Garmin 278 manual

Owner’ s Manual chartplotter receiver GPSMAP ® 278[...]

© 2009 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries Garmin International, Inc. 1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA T el. (913) 397.8200 or (800) 800.1020 Fax (913) 397.8282 Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Liberty House Hounsdown Business Park, Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9RB UK T el. +44 (0) 870.8501241 (outside the UK) 0808 2380000 (within the UK) Fax +44[...]

I ntroductIon Thank you for choosing the Garmin ® GPSMAP ® 278, which uses the proven performance of Garmin GPS and full-featured mapping to create an unsurpassed portable marine navigation chartplotter and automobile navigation device. T ake a moment to compare the contents of this package with the packing list on the outside of the box; if any [...]

t able of c ontents Introduction ...........................................................................i About This Manual ................................................................... i Caring for the GPSMAP 278 .................................................. iv W arning ...............................................................[...]

Display T ab............................................................................. 79 Sound T ab .............................................................................. 80 Setup T ab ............................................................................... 81 Setting Up and Using Sonar ...........................................[...]

Caring for the GPSMAP 278 The GPSMAP 278 case is constructed of high quality materials and does not require user maintenance except cleaning. Cleaning the Case Clean the unit’ s outer casing (except for the screen) using a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution and then wipe dry . A void chemical cleaners and solvents that may damage plast[...]

Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations could result in an accident or collision resulting in death or serious injury . When installing the unit in a vehicle, place the unit securely so that it does not obstruct the driver ’ s view of the road or interfere with vehicle operating controls, such as the steering wheel, foot p[...]

Battery W arnings If these guidelines are not followed, the internal lithium-ion battery may experience a shortened life span or may present a risk of damage to the GPS unit, re, chemical burn, electrolyte leak, and/or injury . • Do not leave the unit exposed to a heat source or in a high temperature location, such as in the sun in an unattend[...]

G ettInG s t arted Unit Overview The GPSMAP 278 is an all-in-one, versatile color chartplotter and automobile navigator—perfect for land or water . This portable GPS navigator features a 256-color TFT display that is easy to read in bright sun and includes a built-in worldwide basemap. The GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with City Navigator ® NT Euro[...]

Charging the GPSMAP 278 Before using the GPSMAP 278, you might need to charge the battery . Plug the power cable into an external power source to charge. Y ou can use the unit while it is charging. T o charge the battery: 1. Lift the rubber weather cap to expose the power connector on the back of the unit. See the image on page 1 for connector loca[...]

T urning Y our GPSMAP 278 On or Off Before you turn on the GPSMAP 278, be sure the antenna is rotated up as shown on page 1 , and it has a clear and unobstructed view of the sky to receive satellite signals. The rst time you turn on your GPSMAP 278, the GPS receiver must collect satellite data and establish its current location. T o ensure prope[...]

Getting Satellite Signals After you turn on the GPSMAP 278, the unit automatically begins searching for satellites. The GPS page appears while the unit is gathering satellite signals and acquiring a x, which should take only a few minutes. While the GPSMAP 278 is getting satellite signals, the GPS page shows the status as “Acquiring Satellites[...]

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 str ength bars —the receiver has collected the necessary data from this satellite. When[...]

GPS Options Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to highlight the GPS tab. Press MENU to open the options menu. Start/Stop Simulator —start and stop Simulator Mode, which is helpful when learning how to use your unit. Enable/Disable EGNOS —enable or disable EGNOS capability . See page 109 of the “Appendix” for more informa[...]

Using the GPSMAP 278 Keypad IN Key/OUT Key • Press to adjust map scale to show a larger area with less detail (zoom out) or a smaller area with more detail (zoom in). P AGE/MODE Key • Press to cycle through main pages in sequence and exit a submenu page. • Press and hold to switch between Marine and Automotive modes. QUIT Key • Press to cyc[...]

Using The GPSMAP 278 The advanced keypad system on the GPSMAP 278 is designed to allow you to select options and enter data quickly and conveniently . As you progress through this owner ’ s manual, you are directed to press a specic key or highlight a eld on the screen. When you are directed to press a key , you should press and quickly rel[...]

Selecting Options and Entering Data T o enter data and select options, use the ROCKER to highlight, select, or choose an item in a list or a eld on the screen. Use the ENTER key and the ROCKER to select options, enter names and numbers in data elds, and activate your selections. T o select an optional feature: 1. From any page, press MENU . T[...]

Entering data TIP: T o clear the entire data eld, highlight the left-most character eld and press left on the ROCKER again. 3. Press ENTER . Not all elds are programmable. When you are on a page with elds that are not selectable, the highlight skips over them. Restoring Default Settings Y ou can restore factory defaults for the followin[...]

Using the Main Menu Use t he Main M enu on yo ur GPSMAP 278 t o access various waypo int, syst em, navig ation and interfac e managem ent, and setup menus . Press t he MENU k ey twice from any page to o pen the M ain Menu. For more informat ion, see the “Main Menu” se ction on page 66 . Main Menu T o select a tab from the Main Menu: 1. From any[...]

