Garmin GPSMAP 700 Owners Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 700 is a high-performance marine chartplotter featuring a sunlight-readable 7-inch display, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, built-in worldwide basemap, high-sensitivity GPS receiver, support for NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 networks, sonar capability (when connected to a compatible transducer), and rugged, waterproof design (IPX7). Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Using Charts & Navigation 8. Sonar Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 7-inch sunlight-readable display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Preloaded BlueChart g2 charts.

FeatureDescription
Display7-inch diagonal, 800 x 480 pixels, sunlight readable, LED backlight
ChartsPreloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, worldwide basemap
GPS ReceiverHigh-sensitivity, WAAS enabled
ConnectivityNMEA 0183/NMEA 2000 support, SD card slot for additional maps/data
SonarSupports connection to compatible Garmin sonar modules (optional)
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes)
Power Input10-32 V DC
ButtonsPOWER, PAGE, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MENU, ZOOM IN/OUT
Audio/Visual AlarmsAnchor drag, arrival, proximity, waypoint, course deviation
MountingFlush mount, bracket mount, or RAM® compatible

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location with clear view and access.

  1. Mount the Bracket: Use provided hardware to securely mount the bracket to a flat, stable surface.
  2. Route the Cables: Plan cable route from power source and any connected devices (NMEA, sonar) to the chartplotter location. Avoid sharp bends and high-heat areas.
  3. Connect the Power/Data Cable: Connect the red wire to positive (+) and black wire to negative (-) on the boat's 10-32 V DC system. Connect the NMEA 0183 wires if interfacing with autopilot or other instruments.
  4. Attach the Unit: Slide the chartplotter onto the mounted bracket until it clicks into place.

WARNING! Ensure all power is OFF during installation. Drilling into the boat structure requires caution to avoid damaging hidden wiring or tanks. Seal all holes to prevent water intrusion.

First-Time Setup

Apply power to the unit; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Initial Language & Agreement: Select language and agree to the terms.
  2. Configure Settings: Set units (nautical/statute), time format, and time zone.
  3. Calibrate Compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate the electronic compass if your model has one.
  4. Acquire GPS Signal: Place the unit in an open area with a clear view of the sky. This may take several minutes on first use.
  5. Configure NMEA Network: If connected to a NMEA 2000 network, the unit should auto-detect devices. For NMEA 0183, manual configuration may be required.

CAUTION! Do not turn off the unit during initial GPS satellite acquisition or system calibration.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via the MENU button. Use the ROCKER to navigate and ENTER to select.

Front Panel Buttons: POWER, PAGE, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MENU, ZOOM IN, ZOOM OUT.

Main Pages: Access via PAGE button - Chart, Sonar (if connected), Compass, Highway, Main Menu.

Settings Menu Categories: System (Units, Time, Alarms, NMEA), Navigation (Routing, Tracks, Waypoints), Chart (Presentation, Data Fields), Sonar (Setup, Gain, Frequency).

Quick Keys: Press and hold MENU from any page for quick access to common settings like backlight and data fields.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183 Devices (Autopilot, VHF, etc.): Connect transmit (TX+/TX-) and receive (RX+/RX-) wires from the device to the corresponding terminals on the chartplotter's power/data cable.

NMEA 2000 Network: Connect the chartplotter's NMEA 2000 drop cable to the boat's NMEA 2000 backbone using a T-connector.

Sonar Module: Connect a compatible Garmin sonar module (e.g., GSD™ series) to the network or directly via its designated port on the power/data cable.

SD Card: Insert map or data SD card into the slot on the side of the unit.

  1. Turn OFF all power before making connections.
  2. Use correct wire gauges and ensure all connections are secure and waterproofed.
  3. Verify NMEA 2000 network has proper termination and power.

Tip: Label all wires during installation for future troubleshooting.

Using Charts & Navigation

Supports detailed marine navigation with waypoints, routes, and tracks.

  1. Viewing the Chart: The Chart page is the default. Use ZOOM buttons or ROCKER to pan.
  2. Creating a Waypoint: Move cursor to desired location, press ENTER, select "Save as Waypoint".
  3. Creating a Route: From Main Menu > Navigation > Routes > Create New. Add waypoints in sequence.
  4. Following a Route: Select a route from the list and choose "Go To". Follow the course line and navigation data.
  5. Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold the PAGE button from any screen to mark an MOB position and begin navigation back to it.
  6. Tracks: The unit automatically records your track. Access via Main Menu > Tracks to view, save, or navigate a track back.
  7. Chart Details: Press ENTER on a chart object (buoy, light) to see details from the chart database.

WARNING! Always use official paper charts as the primary means of navigation. This electronic chartplotter is an aid to navigation only.

Sonar Features

(Requires connection to a compatible Garmin sonar module and transducer.)

Access the Sonar page via the PAGE button. Displays water depth, bottom contour, and fish arches.

Key Settings: Adjust Gain, Frequency, and Range for optimal display. Use the Fish ID feature to mark potential targets.

Alarms: Set shallow and deep water depth alarms.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with fresh water. A mild soap solution can be used for stubborn stains. Rinse with a cloth dampened with fresh water and dry thoroughly.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or compressed air. Do not spray liquids directly onto the unit. Ensure the unit is completely dry before reapplying power.

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. This device accepts interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. IC Compliance: This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin, GPSMAP, and BlueChart are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact your local Garmin dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit will not power onNo power, blown fuse, incorrect voltageCheck connections at battery and unit. Verify fuse is intact. Ensure voltage is between 10-32 V DC.
No GPS signalPoor sky view, first-time acquisitionMove to an open area. Wait up to 30 minutes for first fix. Ensure no metal obstructions overhead.
Chart not displayedSD card issue, wrong locationEnsure SD card is fully inserted. Zoom out to see basemap if detailed charts are missing for your area.
No depth reading (sonar)Transducer not connected/no power, air bubblesCheck all sonar module and transducer connections. Ensure transducer is submerged and not blocked by hull debris or air bubbles.
NMEA devices not communicatingIncorrect wiring, wrong baud rateVerify wiring matches NMEA 0183 diagram. Check that baud rates in the chartplotter settings match the connected device.
Screen is dim or unreadableBacklight setting, direct sunlightAdjust backlight intensity in the System Settings menu. Use the sun cover if provided.

Reset: System Settings > System Information > Master Reset (WARNING: This erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or an authorized Garmin dealer.

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