Except as expressly provided herein, no part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, transmitted,
disseminated, downloaded or stored in any storage medium, for any purpose without the express prior
written consent of GARMIN. GARMIN hereby grants permission to download a single copy of this
nd
Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
GARMIN®, Autolocate®, See-Thru®, DCG (Depth Control
Gain)
MapSource
may not be used without the express permission of GARMIN
Corporation.
manual and of any revision to this manual onto a hard drive or other electronic storage medium to be
viewed and to print one copy of this manual or of any revision hereto, provided that such electronic
or printed copy of this manual or revision must contain the complete text of this copyright notice
and provided further that any unauthorized commercial distribution of this manual or any revision
hereto is strictly prohibited.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. GARMIN reserves the right to
change or improve its products and to make changes in the content without obligation to notify any
person or organization of such changes or improvements.
Introduction
Foreword
,
®
and TracBack® are registered trademarks, and
TM
is a trademark of GARMIN Corporation and
July 2002 Part Number 190-00170-00 Rev. D Printed in Taiwan
i
Introduction
Preface and
Registration
+
Why should you register your GARMIN GPS
unit:
• Notifi cation of Product Updates
• Notifi cation of New Products
• Lost or Stolen unit tracking
Preface
Congratulations on choosing one of the most advanced depth sounding and marine navigation
systems available! The GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder utilizes the proven performance of GARMIN
GPS and full featured depth sounding and mapping to create an unsurpassed marine navigation
chartplotter and fi shfi nding package.
To get the most out of your new navigation and sounding system, take the time to go through
this owner’s manual and learn the operating procedures for your unit. This manual is broken down
into two parts for your convenience.
Part One introduces you to the GPSMAP 168 Sounder and provides a Getting Started tour so you
may become more familiar with the unit. This section will provide you with a basic working knowledge
necessary to use the unit to its fullest potential.
Part Two is divided into sections that provide detailed references to the advanced features and
operations of the GPSMAP 168 Sounder. This allows you to concentrate on a specifi c topic quickly and
look up detailed information about the GPSMAP 168 Sounder.
Customer Service Product Registration
Help us better support you by completing our on-line registration today! Have the serial
number of your GPSMAP 168 Sounder handy and connect to our website (www.garmin.com). Look for
the Product Registration link on the Home page. Also, be sure to record your serial number in the area
provided on page iv of this manual.
)
NOTE: If you have previously registered a GARMIN product purchase using a mail-in
registration card, we invite you to re-register using our NEW on-line system. Many
services provided by our new product registration system are now being automated.
Re-registering your purchase ensures you the best possible support from GARMIN.
ii
The GPS system is operated by the United States government, 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 GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder is a precision
electronic NAVigation AID (NAVAID), any NAVAID can be misused or misinterpreted and, therefore,
become unsafe.
The electronic chart is an aid to navigation and is designed to facilitate the use of authorized
government charts, not replace them. Only offi cial government charts and notices to mariners contain
all information needed for safe navigation – and, as always, the user is responsible for their prudent
use.
Use the GPSMAP 168 Sounder at your own risk. To reduce the risk of unsafe operation, carefully
review and understand all aspects of this Owner’s Manual—and thoroughly practice operation using
the simulator mode prior to actual use. When in actual use, carefully compare indications from
the GPSMAP 168 Sounder to all available navigation sources, including the information from other
NAVAIDs, visual sightings, charts, etc. For safety, always resolve any discrepancies before continuing
navigation.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder should not be used as a navigational aid or depth sounder to prevent
collision, grounding, boat damage or personal injury. The digital depth displayed is the depth under the
transducer and not necessarily the front of the boat. By the time a depth is displayed, most of your boat
MAP DATA INFORMATION: One of the goals of GARMIN
is to provide customers with the most complete and accurate
cartography that is available to us at a reasonable cost.
We use a combination of governmental and private data
sources, which we identify (as required) in product literature
and copyright messages displayed to the consumer. Virtually
all data sources contain inaccurate or incomplete data to
some degree. This is particularly true outside the United
States, where complete and accurate digital data is either
not available or prohibitively expensive.
may have already passed over that area. We recommend that you operate the boat at a very slow speed
if you suspect shallow water or submerged objects.
Introduction
Warnings and
Precautions
,
CAUTION: IT IS THE USER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT PRUDENTLY. THIS
PRODUCT IS INTENDED TO BE USED ONLY AS A NAVIGATIONAL AID AND MUST NOT
BE USED FOR ANY PURPOSE REQUIRING PRECISE MEASUREMENT OF DIRECTION,
DISTANCE, LOCATION, OR TOPOGRAPHY.
iii
Introduction
Software License Agreement
Software License Agreement
BY USING THE GPSMAP 168 SOUNDER, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE TERMS AND
CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS
AGREEMENT CAREFULLY.
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 product. Title, ownership rights and intellectual
property rights in and to the Software remain in GARMIN.
You acknowledge that the Software is the property of GARMIN and is protected under the United
States of America copyright laws and international copyright treaties. You further acknowledge that
the structure, organization and code of the Software are valuable trade secrets of GARMIN and that the
Software in source code form remains a valuable trade secret of GARMIN. You agree not to decompile,
disassemble, modify, reverse assemble, reverse engineer or reduce to human readable form the Software
or any part thereof or create any derivative works based on the Software. You agree not to export
or re-export the Software to any country in violation of the export control laws of the United States
of America.
