70 cover 9/21/98 9:31 AM Page 1 GPSCOM 170 Owner’s Manual & Reference
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page i Software Version 2.02 or above © 1997 GARMIN Corporation 1200 E. 151st Street, Olathe, KS USA 66062 Tel: 913-397-8200 or 800-800-1020 Fax: 913-397-8282 Web Site Address: www.garmin.com GARMIN (Europe) LTD Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, U.K. SO51 9AQ Tel: 011-44-1794-519944 Fax: 011-44-1794-519222 All rights reserved.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page ii IMPORTANT! The Telecommunications Act of 1996, effective February 8, 1996, provides the FCC discretion to eliminate radio station license requirements for aircraft and ships. At the present time, you do not need an individual license to operate the GPSCOM 170 aboard your private vessel in many circumstances. To find out the specific details on whether you are exempt from licensing, please see FCC Fact Sheet PR 5000 or contact the FCC at 1-800-322-1117.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page iii INTRODUCTION GPSCOM 170 OWNER’S MANUAL Packing List Before getting started, check to see that your GARMIN GPSCOM 170 package includes the following items. If you are missing any parts, please contact your dealer immediately.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page iv INTRODUCTION Cautions CAUTION The GPS system is operated by the government of the United States, which is solely responsible for its accuracy and maintenance. The system is subject to changes which could affect the accuracy and performance of all GPS equipment. Although the GPSCOM 170 is a precision electronic NAVigation AID (NAVAID), any NAVAID can be misused or misinterpreted and therefore, become unsafe. Use the GPSCOM 170 at your own risk.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 1 INTRODUCTION Table Of Contents SECTION ONE Introduction Unit Description/Keys and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3 Keys and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5 SECTION TWO Getting Started Acquiring Satellites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Navigation Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 2 introduction Unit Description BNC Antenna Connector Volume Control Squelch Control Top View The GPSCOM 170 combines a 12 parallel channel GPS receiver with a 5 watt marine VHF communications transceiver in a convenient handheld package. A keypad located on the front of the unit provides control of the navigation and communication functions. The 16/9 key allows for one button selection of channel 16 or 9.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 3 introduction Unit Description Backlight Button Power/Data/Ext Spk/Ext Mic Cable Connector PTT Switch Transmit Power Button External GPS Antenna Connector H/L H/L Charger/AC Adapter Connector Removable Battery Pack Side Views The backlight button, transmitting power/override button, charger/AC adapter connector, and push-to-talk (PTT) switch are located on the left side of the unit.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 4 introduction Keys and Controls K U D Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to select alphanumerical characters and menu choices, and to move the field highlight from field to field. LR Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to move the selected character field, and to move the highlight from field to field. The left arrow key is also used to clear a selected field. U ZOOM D 4 Use the two-speed ARROW KEYPAD to enter data.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 5 introduction Keys and Controls U CHAN D The CHANNEL SELECTION arrow keys are used to select channels. The channel number can be increased or decreased one with each press, or if held will continue to increase or decrease the number as long as the key is held. C The GPSCOM key lets you choose between the main GPS and main communication pages. N The 16/9 key selects channel 16 or 9 for immediate use.
170 manual pages rev D Getting Started Acquiring Satellites Important! Make sure you charge the Ni-Cad battery pack for 14 hours before using your GPSCOM 170 to ensure optimum capacity and performance. Note: When charging the battery pack, turn the unit off to ensure a full charge. Complete instructions on charging the pack are in Appendix B.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 7 Getting Started Position Page Speed Over Ground Position Page Graphic Compass Tape Altitude Current Track Time of Day Position Coordinates VHF Status Field The position page shows where you are, what direction you’re heading and how fast you’re going. The graphic compass at the top of the page indicates the direction you’re moving.
