Garmin GPSMAP XS Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP XS is a high-performance marine GPS chartplotter featuring a sunlight-readable touchscreen display, preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts, built-in GPS/GLONASS receiver, support for Garmin radar, sonar, and autopilot systems, wireless connectivity, and rugged waterproof construction. 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. Navigation Features 8. Chartplotting & Waypoints 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Touchscreen display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover.

FeatureDescription
DisplaySunlight-readable touchscreen with anti-glare coating
ChartsPreloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts with relief shading
GPS ReceiverBuilt-in GPS/GLONASS with high-sensitivity
ConnectivityNMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet, Wi-Fi (optional)
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power Input10-32 V DC
Touchscreen ControlsTap, swipe, pinch-to-zoom gestures
Physical ButtonsPower, Volume, Backlight
Memory Card SlotmicroSD card for additional charts and data
Audio OutputBuilt-in speaker for alarms and prompts

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location carefully.

  1. Select mounting location: Choose flat surface with clear view of sky for GPS reception.
  2. Mount bracket: Use provided hardware to secure bracket to surface.
  3. Connect power/data cable: Route cable to power source and connect to unit.
  4. Connect external devices: Attach NMEA 2000 network, radar, sonar as needed.
  5. Secure unit: Snap GPSMAP XS onto mounted bracket.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Initial GPS fix: Place unit in open area; allow 5-10 minutes for first satellite acquisition.
  2. Set language: Select preferred language from setup menu.
  3. Configure units: Set nautical/miles, depth units (feet/fathoms/meters).
  4. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions for electronic compass calibration.
  5. Set time: Choose automatic GPS time or manual time setting.

CAUTION! Do not power on until all connections are secure and waterproofed.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen or physical buttons. Home Screen: Provides quick access to Navigation, Sonar, Radar, and Settings.

Touch Gestures: Tap to select, Swipe to scroll, Pinch to zoom charts.

Navigation Settings: Chart orientation (North Up, Course Up, Head Up), Depth contours, Chart details. Sonar Settings: Frequency, Range, Sensitivity, Color scheme. System Settings: Display brightness, Backlight timeout, Units, Alarms, Language. Network Settings: NMEA 2000 device list, Ethernet configuration, Wi-Fi setup.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to marine network for engine data, wind, depth, etc. Ethernet: Connect to radar, additional chartplotters. Sonar: Connect compatible Garmin sonar modules.

  1. Turn off power before making connections.
  2. Use appropriate Garmin cables and connectors.
  3. Seal all connections with provided waterproof caps.
  4. Configure connected devices in Network settings menu.

Tip: Label cables during installation for easier troubleshooting later.

Navigation Features

Supports waypoint navigation, route planning, track recording.

  1. Create waypoint: Tap chart location > "Mark Waypoint".
  2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint > "Go To".
  3. Create route: Tap "Route" > tap chart points in sequence.
  4. Follow route: Select route > "Navigate Route".
  5. Record track: Enable track recording in Track menu.
  6. Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold MOB button or select from emergency menu.
  7. Tides and currents: Display tide stations and current flow arrows.
  8. Marine services: View marinas, fuel docks, and other points of interest.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation only. Always maintain proper lookout and use paper charts as backup.

Chartplotting & Waypoints

Chart Display: Adjust detail level, show/hide navigation aids, depth shading. Waypoint Management: Organize by categories, import/export via SD card. Route Planning: Create, edit, reverse routes; calculate route statistics.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use fresh water and mild soap only; rinse thoroughly.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or high-pressure water spray. Avoid direct sunlight when not in use to prolong display life.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to conditions that device 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 www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connectionCheck fuse (3A); verify 12V power at connector; check ground connection.
Poor GPS receptionObstruction/interferenceMove to open area; check for metal obstructions; verify antenna connection.
Touchscreen not respondingScreen protector/calibrationRemove aftermarket screen protector; recalibrate touchscreen in settings.
No data from NMEA devicesNetwork configurationCheck NMEA 2000 termination and power; verify device configuration.
Charts not displayingChart data/cardEnsure chart region is installed; check microSD card seating; update chart data.
Display dim or unreadableBrightness settingsAdjust brightness and contrast; check backlight timeout setting.
Unit freezing or restartingSoftware issuePerform software update; reset to factory defaults if problem persists.

Reset: Settings > System > Reset > Factory Defaults (note: erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.

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