WARNING
These products are intended for recreational fi shfi nding and as a aid for navigation and should not
be relied on as a substitute for offi cial marine navigation charts. It is the user’s responsibility to be
aware of shallow water and underwater hazards and to exercise common prudence and navigational
judgment.
iv
FCC Compliance
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder 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 reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation, and are more stringent than “outdoor” requirements.
Operation of this device is subject to the following 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 generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:
·• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
·• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
·• Connect the equipment into a different outlet or circuit than the one that is curently being used.
·• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only be
made by an authorized GARMIN service center. Unauthorized repairs or modifi cations could result
in permanent damage to the equipment, and void your warranty and your authority to operate this
device under Part 15 regulations.
Introduction
FCC Compliance
v
LIMITED WARRANTY
Introduction
date of purchase. Within this period, GARMIN will at its sole option, repair or replace any components that fail
Warranty and
Serial Number
Serial Number
Use this area to record the serial number (8-digit number
located on the bottom of the unit) in case it is lost, stolen, or
needs service. Be sure to keep your original sales receipt in a
safe place or attach a photocopy inside the manual.
Serial Number:
,
The GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder has no user-serviceable parts. The GPSMAP 168 Sounder is fastened shut with
screws. Any attempt to open the case to change or modify
the unit in any way will void your warranty and may result
in permanent damage to the equipment.
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. This warranty does not cover failures due to
abuse, misuse, accident or unauthorized alteration or repairs.
OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY LIABILITY ARISING UNDER
ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, STATUTORY OR
OTHERWISE. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY VARY FROM STATE
TO STATE.
QUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE, OR INABILITY TO USE THIS
PRODUCT OR FROM DEFECTS IN THE PRODUCT. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
purchase price at its sole discretion. SUCH REMEDY SHALL BE YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR
ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.
at one of the numbers shown below, for shipping instructions and an RMA tracking number. The unit should be
securely packed with the tracking number clearly written on the outside of the package. The unit should then
be sent, freight charges prepaid, to any GARMIN warranty service station. A copy of the original sales receipt is
required as the proof of purchase for warranty repairs.
This GARMIN product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the
THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL
IN NO EVENT SHALL GARMIN BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSE-
GARMIN retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit or software or offer a full refund of the
To obtain warranty service, contact your local GARMIN authorized dealer. Or call GARMIN Customer Service
GARMIN International, Inc. GARMIN (Europe) Ltd.
1200 East 151st Street Unit 4, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate
Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A. Romsey, SO51 9AQ, U.K.
Phone: 913/397.8200 Phone: 44/1794.519944
FAX: 913/397.0836 FAX: 44/1794.519222
vi
Designed for detailed electronic charting capability, the GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder is a
powerful navigation device that can give you the navigation information you need:
Precision Performance
• High-contrast, four-level gray, LCD screen with backlighting
• 12-channel parallel receiver tracks and uses up to 12 satellites for fast, accurate positioning
• Differential-Ready — just add an optional GARMIN beacon receiver for better than 5-meter
accuracy
• 500 alphanumeric waypoints with selectable icons
• Built-in Americas basemap to 20 miles includes detailed ocean, river and lake coastlines, cities,
interstates, US state highways and local thoroughfares
• 20 reversible routes with up to 30 waypoints each
• Uploadable maps up to 2.5 Megabytes of data using GARMIN’s MapSource PC products
• Coordinates: Lat/Lon, UTM/UPS, Loran TD, plus 15 grids, including Maidenhead
• TracBack route feature which allows you to quickly retrace your track log to a starting position
• Built-in simulator mode
Superior Fishfi nding Ability
• Whiteline feature provides a clear image of both bottom hardness and structure
• See-Thru technology which helps separate fi sh returns from thermoclines and structure
• Four zoom levels with a moving view window
• Underwater waypoint marking
• Map/Sonar split screen combines navigation and fi shfi nding information
• Fish and depth alarms
Introduction
Capabilities
vii
Introduction
Packing List
,
GPSMAP 168 Sounder
Standard and Optional Transducers
Unit part numbers 010-00199-00 and 010-00202-00
include a 200 kHz, 20 degree, plastic, depth and temp,
transom mount transducer. For a complete list of optional
transducers, see page 93.
Before installing and getting started with your unit, please check to see that your package includes
the following items. If any parts are missing, please contact your GARMIN dealer immediately.
Standard Package:
• GPSMAP 168 Sounder Unit
• Bail Mount with knobs
• Mounting Bracket*
• Mount Bracket with Internal Antenna**
• GA 29 Remote Marine Antenna with 30’ cable and BNC connector*
• Power/Data Cable
• AC Power/PC Interface Cable
• Protective Cover
• Owner’s Manual and Quick Reference Guide
* Not included with part number 010-00202-00 or 010-00202-02.
** Not included with part number 010-00199-00 or 010-00199-02.
Optional Accessories:
• US A/C PC Adapter
• EURO A/C PC Adapter
• UK A/C PC Adapter
• Cigarette Lighter Adapter
• MapSource CDs: Fishing Hot Spots, US Waterways & Lights, US Topo, US Roads & Recreation,
European Roads & Recreation, and WorldMap
The IN Key
The IN key adjusts the map scale to display a smaller area with more detail. (Zooms in)
The OUT Key
The OUT key adjusts the map scale to display a larger area with less detail. (Zooms out)
The PAGE Key
The PAGE key selects the main pages in sequence and returns display from a submenu page.