170 manual pages rev D Getting Started Marking a Position 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 8 Marking a Position Now that you’ve acquired a position, let’s mark it as a waypoint for future reference. 1. Press the K key to capture and hold your posi- tion. # ! To mark a position, you must have obtained a 2D or 3D fix, or have the receiver in simulator mode. If you try to mark a position without a position fix, you will be alerted with a ‘No Position’ message.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 9 Using the Position and Map Pages Now that you’ve marked a position, it’s time to take a brisk walk using the position and moving map pages to watch your every move. You will need to walk for at least the time stated in the below steps.to get a much better indication of how the GPSCOM 170’s steering guidance and mapping features work. Getting Started Position and Map Pages 1.
170 manual pages rev D Getting Started Moving Map Page 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 10 Moving Map Pages The GPSCOM 170’s next page, the moving map page, shows your movement as a track log, with your present position shown as a diamond icon in the center of the map. You’ll notice the black square below the diamond, which represents the position you just created (‘HOME’), and the line between the two, which shows your track.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 11 Getting Started Using the Highway Page Bearing to Waypoint Distance to Waypoint Using The Highway Page Speed Over Ground Track Over Ground Course Deviation Scale Graphic Highway Velocity Made Good Estimated Time Enroute Pointer to selected waypoint The GPSCOM 170’s highway page provides graphic steering guidance to a destination, with an emphasis on a straight–line course to the desired waypoint and the distance and direction you are off course.
0 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 12 Getting Started Compass & Message Page Message Page Once you are one minute from the destination, an arrival message will appear on the message page. If you do get off course by more than 1/5th of the selected CDI range, the exact distance you are off course will be displayed where the CDI scale normally appears. As you approach a waypoint, a horizontal ‘finish line’ will move toward the bottom of the highway.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 13 Getting Started GPS Page Sequence Now that you’ve arrived ‘HOME’, let’s take a minute to see how the GPSCOM 170’s main GPS pages work together. The unit features five main pages, which are linked together in a chain. You can quickly scroll through the pages in either direction using the P and Q keys. GPS Page Sequence 1. Press P to scroll through the five main pages in sequence. 2. Press Q to scroll through pages in the opposite direction.
170 manual pages rev D Getting Started Using the VHF Transceiver 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 14 Using the VHF Transceiver The first step in using the VHF transceiver is to make sure the volume and squelch controls are set correctly for proper reception. Volume Control Squelch Control Important! We strongly recommend obtaining a marine radio user’s guide such as “Maritime Radio User’s Handbook” published by the RTCM (Radio Technical Commission For Maritime Services), Washington, D.C.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 15 Selecting a Channel The GPSCOM 170 operates on all U.S., Canadian, and International Marine VHF radio channels. Getting Started Transmitting To select a channel from any page: 1. Use the UP and DOWN channel selection arrow keys to select the desired channel. The channel number will increase or decrease with each press–or if held, will continue to change the number as long as the key is held.