Using Simulator Mode Simulator Mode is great for practicing with the unit if you are indoors or when satellite signals are not available. All waypoints and routes created in Simulator Mode are retained in memory for future use. NOTE: Do not try to navigate using Simulator Mode because the GPS receiver is turned off. Any satellite signal strength ba[...]

M arIne M ode Y our GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with an enhanced worldwide basemap that depicts shorelines and surface features. The GPSMAP 278 is compatible with BlueChart g2 marine cartography . Marine Mode Pages Marine Mode has ve main pages: Map, Compass, Highway , Active Route, and Position Data. An optional Sonar Page is available when a GS[...]

Navigating to a Destination Y ou can navigate to your destination using the Map Page. As you travel, you see a magenta line that always runs from your current location to the destination or to the next turn on the Map Page. Y ou can use the Map Page, Compass Page, or Highway Page to help navigate. Y ou can navigate to a destination using one of the[...]

T o navigate (Go T o) a point on the map: Highlight a point to navigate to, and press NA V .  Highlight Go T o <point name> , and press ENTER .  Follow the magenta line created on the Map Page.  T o stop navigation: While navigating to a point, press NA V .  Highlight Stop Navigation , and press ENTER .  Highlight Resume Naviga[...]

Man OverBoard (MOB) Use the MOB function to simultaneously mark your current location and create a direct route back to that location for quick response to emergency situations. T o activate the MOB function: 1. Press and hold the NA V/MOB key , or press the NA V/MOB key twice. 2. Press ENTER to conrm and begin navigating to the MOB location. Wh[...]

Finding an Item Use the Find menu to search for addresses, food & drink, fuel services, lodging, banks/A TMs, cities, shopping, stored waypoints, and points of interest (POIs). T o open the Find menu, press the FIND key . The Find menu is comprised of several default categories, including W aypoints, Cities, Exits, T ransportation, and Data, ju[...]

Finding an Item From Another Location Y ou can use the Find menu to center your search around an item you just found. For example, you search for Restricted Areas and the search shows an “Anchoring Prohibited” search result. If you press FIND again, you will see “From Anchoring Prohibited” as the new search from point. Y ou can also use the[...]

3. Highlight an item from the search results list, and press ENTER . 4. Press ENTER to go to the item. T o nd an item near another location: 1. Press FIND . 2. Press MENU to open the options menu. 3. Highlight Near Other , and press ENTER . 4. Select a reference location on the map, and press ENTER . The list shows items nearest to the new map l[...]

V iewing Recently Found Items The Recently Found Page shows a list of the items you have searched for or gone to recently . T o view a list of recently found items: 1. Press FIND to open the Find menu. 2. Highlight Recently Found , and press ENTER to open the list of recently found items. 3. Press MENU to open the options menu. 4. Select Show Find [...]

V iewing the Information Page Each item on the map and each item listed in the results list has an Information Page. T o 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. Depending on the item selected, and if you a[...]

Creating and Using Routes Y ou can create and store up to 50 reversible routes, with up to 300 points each. Creating a New Route Use the Route tab to create a route by selecting waypoints from the Find menu, or by selecting waypoints or map items from the Map Page. T o create a route using the Find menu: Highlight the Route tab on the Main Menu. ?[...]

T o create a route using the map: Highlight the Route tab on the Main Menu.  Press MENU once to open the Route options menu.  Highlight New Route , and press ENTER .  Highlight Edit on Map , and press ENTER .  Highlight a location on the map, and press ENTER .  Repeat step 5 to dene additional route points.  NOTE: If you select[...]

Navigating a Saved Route Use the Navigate Route option to select and navigate a saved route. T o navigate a saved route: 1. Press the NA V key . 2. Highlight Navigate Route , and press ENTER . 3. Highlight a route, and press ENTER . Select a route from list T o navigate a new route using the Find menu: 1. Press the NA V key . 2. Highlight Go T o Po[...]

Editing a Route After you create a route, use the Route Review Page to edit, change the name, and review route points of a selected route. T o change the name of the route: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Highlight the Route tab. 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the name of the route, and press ENTER . 3. With the Route Review Page open, h[...]

T o add points to a route: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Highlight the Route tab. 2. Select a route, and press ENTER . 3. Highlight the spot in the route that you want to add the new point. (The new point is added before the highlighted route point.) 4. Press MENU . 5. Highlight Insert W aypoint , and press ENTER . The Find Menu opens [...]

Y ou can enter information about your trip so the GPSMAP 278 can estimate information about your trip. T o plan your route: 1. Open the Route Review Page options menu. 2. Highlight Plan Route , and press ENTER . Entering Speed and Fuel Flow for T rip Planning 3. Enter the data for speed and fuel ow . Y ou also can enter the date and time of your[...]

