GPSMAP 296 ® portable aviation receiver pilot’s guide
© Copyright 2004, 2005 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries Garmin International, Inc. 1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A. Tel. 913/397.8200 or 800/800.1020 Fax 913/397.8282 Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9DL, U.K. Tel. 44/0870.8501241 Fax 44/0870.8501251 Garmin Corporation No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan Tel. 886/2.2642.9199 Fax 886/2.2642.9099 All rights reserved.
INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL INTRODUCTION Thank you for choosing the Garmin GPSMAP® 296, an unsurpassed portable aviation receiver that utilizes the proven performance of Garmin GPS and full-featured mapping. Take a moment now to compare the contents of this package with the packing list on the outside of the box. If any pieces are missing, contact your Garmin dealer immediately.
INTRODUCTION > TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents Introduction...........................................................................i About This Manual ................................................................... i Warning ................................................................................... iv Caution ..................................................................................... v Care Information ....................................................................
INTRODUCTION > TABLE OF CONTENTS Marine Mode Pages and Features ...................................88 Map Page................................................................................ 88 Compass Page....................................................................... 89 DSC Page ............................................................................... 91 Main Menu ..........................................................................96 GPS Tab ........................................
INTRODUCTION > WARNING Warning Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations could result in an accident or collision resulting in death or serious injury. When installing the GPSMAP 296 in a vehicle, place the unit securely so that it does not interfere with vehicle operating controls or obstruct the driver’s view of the road (see diagram). Do not mount where driver’s field of vision is blocked. Do not place unsecured on the vehicle dash.
INTRODUCTION > CAUTION Caution Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations may result in injury or property damage. The GPSMAP 296 is designed to provide you with route suggestions. It does not reflect road closures or road conditions, traffic congestion, weather conditions, or other factors that may affect safety or timing while driving. Use the GPSMAP 296 only as a navigational aid.
INTRODUCTION > CARE INFORMATION Care Information To resolve problems that cannot be remedied using this guide, contact Garmin Product Support in the U.S.A. at 800/800.1020 or Garmin Europe at 44/0870.8501241. Cleaning the Unit The GPSMAP 296 is constructed of high quality materials and does not require user maintenance other than cleaning. Clean the unit using a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution and then wipe dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that may damage plastic components.
GETTING STARTED > UNIT OVERVIEW GETTING STARTED Unit Overview The GPSMAP 296 is an all-in-one, versatile color aviation, automotive, and marine navigator-perfect for air, land, or water. This portable GPS navigator features a 256-color TFT screen that is easy to read in bright sun, a built-in basemap, Jeppesen aviation database, and auto routing to provide you with automatically generated turn-by-turn directions. GPS antenna 256-Color TFT screen with backlighting Battery pack.
GETTING STARTED > CHARGING THE GPSMAP 296 Charging the GPSMAP 296 Before using the unit, you need to charge the battery in the GPSMAP 296. Plug the unit into a 12 Volt connector to charge. You can use the unit while it is charging. To charge the unit’s battery: 1. Lift the rubber weather cap to expose the power connector on the back of the unit. Refer to the image on page 1 for connector location. 2. Align the notches, and push the plug into the connector until fully seated. 3.
GETTING STARTED > TURNING ON THE GPSMAP 396 Turning On the GPSMAP 296 The first time you turn on your new GPSMAP 296, the receiver must collect satellite data and establish its present location. To ensure proper initialization, the GPSMAP 296 is shipped from the factory in AutoLocate mode, which allows the receiver to “find itself” anywhere in the world.
GETTING STARTED > GETTING SATELLITE SIGNALS Getting Satellite Signals Viewing GPS Status With the GPS Tab It can take a few minutes to acquire satellites and show your current location on the map. Be patient as the unit acquires satellite data. To get signals more quickly, be sure the antenna is raised to the up location shown in the image on page 1. As the receiver locks onto satellites, a signal strength bar appears for each satellite in view, with the appropriate satellite number underneath each bar.
GETTING STARTED > GETTING SATELLITE SIGNALS Receiver status field Signal strength bars Sky view Power source indicator GPS Page The progress of satellite acquisition is shown in three stages: • No signal strength bars—the receiver is looking for the satellites indicated. • White signal strength bars—the receiver has found the satellite and is collecting data. • Green signal strength bars—the receiver has collected the necessary data from this satellite.
GETTING STARTED > GETTING SATELLITE SIGNALS GPS Tab Options Press MENU two times to open the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to highlight GPS. Press MENU to open the options menu: GPS Tips While the receiver is gathering information, your location on the map can show as different from where you actually are located. Be patient; as soon as the receiver gathers enough satellite information, your proper location is shown on the map.
GETTING STARTED > LEARNING ABOUT THE KEYPAD Learning About the Keypad PAGE Key IN/OUT Keys • Press to cycle through the main pages in sequence and return the screen from a submenu page. • Press to zoom in or out on the Map Page. • Press and hold to switch between Aviation, Automotive, and Marine Modes. • Press up, down, right or left to move through lists, highlight fields, on-screen buttons and icons, enter data, or move the map pointer.
GETTING STARTED > USING THE GPSMAP 296 Using the GPSMAP 296 This section explains how to enter and select information with the GPSMAP 296. To switch between Aviation, Marine, and Automotive Modes, press and hold PAGE. Use the ROCKER to select a mode, and press ENTER. Understanding Terms The GPSMAP 296 unit’s advanced keypad system is designed to allow quick, convenient selection of navigation options and data entry.
GETTING STARTED > USING THE GPSMAP 296 Selecting Options and Entering Data To enter data and select options, you must use the ROCKER to highlight, select, or choose an item in a list or a field on the screen. Use the ENTER and ROCKER keys to select options, enter names and numbers in data fields, and start your selections. To select and start an option: 1. Press MENU on any page. An options menu appears with a list of optional features for that page. 2.
GETTING STARTED > USING THE GPSMAP 296 To enter data in a data field: 1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the data field you want, and press ENTER to activate the field. 2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select characters. Press right to move to the next character or press left to move back to the previous character. If there are two lines of data, keep pressing right to drop to the next line. 3. After entering the data, press ENTER.
GETTING STARTED > SIMULATOR MODE Simulator Mode The GPSMAP 296 contains a Simulator Mode, which is helpful for practicing with the unit indoors or when no satellite signals are available or if the antenna is not connected. All waypoints and routes created in Simulator Mode are retained in memory for future use. The following section describes how to use Simulator Mode and walks you through some basic navigation using the simulator. NOTE: Do not attempt to navigate using Simulator Mode.