170 manual pages rev D Getting Started Selecting Channel 16/9 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 16 Selecting Channel 16 and 9 The GPSCOM 170’s channel 16/9 button provides quick access to channel 16 or 9. To select channel 16: 1. Press N. To select channel 9: 1. Press N again. Tips on Using Channel 16 and 9 • Channel 16 is used for emergency purposes and for initially contacting (hailing) another vessel. • The use of channel 16 for hailing must be limited to initial contact only.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 17 Dual Watch Dual Watch scans between channel 16 and the last channel that was selected. It’s handy when you need to monitor channel 16, but also want to listen to another channel for traffic. Getting Started Dual Watch To start dual-watch: 1. Press T. The unit will scan between channel 16 and the last selected channel, stopping on the channel that has radio traffic. Once the radio traffic has stopped, the unit will resume scanning.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 18 Reference Satellite Status Page Satellite Status Page Operating Mode Battery Voltage Estimated Position Error Satellite Sky View Satellite Numbers/Letters Signal Strength Indicator Bars Satellites in view but not currently in use (Q & 9) will be displayed in reverse video, with a corresponding ‘hollow’ signal strength bar.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 19 Reference Receiver Status Receiver status is indicated at the top left of the screen, with the current horizontal accuracy (estimated position error, in feet or meters) at the top right. The status will show one of the following conditions: Receiver Status Searching— the GPSCOM 170 is looking for any available satellites in view. AutoLocate— the GPSCOM 170 is initializing and collecting new almanac data. This process can take 3 to 5 minutes.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 20 Reference Battery Voltage Indicator Screen Backlighting IMPORTANT! Using the screen backlighting can greatly affect battery life. If you’re using your GPSCOM 170 primarily in daylight hours, you should keep the backlight timeout at the default 15 second setting. The satellite status page displays current battery voltage for the Ni-Cad battery pack. When using the Ni-Cad pack, any voltage above 7.2 indicates a fully charged condition.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 21 Reference Position Page The GPSCOM 170’s position page shows you where you are, what direction you’re heading and how fast you are going (up to 99.9 mph), and is most useful when you are travelling without an active destination waypoint. A graphic compass tape at the top of the page displays your cardinal heading (while you’re moving), with your current track and speed over the ground indicated below.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 22 Reference Marking and Saving Waypoints Marking & Saving Waypoints Knowing your present position is only part of any navigation equation. You also need to keep track of where you’ve been and where you are going. Waypoints serve as electronic markers that let you keep track of starting points, destinations, navaids and any other important position. The GPSCOM 170 allows you to mark, store and use up to 250 waypoints.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 23 Reference Waypoint Submenus The GPSCOM 170 has three waypoint submenu pages that let you manage a large number of waypoints quickly and efficiently. The nearest waypoints, waypoint list and waypoint definition pages are accessed through the menu page. Waypoint Submenus To select a waypoint submenu page: 1. Press P or Q until the menu page appears. 2. Highlight the waypoint submenu page you want to use. 3. Press E to display the submenu page. 4.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 24 Reference Waypoint List Page Creating & Using Waypoints The waypoint list page provides you with a complete list of all waypoints currently stored in the unit. The total number of used and empty waypoints is indicated above the waypoint list. From the waypoint list page, you can retrieve a waypoint definition page, delete all userdefined waypoints, or GOTO a selected waypoint.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 25 Reference Waypoint Definition Page Waypoint Name Position Coordinates Creating & Using Waypoints Waypoint Comment Field Reference Waypoint Bearing from Reference Waypoint Distance From Reference Waypoint Function Prompts The last of the three waypoint submenu pages is the waypoint definition page. This page lets you create new waypoints manually, or review and edit existing waypoints.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 26 Reference Reference Waypoints Creating & Using Waypoints To re-define an existing waypoint’s position coordinates from the waypoint definition page, simply highlight the DST field and press ENTER. Use the LEFT arrow key to set the distance to 0.00, and press ENTER to confirm. The old coordinates will be replaced by the coordinates of your present position (you must have a valid 2D– or 3D– position fix).
