Garmin GPSMAP 820 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 820 is a high-performance marine chartplotter featuring an 8-inch sunlight-readable touchscreen display, preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts, built-in GPS/GLONASS receiver, support for Garmin Panoptix™ live scanning sonar, compatibility with Garmin Marine Network devices, NMEA 2000® and NMEA 0183 connectivity, and advanced navigation features including Auto Guidance, Safe Shallow Water, and Fish Eye 3D. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 8-inch touchscreen display, Power/Data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Quick start manual.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Select mounting location with clear view and easy access.

1. Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to secure bracket to helm or console.
2. Route cables: Plan cable path from chartplotter to power source and other devices.
3. Connect power: Attach red wire to positive (+) terminal, black wire to negative (-) terminal.
4. Connect to network: Use Garmin Marine Network cable to connect to other compatible devices.
5. Secure chartplotter: Snap unit onto bracket and tighten security screw.

WARNING! Ensure all power is off before making connections. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Apply power to unit; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Select language: Choose preferred language for menus and prompts.
2. Configure settings: Set units (nautical/statute), time format, and display preferences.
3. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit in open sky view; wait for satellite acquisition.
4. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions if external heading sensor is connected.
5. Update software: Connect to Wi-Fi (if available) or use microSD card to install latest updates.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving the vessel. Complete initial setup while docked or anchored.

Specifications

• Display Size: 8 inches diagonal.
• Display Resolution: 800 x 600 pixels (WVGA).
• Touchscreen: Capacitive multi-touch with IPX7 rating.
• GPS Receiver: GPS/GLONASS with WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS support.
• Preloaded Charts: BlueChart g3 coastal charts.
• Power Requirements: 10-32 V DC, 2.5 A max.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes).
• Operating Temperature: -15° to 55°C (5° to 131°F).
• Storage Temperature: -40° to 85°C (-40° to 185°F).
• Dimensions: 21.1 x 13.5 x 5.6 cm (8.3 x 5.3 x 2.2 inches).
• Weight: 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs).

Controls and Settings

Primary control via touchscreen. Physical buttons: Power, Volume, Back.

Home Screen: Access main applications (Chart, Sonar, Media, etc.). Settings Menu: System, Display, Communications, Navigation, Alarms, Network. Chart Settings: Depth Shading, Safe Shallow Water, Auto Guidance. Sonar Settings: Frequency, Range, Sensitivity, Color Scheme. Navigation Settings: Route Planning, Waypoints, Tracks, Alarms.

Connecting Devices

Garmin Marine Network: Connect to compatible sonar, radar, audio, or other chartplotters. NMEA 2000®: Connect to engine data, fuel flow, wind, depth, speed. NMEA 0183: Connect to legacy autopilots or instruments. Audio: Connect to external speaker via audio out cable. microSD: Insert card for additional charts, software updates, or data storage.

1. Turn off all devices before making connections.
2. Use appropriate Garmin cables for network connections.
3. Verify NMEA 2000® network has proper termination and power.
4. Select device type in Settings > Communications to enable data sharing.

Tip: Label cables during installation for easier identification later.

Navigation & Charting

Supports waypoints, routes, tracks, and Auto Guidance.

1. View chart: Tap Chart application from home screen.
2. Create waypoint: Tap and hold desired location on chart, select "Save as Waypoint".
3. Plan route: Tap Route > New Route, tap chart to add points, tap Done.
4. Follow route: Tap Route, select route, tap Navigate.
5. Use Auto Guidance: Ensure Auto Guidance is enabled in chart settings; tap Navigate To and select destination.
6. View Fish Eye 3D: Tap 3D button to see underwater perspective.
7. Set alarms: Configure anchor drag, arrival, off-course, and depth alarms.

WARNING! Always verify chart data and use visual navigation. Electronic charts are aids only.

Sonar & Fishfinding

Compatible with traditional, CHIRP, and Panoptix™ sonar.

1. Access sonar: Tap Sonar application from home screen.
2. Select view: Choose traditional, split-frequency, or Panoptix™ view.
3. Adjust settings: Tap Menu to set frequency, range, sensitivity, and color palette.
4. Use A-Scope: Enable for real-time sonar returns on side of screen.
5. Mark fish: Tap and hold on fish arch to mark location.
6. Record sonar: Tap Record to log sonar data for later review.

Note: Sonar performance depends on transducer installation and water conditions.

Care & Maintenance

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth with mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on unit. Ensure connectors are clean and dry before reconnecting.

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. IC Compliance: This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin, GPSMAP, BlueChart, Panoptix, and Auto Guidance are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Hold Power button for 10 seconds to force restart. For factory reset: Settings > System > Reset.

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