GETTING STARTED > SIMULATOR MODE Entering a New Location From the GPS options menu you can enter a New Location and New Altitude to simulate from. To enter a New Location using the map: 1. 2. 3. 4. Press MENU twice and highlight GPS from the vertical menu. Press MENU to open the options menu. Highlight New Location, and press ENTER. Highlight Use Map, and press ENTER. To adjust the simulated speed, heading, and altitude from the Panel, Pointer, or Highway pages: 1.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > AVIATION MODE PAGE SEQUENCE BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE Aviation Mode Page Sequence The GPSMAP 296 offers three usage modes, Aviation Mode (default), Automotive Mode, and Marine Mode. The main pages are linked together in a series that you can cycle through by pressing PAGE to move forward and QUIT to reverse.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > CREATING A DIRECT TO Creating a Direct To In Aviation Mode, press Direct To to select a destination. When a Go To or route is currently in use, holding Direct To down briefly shows a detailed information page for the current destination. In Marine or Automotive Mode, pressing Direct To shows the Navigate menu, which allows you to start navigation or edit a route. Also, in Marine Mode, pressing Direct To twice creates a MOB waypoint and starts navigating to that point.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > CREATING A DIRECT TO To go to a recently-used or user-created waypoint: to show the Go To Page. Use the 1. Press the Direct To ROCKER to select the Recent or User tab. Viewing Details for the Destination The Show Details option shows detailed information for your destination waypoint or the next waypoint in a route. This feature is handy for retrieving airport information, such as communication frequencies and runway information.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > CREATING A DIRECT TO Viewing Frequency Restrictions The Comm tab on the Airport Details Page provides a list of communication frequencies for that airport. Some frequencies are noted with an asterisk (*), which indicates that the frequency has usage restrictions. You can show the usage restriction information on your GPSMAP 296. Airport Tab of Details Page 3. Highlight Show Map, and press ENTER to view the item on the map. Press QUIT when done.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT Finding a Nearby Point In Aviation Mode, press NRST/FIND to open the Nearest Pages. These pages provide detailed information on the nearest airports, airport weather sources, user waypoints within 200 miles of your present location, and other points. In Marine and Automotive Modes, press NRST/FIND to open the Find Menu. You can easily search waypoints, cities, exits, and tide stations using the Find Menu.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT Selecting a Nearby Point as Your Destination In an emergency, you can press a few keys to have the GPSMAP 296 guide you to the closest point to land. To select a nearby point as your destination: 1. Press NRST. 2. Use the ROCKER to select the sub tab along the top of the page. 3. Highlight the point using the ROCKER. Viewing Details for a Nearby Point To view details for a nearby point: 1. Press NEAREST to show the nearest pages.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT Viewing Communication Frequencies The Nearest Pages list up to five nearest flight service station (FSS) and air route traffic control center (ARTCC) points of communication. The closest communication point is shown first, with additional points available when selected. For duplex operation, the corresponding VOR is listed (by identifier) and the transmit and receive frequencies are denoted by a TX and RX respectively.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT Viewing Additional Airspace Information From the Nearest Pages, you can show additional airspace information, such as floor and ceiling limits or communication frequencies. To view additional airspace information: 1. When an airspace alert appears, press NEAREST to show the Nearest Pages and the airspace information. If you are already viewing the Nearest Pages, use the ROCKER to select the Airspace tab. 2.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT Setting Airport Criteria From the Nearest Airport tab, an options window allows you to filter out airports that do not meet a defined criteria. This allows you to only show airports with a surface type and sufficient runway length you want. Runway Surface—allows you to set criteria for the type of surface on the runway: Any—shows any runway, regardless of surface type, including water landing facilities.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > SELECTING AN APPROACH Selecting an Approach CAUTION: The approaches provided in the Jeppesen database are for monitoring purposes only. The GPSMAP 296 is not an IFR-approved instrument and should not be used as a primary source of navigation guidance in instrument conditions. When you select an approach, it replaces the destination airport with the sequence of waypoints for the selected approach.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > SELECTING AN APPROACH Understanding Vectors The Vectors? Option, which appears after you select an approach, determines how you navigate to the final approach waypoint. If you select Yes, the GPSMAP 296 creates an extension of the final course, beyond the final approach waypoint in the database (final approach fix [FAF]). On the Active Route Page, a Vector to Final symbol appears beside the first approach waypoint.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING POINTS ON LAND Finding Points on Land To take full advantage of the trip-planning capabilities of the GPSMAP 296, you can find points on the land and then create a turn-by-turn route (auto-route) to that point. For example, you can find a restaurant to eat dinner at when you land. To Find Land Points: 1. Press the Direct To to show the Go To Page. 2. Press MENU to open the options menu. Go To Page Options Menu 3. Highlight Find Land Points, and press ENTER.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > MARKING A WAYPOINT Marking a Waypoint Waypoints are locations or landmarks you record and store in your GPSMAP 296. Press the ENTER/MARK to capture your present location to create a new waypoint. You must have a valid 2D or 3D satellite fix to mark your location. Press MENU twice and open the GPS tab to view your satellite receiver status. To mark a selected location as a waypoint: 1. Press PAGE to open the Map Page. 2.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > CREATING A FLIGHT PLAN (ROUTE) Creating a Flight Plan (Route) You can create a Flight Plan (or route) using the Route Page in the Main Menu. The Route is then saved for future use. You can also create a route using the Active Route Page for immediate use. For more information, refer to “Creating Routes” beginning on page 56 and “Editing and Managing Routes” beginning on page 69.
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FOLLOWING YOUR FLIGHT PLAN Following your Flight Plan When you have created and started your flight plan (or route), the GPSMAP 296 guides you to the destination using a variety of tools. NOTE: After you perform an update to your Jeppesen Database, verify that all of your flight plans (routes) in your unit are still current. If there is an obsolete Jeppesen aviation point in a saved route, the route is locked and unusable.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE AVIATION MODE PAGES This section discusses the major pages, such as the Map and Terrain Pages, as well as some additional aviation features, such as E6B. Map Page The GPSMAP 296 features a real-time moving map that can do much more than just plot your course. The Map Page shows map information (digital cartography) that includes airspace boundaries, airports, navaids, lakes, rivers, coastlines, cities, and highways.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE Map Orientation There are three map orientation options: North Up orients the map like a paper map, Track Up orients the map in the direction of travel, and Course Up orients the map in the direction of the destination. When using Track Up or Course Up, the North arrow indicates the orientation. To change the map orientation, press PAGE to open the Map Page. Press MENU. Select Set up Map, and press ENTER. Refer to page 33 for information.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE Panning the Map The panning arrow allows you to pan the map to show other map areas. As you pan past the edge of the current map, the screen moves to provide continuous map coverage. To pan the map: Press up, down, right, or left on the ROCKER. The panning arrow moves the map so you can view different parts of the map.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE 2. Press ENTER to view more information about the point. The information and on-screen buttons shown vary based on the type of item selected. In some cases, additional information tabs appear at the top of the Information Page or Waypoint Page. 3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the extra tabs and view the information. 4. Select an on-screen button, and press ENTER. 5. Press QUIT to exit the Information Page.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE Clearing Unwanted Details from the Map You can remove items from the map (declutter the screen) to remove unwanted items, such as highways. Aviation Mode has various levels of declutter. To quickly declutter the map, press ENTER. You can also declutter the map on the Terrain Page. To declutter the Map Page: 1. From the Map Page, press ENTER. Clear-1 appears under the map range.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE Setting the Bug Indicator You can set a bug indicator to show bearing or course to steer. You can also enter a specific heading reference for the indicator. To set the Bug Indicator: 1. From the Map Page, press MENU to open the options menu. 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Set Bug Indicator and press ENTER. 3. A list of Bug Indicator options appears.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE Changing the Page Layout and Data Fields To customize the pages to show what you want, adjust the page layout and data fields. You can adjust how the following pages look on the screen: Map, Terrain, Panel, Compass, Highway, Location Data, Trip Computer, and optional Sonar Page. You can adjust the data fields on many of these pages as well. To set up the page layout: 1. Press PAGE to show the page you want to change. 2. Press MENU to open the options menu. 3.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > MAP PAGE Additional Map Data You can view the data that is currently loaded on your GPSMAP 296 unit and data card. To review or change data card information: 1. Access the Map Page, and press MENU. 2. From the options menu, highlight Map Information, and press ENTER. Map Family highlighted. Press ENTER to view the individual maps in the family. Map Card Information Page 3.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > TERRAIN PAGE Terrain Page The Terrain Page, available only in Aviation Mode, provides an overhead view of the terrain and obstacles beneath you. Alert windows appear on all pages to inform you of your proximity to the terrain and obstacles, as well as an unsafe descent rate. These alerts depend on user-defined parameters in the Terrain setup.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > TERRAIN PAGE Alerts If you are on another page of the GPSMAP 296 unit, Terrain, Obstacle, and Descent Rate Alerts show in the lower left-hand corner to inform you of the situation. The alert remains on the screen until the flight path has cleared the obstacle or terrain, or until you press QUIT. Additional Terrain Page Options Access the Terrain Page options menu by pressing MENU while you are on the Terrain Page.