Creating and Using W aypoints The GPSMAP 278 stores up to 3,000 alphanumeric waypoints with a user-dened icon, comment, elevation, depth, and temperature available for each waypoint. Y ou can create waypoints using three basic methods: • ENTER/MARK —use the ENTER/MARK key to mark your present location. • Graphically —use the map display [...]

Creating Waypoints Using the Map Y ou can quickly create a waypoint using the Map Page. When you pan the map and move the arrow over a map item, you see a highlighted description of that item. The GPSMAP 278 uses the map item text shown on the map as the default name and symbol for the new waypoint. T o create a new waypoint using the Map Page: 1. [...]

Creating a Waypoint by Entering Coordinates Y ou can manually enter location coordinates to create a waypoint. This method is useful for creating a waypoint at a specic latitude/ longitude position from a chart. T o create a new waypoint by entering location coordinates: 1. Press ENTER/MARK to create a waypoint. The new waypoint is created with [...]

T o access the Waypoint Edit Page: 1. Highlight the Points tab on the Main Menu, and then select a waypoint from the list. Points T ab 2. Press ENTER to open the W aypoint Edit Page. NOTE: If the waypoint is located on a map feature or MapSource or BlueChart g2 feature, the W aypoint Edit Page does not show the details of the other map features. Ad[...]

Averaging the Waypoint’ s Location A verage Location makes the unit take several sample location measurements for the waypoint and recalculate for a more accurate location reading. NOTE: Y ou must have a GPS satellite x before you can average a waypoint’ s location. T o calculate the average location: 1. Open the W aypoint Page, and press ME[...]

5. T o change the location from which you are projecting the new waypoint, highlight the From eld, and press ENTER . 6. Select the point that you will project your new waypoint from. For more information see the “Finding an Item ” section on page 1 7 . 7. T o adjust the distance that the new waypoint will be projected beyond the original way[...]

W aypoint Page Name eld Symbol eld T o edit the next waypoint in the list: 1. Highlight Next and press ENTER . The W aypoint list appears with the next waypoint highlighted. 2. Press ENTER to edit that waypoint. Organizing Waypoints into Categories Y ou can organize your waypoints into categories, to help manage your waypoints. For example, y[...]

W aypoint Page Select the category to which you want to assign the waypoint. T o delete a category: 1. With the W aypoint Categories window open, highlight the category you want to delete, and press MENU . 2. Select Delete Category , and press ENTER . 3. Press ENTER again to delete the category . Deleting Waypoints Y ou can delete waypoints from th[...]

T o delete waypoints by symbol or category: 1. On the User sub tab, highlight a waypoint 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 t[...]

2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the eld below Proximity Alarm , and press ENTER . 3. Select the On or Off setting and press ENTER . T o add a proximity waypoint: 1. From the Proximity Points tab, use the ROCKER to highlight an empty line on the Proximity List, and press ENTER . The Find Menu appears. 2. Select a waypoint or point of interest from[...]

Managing Y our T racks The GPSMAP 278 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. The track log starts recording as soon as the GPSMAP 278 gets a location x. For the best results, clear the track log before you start tr[...]

T o clear the track log: 1. Highlight the T rack tab, on the Main Menu, and then highlight the Active sub tab. 2. Highlight the Clear button, and press ENTER . A conrmation message appears. Clearing the T rack Log 3. Highlight OK , and press ENTER . 4. Press QUIT to exit. T o save the entire track log: 1. Highlight the T rack tab, on the Main Me[...]

Saved Tracks The Saved sub tab lists all of the saved tracks in your unit. Press MENU to open the Saved tab options menu. Review on Map —shows the highlighted track on the Map Page. T racBack —navigates the track. Y ou can either navigate the track as it is saved, or you can navigate the track in reverse. Delete T rack —erases the highlighted[...]

Navigating a Saved Track Y ou can save your track log to use later as a T racBack, which reduces your track log into a route with up to 300 turns. When initiated, a T racBack route leads you back to the oldest stored track log point. It is a good idea to clear the existing track log before you start your current trip. Also, you must save an active [...]

M arIne M ode P aGes Five pages are available in Marine Mode—Map, Compass, Highway , Active Route, and Position Data. An optional Sonar Page is available when a GSD 20 or GSD 21 sounder module is connected. Map Page When you turn on the GPSMAP 278, the Map Page appears after the unit acquires a satellite signal. The position arrow ( ) shows your [...]

Changing the Page Layout and Page Layout and Data Fields By default, ve data elds appear on the right side of the Map Page. Y ou can select how the elds are shown and what information each eld contains. T o change the map page layout: 1.  Press MENU to open the options menu. 2. Highlight Set Up Page Layout , and press ENTER . 3. Sele[...]

Setting Up the Map Page Use the Set Up Map option to set how items appear on the Map Page. T o change a map setup option: 1. On the Map Page, press MENU to open the options menu. 2. Highlight Set Up Map , and press ENTER . Setting up the Map Page 3. Press left or right on the ROCKER to highlight a tab; press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight to[...]