The ARROW KEYPAD
The ARROW KEYPAD is used to select (Highlight) menu options and enter data. It also controls
cursor movement on the Map Page.
The ENTER/MARK Key
The ENTER/MARK key selects a highlighted menu option. When entering data, it allows you to
initiate entry, and then to accept the selected value(s). It also marks the current location as a waypoint
when pressed and held for more than one second.
The QUIT Key
The QUIT key returns the display to the previous page and, when entering data, it restores the previous
value (cancels data entry).
The MENU Key
The MENU key displays a menu of available options for the current page. Press twice to display
the Main Menu.
The NAV/MOB Key
The NAV/MOB key displays the Go To and Follow navigation menu. It also activates the MOB (Man
OverBoard) function when pressed and held for more than one second.
The POWER/BACKLIGHT/CONTRAST Key ( )
The POWER/BACKLIGHT/CONTRAST key turns the unit and display illumination on/off .
Getting Started
Keypad Usage
Always press and release a key to perform
its primary function. Pressing and holding
the ENTER/MARK or NAV/MOB keys
will activate their secondary function.
1
Getting Started
Selecting Options
Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight
the next option. Press ENTER/MARK
to activate the option.
How To Select Options and Enter Data
Before moving ahead into GPSMAP 168 features, you will need to learn basic operation. You can
select and activate options and enter data to customize the GPSMAP 168 to fi t your requirements. You
can use the ENTER/MARK key and ARROW KEYPAD to select options, enter names and numbers
in data fi elds, and activate your selections.
To select and activate an optional feature:
1. With any page displayed, press the MENU key to pop-up the options menu. The options menu will
display a list of optional features which are specifi c for that particular page. To select any feature on
the list of options requires movement of the cursor, which is identifi ed as highlighting, selecting or
choosing an item in a list or a fi eld (box) on a page.
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor (highlight) up and down a list or up, down, and
sideways on menus.
3. Once you have moved to the selection desired, press the ENTER/MARK key to either activate the
feature or pop-up a sub-menu or list of yet more feature options. Just repeat this process to select
an option from the list or press the QUIT key to return to the previous setting.
The QUIT key when pressed, will move backwards through each step to the main page you
started on.
To select and activate a function button:
1. When moving about a page with function buttons, like the ‘New Map Waypoint’ page, you will
observe functions such as ’OK’, ‘Go To’ and ‘Delete’. To activate the function, highlight the desired
button and press the ENTER/MARK key.
Pop-up list of options for a highlighted
fi eld.
2
Naming a waypoint or placing any sort of data that has not been predefi ned requires the use of
both the ARROW KEYPAD and the ENTER/MARK key.
To enter a name or number in a data fi eld:
1. Once you have accessed a page with programmable data fi elds (i.e. ‘ Waypoint Edit’) you can use
the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor (highlight) to fi elds on the page. Use the UP/DOWN
arrows to move up or down and the LEFT/RIGHT arrows to move sideways.
2. Pressing the ENTER/MARK key with the fi eld highlighted begins the process for entering data in
the form of alphanumeric characters.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD UP/DOWN arrows to cycle through numbers 0 to 9, plus/minus symbols,
blank space, and the alphabet. Pressing and releasing the keypad moves you character by character
through the list. Pressing and holding the keypad moves you rapidly through the list.
4. Use the ARROW KEYPAD LEFT/RIGHT arrows to move to the next character on the line or
backwards to edit characters. If there are more than two lines of data, keep pressing to the RIGHT
to drop down to the next line.
5. When data entry is completed, press ENTER/MARK to accept data, then move to the next
programmable fi eld. Not all data fi elds are programmable, like the date and time. When moving
about a page with these type of fi elds, the cursor will skip over them.
Getting Started
Entering Data
Pressing UP or DOWN
on the ARROW KEYPAD
changes numbers and
letters.
Pressing LEFT or RIGHT
on the ARROW KEYPAD
moves the cursor along
the line or to the next line.
Every fi eld and button on this page can be programmed or activated.
• A waypoint symbol can be selected
from a list of symbols.
• The coordinates can be changed.
• The waypoint can be renamed.
• A depth will be set by the sonar
• Option buttons can be activated.
Data Entry Field
Non-programable
data fi elds
3
Getting Started
Initializing the Receiver
GPSMAP 168 Sounder Self-Test Screen
GPSMAP 168 Sounder Warning Screen
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s advanced keypad system is designed to allow for fast, convenient
selection of navigation options and data entry. The Getting Started Tour will introduce you to the
keypad and provide a “hands-on” lesson in using the GPSMAP 168 Sounder. We strongly encourage
you to take the Getting Started tour before using your unit for actual navigation.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder Quick Reference Guide contains helpful tips on using the unit and
performing various navigation tasks. It’s a good idea to keep the Quick Reference Guide nearby
whenever you’re operating your new GPSMAP 168 Sounder.
Initializing the Receiver
The fi rst time you power up your new GPSMAP 168 Sounder, the receiver must be given an
opportunity to collect satellite data and establish its present position. To ensure proper initialization, the
GPSMAP 168 Sounder is shipped from the factory in AutoLocate mode, which will allow the receiver
to “fi nd itself” anywhere in the world. To speed up the initialization process, we recommend using
the graphic initialization process described on the next page, which will usually provide a position
fi x within a few minutes.