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > TERRAIN PAGE Setting Up the Terrain Page and Alerts The Terrain Setup Page allows you to set levels for terrain alerts as well as obstacles in or near your flight path. Caution Elevation Select the Caution Elevation. If the terrain or an obstacle is within the Caution Elevation you entered, the GPSMAP 296 provides an alert. Look Ahead Time The Look Ahead Time for Terrain and Obstacle Alerts determines the time when an alert annunciation occurs.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > PANEL PAGE Panel Page The Panel Page shows GPS-derived data in a graphical format, similar to an instrument panel. Keep in mind the differences between this page and your mechanical instruments, as your mechanical panel instruments use sensors that provide information different from that derived using GPS. The Panel Page appears only when the GPSMAP 296 is in Aviation Mode. The Panel Page shows a graphic Horizontal Situation Indicator (HSI) surrounded by additional indicators.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > PANEL PAGE Setting Up the Panel Page You can set the bug indicator and change the CDI scale to suit your needs. To set a user-defined bug heading reference: 1. With the Panel Page appears, press MENU to show the Panel Page options menu. 2. Highlight Set Bug Indicator, and press ENTER. 3. Highlight User Selected, and press ENTER. A window appears at the center of the HSI, showing the current bug indicator setting. 4.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > PANEL PAGE VNAV (Vertical Navigation) The “Approaching VNAV Profile” message appears one minute prior to the initial descent point. The descent angle locks to prevent changes in speed from altering the profile. The VNAV feature does not take into account any changes in groundspeed that occur during the transition from level flight to descent or climb.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > PANEL PAGE VNAV Indicator Panel Page showing the VNAV Indicator VNAV indicators also appear on the Map Page when the page layout is set to Map With Overlay. You are at the proper altitude for the VNAV profile when the blue bars are centered within the VNAV indicators. The VNAV waypoint automatically changes to your destination after you begin navigating to a destination. VNAV Setup Tab Target Altitude—enter the altitude you want to be at when you reach your target location.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > ACTIVE ROUTE PAGE Active Route Page Whenever you start a route (flight plan) or initiate a Go To while in Aviation or Marine Mode, the Active Route Page shows each point (waypoint or map item) of the active route, with the point name, Course, Distance, and several other fields of information. The current destination point, the active point, is marked with an arrow. As you navigate a route, the list automatically updates to indicate the active point first.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > POSITION DATA PAGE Position Data Page Position Data Page Options The Position Data Page provides a quick reference for the important data you want to show while navigating a route in Aviation and Marine Modes. The default page shows a compass ribbon, your current latitude and longitude, the current date and time, the location you are in reference to the nearest landmark, and eight userselectable data fields.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > FLIGHT LOG Flight Log The Flights tab shows a list of any recorded flights, including date, route of flight, and flight time. The GPSMAP 296 saves up to 50 recorded flights while in Aviation Mode. Entries on this list are automatically created for each flight. The bottom of the Flights tab shows the time of your last flight. This resets if you select All Unit Defaults from the System tab options menu. To view details for a flight: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > AIRCRAFT INFORMATION Aircraft Information The Aircraft tab is divided into two sub tabs: Aircraft Profile and Weight & Balance. To open the Aircraft tab of the Main Menu: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Aircraft from the vertical list of tabs. 3. Press the ROCKER right or left to highlight either the Aircraft Profile tab or the Weight & Balance tab from the top of the screen.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > AIRCRAFT INFORMATION To rename or delete a saved aircraft profile: 1. From the Aircraft Profile tab, use the ROCKER to highlight the Current Aircraft and to select the profile you want to rename. 2. Use the ROCKER to select the on-screen Rename or Delete button, and press ENTER. If Rename is selected, use the ROCKER and ENTER keys to enter a new tail number.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > E6B TAB E6B Tab The E6B tab in the Main Menu calculates Density Altitude, True Airspeed, and Winds Aloft (Head Wind, Tail Wind, Wind From, and Wind Speed), based on information you enter. To open the E6B tab of the Main Menu: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight E6B from the vertical list of tabs. Total Air Temperature—required entry for density altitude/true airspeed calculation.
AVIATION MODE PAGES > E6B TAB To calculate true airspeed and density altitude: 1. From the E6B tab, highlight the Indicated Altitude field (at the top of the page), and press ENTER. 2. Use the ROCKER to enter the altitude shown on your altimeter. Press ENTER when finished. 3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 to enter the Calibrated Airspeed, Baro Pressure, and Total Air Temperature. (For Calibrated Airspeed, use the speed shown on your airspeed indicator. Use the current altimeter setting for Baro Pressure.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGE SEQUENCE BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE To switch usage modes: 1. Press and hold PAGE. 2. Use the ROCKER to select Aviation, Automotive, or Marine, and press ENTER. Automotive Mode Page Sequence Automotive Mode features two main pages: the Map and Trip Computer Pages. Optional Highway and Compass Pages can be enabled in Automotive Mode.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > NAVIGATING IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE Navigating in Automotive Mode Automotive Mode and Marine Mode are similar. Most of the features discussed here also apply to Marine Mode. There are several ways to begin navigating to a point in Automotive Mode: • Select a point on the map and press the Direct To . to start a new route using the Find • Press the Direct To menu, or start a saved route or track. • Press NRST/FIND to search for a particular item and create a route to it.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > NAVIGATING IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE To start new route using the Find Menu: to open the Navigate menu. 1. Press the Direct To 2. Highlight New Route (or Go To Point when in Marine Mode), and press ENTER to open the Find Menu. 3. From the Find Menu, highlight Waypoints, and press ENTER. (You can also choose to go to other points, such as Cities or Services from this list. The steps vary only slightly from those listed for Waypoints.) 4.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > FINDING AN ITEM Finding an Item The Find Menu allows you to easily search the stored waypoints and points of interest. You can access the Find Menu by pressing NRST/FIND. The Find Menu is comprised of several default categories: Waypoints, Cities, Exits, Aviation Points, Transportation, Weather Data and Tide Stations. Additional categories appear based on the optional BlueChart or MapSource data card in the unit.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > FINDING AN ITEM To find an item from another location: 1. From any page, press NRST/FIND. 2. Using the ROCKER, highlight the category you want from the list, and press ENTER. 3. Press MENU. Highlight Near Other, and press ENTER. If you are actively following a route, you can also choose one of the other options listed in the Find From list, as shown below. To find an item near another item: 1. Press NRST/FIND. 2.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > FINDING AN ITEM Viewing the Information Page Each item on the map and each item listed in the Find Menu results list has an information page. To view details about an item: 1. Highlight a point on the map or in the search results list, and press ENTER. An Information Page appears with details about the item in a tabbed format.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > CREATING ROUTES Creating Routes To create a route using the Find Menu: The GPSMAP 296 lets you create and store up to 50 reversible routes, with up to 300 waypoints each. Routes can be created in two ways. The first way is to select waypoints from the Find Menu, allowing you to see a list of the route points as you create the route.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > CREATING ROUTES To create a route graphically: 1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to highlight Route from the vertical list of tabs. 2. Press MENU to show the Route options menu. Select New Route, and press ENTER. 3. Highlight the first blank slot in the Route List Page, and press MENU. Use the ROCKER to highlight Edit on Map, and press ENTER. 4. Use the ROCKER to highlight the location, and press ENTER.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > CREATING WAYPOINTS Creating Waypoints Waypoints are locations or landmarks you record and store in your GPSMAP 296. Save your current location as a waypoint by pressing and holding ENTER/MARK. You can also find waypoints using the map or Find Menu and them store them in the unit. The GPSMAP 296 stores up to 3,000 alphanumeric waypoints with a user-defined icon, category, comment, altitude, depth, and temperature available for each waypoint.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > CREATING WAYPOINTS Creating Waypoints From the Map You can create a waypoint using the Map Page. When you pan the map and move the arrow over a map item, a highlighted description of that item appears. The GPSMAP 296 uses the map item text shown on the map as the default name and symbol for the new waypoint. To create a new waypoint using the Map Page: 1. Press PAGE until the Map Page appears. 2. Use the ROCKER to move the arrow to the map location, or map feature. 3.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > CREATING WAYPOINTS Creating a Waypoint by Entering Coordinates You can manually enter location coordinates to create a waypoint. This method can be useful for creating a waypoint at a specific latitude/longitude location from a chart. You can manually change the location coordinates in the New Waypoint Page to create a new waypoint or use the Create Waypoint selection in the User Points sub tab options menu. To create a new waypoint by entering location coordinates: 1.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > FOLLOWING AN AUTOMOTIVE ROUTE Following an Automotive Route The GPSMAP 296 guides you to your destination using many tools, such as the Map Page and Current Route Page. Track Your Progress with the Map Page You can track the progress of your route on the Map Page. Your route is shown with a magenta line. The next turn appears in the top bar on the Map Page.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > EDITING YOUR ROUTE Editing Your Route When you are navigating a route, you can edit that route. You can add areas and roads to avoid as well as temporary detours to your current route. You can also add stops along your trip, called Via Points. While navigating, press Direct To shown below.
