Garmin GPSMAP 62st Owners Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 62st is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS device featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, preloaded topographic maps, a 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, barometric altimeter, 2.6-inch color TFT display, microSD card slot, and supports paperless geocaching. 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 a Computer 7. Using Maps & Waypoints 8. Geocaching Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPSMAP 62st unit, USB cable, Wrist strap, Documentation, Topographic map data preloaded.

FeatureDescription
High-Sensitivity GPS ReceiverAccurate positioning even in heavy cover or deep canyons
3-Axis Electronic CompassShows direction while standing still; tilt-compensated
Barometric AltimeterTracks changes in pressure to pinpoint elevation
2.6-inch Color TFT DisplaySunlight-readable, 160 x 240 pixels
Preloaded Topographic MapsIncludes terrain contours, trails, and points of interest
Paperless GeocachingDownload GPX files directly from geocaching.com
MicroSD Card SlotFor additional map storage
Waterproof RatingIPX7 standard (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes)
Battery LifeUp to 16 hours on 2 AA batteries (typical use)
USB ConnectivityFor data transfer and charging (with NiMH batteries)

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and configure initial settings.

  1. Install Batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert two AA batteries (alkaline, NiMH, or lithium).
  2. Power On: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display lights up.
  3. Initial Configuration: Follow on-screen prompts to set language, units, and time.
  4. Acquire Satellite Signal: Go outdoors with clear view of sky; allow several minutes for first fix.

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

First-Time Use

After acquiring satellites, you can begin navigating.

  1. Calibrate Compass: When prompted, hold device level and rotate slowly 360 degrees.
  2. Calibrate Altimeter: Enter known elevation or allow automatic calibration over time.
  3. Set Your Profile: Choose from Recreational, Geocaching, Marine, or Custom modes.
  4. Create a Waypoint: Mark your current location for easy return navigation.

CAUTION! For accurate compass readings, keep away from magnetic sources and recalibrate after battery change.

Specifications

Controls and Navigation

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

Navigation Screens: Map, Compass, Elevation Plot, Trip Computer, Main Menu.

Map: View your location and track. Use ZOOM to change detail. Compass: Shows bearing to destination. Elevation: Graph of altitude over time. Trip Computer: Displays speed, distance, time, etc. Main Menu: Access Waypoints, Tracks, Routes, Setup, and Geocaches.

Connecting to a Computer

Use included USB cable to transfer data, update software, or load maps.

  1. Turn on GPS unit.
  2. Connect USB cable to device and computer.
  3. Select "Mass Storage" mode on GPS when prompted.
  4. On computer, device appears as removable drive. Drag and drop GPX files or maps.
  5. Safely eject from computer before disconnecting.

Tip: Install Garmin BaseCamp software (free from Garmin website) for advanced map management.

Using Maps & Waypoints

Create and navigate to waypoints, and follow tracks.

  1. Mark Waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at desired location, then select "Mark Waypoint".
  2. Navigate to Waypoint: From Main Menu, select "Waypoints", choose destination, select "Go".
  3. Create Route: Main Menu > Routes > Create New, add waypoints in sequence.
  4. Record Track: Tracks are automatically recorded. View under Main Menu > Tracks.
  5. Load Maps: Transfer map files (IMG format) to \Garmin folder on device or microSD card.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environmental factors. Always carry a paper map as backup.

Geocaching Features

Supports paperless geocaching with GPX file downloads.

  1. Download GPX files from geocaching.com to your computer.
  2. Connect GPS to computer and copy GPX files to \Garmin\GPX folder.
  3. Disconnect. Find geocaches under Main Menu > Geocaches.
  4. Select a cache to view description, hints, and recent logs.
  5. Navigate to cache. Log your find as Found, Did Not Find, or Note.

Note: A geocaching.com membership is required to download GPX files.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals. Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and intact for waterproofing.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteries, improper installationInstall fresh batteries; ensure correct polarity.
Poor GPS receptionObstructed view of skyMove to open area; allow several minutes for satellite acquisition.
Compass inaccurateNeed calibration, magnetic interferenceRecalibrate compass; move away from metal objects/electronics.
Computer doesn't recognize deviceFaulty cable, wrong modeTry different USB port/cable; ensure "Mass Storage" mode is selected.
Maps not displayingMap file corrupted, wrong locationEnsure map files are in \Garmin folder; reload maps.

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

Service: 1-800-800-1020; support.garmin.com

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