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 27 Reference Editing Existing Waypoints The waypoint definition page also allows you to change the name, coordinates, comment or reference waypoint field for a stored waypoint. To edit the name, coordinates, comment, or reference waypoint field: Creating & Using Waypoints 1. Highlight the field you want to edit. Press E to begin entry in the selected field. 2. Enter your new data. 3. Press E to confirm your changes.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 28 Reference To rename a stored waypoint: Creating & Using Waypoints 1. Highlight the ‘RENAME?’ field and press E. 2. Enter the new waypoint name and press E. 3. Press E to confirm your changes. To delete a stored waypoint (you can’t delete a route waypoint without deleting it from a route): To delete a waypoint, confirm the ‘Yes?’ prompt. Route or active waypoints may not be deleted until they are removed from the route or the GOTO has been cancelled. 1.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 29 Reference VHF Communication Pages To move back and forth between the GPS and VHF pages, press the C key. There are three com VHF pages in a continuous loop: channel definition, com setup, and memory bank. Press C to exit the GPS pages and enter the com pages. Try scrolling through the com pages by pressing P You can also scroll in the opposite direction or return to a previous page by pressing Q.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 30 Reference Three operating modes are available: VHF Operating Modes • Com On— (Default) Enables all VHF communication features. • Com Off— Disables all VHF communication features. Use this mode if you only want to use GPS or if battery life is a concern. • Weather Alert— Accesses the weather alert audio page. Muting the weather broadcast audio will cause the GPSCOM 170 to remain silent until the National Weather Service activates an alert tone.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 31 Reference Scanning Setup The com setup page also provides for scanning setup. The GPSCOM 170 scans, which means it automatically listens to a number of channels in rapid succession, hesitates on an active channel until the conversation stops, and then moves on to the next channel. Scanning Setup & Modes The GPSCOM 170 can be programmed to scan all channels for the band you have selected, or scan a bank of memory channels. To select a scanning type: 1.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 32 Reference Scan Timeout Changing Call Channels After each transmission has ended, you may want to enter a 2-3 second delay, allowing you to hear both sides of a conversation. This delay is put on all channels. To enter a delay time: 1. Highlight the ‘TIMEOUT’ field and press E. 2. Use the arrow keypad to select a desired delay time up to 99 seconds and press E.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 33 Reference VHF Line-of-Sight Calculator Page The GPSCOM 170’s line-of-sight calculator page can be used to estimate the transmitting and receiving distance between the unit and another station. Regardless of transmitter power, VHF marine radio’s transmitting and receiving range is generally limited by “line of sight.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 34 Reference Memory Bank Page Memory Bank Page The memory bank page lets you store five groups of channels for custom scanning, complete with user comments. The memory channels are partitioned into “banks”, specifically 5 banks of 10 channels each. The memory banks are numbered 1-5 and displayed at the top of the page.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 35 Reference To enter channels: 1. Highlight the first blank ‘CHANNEL’ field and press E. 2. Enter a channel of your choice using the arrow keypad and press E. The appropriate band for the channel you have selected will be displayed next to the channel number. Note: You cannot enter weather channels into memory, nor can you enter channels of different bands in the same bank.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 36 Reference Channel Definition Page • SELECT— To select the active channel and display the channel usage page, highlight the ‘SELECT’ prompt and press E. • INSERT— To insert a new channel, highlight the ‘INSERT?’ prompt and press E. • REMOVE— To remove the selected channel, highlight the ‘REMOVE’ prompt and press E. • CHANGE— To replace the selected channel with a new channel, highlight the ‘CHANGE’ prompt and press E.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 37 Reference To return the definitions back to their default settings: 1. Highlight ‘DEFAULT?’ and press E. The ‘DONE?’ prompt located below the ‘DEFAULT?’ prompt confirms any changes that were made and returns you to the previously viewed page. Channel Lockout To confirm changes made on the channel definition page and return to the previously viewed page: 1. Highlight ‘DONE?’ and press E.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 38 Reference Memory Page Memory Page/Tri Watch The memory page (see sidebar, page 37) allows you to easily add the active channel to a memory bank. It also displays channel number, type (duplex/simplex), band (US, Canada, International), and channel usage. To select the memory page: 1. Press M. To add a channel to memory from the memory page: 1. Highlight ‘Add to the ‘Memory Bank’ field and press E. Select the desired bank number using the arrow keypad. 2.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 39 Reference Selecting a GOTO Destination The GPSCOM 170 provides four ways to navigate to a destination: GOTO, MOB, TracBack and route navigation. The most basic method of selecting a destination is the GOTO function, which lets you choose any stored waypoint as the destination and quickly set a direct course from your present position. GOTO & MOB Navigation To activate the GOTO function: 1. Press G.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 40 Reference TracBack Navigation TracBack Navigation The third method of navigating to a destination is by using the GPSCOM 170’s TracBack feature. The TracBack function allows you to quickly and easily retrace your path using the track log automatically stored in the receiver’s memory. The advantage of the TracBack feature is to eliminate the need to mark waypoints along the way and manually create and activate a route back to where you began your trip.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 41 Reference Tips on Using TracBack To get the most out of the TracBack feature, remember the following tips: • Always clear your track log at the exact point that you want to go back to (trail head, truck, dock, etc.). The ‘RECORD’ option on the track log setup page must be set to the ‘Yes’ position. TracBack Navigation • There must be at least two track log points stored in memory to create a TracBack route.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 42 Reference Creating and Using Navigation Routes The last form of navigating to a destination with the GPSCOM 170 is by creating a user-defined route. The route navigation feature lets you plan and navigate a course from one place to another using a set of predefined waypoints. Routes are often used when it’s not practical, safe or possible to navigate a direct course to a particular destination (e.g., through a body of water or impassable terrain).