5. When using map loaded to a data card, you can view detailed information about an individual map, highlight the Map Name, and press ENTER . Highlight OK , and press ENTER to exit the Map Information page. 6. T o select/deselect individual maps (data card maps only) for display on the Map Page, highlight the box next to the map you want, and press[...]

Map coverage conforms to the following conditions: • Cartography is shown when the selected zoom scale is covered by either the internal basemap or other MapSource data loaded onto a data card. • When the selected zoom scale is covered by both the internal database and data card map information, the cartography with the best resolution appears.[...]

T o re-center your position on the screen: Press QUIT . The map automatically moves to show your present location, and the unit returns to position mode. Y ou can also use the arrow to select on-screen map items, which allows you to review a selected item directly from the map display . T o view details about an on-screen point: 1. Use the ROCKER t[...]

Measuring Distance Y ou can measure the distance and bearing between two map items. T o measure the bearing/distance between two points: 1. On the Map Page, press MENU to open the options menu. 2. Highlight Measure Distance , and press ENTER . An on-screen arrow appears on the map at your present location with ENT REF below it. 3. Move the arrow to[...]

Compass Page During active navigation, the Compass Page guides you to your destination with a graphic compass display and a bearing pointer . When the pointer is pointing straight up, you are heading directly to your destination. Compass Page in Marine Mode Rotating compass ring Course to steer indicator Compass arrow Data elds The middle of the[...]

Compass Page Options Menu Use the options menu on the Compass Page to customize the Compass Page. For denitions of data eld options, see page 120 . Press MENU to open the Compass Page options menu. Set Up Page Layout —select the page layout. Show Course Pointer/Show Compass —toggle between showing the Course Pointer , which shows how far [...]

T o use the Marine Timer: 1. Press the ROCKER up or down to select the time you want to count. Five (5) minutes is the default. 2. Press ENTER to start the timer . Use the ROCKER during the timing to quickly select a different length of time. 3. Press ENTER to stop timing. Marine Timer on the Compass Page As discussed previously , the timer is set [...]

Highway Page The Highway Page is available in both Marine Mode and Automotive Mode Highway Page When you are navigating, the Highway Page provides digital and graphic steering guidance to the destination. The right side of the page features user-selectable data elds showing useful navigation information. The compass ribbon at the top of the page[...]

Highway Page Options Menu Use the Highway Page options menu to dene the data elds and select which waypoints and tracks appear on the screen. The data elds, located along the right side of the page, provide various types of useful data. Press MENU to open the Highway Page options menu. Set Up Page Layout —select the page layout. Change D[...]

Active Route Page When you are navigating a route using your GPSMAP 278, the Active Route Page shows each point (waypoint or map item) of the active route, with the point name, course, distance, and several other elds of information. The current destination point, the active point, is marked with an arrow icon. As you navigate a route, the list [...]

Position Data Page The Position Data Page shows important navigation data while navigating a route in Marine Mode. By default, the Position Data Page shows a compass ribbon, your current latitude and longitude, date and time, your location in relation to a prominent nearby landmark such as a waypoint or city , and eight user-selectable data elds[...]

a utoMotIve M ode Y our GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with City Navigator Europe NT v 9.0, which contains detailed maps of major metropolitan areas in Europe, including motorways, national and regional thoroughfares, local roads, and points of interest such as food and drink, lodging, border crossings, petrol stations, hospitals and more. Automotive M[...]

Navigating to a Destination Y ou can navigate to your destination in Automotive Mode using the Map Page. As you travel, your GPSMAP 278 guides you to your destination with voice prompts, arrows, and directions along the top of the screen. When you are actively navigating, you see a magenta line that always runs from your current location to the des[...]

T o navigate (Go T o) a point on the map: Highlight a point to navigate to, and press NA V .  Highlight Go T o <point name> and press ENTER .  Follow the magenta line created on the Map Page.  Stopping and Resuming Navigation When navigating to a point, you can stop navigation. For example, if you are on a long car trip, but you want[...]

T o create a new route: 1. Press NA V to open the Navigate menu. 2. Highlight New Route , and press ENTER . 3. From the Find menu, highlight W aypoints , and press ENTER . (Y ou can also choose to go to other points, such as Cities or Exits from this list. The steps vary only slightly from those listed for waypoints.) 4. Select a waypoint from the [...]

Following a Saved Route Use the Navigate menu to follow a saved track or route. If you want to follow roads on your route, press MENU and select Follow Roads on the Active Route Page. T o follow a saved route in Automotive Mode: 1. Press NA V to open the Navigate menu. 2. Highlight Navigate Route , and press ENTER . 3. Highlight the route you want [...]

Editing Y our Route When you are navigating a route, you can edit that route. Y ou can add areas and roads to avoid as well as temporary detours to your current route. Y ou can also add stops along your trip, called V ia Points. While navigating, press NA V to open the Navigate menu. Navigate Menu in Automotive Mode While navigating a route Enterin[...]