Before you initialize, make sure the GPSMAP 168 Sounder unit and antenna have been correctly
installed on your vessel according to the instructions in Appendix G. The antenna needs to be in a clear
and unobstructed view of the sky to receive satellite signals.
To turn on the GPSMAP 168 Sounder:
1. Press and hold the POWER key until the power tone sounds and the display comes on, then
release the POWER key.
The Welcome Page will appear while the unit conducts a self-test. Once the internal test is
complete, a warning page will appear, asking you to read and acknowledge important information
regarding the proper use of the unit.
To acknowledge the warning:
1. After reading the warning, press the ENTER/MARK key if you agree.
4
To graphically initialize the GPSMAP 168 Sounder:
1. From the Status Page, press the MENU key. The Status Page options menu window will appear.
2. Using the ARROW KEYPAD, highlight ‘Initialize Position’ and press ENTER/MARK to initialize the
receiver from the built-in worldwide map. The Initialize Position Page will appear, prompting you to
select your approximate location with the map cursor.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the map cursor and point to your approximate location within
100 miles. If you have diffi culty identifying your position, press and release the IN key to zoom in
to see the next lower map scale.
4. Once you have determined your approximate location on the map, press the ENTER/MARK key.
Getting Started
Initializing the Receiver
,
This does not “calibrate” the unit in any way, but rather helps to speed up the initial
satellite acquisition. If the unit switches to the Map Page or displays ‘2D’ or ‘3D
Navigation’ during this process, it is not necessary to initialize the unit.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder will now begin searching for the appropriate satellites for your region
and should acquire a fi x within a few minutes. A signal strength bar for each satellite in view will appear
on the top middle of the page, with the appropriate satellite number under each bar. The progress of
satellite acquisition is shown in three stages:
• No signal strength bars— the receiver is looking for the satellites indicated.
• Hollow signal strength bars— the receiver has found the indicated satellite(s) and is collecting data.
• Solid signal strength bars— the receiver has collected the necessary data and the satellite(s) are
ready for use.
Once the receiver has collected information from at least three satellites, the top of the screen will
display either ‘2D’ or ‘3D Navigation’, and the GPSMAP 168 Sounder is ready for use.
Point to your approximate location
and press ENTER/MARK.
A satellite’s strength bars will turn
black when it’s ready for use.
5
Getting Started
Power On — Screen Contrast
To adjust the screen contrast, press LEFT or
RIGHT on the ARROW KEYPAD to move
the contrast slider.
GPSMAP 168 Sounder Getting Started Tour
The GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder is a powerful electronic navigation system that provides
detailed map coverage and convenient control of many advanced features right from the screen display.
This tour is designed to take you through the basic pages and functions of the system using the
simulator mode. Once you’re familiar with the main pages and functions of the unit, refer to the
Reference section for instructions on performing specifi c tasks and functions.
The Getting Started tour assumes that the receiver has been properly installed and initialized, and
you have not changed any of the default unit settings. If you have changed any settings (position
formats, units of measure, etc.), the descriptions and pictures in the tour may not match your
confi guration.
To turn on the GPSMAP 168 Sounder:
1. Press and hold the POWER key until the power tone sounds, then release the POWER key. The
Welcome Page will appear while the unit conducts a self-test.
2. Once the self-test is complete, press the ENTER/MARK key, if you agree, to acknowledge the
warning.
The Status Page will appear as the receiver begins acquiring satellites. From the Status Page or any
other page, you may also adjust the screen contrast and backlighting.
To adjust the screen contrast:
1. Press POWER and the Light and Contrast window will appear.
2. To decrease or increase the screen contrast, press LEFT or RIGHT on the ARROW KEYPAD.
3. Press the ENTER/MARK key to fi nish.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder adjustable screen backlighting is controlled with the POWER key, and
may be adjusted at any time from any page. The backlight can cycle through off, user-defi ned, and
maximum backlight levels by repeatedly pressing the POWER key.
6
To turn on and adjust the backlighting:
1. Press POWER and the Light and Contrast window will appear.
2. Press POWER again and the user-defi ned level of backlighting will activate. You may adjust this
level by pressing UP or DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD. If you press POWER one more time, the
backlighting will be at the maximum setting.
3. Press ENTER/MARK or QUIT when done.
The backlight will now cycle through off, the user-defi ned, and maximum backlight levels by
repeatedly pressing the POWER key.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s Status Page provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition, receiver
status, date, time and position coordinates. Each page of the GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s system also
features an options menu, giving you access to other functions and features related to the specifi c
page you are viewing. To get a feel for how the options menus work, let’s put the GPSMAP 168
Sounder into simulator mode.
To place the GPSMAP 168 Sounder in simulator mode:
1. From the Status Page, press the MENU key. A menu of options and functions for the Status Page
will appear.
2. Press UP or DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the ‘Start Simulator’ option and press
ENTER/MARK.
3. Press the ENTER/MARK key to confi rm the ‘Running Simulator’ message that appears at the
bottom of the display.
Once the simulator has been started, the status fi eld at the top of the page will display a ‘Simulating
Navigation’ status. Now you’re ready to continue the rest of the simulated tour.
Getting Started
Backlighting/
Simulator Mode
Press UP or DOWN on the ARROW
KEYPAD to move the backlighting
slider up for brighter or down for
dimmer backlighting..
,
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder does not track satellites in simulator mode, and this mode
should never be used for actual navigation.
All the waypoint and route planning done in simulator mode will still be retained in memory
for future use.