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 43 Reference Routes Definition Page The GPSCOM 170 lets you create and store up to 20 routes of 30 waypoints each. Routes are created, copied and edited through the route definition page, which is accessed through the menu page. Route Navigation To select the route definition page: 1. Press P until the menu page appears. 2. Highlight the ‘ROUTES’ option. 3. Press E to display the route definition page. 4. To return to the menu page, press P.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 44 Reference To create a route from the route definition page: Route Navigation 1. Highlight the route number field and press E. 2. Enter a route number and press E to confirm. 3. Press E to begin entry of a route comment. (Note that the default [first and last waypoint] comment will only appear if the comment field is blank.) 4. Enter your comment and press E. 5. Highlight the No. 1 waypoint field and press E. 6.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 45 Reference Clearing Routes (con’t.) The clear route warning will appear, asking you to confirm that you want to remove all waypoints from the route. Route Navigation 1. Highlight the ‘Yes?’ field. 2. Press E to confirm your action. 3. Press P to return to the menu page. Activating And Inverting Routes After a route has been entered, it can be activated in its defined sequence or inverted from the route definition page.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 46 Reference Active Route Page Route Navigation Once a route has been activated, the active route page will appear, displaying the waypoint sequence of your route with the estimated time enroute (ETE) at your present speed and distance to each waypoint. As long as you are navigating an active route, the active route page will become part of the main page sequence of the unit.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 47 Reference Editing Routes (con’t.) An on-screen menu of editing choices will appear, with options for reviewing, inserting, deleting or changing the waypoint field highlighted. Use the up and down arrow keys to select among the editing choices. Route Navigation Once you’ve selected a waypoint from the route list, choose a menu function: 1. To review the definition page for the waypoint, highlight the ‘REVIEW?’ prompt and press E. 2.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 48 Reference Selecting a User-Defined Navigation Page Navigation Guidance Pages Once you’ve selected a GOTO destination or activated a MOB or route, the GPSCOM 170 will provide graphic steering guidance to the destination with one of two navigation pages: Highway Page To switch the navigation page to the compass page, press ENTER twice.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 49 Reference Using the Highway Page The highway page also provides graphic steering guidance to a destination, with a greater emphasis on the straight-line desired course and the distance and direction you are off course.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 50 Reference Using the Compass Page Compass Page The compass page provides graphic steering guidance to a destination waypoint. The bearing (BRG) and distance (DST) to the waypoint are displayed at the top of the page, right below the destination waypoint field. The distance displayed is always the straight-line distance from your present position to the destination waypoint. The bearing indicates the exact compass heading from you to the destination.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 51 Reference Moving Map Page Bearing to Waypoint Track Over Ground Distance to Waypoint Moving Map Page Present Position Speed Over Ground The GPSCOM 170 features a powerful real-time moving map that can do much more than just plot your course and route. The map page also provides you with a target cursor that will let you pan ahead to nearby waypoints, determine the distance and bearing to any map position, and mark new waypoints while you navigate.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 52 Reference Moving Map Page Zooming and Panning There are three main functions you can perform from the map page— zooming, panning, and pointing. The moving map has 12 map scales (from 0.2 to 320 miles, or 0.5 to 600 km.) which are selected using the IN and OUT zoom keys. These ranges are measured vertically. To use the zoom keys: 1. From the map page, press either the IN or OUT zoom keys. 2. To see the current map scale, press and hold either button down.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 53 Reference Using the Cursor to Mark and GOTO Waypoints Moving Map Page During panning, the crosshair represents a target position right on the moving map, with the range and bearing to the target displayed at the top corners of the screen. You can also use the target crosshair to mark a new waypoint position or as a GOTO destination right from the map field. To mark the target crosshair position as a new waypoint: 1. Press M to capture the position.