BASIC OPERATION IN AUTOMOTIVE MODE > EDITING YOUR ROUTE Creating a Detour If, while navigating a route, there is road construction or a closed road, you can have your GPSMAP 296 create a detour route. While navigating a course, press Direct To . Select Detour from the Navigate menu. Select the distance you want, and press ENTER. The GPSMAP 296 recalculates your course based on your detour distance. To end the detour manually, press Direct To again and select Cancel Detour.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > MAP PAGE AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES Data fields This section discusses the major pages in Automotive Mode, such as the Map Page, as well as some additional features, such as routes and points. Map Page Refer to page 28 through 35 in the “Aviation Mode Pages and Features” section for more details about the Map Page. The location marker (icon) that shows your travel on the Map Page is a triangle symbol in Marine and Automotive modes.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > HIGHWAY PAGE Highway Page To hide/show the Highway Page: The Highway Page is only available in Marine Mode and Automotive Mode. In Automotive Mode, the Highway Page is not shown by default. See the directions to the right to show the Highway Page. 1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu. 2. Use ROCKER to highlight the Display tab. 3. Highlight the Highway Page field, and press ENTER. 4. Select Off to hide or On to show, and press ENTER.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > HIGHWAY PAGE Highway Page Options The Highway Page options menu allows you to define the data fields and select which waypoints and track are shown on the screen. The data fields, located along the right side of the page, provide a userselectable layout of various types of useful data. The layout can also be changed to show additional data fields. To show and select the Highway Page Options: 1. 2. 3. 4. Press PAGE repeatedly until the Highway Page appears. Press MENU.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > CURRENT ROUTE PAGE Current Route Page Whenever you have started a route in the GPSMAP 296 in Automotive Mode, the Current Route Page shows each turn of the active route, with the distance to the turn, the street name, and estimated time enroute and time of arrival. As you navigate a route, the turn list automatically updates to indicate the next turn at the top of the list.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > TRIP COMPUTER PAGE Trip Computer Page The Trip Computer Page provides a quick reference for the important data you want to show while navigating a route in Automotive Mode. It indicates your current speed and many helpful statistics about your trip, such as bearing, average speed, and moving time. Reset the Trip Computer before beginning a trip.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING ROUTES Editing and Managing Routes The Route tab shows the routes you have created in your GPSMAP 296 unit. For complete information on routes, refer to the “Creating Routes” section beginning on page 56. Viewing All of Your Saved Routes The Route tab in the Main Menu lists all of your saved routes and routes on one easy-to-read Route List. Route Tab To view the route list: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING ROUTES Navigating a Saved Route The Navigate Route option allows you to easily select a saved route. For information about creating routes, refer to the “Creating Routes” section beginning on page 56. To navigate a route in Automotive Mode: 1. In Automotive Mode, press Direct To . 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Navigate Route, and press ENTER. 3. Highlight the route, and press ENTER.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING ROUTES To review individual route points: 1. Press MENU twice, and highlight Route. 2. Use ROCKER to highlight the name of the route, and press ENTER. 3. From the Route Review Page, highlight the point, and press ENTER. To add points to the route: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Use ROCKER to select Route. 2. Use ROCKER to select the route, and press ENTER. 3.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING ROUTES To edit the route on the map: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Use ROCKER to select Route from the vertical menu of tabs. 2. Select the route, and press ENTER. Press MENU to open the Route Review Page options menu. 3. Highlight Edit on Map, and press ENTER. 4. Use ROCKER to select a location on the route (the route turns white when the arrow is over the route). Press ENTER. 5.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS Editing and Managing Waypoints When you have created and stored a waypoint, you can modify, review, rename, move, or delete it at any time through the Waypoint Review and Waypoint Edit Pages. These pages provide virtually the same information. For practical purposes, we refer to these pages as the “Waypoint Pages,” unless it is necessary to discuss them individually. To access the Waypoint Edit Page: 1.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS To change the waypoint name: 1. Open the Waypoint Review or Waypoint Edit Page. 2. Highlight the waypoint name field, and press ENTER. 3. Use the ROCKER to enter a new name, and press ENTER when done. To edit the next waypoint in the list: 1. After you have edited the waypoint on the Waypoint Edit Page, highlight Next, and press ENTER. 2. The Waypoint list appears with the next waypoint highlighted. Press ENTER to edit that waypoint.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS Adding a Waypoint to a Route Append to Route adds the selected waypoint to the end of a route. This option appears when you are not navigating. When you are navigating to a destination, Add to Current Route appears. The selected waypoint is added to the current route before the route destination. To add a waypoint to the end of the route: 1. Open the Waypoint Page, and press MENU to open the options menu. Waypoint Options Menu 2.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS Projecting a Waypoint You can also create a new waypoint by “projecting” the distance and bearing from a specific location to a new location. To create a new waypoint by projecting its location: 1. Create a waypoint using your favorite method (discussed in previous sections). The new waypoint is created with the next available waypoint number and the receiver’s last known location as the default location. 2.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS Organizing Waypoints into Categories You can organize your waypoints into categories, which can help when managing and using your waypoints. For example, you can create a “Vacation” category that stores all of the waypoints you use for your upcoming vacation. When the vacation is over, you can delete all the waypoints in that category by pushing a few buttons. You can create up to 15 categories. To create a waypoint category: 1.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS To assign a category to a waypoint: 1. Open the Waypoint Page. (You can also change the category on the New Waypoint Page.) 2. Select the Category field, and press ENTER. Select the category to which you want to assign this waypoint. Managing Points The Points tab of the Main Menu features two sub tabs, User and Proximity, that let you edit waypoints and manage a large number of waypoints quickly and efficiently.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS The total number of stored and available waypoints information is available at the bottom of the User sub tab, with the stored waypoints arranged in alphanumerical order. To start a Go To from the User sub tab: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs, then highlight User from the top row of tabs. 3. Use the ROCKER to highlight a waypoint. 4. Press Direct To .