Creating a Detour If there is road construction or some other form of a detour while navigating a route, you can have your GPSMAP 278 create a detour route for you. T o create a detour: 1. While navigating a course, press NA V . 2. Select Detour from the Navigate menu. 3. Select a distance, and press ENTER . The GPSMAP 278 recalculates your course [...]

a utoMotIve M ode P aGes Automotive Mode has two main pages (Map and T rip Computer) that are always available. Optional Highway and Compass pages can be turned on in Automotive Mode. When you are actively navigating, the Current Route Page is available if you are navigating a turn-by-turn route. The Active Route Page is available if you are naviga[...]

Current Route Page When navigating a route using your GPSMAP 278 in Automotive Mode, the Active Route Page shows each turn of the active route, with the distance to the turn, the street name, and estimated time to arrival and time of arrival. As you navigate a route, the turn list automatically updates to indicate the next turn at the top of the li[...]

T rip Computer Page The T rip Computer Page shows important data while navigating a route in Automotive Mode. It indicates your current speed and other data about your trip, such as average speed and moving time. T rip Computer Page Reset the T rip Computer before beginning a trip. If you make frequent stops, leave the GPSMAP 278 turned on in order[...]

M aIn M enu The Main Menu provides access to various waypoint, system, navigation and interface management, and setup menus. Main Menu T o select a tab from the Main Menu: 1. From any page, press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight the tab you want. The information for the highlighted tab automatically a[...]

GPS T ab The GPS tab provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition, receiver status, and accuracy . The sky view and signal strength bars give an indication of what satellites are visible to the receiver and whether they are being tracked. For more information about GPS, see pages 4-6 . Main Menu—GPS T ab Route T ab The Route tab shows all[...]

Points T ab The Points tab contains two sub tabs, User and Proximity , which allow you to manage a large number of waypoints quickly and efciently . For more information about waypoints, see the “Creating and Using W aypoints” section beginning on page 28 . Main Menu—Points T ab User Sub T ab The User sub tab shows a master list of all way[...]

DSC T ab Use the DSC tab (Marine Mode only) to control and set up the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) features. DSC uses marine VHF radio and GPS to transmit and receive location information. DSC is used by mariners for distress calls and position reporting. For more information about DSC and Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers, see pag[...]

DSC Log DSC Directory The DSC Directory is like phone book and can hold up to 50 entries. DSC Directory list DSC Directory entries. Press ENTER to open the entry review page. Blank entry . Press ENTER to add a Directory entry . T o add a new directory entry: 1. Open the DSC Directory on the Main Menu. 2. Highl ight the  rst blank space in t he d[...]

Sonar T ab Use the Sonar tab to set up and congure sonar . See the “Setting Up and Using Sonar” section beginning on page 90 for more information about Sonar setup options. NOTE: Y ou must have a GSD 20 or 21 sounder module connected to your GPSMAP 278 to use sonar . Main Menu—Sonar T ab Alarms T ab Use the Alarms tab to dene alarm sett[...]

T o set a persistent alarm: 1. Highlight the Alarms tab on the Main Menu. 2. Highlight the box next to the alarm you want to make persistent (for example, Next T urn ). 3. Press ENTER to place a check mark in the Persist box. Navigation (Nav) Alarms Next T urn —set an alarm to indicate the next turn in a route. Select Dist to specify a distance b[...]

Sonar Alarms Shallow W ater/Deep W ater —set an alarm to sound when you enter an area of water that is too shallow or deep. Select On and then specify a distance. Y ou must be receiving sonar NMEA data for this function to work. W ater T emp —set an alarm to indicate if the water temperature has exceeded or dropped below a specic temperature[...]

T o add a route (or point) to the calendar: 1. Highlight the Calendar tab on the Main Menu. The current day appears on the Day View sub tab. 2. Press MENU to open the options menu. Highlight Add Route (or Add Point) and press ENTER . 3. From the pop-up route list (or the Find menu if Add Point was selected), select the route you want to add to the [...]

Tide Sub T ab The T ide sub tab contains a graphical chart that shows tide station information in a 24-hour span starting at midnight station time. Y ou can choose from different dates and more than 3,000 tide stations. Height of tide Smallest and largest tides for the AM hours Select the tide station for which you want to view the information. Ent[...]

T o view a chart’s details for another time during the day (other than current time): 1. From the Tide sub tab with the chart you want to view , press MENU , and then select Move Cursor . 2. Press the ROCKER right or left to view the chart at another time. 3. T o return to the current time, press MENU , and select Stop Moving Cursor . T o automat[...]

T o view sun and moon information for a different location: 1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the From eld, 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 moo[...]

T o use the current date again, highlight the Date eld. Press MENU , highlight Use Current Date , and press ENTER . T o view hunt and sh information for a different location: 1. Highlight the From eld, and press ENTER . 2. Highlight Use Find Menu , and press ENTER . The Find menu opens. 3. Select a point, and press ENTER . 4. On the inform[...]