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 54 Reference Accessing the Map Setup and Track Setup Windows Map Setup Page You can access two additional pages—the map setup page and the track setup page—by pressing E. while on the map page. The map setup and track setup window will appear, ready for you to select one. To select map setup or track setup: 1. Highlight either field, and press E.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 55 Reference Track Method The stored track method determines how often positions are stored in the track log. The default setting is automatic, which will store a track based on resolution. This setting gives you the most efficient use of track memory and provides the most accurate TracBack route. Track Method To change the method to record points based on a specific time interval: 1. Highlight the ‘CRITERIA’ field, and press E. 2.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 56 Reference Menu Page Menu Page The GPSCOM 170 menu page provides access to submenu pages that are used to select and customize operation and navigation setup. The 11 submenus are divided into categories by function. The waypoint and route management submenus are discussed in their own respective sections. We’ll now address the rest of the submenus in the order they appear on the menu page. To select a submenu page from the menu page: 1.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 57 Reference System Setup The first setup page is the system setup page, which is used to select the operating mode, time offset and screen preferences. The GPSCOM 170 has three operating modes: System Setup • GPS Off? disables all of the unit’s GPS functions which will conserve battery power. • GPS On enables all of the unit’s GPS functions, making it a fully operational unit.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 58 Reference Time Format System Setup The time display shown on the system setup and position pages may be set to display the time in a 12- or 24-hour format. To select the time format: 1. Highlight the ‘HOURS’ field and press E. Select 12- or 24-hour display, and press E to confirm. Screen Contrast The GPSCOM 170 features adjustable screen contrast and is controlled by using an on-screen bar scale.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 59 Reference Navigation Setup The navigation setup page is used to select units of measurement for position formats, map datums, CDI scale, as well as distance, speed and heading information. Navigation Setup Position Formats The default position setting for the GPSCOM 170 is latitude and longitude in degrees and minutes (hdddºmm.mmm’). You may also select degrees, minutes and seconds (hdddºmm’ss.s’’); degrees only (hddd.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 60 Reference Units of Measure Menu Page Options The GPSCOM 170 lets you select nautical (default), statute or metric units of measure for all speed and distance fields. To change the unit of measure: 1. Highlight the ‘units’ field and press E. 2. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the desired unit of measure. Press E to confirm the selection.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 61 Reference Interface Setup The interface setup page lets you specify the formats for connecting external NMEA devices, a DGPS receiver, or a personal computer. There are six options: Interface Setup • ‘GRMN/GRMN’ is the proprietary interface that allows you to exchange data such as waypoints, routes, and track logs between GARMIN units and a GARMIN PC software kit.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 62 Reference DGPS Interface DGPS Interface The last two format settings allow the unit to accept RTCM DGPS corrections in RTCM 104 version 2.0 format. Using DGPS corrections will improve receiver accuracy to 5-10 meters, regardless of errors induced by the government’s Selective Availability (SA) program. The RTCM/NONE format will allow connection to any manually-tuned beacon receiver by using the proper output interface.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 63 Reference DGPS Interface (con’t.) • No DGPS Position—not enough data is available to compute a DGPS position. • No RTCM Input—the beacon receiver is not properly connected or the baud rates do not match. Simulator Mode • RTCM Input Failed—DGPS data was being received but has been lost. Navigation Simulator The simulator mode lets you practice all aspects of its operation without active satellite acquisition.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 64 APPENDIX A Initializing the GPSCOM 170 for First-Time Use Initializing The Receiver The first time you power up your new GPSCOM 170 is an important step in getting the best possible GPS performance. The receiver must be given an opportunity to collect satellite almanac data and establish its present position.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 65 APPENDIX A EZinit After a few seconds, the satellite status page will appear with the EZinit prompt ready for you to select one of two initialization methods: Initializing The Receiver • Select Country— allows you to initialize the receiver by selecting your present position from a list of countries in the GPSCOM 190’s internal database. This feature provides a position fix in 3-5 minutes.
