Garmin 198C User Manual
GPSMAP® 198C Sounder
chartplotting receiver
owner’s manual
© Copyright 2005 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc.
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the Garmin
The GPSMAP 198C Sounder utilizes the proven performance of
Garmin GPS and full-featured mapping to create an unsurpassed
portable GPS receiver. Take a moment now to compare the contents
of this package with the packing list on the outside of the box. If
any pieces are missing, contact your Garmin dealer immediately.
Before you begin working with the GPSMAP 198C Sounder,
review the installation instructions listed in the Appendix. If
you have any question about installing your chartplotter, contact
Garmin Product Support or a professional installer.
The GPSMAP 198C 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
®
GPSMAP® 198C Sounder.
About This Manual
To get the most out of your new navigation system, take time to
read this manual and learn the operating procedures for your unit in
detail. This manual is organized into the following chapters.
The Introduction section contains the Table of Contents as well as
GPSMAP 198C Sounder care information.
The Basic Operation section provides you with detailed
information and step-by-step directions for features such as using
the Find Menu, navigating a route, and using waypoints.
The Main Pages section provides detailed explanations about each
page in the GPSMAP 198C Sounder and step-by-step directions on
using the pages.
The Main Menu section provides detailed explanations about the
Main Menu and how to use it to configure your unit.
whenever you are operating your new GPSMAP 198C Sounder.
The Appendix contains installation instructions, specifications,
optional accessories, and maintenance information. You can also
find warranty and FCC information in the Appendix. Read the
Safety Information to learn how to install and use your Garmin
GPSMAP 198C Sounder safely and responsibly.
An Index is provided at the end of the manual for reference.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual i
INTRODUCTION > TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
Introduction ...........................................................................i
About This Manual ................................................................... i
Warning ................................................................................... iv
Caution .................................................................................... iv
Basic Operation ...................................................................1
Initializing the Receiver .......................................................... 1
Simulator Mode ....................................................................... 3
Adjusting the Backlight .......................................................... 4
Interface Keys .......................................................................... 5
Entering Data and Selecting Options .................................... 6
Using the Map Pointer ............................................................ 7
Creating and Using Waypoints .............................................. 8
Man OverBoard (MOB) .......................................................... 10
Reviewing and Editing Waypoints ....................................... 11
Navigating to a Destination .................................................. 12
Routes .................................................................................... 17
Find ........................................................................................ 19
Additional Information .......................................................... 21
DSC ......................................................................................... 22
Main Pages .........................................................................26
Map Page ................................................................................ 27
Compass Page ....................................................................... 33
Numbers Page ....................................................................... 34
Highway Page ........................................................................ 35
Active Route Page ................................................................. 37
ii GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
Main Menu ..........................................................................39
GPS Tab .................................................................................. 39
Tide Tab .................................................................................. 43
Trip Tab ................................................................................... 46
Celes (Celestial) Tab ............................................................. 47
Points Tab .............................................................................. 48
Routes Tab ............................................................................. 53
Track Tab ................................................................................ 59
DSC Tab .................................................................................. 61
Card Tab ................................................................................. 62
Time Tab ................................................................................. 62
Pages Tab ............................................................................... 63
Map Tab .................................................................................. 64
Hiway (Highway) Tab ............................................................. 68
Temp (Temperature) Tab ....................................................... 68
Sonar Tab ............................................................................... 68
Systm (System) Tab .............................................................. 69
Units Tab ............................................................................... 70
Comm (Communications) Tab ............................................. 72
Alarm Tab ............................................................................... 76
Using Sonar .......................................................................78
Sonar Page ............................................................................. 78
Sonar Tab Options ................................................................ 85
Understanding Sonar ............................................................ 89
Appendix ............................................................................92
Specifications ........................................................................ 92
Installing the GPSMAP 198C Sounder ................................ 93
Mounting the GPSMAP 198C Sounder ................................ 94
Installing the Transducer ...................................................... 96
Care Information .................................................................... 98
Connecting the Power/Data Cable ....................................... 99
Interfacing ............................................................................ 100
Installing and Removing Data Cards ................................. 101
Satellite Information ............................................................ 102
What is WAAS? .................................................................... 103
What is Differential GPS (DGPS)? ..................................... 103
What is a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)? ........ 104
How ARE MMSI assignments obtained? ........................... 104
Navigation Terms ................................................................ 105
Messages ............................................................................. 107
LORAN TD System .............................................................. 109
Optional Accessories ...........................................................111
Software License Agreement ............................................. 112
Product Registration ........................................................... 112
Limited Warranty ................................................................. 113
FCC Compliance .................................................................. 114
Index .................................................................................115
INTRODUCTION > TABLE OF CONTENTS
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual iii
INTRODUCTION > WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
Warning
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations could
result in an accident or collision resulting in death or serious injury.
