaseCamp software to install detailed maps via microSD card.

CAUTION! Calibrate compass away from magnetic interference (metal objects, electronics).

Specifications

Controls and Navigation

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

Key Functions: POWER (on/off/backlight), PAGE (cycle through main pages), MENU (access context-sensitive options), ROCKER (navigate/select), ZOOM (map zoom).

Main Pages: Satellite Status, Map, Compass, Altimeter, Main Menu (Waypoints, Tracks, Routes, Setup). Settings: System (display, sounds, language), Navigation (routing preferences), Sensors (compass/altimeter calibration).

Connecting to Devices

Computer: USB cable for data transfer. ANT+ Devices: Wireless connection for heart rate monitors, speed/cadence sensors.

  1. Turn on GPS device.
  2. Connect USB cable to computer; device appears as removable drive.
  3. Use Garmin BaseCamp to manage waypoints, tracks, routes, and maps.
  4. For ANT+ sensors, enable wireless in SETUP > ANT+ and follow pairing prompts.

Tip: Ensure latest device software is installed via Garmin WebUpdater.

Using Maps & Waypoints

Supports Garmin mapping products (e.g., TOPO, City Navigator) via microSD card.

  1. View Map: Press PAGE to Map page; use ZOOM buttons.
  2. Create Waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at location; select "Mark Waypoint".
  3. Navigate to Waypoint: From Waypoint list, select destination and choose "Go".
  4. Create Route: Main Menu > Routes > Create Route, add waypoints in sequence.
  5. Record Track: Tracks are automatically recorded; configure settings in SETUP > Tracks.
  6. Manage Data: Connect to BaseCamp to save, organize, and share data.

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

Geocaching Features

Paperless Geocaching: Load GPX files from geocaching websites.

  1. Load Geocaches: Copy GPX files to [Drive]:\Garmin\GPX folder via USB.
  2. Access Geocaches: Main Menu > Geocaches.
  3. 3. Navigate to Cache: Select geocache and choose "Go".
  4. Log Visit: After finding, mark as Found, DNF, or add Note.
  5. Field Notes: Generate field notes file for easy online logging.

Hint & Description: View cache details, hints, and previous logs directly on device.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not charge non-rechargeable batteries. Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt water or dirt.

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 license-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead/incorrect batteriesInstall fresh batteries; check polarity; ensure compartment is dry and sealed.
Poor GPS accuracyObstructed signal, needs calibrationMove to open area; ensure latest software; check satellite page for signal strength.
Compass inaccurateNeeds calibration, magnetic interferenceCalibrate compass away from metal/electronics; hold device level.
Computer not recognizing deviceFaulty cable, driver issueTry different USB cable/port; install Garmin USB drivers; ensure device is in Mass Storage mode.
Screen is dim or unreadableBacklight setting, extreme temperaturesAdjust backlight timeout/brightness in SETUP > Display; allow device to acclimate to temperature.
Waypoints/Geocaches not appearingFile format/location incorrectEnsure GPX files are in correct folder; check file integrity; restart device.

Reset: Hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER (Up) for 10 seconds to perform master reset (erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com.

Garmin GPSMAP 62st Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025