When the unit is in simulator mode,
an ‘S’ will appear in the lower left
corner of every screen and the Status
Page will show “Simulating Navigation.”
7
Getting Started
Status Page/Map Page
The Status Page is one of six main pages used in the GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s system. The six main
pages are: the Status Page, Sonar Page, Map Page, Compass Page, Highway Page and Active Route Page.
All six pages are linked together in a simple chain, which allows you to scroll through the pages in
either direction using the PAGE and QUIT keys.
Status Page
Sonar Page
Map PageActive Route PageHighway Page
Compass Page
To continue the tour, let’s move on to the next page, the Map Page.
To scroll to the next page in sequence:
1. Press the PAGE key.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s Map Page combines digital chartplotting with a user-selectable display
of navigation data and a built-in worldwide database to 20 mi. It will also be the page you use most
to create and edit waypoints and routes. Before we take off on our practice route, let’s take a brief
look at its various features and displays.
The map display shows your “boat” as a triangle marker on an electronically generated chart.
Geographic names, roads, markers and buoys that are provided by the optional MapSource data are
also shown. It also displays your track, routes and nearby waypoints. An on-screen cursor lets you
pan to other map areas, determine the range and bearing to a position, and perform various waypoint
and route functions.
The data window, located at the top of the page, provides a user-selectable display of various
navigation data, including course, speed over ground, and bearing and distance to the cursor or a
particular waypoint. The current map scale setting is located at the bottom right of the page.
8
Using the Map Cursor
Working from the Map Page is a simple process that centers around the use of the cursor.
Controlled by the ARROW KEYPAD, the cursor is an important tool that can be used to pan to
other map locations, mark and edit waypoints and routes, and review position data of on-screen map
items and waypoints.
To get a feel for using the Map Page and using the cursor, try the following exercise:
1. Use the IN/OUT keys to set the map scale to the 50 nm setting. Your boat should be near the center
of the map, at the receiver’s last known position. (If your boat isn’t where it should be, make sure
that you have initialized the receiver and acquired a position as described on pages 1-2.)
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor. Notice how another data fi eld appears at the
top of the page, showing the bearing and distance from your boat to the cursor, along with the
latitude/longitude of the cursor.
3. Press the QUIT key to remove the cursor and re-center your boat on the map display.
As you become more familiar with the cursor, you’ll see that the map display actively scrolls or
‘pans’, letting you explore areas around the world and create waypoints and routes. Wherever you
move the cursor, you’ll always be just one QUIT keystroke away from returning the map to your
present position.
Now that you’ve seen how the Status and Map Pages can be used to monitor satellite acquisition
and your present location, let’s take a minute to learn how to mark and store your present position
as a waypoint. Since you’re in simulator mode, the present position displayed will be the last
position calculated by the receiver, which should be the spot where you’ve initialized the unit. This
will also give you an opportunity to see how the GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s ARROW KEYPAD and ENTER/MARK key are used for data entry and changing the waypoint name and symbol.
Getting Started
Map Cursor
Map Scale
Current position
Distance
Bearing
Map Cursor
Cursor Coordinates
9
Getting Started
Marking Waypoints
Press ENTER/MARK after entering
the name.
You can choose from a list of 38 useful
symbols.
To mark your present position:
1. Hold down the ENTER/MARK key until the ‘New Waypoint’ window appears then release the
key. The window will show a default three-digit waypoint name/number (001), symbol (dot), and
position. You can leave the name as the auto-assigned number, but for this exercise, lets change
the name to ‘DOCK’.
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the waypoint name fi eld (001) and press ENTER/MARK.
You will see that just the fi rst ‘0’ is now highlighted.
3. Press LEFT on the ARROW KEYPAD to clear the name fi eld.
4. Press the UP or DOWN arrow of the ARROW KEYPAD until the letter ‘D’ appears, and then press
the RIGHT arrow key to go to the next space to the right, then UP or DOWN again until ‘O’ appears.
Repeat this until you have entered the name ‘DOCK’. If you make a mistake and select an incorrect
character, simply press LEFT on the ARROW KEYPAD to backspace the cursor and then UP or
DOWN to correct the entry. If you accidentally press ENTER/MARK before you are done, simply
press ENTER/MARK again and move the highlight to where you left off.
5. After you have entered all the letters, press ENTER/MARK to confi rm the name.
6. To access the waypoint symbol menu, highlight the waypoint symbol fi eld which is to the left of the
waypoint’s name and press ENTER/MARK. Note: The default symbol is a dot.
7. You will see an alphabetical list of available waypoint symbols to choose from. Press the ARROW KEYPAD UP or DOWN until you highlight the ‘ANCHOR’ symbol. You will see a scroll bar on the
right of the window indicating your current position on the entire list of symbols.
8. Press ENTER/MARK to confi rm the ‘ANCHOR’ symbol.
9. Highlight ‘OK’ at the bottom of the window and press ENTER/MARK again to confi rm the ‘OK’
prompt and save the waypoint. You may also press QUIT to not save the waypoint.
The waypoint is now stored in memory. Note that waypoints may also be created graphically from
the map display or by manually entering position coordinates. Each of these techniques is described in
the reference section of the manual and/or on your GPSMAP 168 Sounder Quick Reference Guide.
10
Going to a Destination
GPS is all about marking positions as waypoints and navigating to them using the receiver’s steering
guidance and map displays. We’ve already seen how to use the ENTER/MARK key to store our present
position, so it’s time to move on to the fun part—going to a destination.