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS To delete waypoints by symbol or category: 1. From the User sub tab, highlight the waypoint you want to delete, and press MENU. 2. Highlight Delete by Symbol or Delete by Category, and press ENTER. 3. When deleting by symbol, highlight the symbol of the waypoint you want to delete, and press ENTER. When deleting by category, select the category you want to delete from the list, and press ENTER. 4. Highlight OK, and press ENTER to confirm.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > EDITING AND MANAGING WAYPOINTS To turn proximity alarms on or off: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs. Highlight Proximity from the row of tabs along the top of the screen. 3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the field below Proximity Alarm, and press ENTER. 4. Select the ON or OFF setting, and press ENTER. To clear one or all proximity waypoints from the list: 1. Open the Proximity sub tab. 2.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > MANAGING YOUR TRACKS Managing Your Tracks The GPSMAP 296 draws an electronic breadcrumb trail or “track log” on the Map Page as you travel. The track log contains points along its path, including time, and location for each point. Setting Up and Saving Your Tracks The track log starts recording as soon as the GPSMAP 296 gets a location fix.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > MANAGING YOUR TRACKS To clear the track log: 1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Track, then highlight the Active sub tab to the right. 3. Select the Clear button, and press ENTER. To save a portion of the track log: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight the Track tab, and highlight the Active sub tab. 3. Use the ROCKER to select Save, and press ENTER. 4.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > MANAGING YOUR TRACKS Saved Sub Tab The Saved sub tab lists all of the saved tracks in your unit. Saved Sub Tab Press MENU to open the Saved sub tab options menu: Review on Map—shows the highlighted track on the Map Page. TracBack—navigates the track. You can either navigate the track as it is saved, or you can navigate the track in reverse. Delete Track—erases highlighted track from the unit’s memory. Delete All—erases all tracks from the unit’s memory.
AUTOMOTIVE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > MANAGING YOUR TRACKS Navigating a Saved Track The TracBack function allows you to retrace your path using the track log automatically stored in the receiver’s memory, which eliminates the need to store waypoints along the way. TracBack routes are created by reducing your track log into a route with up to 300 turns and activating an inverted route along those points.
BASIC OPERATION IN MARINE MODE > MARINE MODE PAGE SEQUENCE BASIC OPERATION IN MARINE MODE To switch usage modes: 1. Press and hold the PAGE key. 2. Use the ROCKER to select Aviation, Automotive, or Marine, and press ENTER. Marine Mode Page Sequence Marine Mode features five main pages: the Map, Compass, Highway, Active Route, and Position Data Page. If you are connected to a sonar module, such as a Garmin GSD 20, an additional Sonar Page is available.
BASIC OPERATION IN MARINE MODE > NAVIGATING IN MARINE MODE Navigating in Marine Mode Press Direct To on any page to begin navigating to a destination. The Go To Point, Navigate Route, and Navigate Track options operate the same as in Automotive Mode. Refer to the previous section for detailed instructions on those options. In Marine Mode, you can initiate Man OverBoard (MOB) navigation, which places a waypoint in the location and then navigates you back to that location.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > MAP PAGE MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES Marine Mode operates in a similar fashion to Aviation Mode, while also providing many features and operations of Automotive Mode. Refer to the corresponding sections in the Aviation and Automotive sections for further details. Map Page Refer to page 28 through 35 in the “Aviation Mode Pages and Features” section for more details about the Map Page.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > COMPASS PAGE Compass Page During active navigation, the Compass Page guides you to your destination with data fields and a graphic compass screen with a bearing pointer. Rotating compass ring Bug indicator Compass arrow Data fields waypoint. If the arrow points any direction other than up, turn toward the arrow until it points up, then continue in that direction. NOTE: You must be moving for the compass to accurately update and show your heading.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > COMPASS PAGE Using the Marine Timer The Marine Timer, specifically designed for sail boat racing, allows you to easily count up or down specified time increments. As common in sail boat racing, there is often a 5-minute warning countdown, followed by a 4-minute preparation countdown, and finally a one-minute final countdown. You must change the Compass Page layout to use the Marine Timer. To open the Marine Timer: 1. Press PAGE repeatedly until the Compass Page appears. 2.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > DSC DSC Page The DSC page of the Main Menu allows you to control and set up the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) features on the GPSMAP 296. DSC uses marine VHF radio and GPS technologies to transmit and receive location information. The chartplotter repeats the call properties received from the VHF radio on the chartplotter. The GPSMAP 296 requires input from a DSC enabled VHF radio to show position, and to sound/show alerts from a Distress Call or Position Report.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > DSC Understanding Distress Calls When the GPSMAP 296 receives a Distress Call from a connected DSC enabled VHF radio, an alert message and notification page appear, and an alarm tone is sounded. Distress Calls are shown in the DSC Call List, and Log with a checkered symbol. You also have the ability to input a caller’s name, if it is known. The caller’s name replaces the MMSI number as a reference when entered.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > DSC DSC Call List The DSC Call List shows the 50 most recent calls, even if the unit is left unattended. The Call List shows the most recent call from a vessel. If a second call is received from the same vessel, it replaces the first call in the Call List. Press MENU to sort the list and delete entries. DSC Log When DSC calls are received, they are automatically stored in the Log, with the latest call at the top. The unit can store up to 100 logs.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > DSC DSC Directory The DSC Directory acts much like a phone book and can hold up to 50 entries. Pressing MENU from this page allows you to add a New Item, Delete a highlighted entry, or Delete All entries. DSC Directory entries. Press ENTER to open the entry review page. Blank entry. Press ENTER to add a Directory entry. DSC Directory To add a new Directory entry: 1. Open the DSC Directory in the Main Menu. 2.
MARINE MODE PAGES AND FEATURES > DSC Navigating to a Position Report or Distress Call After a Position Report or a Distress Call is received, navigation can be quickly set to the call location. To navigate to a Position Report or Distress Call using the Direct To key: 1. Press Direct To . 2. With Go To (MMSI/Name) highlighted, press ENTER. Setting up DSC The DSC Setup tab allows you to turn DSC On and Off.
MAIN MENU > GPS TAB MAIN MENU The Main Menu features some additional pages that are useful to you as you plan trips and use your GPSMAP 296. Some of these pages have already been discussed in-depth in previous sections. The following tabs in the Main Menu allow you to restore their default: Track, E6B, Alarms, Display, Sound, and Setup. GPS Tab The GPS tab provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition, receiver status, and accuracy.
MAIN MENU > FLIGHTS, ROUTE, AND POINTS TABS Flights Tab The Flights tab shows a list of any recorded flights, including date, route of flight, and flight time. The GPSMAP 296 saves up to 50 recorded flights while in Aviation Mode. Entries on this list are automatically created for each flight. More information on the Flights tab is located on page 45. Points Tab The Points tab contains two sub tabs, User and Proximity, which allow you to manage a large number of waypoints quickly and efficiently.
MAIN MENU > TRACK AND SONAR TABS Track Tab Use the Track tab to specify whether or not to record a track log, define how it is recorded, or save the track log data for future use. The Track tab is divided into two sub tabs: Active and Saved. For more information about tracks, see the “Managing Your Tracks” section beginning on page 82. Active Sub Tab The Active sub tab is for the active log (the log currently being recorded.) It displays the amount of track memory used and current settings.
MAIN MENU > AIRCRAFT, E6B, AND ALARMS TABS Aircraft Tab The Aircraft tab is divided into two sub tabs: Aircraft Profile and Weight & Balance. Information on the Aircraft Tab is located on page 46. Alarms Tab The Alarms tab on the Main Menu allows you to define alarm settings. To access the Alarms tab on the Main Menu: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Alarms from the vertical list of tabs.
MAIN MENU > ALARMS TAB To set a persistent alarm: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Use the ROCKER to select the Alarms tab. 3. Highlight the box next to the alarm you would like to make persistent (for example, Next Turn). 4. Press ENTER to place a check mark in the Persist box. When an alarm goes off, it sounds until you acknowledge the alarm message by pressing ENTER.