T o show or hide messages using the log lter: 1. Highlight the Message tab on the Main Menu. 2. Highlight the Log Filter sub tab. All messages appear by default. Message Log Filter T ab 3. Highlight the message type you want to hide, and press ENTER . The message name appears in the Hide window . 4. Highlight the message, and press ENTER to show[...]

T wilight Adjustment —allows the unit to adjust the backlight for optimum viewing during twilight times. Highway Page —indicates whether the Highway Page appears in the main page sequence. Compass Page —indicates whether the Compass Page appears in the main page sequence. Backlight Intensity —turns the backlight up or down. Press right on t[...]

Setup T ab T o customize how your GPSMAP 278 looks, use the System tab to adjust certain system settings. System Sub T ab Use the System sub tab to control settings for system mode, speed lter , language, and external power . Main Menu—System Setup T ab System Mode —sets the unit to operate in Normal mode, Battery Save r mode, or Simulator m[...]

Route Prefer ence —allows the unit to calculates routes based on: • Faster Time —routes calculated are faster to drive but might be longer in distance. • Shorter Distance —routes calculated are shorter in distance but might take more time to drive. • Off Road —creates a direct line from your current location to your destination. This [...]

Off-Route Recalculation —allows you to set whether the unit prompts you when it is recalculating your route ( Prompted ), or recalculates automatically . Set whether the unit announces the recalculation ( Automatic - Announced) or recalculates silently ( Automatic - Silent ). Y ou can turn the off-route recalculation Off . Next T urn Pop-up —tu[...]

Units Sub T ab Use the Units sub tab to customize measurement units. Units Sub T ab Distance and Speed —select the unit of measure to show your speed and distance traveled. Direction Display —select the unit of measure to show your direction. Mils is a unit of angle measurement used in military settings, in which 17.78 mils equal one degree. T [...]

The default setting is WGS 84. The unit automatically selects the best datum depending on your chosen location format. W ARNING: Selecting the wrong map datum can result in substantial position errors. When in doubt, use the default WGS 84 datum for best overall performance. Selecting a Different Heading Reference Y ou can select from Auto Mag V ar[...]

3. T o display the welcome message when you turn on your GPSMAP 278, highlight the Show at Power-up check box, and press ENTER to select it. T o hide the welcome information at start-up, clear the check mark. COM 1 and COM 2 Sub T abs Use the COM 1 and COM 2 sub tab to change the data format and control the input/output format used when connecting [...]

• T ext 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 R TCM In/NMEA Out format, you can control a differential beacon receiver directly from your GPSMAP 278 using t[...]

T o restart the scan: 1. Press MENU . 2. Highlight Restart Scan , and press ENTER . T o manually enter a frequency and bit rate: 1. With the unit set to Garmin DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out , highlight the Beacon eld, and press ENTER . 2. Highlight User , and press ENTER . 3. Highlight the Frequency or Bit Rate eld, and press ENTER 4. Enter a freq[...]

5. Press MENU to open the options menu. 6. Select Advanced NMEA Setup , and press ENTER . Advanced NMEA Output Setup Use the Advanced NMEA Output Setup Page to set the output rate, change the precision of the Lat/Lon minutes, set W aypoint IDs to names or numbers, and turn on and off the GPS status, the Garmin Proprietary sentences, and W aypoint/R[...]

s ettInG u P and u sInG s onar This section covers the additional sonar options for the GPSMAP 278 when used in conjunction with a GSD 21 or GSD 20 Sounder Module. Read the GSD 21 or GSD 20 Sounder Module Installation Instructions to properly install the sounder module. When you turn on your GPSMAP 278, the Sounder Module automatically turns on. NO[...]

Using the Sonar Page When combined with a GSD 21 or GSD 20 Sounder Module, your GPSMAP 278 becomes a powerful shnder/asher with the Sonar Page. If a GSD 21 or GSD 20 is attached, but the unit does not detect a transducer , a “Sonar T urned Off” message appears across the Sonar Page. The Sonar Page appears only if a GSD 21 or GSD 20 has[...]

Adjusting the Sonar Page Use the Adjustment menu to access the settings and features most commonly used on the Sonar Page. T en main adjustment options are available: Range, Zoom, V iew , Gain, T arget Level, Whiteline, Frequency , Depth Line, Noise Reject, and Scroll. The currently selected option appears in the upper-left corner . T o select an a[...]

• 4X Zoom —shows the 4X zoomed picture on the full screen. • Btm (Bottom) Split —shows two reduced pictures, the right at the original depth scale and the left showing sonar returns from the bottom up. All target depths read as a distance from the bottom. • Btm (Bottom) Lock —shows returns from the bottom up on the full screen. TIP: Pre[...]