The NAV/MOB key is the primary tool used to select a destination waypoint, TracBack, or a route
to navigate. The NAV/MOB key can be used in three primary ways:
• Pressing NAV/MOBonce displays a list of options from which you can select ‘Go To Point’, ‘Follow
Route’, ‘Follow Track’, or ‘Stop Navigation’.
• Holding down or pressing twice on the NAV/MOB key activates the MOB (Man OverBoard) feature.
This marks the point at which the MOB was activated as a waypoint named “MOB” and also
establishes it as an active “Go To” point.
• Highlighting an on-screen waypoint or map item as a destination directly from the Map Page and
pressing NAV/MOB allows you to graphically select points to “Go To”.
For our simulated trip, you’re going to select a pre-programmed tour route using the fi rst method.
This will also show how the MENU key is used throughout the GPSMAP 168 Sounder system to
provide tab style options and functions. Let’s start by changing the position to where the practice
route is located.
To change the GPSMAP 168 Sounder position in simulator mode:
1. From the Status Page, press the MENU key. A pop-up window will appear, displaying a list of
options and functions for the Status Page.
2. Press UP or DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the ‘Initialize Position’ option and press
ENTER/MARK.
3. From the Initialize Position Page, press the MENU key. You will see ‘Enter As Text’ highlighted,
then press ENTER/MARK.
4. On the Enter Position window, press ENTER/MARK then use the ARROW KEYPAD to enter
N34°56.800’, press the ARROW KEYPAD right to move to the next line then enter W076°24.066’.
Press ENTER/MARK when fi nished.
Getting Started
Using the NAV/MOB Key
Text entry for simulator position.
For future practice, you may skip
steps 3 and 4 and point to a location
from the Initialize Position page.
11
Getting Started
Simulated Tour
You can also Invert a route to follow
it in reverse.
The ‘Set Position’, ‘Track Control’,
‘Track’ and ‘Speed’ fi elds only show
while in simulator mode.
Let’s give it a try by activating the practice route stored in memory for navigation:
1. Press NAV/MOB. The options list will appear. (If we were selecting a single waypoint to navigate
to rather than a route, we could highlight the waypoint on the map, press NAV/MOB and then
press ENTER/MARK.)
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the ‘Follow Route’ option. Press ENTER/MARK to confi rm.
3. The Select Route page will appear, with the ‘GPSMAP TOUR’ route highlighted.
4. Press ENTER/MARK then highlight ‘Activate’ and press ENTER/MARK again.
To get a better view of what’s going on, zoom in to a closer map scale:
1. Repeatedly press the IN key until you select the 3 nm scale.
Note: You may also hold down the IN or OUT key to quickly scroll through the map scales. The
Map Page should now display fi ve waypoints chained together in a simple route, with your boat at
the fi rst route waypoint.
A data fi eld at the top of the page will now display the speed, distance to the second route
waypoint, and a pointer which shows you which way to go. To get started, let’s enter a speed for our
vessel, which we can do from the Main Menu Page.
To enter a boat speed:
1. Press the MENU key twice to display the Main Menu Page.
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the ‘Systm’ tab, then press RIGHT then DOWN until the fi eld
below the word ‘Speed’ is highlighted and press ENTER/MARK.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to enter a speed of 60 knots.
4. Press ENTER/MARK to fi nish, and QUIT until you return to the Map Page.
Once a speed has been entered, you’ll notice that the map will automatically begin to move slowly,
keeping your boat centered on the display. The direction of movement, also called ‘track’, will be
controlled by the simulator.
12
You’ll now have a clearer picture of the route you are navigating. Keep in mind that whenever you
do exceed the usable range of the built-in database or the optional MapSource data in use, the range
fi eld will display ‘overzoom’ or ‘NO MAP’ to indicate that you should exercise extreme caution using the
map data. Press the IN key to zoom into the 2 nm scale. Now that you’ve zoomed in a little closer to
your route, you can pan ahead of your vessel with the cursor to review map items and create on-screen
waypoints. Try moving the cursor to highlight the ‘TOUR3’ waypoint— just use the ARROW KEYPAD
to move the cursor as close as possible to the waypoint. (To move the cursor in small increments, try
a series of short key presses.)
Once the cursor is over the TOUR3 waypoint, you’ll notice that the waypoint symbol and name will
become highlighted or “selected.” The data fi eld at the top of the page will display the waypoint name,
the range and bearing from your present position, and the coordinates for the waypoint.
To review the waypoint page for a selected waypoint:
1. Press the ENTER/MARK key.
2. To return to the Map Page, press ENTER/MARK again or press QUIT.
The cursor can also be used to create new waypoints right from the map display.
To create a new waypoint using the cursor:
1. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor to a new position on the map that is NOT a map
feature (such as a city, road or lake).
2. Press the ENTER/MARK key to capture the cursor position. The New Map Waypoint page appears.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the waypoint symbol fi eld to the left of the waypoint
name/number.
4. Press ENTER/MARK to access the symbol page.
5. Press UP or DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD to select the ‘Shipwreck’ symbol and press ENTER/MARK to confi rm.
6. Highlight ‘OK’ at the bottom and press ENTER/MARK again to save the waypoint.
Getting Started
Reviewing/Creating
Map Waypoints
The waypoint will ‘highlight’ when
the cursor is moved over it.
Waypoint numbering will start with
001 and continually count up, even if
the waypoint name has been deleted.