When navigating, carefully compare information displayed on the
GPSMAP 198C Sounder
information from visual sightings, and maps. For safety, always resolve any
discrepancies or questions before continuing navigation.
WARNING: This product, its packaging, and its components contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive
harm. This Notice is being provided in accordance with California’s Proposition 65. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please refer
to our Web site at
http://www.garmin.com/prop65.
to all available navigation sources, including
Use the electronic chart in the GPSMAP 198C Sounder only to facilitate,
not to replace, the use of authorized government charts. Official
government charts and notices to mariners contain all information needed
to navigate safely.
Caution
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations may
result in injury or property damage.
Use the GPSMAP 198C Sounder only as a navigational aid. Do not
attempt to use the GPSMAP 198C Sounder for any purpose requiring
precise measurement of direction, distance, location, or topography.
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is operated by the United States
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 in product literature and copyright messages displayed to the
consumer. Virtually all data sources contain inaccurate or incomplete data to some extent. This is particularly true outside the United States, where complete and
accurate digital data is either not available or prohibitively expensive.
government, which is solely responsible for its accuracy and maintenance.
The government’s system is subject to changes which could affect the
accuracy and performance of all GPS equipment, including the GPSMAP
198C Sounder. Although the GPSMAP 198C Sounder is a precision
navigation device, any navigation device can be misused or misinterpreted
and, therefore, become unsafe.
iv GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION
Initializing the Receiver
The first time you turn on the GPSMAP 198C Sounder, the receiver
must be given an opportunity to collect satellite data and establish
its present location. To ensure proper initialization, the GPSMAP
198C Sounder is shipped from the factory in AutoLocate Mode.
Before you initialize, make sure the GPSMAP 198C Sounder unit
and antenna are correctly installed on your vessel according to the
instructions in the “Appendix.” Install the antenna in a location
with a clear and unobstructed view of the sky.
A full-screen GPS Information Page is shown after you press
ENTER to acknowledge the Warning Page. The page goes away
after the unit gets a position fix or you press either ENTER or
QUIT. The page can be disabled and enabled on the
Main Menu—Pages tab (see page 63).
To turn on the GPSMAP 198C Sounder:
1. Press and hold the POWER key until the power tone
2. When the self-test is complete, press ENTER to agree and
The GPS Information Page appears as the receiver begins acquiring
satellites.
To turn off the GPSMAP 198C Sounder:
1. Press and hold the POWER key for about two seconds,
2. When the screen is blank, release the POWER key.
BASIC OPERATION > INITIALIZING THE RECEIVER
sounds, then release the POWER key. The Warning Page
appears while the unit conducts a self-test.
acknowledge the warning.
until the screen is blank.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 1
BASIC OPERATION > INITIALIZING THE RECEIVER
To graphically initialize the GPSMAP 198C Sounder:
1. Press MENU twice for the Main Menu. Press up or down
on the ROCKER until the GPS tab is highlighted, and then
press MENU once.
2. Using the ROCKER, highlight Initialize Position, and press
ENTER. The Initialize Position Page appears, prompting
you to select your approximate location with the map
pointer.
3. Use the ROCKER to move the map pointer to your
approximate location within 200 miles. If you have difficulty
identifying your location, press and release the IN key to
see the next lower map range.
4. After you have determined your approximate location on the
map, press ENTER.
NOTE: This does not calibrate the unit in any way, but
rather helps to speed up the initial satellite acquisition. If the
unit shows “Ready 2D or 3D” during this process, it is not
necessary to initialize the unit.
The unit now begins searching for the appropriate satellites for
your region and should acquire a fix within a few minutes. When
viewing the GPS tab on the Main Menu, a signal strength bar for
each satellite in view appears on the bottom of the page, with the
appropriate satellite number under each bar.
• 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 is ready to use.
When the receiver has collected information from at least three
satellites, the top of the screen shows either “Ready 2D or 3D”, and
the GPSMAP 198C Sounder is ready for use.
2 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
Simulator Mode
Simulator Mode turns the GPS receiver off for use indoors or
practice. Any of the functions discussed in the following pages
can be performed in Simulator Mode. While in Simulator Mode, a
“Running Simulator” message appears after 2 minutes of inactivity.