MAIN MENU > ALARMS TAB System Alarms Sub Tab System Alarms Sub Tab Clock—sets an alarm based on the unit’s clock. Select On, and then enter a specific time that you want the alarm to sound. The unit must be on for the clock alarm to work. Sonar Alarms Sub Tab (Marine Mode Only) You must be receiving sonar NMEA data for sonar alarms to work. Sonar Alarms Sub Tab Shallow Water and Deep Water—sets an alarm to sound when you enter an area of water that is too shallow or deep.
MAIN MENU > CALENDAR TAB Calendar Tab The Calendar allows you to plan flights or trips and shows sun & moon information and hunting & fishing information. To add a route (or point) to the calendar: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Calendar from the vertical list of tabs. The current day is shown in Day View. Highlight an arrow, and press ENTER to change the date in the view.
MAIN MENU > CELESTIAL TAB Celestial Tab The Celestial tab on the Main Menu shows sun and moon information, data for the tide, and hunting and fishing information. You can show this data for your current location, a location from the map, or a waypoint location. Also, you can select a different date and time, or use the current data. To access the Celestial Tabs of the Main Menu: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Celestial from the vertical list of tabs. 3.
MAIN MENU > CELESTIAL TAB To view Sun & Moon information for a different location: 1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the From field, and press ENTER. 2. Highlight Use Find Menu, and press ENTER. The Find Menu automatically opens. 3. Select a waypoint or point of interest, and press ENTER. 4. On the waypoint information page, press ENTER. The unit shows the sun and moon information for the location you selected. To use the current location, highlight the From field.
MAIN MENU > CELESTIAL TAB To view a tide chart for a different tide station: 1. From the Tide tab, highlight the At field, and press ENTER. The Find Menu opens showing the tide stations. 2. Press MENU and select Near Current Location, Near Current Route, Near Other (select another location using the map), or Near Destination. The list is updated with your search requirements. 3. Select a tide station from the list, and press ENTER. The Tide Station Information Page opens. 4. Highlight OK, and press ENTER.
MAIN MENU > CELESTIAL TAB Hunt & Fish Sub Tab The Hunt & Fish sub tab provides you with predictions of the good and best times to hunt and fish in a selected location on a specific date. To show the Hunt & Fish information: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Celestial from the vertical list of tabs using the ROCKER. 3. Use the ROCKER to select the Hunt & Fish sub tab. To view Hunt & Fish information for a different date: 1. Highlight the Date field, and press ENTER. 2.
MAIN MENU > MESSAGE TAB Message Tab To show or hide messages using the Log Filter: The Message tab on the Main Menu shows a list of messages generated by your GPSMAP 296. Use the ROCKER to scroll through the entire list of messages on the Log tab. Use the Log Filter tab to show only the types of messages you want to view. 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Message from the vertical list of tabs. 3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Log Filter tab. By default all messages are shown.
MAIN MENU > DISPLAY TAB Display Tab The Display tab on the Main Menu allows you to set several features of the screen, such as what pages to show in the main page sequence and how long the backlight stays on. To view the Display tab: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Display from the vertical list of tabs. Twilight Adjustment—allows the unit to adjust the backlight for optimum viewing during twilight times.
MAIN MENU > SOUND TAB Sound Tab The Sound tab of the Main Menu allows you to customize the sounds your GPSMAP 296 makes to suit your needs. To view the Sound tab: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Highlight Sound from the vertical list of tabs. Beeper—sets the beeper to chime during key presses and alarms (Key and Alarm) or on Alarms Only. Attention Tone—turns the attention tone that sounds before the vocal prompts on and off.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Setup Tab To customize how your GPSMAP 296 operates, adjust certain system settings in the Main Menu. System Sub Tab To open the System tab, press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then select System from the row of tabs along the top of the page. Text Language—allows you to select from various languages for the unit’s pages and menus. WAAS—allows you to Disable and Enable WAAS from this field.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Road Routing Sub Tab Use the Road Routing sub tab to select road routing settings. To access the Road Routing sub tab 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Use the ROCKER to select the Setup tab. 3. Press right on the ROCKER to select the Road Routing sub tab. Route Preference—allows the unit to calculate a route for: • Faster Time—routes calculated are faster to drive, but can be longer in distance.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Calculate Routes for—sets route calculation for the particular vehicle you are operating to optimize the route for your vehicle type, as some roads have vehicle-based restrictions. Avoid—allows you to avoid certain road types and maneuvers on your route. The unit uses these road types only if alternative routes take you too far out of your way or if no other road is available. Custom Avoids—allows you to enter specific areas and roads that you would like to avoid in your navigation.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Timers Sub Tab To open the Timers sub tab, press MENU twice, select Setup from the vertical tab list, and Timers from the row of tabs along the top. Time Sub Tab The Time sub tab allows you to set the time format and zone. You can also set the unit to conform to Daylight Saving Time. The current time and date is shown at the bottom of the page. To open the Time sub tab, press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Units Sub Tab Location Sub Tab Distance and Speed—select the unit to show your speed and distance traveled. Location Format Sub Tab The Units sub tab allows you to customize measurement units for the entire system. To open the Units sub tab, press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then select Units from the row of tabs along the top of the page.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Selecting a Different Heading Reference You can select from Auto Mag Var, True, Grid, and User Mag Var. Auto Mag Var provides magnetic north heading references that are automatically determined from your current location. True provides headings based on a true north reference. Grid provides headings based on a grid north reference (and is used in conjunction with the grid position formats).
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Com 1 and Com 2 Sub Tabs The Com 1 and Com 2 sub tabs controls the input/output format used when connecting your unit to external devices. To open the Com 1 and Com 2 sub tab, press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Highlight and select the Serial Data Format you want.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB • Text Out—allows the unit to output simple text data that includes, data, time, location, and velocity. The Baud can be set to 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600. • None—provides no interfacing capabilities. If you select GARMIN DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out format, you can control a differential beacon receiver directly from your GPSMAP 296 using the Com 1 or Com 2 sub tabs.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB The Status field shows one of the following: • Tuning—the unit is attempting to tune to the specified frequency and bit rate. • Scanning—the unit is automatically scanning through the frequencies and bit rates. • Receiving—the unit is receiving DGPS signal and ready for operation. • Check Wiring—the unit is not making connection with DGPS receiver. To restart the scan: 1. Press MENU. 2. Highlight Restart Scan, and press ENTER. 118 To manually enter a frequency and bit rate: 1.