170 manual pages rev D APPENDIX A Initializing The Receiver 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 66 Acquiring Satellites The GPSCOM 170 will now begin searching for the appropriate satellites for your position and should acquire a fix within three to five minutes. You can verify getting a position fix by watching the status page transition to the position page (provided you haven’t pressed any other keys) or by looking for a ‘2D NAV’ or ‘3D NAV’ status at the top-left corner of the status page.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 67 APPENDIX B Flex Com Antenna Attachment and Removal To remove the flex com antenna: Accessories & Installation 1. Squeeze the base of the antenna and turn counterclockwise until the antenna disengages from the connector on the unit. 2. Pull up gently and remove. To attach the flex com antenna: 1. Place the antenna fully over the BNC connector, squeeze the base of the antenna, and turn clockwise until the antenna engages the connector.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 68 APPENDIX B Battery Pack Removal To remove the Ni-Cad battery pack: Accessories & Installation 1. Press down on the battery pack latch, pull down on the pack and remove.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 69 APPENDIX B Trickle Charger/AC Adapter The trickle charger/AC adapter supplied with the GPSCOM 170 converts line voltage to the DC voltage necessary to operate the unit. The AC adapter also slowly recharges the Ni-Cad battery pack at a rate of 14 hours for a full recharge. Make sure you charge the Ni-Cad battery pack for 14 hours before using your GPSCOM 170 to ensure optimum capacity and performance.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 70 APPENDIX C The GPSCOM 170 operates on the following VHF channels. Channel List Channel Number USA INT CAN Transmit Receive 01 01 02 03 02 03 156.050 156.050 156.100 156.150 156.150 156.200 156.200 156.250 156.250 156.300 156.350 156.350 156.400 156.450 156.500 156.550 156.600 156.650 156.700 156.750 156.800 156.850 156.900 156.900 156.950 156.950 157.000 157.050 157.050 157.100 157.100 157.150 157.150 157.200 157.250 157.300 156.350 157.400 156.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 71 APPENDIX C Channel Number USA INT CAN Transmit Receive 62A 156.125 156.175 156.175 156.225 156.225 156.275 156.275 156.325 156.325 156.375 156.425 156.475 NO TX 156.575 156.625 156.675 156.725 156.875 156.925 156.925 156.975 156.975 157.025 157.025 157.075 157.075 157.125 157.125 157.175 157.175 157.225 157.275 157.325 157.375 157.425 157.425 156.125 160.775 156.175 160.825 156.225 160.875 156.275 160.925 156.325 156.375 156.425 156.475 156.525 156.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 72 APPENDIX D The GPSCOM 170 is constructed of high-quality materials and should not require user maintenance. Should your unit ever need repair, please take it to an authorized GARMIN service center. The GPSCOM 170 has no user-serviceable parts. Never attempt any repairs yourself. To protect your GPSCOM 170, keep it in its carrying case when not in use, and never allow gasoline or other solvents to come into contact with the case.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 73 APPENDIX D Specifications Transceiver Specifications (continued): Channel Spacing: 25 kHz Audio Power: 0.5 W into 16 ohm speaker Audio Distortion: < 10% Transmitter Output: 1 watt low/5 watts high Sidetone Audio Power: 7 vPP across 330 ohm load Frequency Stability: +/- 10 PPM Duty Cycle: No damage even if continuously keyed Microphone: Internal electret or optional external mic/headset Compliance: FCC Part 87 POWER Source: (1) 7.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 74 APPENDIX E Messages The GPSCOM 170 uses a flashing on-screen message indicator to alert you to important information. Whenever the message indicator appears, press P to view the message page. There are two types of messages: temporary alerts and condition alerts. Temporary alerts are cleared from the message page after viewing, while condition alerts remain until the condition has been resolved. Pay careful attention to all messages for your own safety.