13
Adjustment
Bar
Fish Arch
Bottom
Whiteline
Thermocline
Current
Setting
Getting Started
Sonar Page
Data Fields
Sonar Page
Depth Range Adjustment
Depth
Line
Depth
Scale
Flasher
The Sonar Page lets you use the GPSMAP 168 Sounder as a fi shfi nder. The top of the screen
contains any of 27 selectable data fi eld options, while the middle of the page contains a right-to-left
moving sonar image of the water beneath your boat. (Note: Items appear on the screen as they pass
under your transducer. Those objects appearing on the right side of the screen are closer to you
than those on the left.) Fish are displayed as a darkened arch or a fi sh icon in three different sizes.
Thermoclines (layers of water separating warmer water above from cooler water below) are shown
as shades of gray.
The area of strongest sonar return (or whiteline) is displayed as solid gray. Typically, the bottom
will be the primary source of the whiteline. A thin whiteline indicates a softer bottom while a thick
whiteline shows a harder bottom. A black line is used to show the point where water meets the
whiteline. This black line will follow the bottom contour, along with any signifi cant objects lying on
the bottom. Along the right side of the screen is an adjustable scale which refl ects the depth of the
area being displayed. If the unit does not detect a transducer attached to the unit, a “Sonar Turned
Off” message will appear across the top of the Sonar Page. More on the Sonar Page may be found
on pages 38-44.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder uses two range modes: auto and manual. Auto mode displays the
most information possible while continuously showing the bottom. Manual mode lets you select the
displayed depth. These and other Sonar Page functions are controlled from the adjustment bar.
To switch from auto to manual mode:
1. With the ‘Range’ fi eld highlighted, press the ARROW KEYPAD UP or DOWN until the desired
depth range is displayed on the adjustment bar or shows on the depth scale in the lower right
side of the page.
2. Press ENTER/MARK or press LEFT or RIGHT on the ARROW KEYPAD to confi rm the selected
range.
To switch from manual to auto mode:
1. With the ‘Range’ fi eld highlighted, press the ARROW KEYPAD UP or DOWN until the selection
arrow points to ‘Auto’ or ‘Auto’ is displayed on the adjustment bar.
2. Press ENTER/MARK or press LEFT or RIGHT on the ARROW KEYPAD.
14
Another useful feature of the GPSMAP 168 Sounder is the sonar zoom, which allows you to
instantly “zoom in” to look at a specifi c portion of the sounder display by using the either the IN or
OUT key. The Zoom function is divided into four display levels:
• 2X Split––Shows two reduced-size sonar pictures at the same time. The right half of the display
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––Displays the 2X zoomed picture on the full GPSMAP 168 Sounder screen and does not
show the original scale picture.
• 4X Split––Shows two reduced pictures, with one at the original depth scale and one at 1/4 the
original depth scale.
• 4X Zoom––Displays only the 4X zoomed picture on the full GPSMAP 168 Sounder screen.
Once activated, the zoomed picture becomes the Sonar Page display. Note: The Zoom function can
be deactivated by pressing the OUT key until the ‘No Zoom’ setting appears.
Once in Zoom mode, you can control the view of the left side of the split. When the unit is set to
one of the Zoom settings, and additional optional named ‘View’ will appear on the adjustment bar. The
View function operates in either ‘Auto View’ or ‘Fixed View’. Auto View will follow the bottom contour
while Fixed View will display the selected depth.
To access the Sonar Zoom function:
1. While viewing the Sonar Page, press IN once. The 2X split screen will appear.
2. Continue to press IN to advance to further zoom screen levels.
3. To deactivate the Zoom function, press OUT until the original scale (No Zoom) appears.
4. Press ENTER/MARK or press LEFT or RIGHT on the ARROW KEYPAD.
For more on the Zoom, View and other Sonar Page functions, see pages 38-44.
To learn more about how sonar works, see Appendix H.
2X Zoom
View
Getting Started
Sonar Page
Normal
View
Sonar 2X Split Screen (shown with
Depth Line and Flasher)
Bar
represents
area shown
on 2X View
Sonar Zoom
Adjustment
15
Getting Started
Compass/Highway
Navigation Pages
Data Fields
Compass Ring
Pointer Arrow
Current
Destination
Now that we’re navigating to an actual destination, let’s move on to the GPSMAP 168 Sounder
navigation pages by pressing the PAGE key.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder features two different navigation pages: Compass and Highway. The
Compass Page is fi rst. This page provides graphic steering guidance to a destination waypoint, with an
emphasis on the bearing to your destination and current direction of travel (the Highway Page places
greater emphasis on the straight-line desired course and the distance and direction you are off course).
The middle of the page features a rotating ‘compass ring’ that shows your course over ground (track)
while you’re moving, and a bearing pointer that indicates the direction of the destination (bearing) relative to the course over ground. The compass ring and pointer arrow work independently to show—at
a glance—the direction of your movement and the direction to your destination. For instance, if the
arrow points up, you are going directly to the waypoint. If the arrow points any direction other than up,
turn toward the arrow until it points up—then continue in that direction.
The current speed and distance to the next waypoint as well as the time to the next waypoint are
displayed at the top of the screen. This page provides better steering guidance than the Highway Page
when travelling at slower speeds and/or when making frequent directional changes. When you are not
navigating to a waypoint, the compass will show your direction of travel as you move but the arrow will
not appear. Note: Due to Selective Availability error, it is possible for the compass to point in the wrong
direction when stationary or at very low speeds.