MAIN MENU > SETUP TAB Advanced NMEA Output Setup If you are going to interface the GPSMAP 296 with another piece of equipment, the unit needs to be set to output NMEA data. The NMEA data transmission can be customized to keep the output rate at two seconds. If too many NMEA sentences are selected the unit can take longer than two seconds to update. You can also set the rate to Fast to output a minimum number of NMEA sentences at 1-sceond intervals. To access the Advanced NMEA Output Setup: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > SHOWING SONAR ON THE MAP PAGE SETTING UP AND USING SONAR This section covers the additional sonar options for the GPSMAP 296 when used in conjunction with a GSD 20 Sounder Module. Read the GSD 20 Installation Instructions to properly install the sounder module. When you turn on your GPSMAP 296, the GSD 20 automatically turns on. 3. Press MENU. Use the ROCKER to highlight Set up Page Layout, and press ENTER. 4. Highlight Map with Sonar, and press ENTER.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > USING THE SONAR PAGE Using the Sonar Page When combined with a GSD 20 Sounder Module, your GPSMAP 296 becomes a powerful fishfinder/flasher with the Sonar Page. If a GSD 20 is attached, but the unit does not detect a transducer, a “Sonar Turned Off” message appears across the Sonar Page. If a GSD 20 is not attached, the Sonar Page only appears when the unit is in Simulator Mode. The middle of the page contains a right-to-left moving sonar image of the water beneath your boat.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > USING THE SONAR PAGE Adjusting the Sonar Page The Adjustment Menu allows direct access to the settings and features most commonly used on the Sonar Page. There are ten main adjustment options available: Range, Zoom, View, Gain, Target Level, Whiteline, Frequency, Depth Line, Noise Reject and Scroll. Use the ROCKER and ENTER keys to make all adjustments. The currently selected option appears in the upper left corner.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > USING THE SONAR PAGE • 2X Split—shows two reduced-size sonar pictures at the same time. The right half of the screen shows the complete sonar picture at its original scale. The left half shows a portion of the original picture at 1/2 depth scale. • 2X Zoom—shows the 2X zoomed picture on the full screen. • 4X Split—shows two reduced pictures, the right at the original depth scale and the left at 1/4 the original depth scale.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > USING THE SONAR PAGE Noise Reject—helps filter unwanted noise from the Sonar Page. The Noise Reject can be turned Off, set to Normal (automatically adjusts for optimum viewing) or to a fixed 1–100% setting. When setting the Noise Reject, remember that a higher noise rejection setting is less likely to show fish or structures. Resizing the Split Screen You can adjust the way the split screen is shown. This option is only available when a zoom scale other than No Zoom is selected.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > SETTING UP THE SONAR PAGE Setting Up the Sonar Page Use the Sonar tab in the Main Menu to set up the Sonar Page. Press MENU two times to open the Main Menu. Select Sonar from the vertical row of tabs on the left, then select Setup from the row of tabs along the top of the screen. Depth Number—select how efficient the digital depth update rate is. Fast Sonar update updates quicker and is recommended for lownoise water deeper than 50 feet.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > SETTING UP THE SONAR PAGE Calibrating the Water Speed If you select Temp, Spd is for the Transducer option on the Sonar Setup tab, you also need to calibrate the water speed to ensure that the Water Speed shown on your unit is accurate. The calibration should take place in water having little or no current. The unit automatically uses the GPS ground speed, if it is available, for comparison on the calibration.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > SETTING UP THE SONAR PAGE Setting Up the Sonar Display You can set up how the sonar information is shown on the screen. Press MENU two times to open the Main Menu. Select Sonar from the vertical row of tabs on the left, then select Display from the row of tabs along the top of the screen. Flasher—select On to show a graphic Flasher representation on the far right side of the sonar screen. This graphic Flasher shows structure and bottom returns much the same as a true Flasher.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > UNDERSTANDING SONAR Understanding Sonar The transducer mounted on your vessel transmits sound waves toward the bottom of a lake, stream, or seabed in a cone-shaped pattern. When a transmitted sound wave strikes an underwater object—such as the bottom, a piece of structure, or a fish—sound is reflected back to the transducer. The transducer collects the reflected sound waves and sends the data to the GPSMAP 296 to be processed and shown.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > UNDERSTANDING SONAR Transducer Coverage The area covered by the transmitted sound waves is determined by the cone angle of the transducer and the water depth. The wide Coverage cone angles (40°) associated with low frequencies (50 kHz) provide Diameter a large coverage area for finding fish within a coverage width that is approximately 2/3 of the water depth. However, this also means that wide cone angles produce less bottom detail and resolution.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > UNDERSTANDING SONAR Whiteline The GSD 20 Sounder Module can help you determine whether the bottom is hard or soft. When the sonar sound waves are reflected back by the bottom, a hard bottom returns a stronger signal than a soft bottom. A thin whiteline indicates a softer bottom, while a thick whiteline indicates a harder bottom. Normally, a red line is used to show the point where water meets the bottom.
SETTING UP AND USING SONAR > VIEWING THE TEMPERATURE SONAR TAB Viewing the Sonar Temperature Tab NOTE: You must be receiving proper sonar data from another device, such as a Garmin GSD 20 Sounder Module, to view temperature information. The Temperature sub tab provides a visual graph of water temperature changes over a period of time. The graph reads from right to left, so that the most recent temperature measured is shown on the far right side of the graph.
APPENDIX > SPECIFICATIONS APPENDIX Specifications Physical Specifications Size: Weight: Display: Case: Temp. Range: Power Battery: Battery Life: Source: Fuse: 132 5.7'' W x 3.2'' H x 1.9'' D (14.5 x 8.1 x 4.8 cm) 13.6 oz (.39 kg) 3.75'' diagonal (9.
APPENDIX > OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES Optional Accessories PC Interface Cable—Connects the unit to a serial port on your PC. To obtain replacement parts and optional accessories, contact your Garmin Dealer, Garmin Product Support in the U.S.A. at 800/800.1020, or Garmin Europe at 44/0870.8501241. Programmable Data Cards—Blank data cards available in a variety of sizes.
APPENDIX > INSTALLATION INFORMATION Installation Information This section of the Appendix provides information on connecting the GPSMAP 296 to auxiliary devices and removing the antenna. Connecting the Power/Data Cable The power/data cable connects the GPSMAP 296 to an 11–35 VDC system and provides interface capabilities for connecting external devices. The color code in the diagram below and to the right indicates the appropriate harness connections. Replacement fuse is a 3AG - 1.5 Amp fuse.
APPENDIX > INSTALLATION INFORMATION Connecting Your GPSMAP 296 to a Computer Your GPSMAP 296 can be connected to your computer using the included USB-PC Interface Cable to connect to a USB data port or the optional PC Interface Cable to connect to a DB-9 serial communications port. NOTE: Fully install the supplied MapSource program, Trip & Waypoint Manager, on your computer before connecting the USB cable to the computer.
APPENDIX > INSTALLATION INFORMATION Using xImage for Customized Waypoint Symbols xImage allows you to exchange images between your PC and your GPSMAP 296. You can download and save screen shots of any screen shown on your unit. xImage also allows you to download customizable splash screens and waypoint symbols from compatible GPS units, customize them (if you have an image editing program on your PC), and send them back to your GPS unit. You can download xImage from the Garmin Web site at http://www.
APPENDIX > INSTALLATION INFORMATION Interfacing The following formats are supported for connection of external devices: GARMIN proprietary Differential GPS (DGPS), NMEA 0180, 0182, 0183 (versions 1.5, 2.0, 2.3, 3.01), ASCII Text Output, RTCM SC-104 input (version 2.0), and Garmin proprietary formats. The following are the Approved Sentences for NMEA 0183, version 3.01 output: GPRMC, GPGGA, GPGSA, GPGSV, GPGLL, GPBOD, GPRTE, and GPWPL. The following are the Proprietary Sentences for NMEA 0183, version 3.
APPENDIX > LEARNING ABOUT GPS Learning About GPS The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites placed into orbit by the United States Department of Defense. GPS was originally intended for military applications, but in the 1980s, the government made the system available for civilian use. GPS works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. There are no subscription fees or setup charges to use GPS.
APPENDIX > LEARNING ABOUT GPS • Check Beacon Wiring—the DGPS setting is enabled in the Interface sub tab on the Main Menu but no DGPS device is detected. • No Beacon Signal—DGPS receiver is attached, but not transmitting RTCM data to GPS. • Tuning Beacon—the receiver is tuning manually to a DGPS frequency. • Using Differential—the unit is receiving DGPS corrections. • Scanning for Beacon—the DGPS receiver is scanning for an available frequency.
APPENDIX > LORAN TD SETUP LORAN TD Setup LORAN C is a radio navigation aid operated and maintained in the United States by the United States Coast Guard. The name LORAN is an acronym for “LOng RAnge Navigation.” The LORAN system covers the entire United States and the United States Coastal Confluence Zone. From the perspective of a mariner, the system is used for ocean and coastal navigation.