Resizing the Split Screen Y ou can adjust the way the split screen appears. This option is only available when a zoom scale other than No Zoom is selected. T o resize the Sonar Page split screen: 1. From the Sonar Page split screen, press MENU . 2. Using the ROCKER , highlight Size Split , and press ENTER . 3. Move the horizontal double-arrow left [...]

Setting Up Sonar Use the Sonar tab on the Main Menu to set up the Sonar Page. Main Menu—Sonar T ab Fish Symbols —select how the Sonar Page shows underwater targets and background information. Select Off to show all of the available information about the underwater environment. Select a sh symbol, to show only the information related to that [...]

Calibrating the Water Speed If you select T emp, Spd for the T ransducer option on the Setup sub tab, you must calibrate the water speed to ensure the W ater 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 comparis[...]

Setting Up the Sonar Display Y ou can set up how the sonar information appears on-screen using the Display sub tab. Display Sub T ab Scale —select how and where you want the depth scale to appear . Color Bar —select On to show a gradient scale of the current T arget Level setting on the Sonar Setup tab. Flasher —select On to show a graphic Fl[...]

V iewing the T emperature Use the T emperature sub tab to view a graph of water temperature changes over a period of time. The graph reads from right to left so that the most recent temperature measured appears on the far right side of the graph. The dotted lines within the graph indicate intervals in the temperature scale and the duration of time.[...]

Understanding Sonar The transducer mounted on your vessel transmits sound waves toward the bottom of the water in a cone-shaped pattern. When a transmitted sound wave strikes an underwater object—such as the bottom, a structure, or a sh—sound is reected back to the transducer . The transducer collects the reected sound waves and sends [...]

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 cone angles (40°) associated with low frequencies (50 kHz) provide a large coverage area for nding sh within a coverage width that is approximately 2/3 of the water depth. However , this also mea[...]

Whiteline The GSD 20 or GSD 21 can help you determine whether the bottom is hard or soft. When the sonar sound waves are reected 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 p[...]

a PPendIx Specications Physical Specications Size: 5.7" W x 3.2" H x 1.9" D (14.5 x 8.1 x 4.8 cm) W eight: 14.0 oz (0.40 kg) Display: 3.75" diagonal (9.5 cm) T ransective, 256-color display with backlighting (480 x 320 pixels) Case: Fully gasketed, high-impact plastic alloy , waterproof to IEC 60529 IPX7 T emp. Range: 5[...]

Optional Accessories In addition to the standard accessories included with your GPSMAP 278, several optional accessories are available to enhance the operation of the GPSMAP 278. T o obtain replacement parts and optional accessories, contact your Garmin Dealer , Garmin Product Support at 800/800.1020, or Garmin Europe at 44/0870.8501241. W ARNING: [...]

Installation Information This section of the Appendix provides information on connecting the GPSMAP 278 to auxiliary devices and removing the antenna. Connecting the Power/Data Cable The power/data cable connects the GPSMAP 278 to an 1 1–35 VDC system and provides interface capabilities for connecting external devices. The color code in the diagr[...]

Connecting Y our GPSMAP 278 to a Computer Y ou can connect your GPSMAP 278 to your computer using the supplied USB cable to connect to a USB data port or the PC Interface cable to connect to a DB-9 serial communications port. NOTE: Fully install the supplied MapSource program, T rip & W aypoint Manager , on your computer before connecting the U[...]

Using xImage for Customized Waypoint Icons Use xImage to exchange images between your computer and your GPSMAP 278. Y ou can download and save screenshots 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 progr[...]

Installing and Removing Data Cards Y ou can use optional Garmin data cards in your GPSMAP 278 to show digital charts and maps. Install the data card in the card slot located on the bottom of the unit. Install or remove the data card at any time, whether the unit is on or off. Y ou can load a variety of information on your data card, such as MapSour[...]

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 T ext Output, and R TCM SC-104 input (version 2.0). The following are the Approved Sentences for NMEA 0183, version 3.01 output: GPRMC, GPGGA, GPGSA, GPGSV , GPGL[...]

What is EGNOS/W AAS/MSAS? The European Geostationary Navigation Overlay System (EGNOS) is European Space Agency developed service to improve the overall integrity of the GPS signal and increase position accuracy for users in Europe. In North America, EGNOS is referred to as W AAS. The system is made up of satellites and network of ground reference [...]

Using the LORAN TD Format When creating new waypoints using LORAN TD coordinates, you must set the correct LORAN chain number and secondary stations in the Setup TD eld before storing the waypoint. After the waypoint is stored in the unit’ s memory , it always references the LORAN chain number and secondary stations selected in the Setup TD ?[...]

Map Datums and Location Formats Map Datums are based on a mathematical model of the Earth. What Are Map Datums? A datum is a mathematical model of the Earth that approximates the shape of the Earth and enables calculations to be carried out in a consistent and accurate manner . The datum is physically represented by a framework of ground monuments [...]

