Garmin GPSMAP 64s Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 64s is a rugged, handheld GPS device featuring a high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver, a 2.6-inch sunlight-readable color display, a built-in 3-axis electronic compass with barometric altimeter, wireless connectivity via ANT+® and Bluetooth®, and support for preloaded TOPO U.S. 100K maps. It supports paperless geocaching, has a microSD™ card slot for additional maps, and offers up to 16 hours of battery life. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS/GLONASS receiver, 3-axis compass with barometric altimeter, 2.6" color TFT display, ANT+® and Bluetooth® wireless technology, microSD™ card slot.

Feature	Description
GPS/GLONASS Receiver	High-sensitivity for improved performance in challenging environments
3-Axis Compass	Tilt-compensated electronic compass
Barometric Altimeter	Monitors weather and tracks altitude changes
Wireless Connectivity	ANT+® for sensors; Bluetooth® for smartphone connectivity
Display	2.6-inch sunlight-readable color TFT (160 x 240 pixels)
Memory	4 GB internal; microSD™ card slot for expansion
Battery Life	Up to 16 hours (typical use with 2 AA batteries)
Durability	IPX7 water rating; withstands immersion in 1 meter of water
Preloaded Maps	TOPO U.S. 100K with routable roads
Paperless Geocaching	Download and view geocache details directly on the device

Getting Started

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

1. Install Batteries: Open the battery compartment on the back, insert two AA batteries (NiMH or lithium recommended), observing polarity.
2. Initial Power On: Press and hold the POWER key. Follow on-screen prompts for language and region setup.
3. Acquire Satellite Signals: Go outdoors with a clear view of the sky. The device will automatically search for satellites.
4. Charge (Optional): Use the provided USB cable to charge rechargeable NiMH batteries in the device.

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

Basic Operation

Navigate menus using the joystick and buttons.

1. Main Menu: Press the MENU button twice to access the main menu for all applications and settings.
2. Map View: The default screen shows your position on the map. Use the joystick to pan.
3. Creating a Waypoint: From the map, press and hold the joystick (MARK) to save your current location.
4. Starting a Route: Select Where To? > choose a destination > select Go.
5. Profiles: Quickly switch between optimized settings for activities like Hiking, Geocaching, or Automotive.

CAUTION! For accurate compass readings, hold the device level and away from magnetic interference.

Specifications

• Physical Dimensions: 2.4" x 6.3" x 1.4" (6.1 x 16.0 x 3.6 cm).
• Weight: 8.1 oz (230 g) with batteries.
• Display: 2.6" color TFT, 160 x 240 pixels.
• Battery: 2 AA batteries (NiMH or lithium recommended).
• Water Rating: IPX7.
• Memory: 4 GB internal, microSD™ card slot.
• Receiver: GPS and GLONASS.
• Sensors: 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter.
• Wireless: ANT+® (heart rate monitor, speed/cadence), Bluetooth®.
• Interface: USB 2.0, NMEA 0183 compatible.

Device Interface & Controls

Front Panel: POWER key, MENU key, Zoom IN/OUT keys, Joystick (press to ENTER/MARK).

Side Buttons: QUIT, PAGE (cycles through data pages), FIND (opens search menu).

Menus: Main Menu provides access to: Map, Compass, Trip Computer, Altimeter, Calendar, Geocaching, Setup, and more.

Settings: Access via Setup menu. Configure System (language, units), Display (backlight, orientation), Sensors (calibrate compass/altimeter), Bluetooth®, Profiles.

Navigation & Maps

Use preloaded maps or install additional maps via microSD™ card.

1. Viewing the Map: The Map page is the default view. Use Zoom keys to change detail level.
2. Finding a Location: Press FIND, search by name, coordinates, or categories (Food, Fuel, etc.).
3. Creating a Route: Select a destination and choose Go. Follow the magenta line on the map.
4. Adding Maps: Download maps from Garmin or third parties. Copy the .img file to a microSD™ card in a folder named "Garmin". Insert card into device.
5. Tracks: The device records your path. View and manage tracks in Tracks Manager.

Tip: For best GPS accuracy, ensure you have a clear view of the sky.

Wireless Features & Connectivity

Connect to sensors and smartphones for expanded functionality.

1. ANT+® Sensors: Pair with heart rate monitors, speed/cadence sensors, or tempe™ temperature sensor via Settings > Sensors > Add New.
2. Bluetooth® Smartphone Link: Pair with a compatible smartphone using the Garmin Connect™ Mobile app for smart notifications, live tracking, and weather updates.
3. Data Sharing: Wirelessly share waypoints, routes, tracks, and geocaches with other compatible Garmin devices.
4. Connect to a Computer: Use the USB cable to transfer files (tracks, waypoints) and manage device storage.

WARNING! Keep the device away from strong magnetic or electrical fields during wireless operations.

Geocaching

Supports paperless geocaching when loaded with GPX files.

1. Load Geocaches: Download GPX files from geocaching websites. Copy files to the \Garmin\GPX folder on the device or microSD™ card.
2. Find a Geocache: Go to Geocaching app > select a geocache > select Go.
3. Navigate: The compass page guides you to the cache. View hints and logs on the description page.
4. Log Your Visit: Mark the geocache as Found, DNF, or add a Field Note.

CAUTION! Respect the environment and local regulations when geocaching.

Care & Maintenance

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

Battery Care: Remove batteries if the device will not be used for several months. Store in a cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Do not immerse the device in water beyond 1 meter or for longer than 30 minutes, despite its IPX7 rating. Do not charge wet batteries.

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. Contains FCC ID: IPH-04021. IC: 1792A-04021. For detailed regulatory and compliance information, visit www.garmin.com/compliance. © 2012-2025 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Device will not power on	Dead/incorrect batteries	Install fresh, recommended AA batteries. Check polarity.
Poor GPS accuracy	Obstructed view, weak signal	Move to an open area with a clear view of the sky. Wait for satellite acquisition.
Compass is inaccurate	Need calibration, magnetic interference	Hold level and calibrate (Setup > Sensors > Compass > Calibrate). Move away from metal objects.
Bluetooth not connecting	Phone pairing issue, distance	Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on phone. Delete old pairing and re-pair. Stay within range (~10 m).
Maps not displaying	Map file corrupted or in wrong location	Ensure map file (.img) is in \Garmin folder on microSD™ card. Try a different map file.

Reset: For persistent issues, perform a soft reset by holding the POWER key for 15 seconds. A master reset (erases all user data) is available in Setup > System > Reset.

Support: For further assistance, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.