APPENDIX > LORAN TD SETUP To set up Loran TD from the Main Menu: 1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu. 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Setup on the vertical tab list. Then select Location from the row of horizontal tabs. 3. Using the ROCKER, highlight the Location Format field, and press ENTER. LORAN TD Setup Location Tab of the Setup Tab 4. Highlight Loran TD, and press ENTER. 5. Highlight the Setup button located on the right side of the Location Format field, and press ENTER.
APPENDIX > MAP DATUMS AND LOCATION FORMATS Map Datums and Location Formats If you are navigating and comparing the GPS coordinates to a map, chart, or other reference, the map datum in the GPS unit should be set to the same datum as the map to ensure the most accurate navigation. What is a Location Format? Map Datums are based on a mathematical model of the Earth.
APPENDIX > DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING (DSC) Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Any time a vessel receives a DSC call, they can store that location and quickly navigate to that location using a Go To. This makes DSC a time-saver, especially in an emergency situation. In order to use DSC, users must first register their VHF radio with the FCC and receive a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number. A non-emergency DSC Position Report allows mariners to exchange and show the locations of one another.
APPENDIX > DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING (DSC) How Are MMSI Assignments Obtained? Non-commercial users, such as recreational users, who remain in United States waters and only carry VHF, EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons), and Radar are not required to have a FCC ship station license. The FCC and Coast Guard have authorized some second and third party vendors to assign MMSI numbers. This service is limited to registering recreational vessels only.
APPENDIX > JEPPESEN DATABASE INFORMATION Jeppesen Database Information The GPSMAP 296 includes an internal Jeppesen database that provides location and facility information for thousands of airports, VORs, NDBs, and more. Updates to the Jeppesen database are available every 28 days online www.garmin.com. The update program is designed to operate on Windows®-compatible PCs and requires the included PC Interface Cable to connect your GPSMAP 296 to the PC’s serial communications port.
APPENDIX > MESSAGES Messages Detail Maps Don’t Support Routing—maps that are loaded on the data card do not support automatic route calculation. Alarm Clock—the alarm clock has sounded. Distress Call—a DSC distress call was received. Take appropriate action. Accuracy Alarm—the GPS accuracy has fallen outside of user-set value. Antenna Shorted to Ground—the external GPS antenna has an electrical connection problem. Contact Garmin Product Support.
APPENDIX > MESSAGES No Roads Near Starting Point—the start location for the road route you tried to calculate is not near any roads. Select a different start location. No DGPS Position—no differential connection data is available, or not enough data is available to calculate a DGPS position. No Tide Stations for that Area—no tide stations within 100 miles of the area. None Found—no data matched the search criteria. Off Course—you are off course by the distance set in the Off Course Alarm.
APPENDIX > DATA FIELD OPTIONS Data Field Options The following list provides a brief description of each data field option. Some of these options are supported only by devices interfaced to your GPSMAP 296. Accuracy—the current accuracy of your GPS determined location. Battery Timer—the time remaining on the battery before it is fully discharged. Bearing—the compass direction from your current location to a destination. Course—the your path of travel from your starting location to a destination.
APPENDIX > DATA FIELD OPTIONS Speed—your current vehicle speed can be measured in miles per hour, kilometers per hour, or knots. Steer—see Course to Steer. Sunrise—the time at which the sun rises on this day. Sunset—the time at which the sun sets on this day. Time—the current time and date. It can be shown in 12-hour or 24-hour format in local time or universal (UTC) time. Ttl Avg Spd—see Trip Avg. Speed (Total). Turn—the distance between Bearing (BRG) and Track (TRG). L indicates you should turn left.
APPENDIX > LICENSE AGREEMENT AND WARRANTY License Agreement and Warranty This section of the Appendix contains information about your license agreement and warranty for the GPSMAP 296. Software License Agreement BY USING THE GPSMAP 296, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY.
APPENDIX > LICENSE AGREEMENT AND WARRANTY Limited Warranty This Garmin product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. Within this period, Garmin will at its sole option repair or replace any components that fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer for parts or labor, provided that the customer shall be responsible for any transportation cost.
APPENDIX > LICENSE AGREEMENT AND WARRANTY FCC Compliance The GPSMAP 296 complies with Part 15 of the FCC interference limits for Class B digital devices FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE. These limits are designed to provide more reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation, and are more stringent than “outdoor” requirements.
INDEX INDEX Symbols 2D 5, 58, 128 3D 5, 58 A Accessories 134 Acquiring Satellites 5 Active Route Page Aviation Mode 43 Active Track Tab 82, 85 Add to Route 56, 63, 71, 75 Advanced NMEA Output Setup 119 Aircraft Information 46–47 Airport 17, 146 Criteria 21 Identifier 6, 12, 14 Information 15, 16, 18 Airspace 31 Alarms 100 Alert 20, 27 Boundary 28, 31 Information 19, 20, 31 Nearest 17 Alarms 27, 109 Airspace 100 Anchor Drag 100 Arrival 100 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide Depth 101 Descent Rate 36, 37 DSC 95 Fish
INDEX Current Route Page 61 Automotive Mode 67 Custom Avoids 62, 112 D Dashboard 68 Data Card 29, 137 Slot 1 Data Fields 34 Date 113 Daylight Saving Time 113 DB-9 136 Declutter 32 Defaults 8, 34 Delete Aircraft Profile 47 Category 77 DSC Directory Item 94 Flight Records 45 Route 69 Track Log 83 Waypoint 80 Waypoint Category 77 Density Altitude 49 Depth 114 Descent Rate Alert 27 Detailed Maps 10, 29, 35, 137 Details 15, 16, 18 Detour 63 154 DGPS 118, 139 Alarm 101 Differential 140 Differential Field 139 Di
INDEX I Icons 108 Identifier 6, 12, 14, 17, 144, 146 Information Page 31, 55 Initialize 3, 139 Installation Information 135–138 Intersection 146 J Jeppesen Database 26, 146 Updates 10 K Keypad 7 L Land at Closest Point 18 Language 110 Legs, Track 85 Limited Warranty 152 Lithium-ion 1, 2 Local Time 113 Location 6, 60 Location Format 114, 143 Locked Route 26 Log Filter 107 Longitude 149 LORAN TD Setup 141–142 Lost Satellite Reception 5 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide M Magnetic Variation 115 Main Menu Displ
INDEX Plan Route 43, 72 Point 102 Points of Interest 53 Points Tab 78 Pop-up Alerts 27 Position 139 Position Data Page Aviation Mode 44 Position Mode 28 Position Report 144–145 Power 2, 3, 135 Connector 1 connector 4 Practice Mode.
INDEX Text Language 110 Thermoclines 130 Tide Chart 105 Information 104 Station 105 Tab 104 Time Delay 141 Format 113 Offsets 143 Tab 113 Zone 113 Timer 90 Timers Tab 113 Track Legs 85 Log 82, 83, 85 Review Page 83, 84 Tab 82 TracBack 84, 85 Track Up 6, 29 Transducer 125, 129 Trip Computer 68 Trip Planning 72, 102 True Airspeed 49 Tuning Beacon 140 Turn-by-Turn Route 51, 61, 70 Turn On and Off 3 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide U Underwater Waypoints 124 Units Tab 114 Unpaved Roads 112 Updates to Jeppesen Databas
For the latest free software updates (excluding map data) throughout the life of your Garmin products, visit the Garmin Web site at www.garmin.com. © Copyright 2005 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries Garmin International, Inc. 1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A. Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9DL, U.K. Garmin Corporation No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan www.garmin.com Part Number 190-00337-00 Rev.