Digital Selective Calling (DSC) DSC uses marine VHF radio GPS technologies to transmit and receive location information. DSC is used by mariners to assist them in two major areas: distress calls and position reporting. A non-emergency DSC position report allows mariners to exchange and display the positions of one another . When you receive a DSC p[...]

Each entry in the Call List and Log has a corresponding DSC Entry Review Page. This page operates similarly to the Distress Page and Position Report Page. From the DSC Entry Review , you can Delete the entry , Save it as a waypoint, or show the location on the map. T o review a call or log entry: 1. Open the Call List or Log from the DSC tab. 2. Hi[...]

DSC Log Receiving a Position Report or Distress Call After you receive a Position Report or a Distress Call, you can quickly navigate to the location. Highlight a call from the Call List or Log and press Direct T o . The top selection in the Navigate Menu is highlighted. Press ENTER to go to the location. DSC Directory The DSC Directory acts much l[...]

New Directory Item Page Enter the MMSI number , name, and a comment (if needed) in the elds. Highlight OK and press ENTER to save the directory entry . After creating a New Directory Item, the name created is attached to that particular MMSI number . If you return to the Log, the new name appears under the corresponding MMSI number . Another way[...]

What is a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) Number? MMSI allows a VHF radio to act like a phone. The 9-digit MMSI number acts like a phone number when used in a position report and as a unique identier to the Coast Guard when used in an emergency distress call. T o obtain a MMSI number , users must register their VHF radio with the FCC (Fo[...]

How Can Garmin Help Y ou with DSC? T o receive distress calls or position reports, you must have a DSC-equipped chartplotter as well as a VHF radio with DSC support. During normal, non-emergency position report communication, Channel 70 (156.525 MHz) has been set aside as the VHF/DSC digital call channel. For a distress call, press the MayDay butto[...]

Messages Accuracy Alarm —the GPS accuracy has fallen outside of user-set value. Alarm Clock —the alarm clock has sounded. Antenna Shorted to Ground —the external GPS antenna has an electrical connection problem. Contact Garmin Product Support. Approaching T urn —you are nearing a turn in a route. Arriving at Destination —you are nearing y[...]

Off Course —you are off course by the distance set in the Of f Course Alarm. Proximity Memory Full —no additional proximity waypoints can be saved. Proximity Radius Overlaps —the radius of two proximity waypoints overlap. Route Already Exists —you have entered a route name that already exists. Route Calculation Error —no route can be calc[...]

Data Field Options The following list provides a brief description of each data eld option. Some of these options are supported only by devices interfaced to your GPSMAP 278. Accuracy —the current accuracy of your GPS determined location. Battery T imer —the time remaining on the battery before it is fully discharged. Bearing —the compass [...]

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. T rack —the direction of movement relative to a ground position. Also referred to as ground track. T rip A vg. Speed [...]

Software License Agreement BY USING THE GPSMAP 278, YOU AGREE T O BE BOUND BY THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTW ARE LICENSE AGREEMENT . PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULL Y . Garmin grants you a limited license to use the software embedded in this device (the “Software”) in binary executable form in the normal operation of the pr[...]

Limited W arranty This Garmin product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. W ithin 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 , prov[...]

FCC Compliance This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the[...]

I ndex A accessories 103 accuracy alarm 72 acquiring satellites 5 active route page 54 options menu 54 active track tab 38, 41 AC outlet 2 add to route 22, 26, 31, 62 advanced NMEA output setup 88 alarms 80 anchor drag 72 arrival 72 DSC 1 12, 115 navigation 72 next turn 72 off course 72 proximity 36 sonar 73 system 72 alarms tab 71 alerts. See alar[...]

distance and speed 84 distress calls 69, 1 12–117 drift 73 DSC 69, 1 12–113 DSC T ab 69 E edit route 25, 26, 61 waypoints 33 editing a waypoint 33 EGNOS 6, 81 emergency 1 12 entering data 9 erase track log 39 European Geostationary Navigation Overlay System. See EGNOS exits 17 external power source 2 external voltage alarm 72 F faster time 82 F[...]

MayDay 1 15, 117 measuring distance 48 messages 120 message tab 78 mils 84 MMSI 69, 1 16 MOB 14, 16 month view 74 moon information 76 N NA V/MOB 16 navigate route 14, 24, 57 track 14, 16, 41, 57 navigation resuming 61 stopping 61 navigation alarms 72 near destination 21 next 21 other 19, 21 new altitude 6 location 6, 12 waypoint 30, 32 next turn 83[...]

signal strength 5 simulate 6, 81 GPS 5 simulator mode new location 12 software license agreement 122 sonar 90, 91–94 adjusting 92–94 alarms 72 on the map page 90 setting up 95, 97 understanding 99 sonar tab 71 sound tab 80 speaker 80 specications 102 speed lter 81 split screen, sonar 94 sun & moon sub tab 76 system alarms 72 T tempera[...]

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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. © 2009 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries Garmin International, Inc. 1200 East 151 st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Liberty House, Hounsdown Business Park, Southampton, Hampshire[...]