Let’s move on to the Highway Page by pressing the PAGE key.
16
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s Highway Page also provides graphic steering guidance to a destination
waypoint. As you head toward your destination, the middle of the screen provides visual guidance to
your waypoint on a moving graphic “highway.” Your present position is at the bottom center of the
highway display. The line down the middle of the highway represents your desired course. As you
navigate toward a waypoint, the highway will actually move—indicating the direction you’re off course.
To stay on course, simply steer toward the center of the highway or “keep it on the road.” The six
default data fi elds at the top of the page indicate Speed, Distance To your destination (or the next
waypoint in a route), ‘To Course’ (which shows the bearing to get you back on course), the distance
you are ‘Off Course’, Time To the Next waypoint, and the compass Track you are heading. Use the
Highway Page as your primary navigation page (in lieu of the Compass Page) when your main concern
is following a defi ned course.
When the GPSMAP 168 Sounder is in simulator mode, you can also adjust your speed and course
from the Highway Page using the ARROW KEYPAD. As you head toward each waypoint in the tour
route, try adjusting your boat speed and course to get a feel for how the highway works.
To adjust the simulated boat speed from the Highway Page:
1. Press the UP arrow of the ARROW KEYPAD to increase the speed in 10 knot/kph/mph increments.
Press the DOWN arrow to decrease the speed in the same increments.
To steer the boat:
1. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrows of the ARROW KEYPAD.
Notice that as you get off course, the highway will move to give you graphic guidance to get
back on course. You can zoom IN or OUT on the highway display for a smaller or larger view. Five
available settings range from 1X to 16X, with a default setting of 8X. The current scale will appear
in the bottom right of the display.
To zoom in or out on the highway display:
1. Press either the IN or OUT key to increase or decrease the zoom scale.
Getting Started
Highway Page
Data Fields
Desired Course
Zoom Scale
Present Position
Current
Waypoint
17
Getting Started
Data Fields/Active Route Page/
Main Menu Page
You may choose from 27 different
types of data.
Submenu
Tabs
Menu
Tabs
The main pages’ (except the Status and Active Route Pages) data fi elds may also be confi gured to
display any of 27 different information categories (see page 36-37 for the complete list). On the Highway
Page, let’s change the ‘TO COURSE’ fi eld to ‘TURN’.
To change a data fi eld:
1. Press the MENU key to display the Highway Page options.
2. Press DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD, highlight ‘Change Data Fields’ and press ENTER/MARK.
3. Once the menu window disappears, use the ARROW KEYPAD and highlight ‘TO COURSE’, then
press ENTER/MARK.
4. On the alphabetical list of options, press the ARROW KEYPAD UP or DOWN until you highlight
‘TURN’ and press ENTER/MARK.
5. Press QUIT when done.
Press PAGE to see the last page appearing in the main sequence, which is the Active Route Page.
Whenever you have activated a route or TracBack, this page will show each waypoint name along with
useful data for each point. As you navigate the route, the information will automatically update to
indicate the next point along the route, which is denoted by an arrow on the left-hand side of the
screen. For more detailed information on the Active Route Page, see page 68.
As you’ve seen, the primary pages provide status, map, and navigation information. The tour’s last
page is the Main Menu Page, which allows access to the GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s waypoint, route and
planning functions, various operational and navigation setup features, and celestial and tide data.
The Main Menu is available from any page, and is accessed through the MENU key.
To access the Main Menu Page:
1. Press the MENU key twice.
The Main Menu Page lists 14 menu ‘tabs’ that are divided into categories by function. You can
view a particular menu by simply highlighting the desired tab, which will then show any secondary
submenu tabs and options for that tab.
18
To get a feel for how the Main Menu Page works, let’s clear out the track log. This will ensure that
you have a clean slate once you start navigating in your home waters.
To select the Track submenu tab:
1. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the ‘Track’ menu tab. You will see the options for the Track
tab appear to the right of the Main Menu list.
2. Press to the right one time on the ARROW KEYPAD and you will see ‘Active’ highlighted.
The Track Log Page allows you to specify whether to record a track plot, defi ne how it is recorded
and save your current track log. It also provides both an indicator of the percentage of total memory
used and the individual options to save or clear the active track log.
To clear the active track log:
1. Highlight the ‘Clear’ option and press ENTER/MARK. A confi rmation page will appear.
2. Highlight the ‘OK’ prompt and press ENTER/MARK to confi rm.
3. Press PAGE or QUIT to return to any of the main pages.
Congratulations! You’ve now gone through the basic operation of the GARMIN GPSMAP 168
Sounder. Your new digital chartplotter is a powerful tool with many advanced features not covered in
the Getting Started tour. For detailed instructions on using these features or performing a specifi c task,
please refer to the Quick Reference Guide or the appropriate reference section of this manual.
To turn off the GPSMAP 168 Sounder:
1. Press and hold the POWER key for about 2 seconds, until the screen is blank.
2. When the screen is blank, release the POWER key.
The next section of the manual describes the pages and functions of the GPSMAP 168 Sounder
in detail. If you are unable to locate a specifi c option or function, please refer to the index on pages
105-107. Thank you for choosing the GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder navigation unit. We hope it will
be a useful and fun tool for you wherever you go!
Getting Started
Deleting Track Logs/
Powering Off Unit
Submenu Tabs
Submenu Options
19
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