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 75 APPENDIX E Messages Route is not Empty—You have attempted to copy into a route already in use. RTCM Input has Failed—DGPS data being received has been lost. You are no longer receiving the beacon signal. Searching the Sky—The unit is searching the sky for almanac data or the unit is in AutoLocate mode. Stuck PTT—The unit is continuously transmitting due to a stuck microphone condition.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 76 APPENDIX F Map Datums Adindan Afgooye AIN EL ABD ‘70 Anna 1 Ast ‘65 ARC 1950 ARC 1960 Ascnsn Isld ‘58 Astro B4 Sorol Astro Bcn “E” Astro Dos 71/4 Astr Stn ‘52 Astrln Geod ‘66 Astrln Geod ‘84 Bellevue (IGN) Bermuda 1957 Bogata Observ Campo Inchspe Canton Ast ‘66 Cape Cape Canavrl Carthage CH-1903 Chatham 1971 Chua Astro Corrego Alegr Djakarta Dos 1968 Easter Isld 67 76 The following list shows the map datums available for the GPSCOM 170.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 77 APPENDIX F Map Datums NAD27 Alaska NAD27 Bahamas North American 1927- Alaska North American 1927Bahamas (excluding San Salvador Island) NAD27 Canada North American 1927- Canada and Newfoundland NAD27 Canal Zone North Am. 1927- Canal Zone NAD27 Caribbn North American 1927- Caribbean (Barbados, Caicos Islands, Cuba, Dom. Rep.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 78 APPENDIX G Time Offset Chart TIme Offset Chart 78 Reference the table below to find the UTC-to-local time offset for your longitudinal zone. If you are in a daylight savings time zone, add one hour to the offset. For example, if you are at longitude W081.0º00.00’ and UTC time is 16:00, local time is 11:00 standard time. The time zone boundaries given below may be different depending on your area.
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 79 APPENDIX H A Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Acquiring Satellites . . . . . . . . . . . .6, 66 Activating a Route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Active Route Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Altitude Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Antenna Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Index F B Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68, 69 Battery Voltage Indicator . . . . . . . . . .20 Belt Clip . . . . . . . . .
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 80 APPENDIX H S Index M Memory List Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Memory Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Menu Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Message Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12, 56 Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74, 75 Moving Map Page . . . . . . . . . . . .10, 51 N NMEA Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 National Weather Service . . . . . . . . . .16 Navigation Guidance Page . . . . . .
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 81 APPENDIX H V VHF Communication Pages . . . . . . . .29 VHF Line-of-Sight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 VHF Status Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Index W Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 Waypoint Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Waypoint Definition Page . . . . . . . . . .25 Waypoint List Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Waypoint Submenus . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
170 manual pages rev D 9/21/98 9:23 AM Page 82 LIMITED WARRANTY GARMIN Corporation warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. GARMIN will, at its sole option, repair or replace any components which fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer for parts or labor. The customer is, however, responsible for any transportation costs.
170 cover 9/21/98 9:31 AM Page 4 ® © 1997 GARMIN CORPORATION 1200 E. 151st Street, Olathe, KS USA 66062 GARMIN (Europe) Ltd. Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9AQ U.K Part Number 190-00093-00 Rev.