Keep in mind that the GPSMAP 198C Sounder does not track
satellites in Simulator Mode, and this mode should never be
used for actual navigation. All the waypoint and route planning
completed in Simulator Mode is retained in memory for future use.
WARNING: Do not attempt to navigate using Simulator Mode.
When the unit is set to Simulator Mode, the GPS receiver is
turned off. Any satellite signal strength bars shown are only
simulations and do not represent the strength of actual satellite
signals.
To place the GPSMAP 198C Sounder in
Simulator Mode:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu. Press up or
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Start Simulator, and press
3. Press ENTER to confirm the Running Simulator message
4. To turn off the Simulator Mode, press MENU, and select
BASIC OPERATION > SIMULATOR MODE
down on the ROCKER until the GPS tab is highlighted, and
then press MENU once.
ENTER. Choose No to the retail demonstration, and press
ENTER.
that appears at the bottom of the screen. “Simulating”
appears at the top of each of the Main Pages.
Stop Simulator.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 3
BASIC OPERATION > ADJUSTING THE BACKLIGHT
To adjust the simulated speed and heading from the
Compass or Highway Pages:
1. Press up on the ROCKER increase the speed in
The Set Position,
Track Control, Track
and Speed fields
only show while in
Simulator Mode.
10 knot/kph/mph increments. Press down on the ROCKER
to decrease the speed in the same increments.
2. Press left and right on the ROCKER to steer the boat.
Adjusting the Backlight
The Sounder’s adjustable screen backlighting is controlled with the
POWER key, and can be adjusted from any page.
To enter a simulated speed and heading from the
Main Menu:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Systm tab, press
right then down until the field below the word Speed is
highlighted, then press ENTER.
3. Use the ROCKER to enter a speed, and press ENTER.
4. Use the ROCKER to highlight Track Control. Press
ENTER, and select a heading.
5. Press ENTER to finish, and QUIT until you return to the
Map Page.
4 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
To adjust the backlighting:
1. Press and release the POWER key. The adjustment slider
window appears.
2. Press the POWER key again and the user-defined level of
backlighting starts. You can adjust this level by pressing up
or down on the ROCKER. If you press POWER one more
time, the backlight is at the maximum setting.
3. Press ENTER or QUIT when finished.
Interface Keys
BASIC OPERATION > INTERFACE KEYS
POWER Key
• Press and hold to turn the unit on or off.
• Press and release to adjust backlighting.
PAGE Key
• Press to cycle through the main pages.
• Press to end an operation in progress and
return to the main page.
QUIT Key
• Press and release to cancel data entry or
exit a page.
ENTER/MARK Key
• Press and release to enter highlighted options
and data or confirm on-screen messages.
• Press and hold at any time to mark your
current location as a waypoint.
MOB Key
• Press and hold for MOB waypoint.
IN/OUT Zoom Keys
• From the Map Page, press to zoom
in or out.
• From any other page, press to scroll up or
down a list.
ROCKER Key
• Move up, down, right or left to move
through lists, highlight fields, on-screen
buttons and icons, enter data, or move the
map pointer.
MENU Key
• Press and release to view options for a page.
• Press twice to view the Main Menu.
NAV Key
• Press and release at any time to
view the Navigation Menu.
FIND Key
• Press to search for points such as user
waypoints, cities, and services.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 5
BASIC OPERATION > ENTERING DATA AND SELECTING OPTIONS
Entering Data and Selecting Options
You can select and start options, and enter data to customize the
GPSMAP 198C Sounder to fit your requirements. Use the ENTER
key and the ROCKER to select options, enter names and numbers
in data fields, and start your selections.
To select an optional feature:
1. With any page shown, press MENU to show the options
menu. The options menu shows a list of optional features
that are specific for that page. To select an option requires
movement of the cursor. This is referred to as highlighting,
selecting, or choosing an item.
2. Use the ROCKER to move the cursor (highlight) up and
down a list or up, down, left, and right on menus.
3. After you have highlighted a selection, press ENTER to
either start the feature or press MENU to show a sub-menu
or list with more options. Repeat this process to select an
option from the list, or press QUIT to return to the previous
setting.
To select an on-screen button:
Some pages contain on-screen buttons. As shown below,
the New Waypoint Page has three buttons: Map, Delete,
and OK. To start, highlight the a button, and press ENTER.
On-Screen Buttons
6 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > USING THE MAP POINTER
Using the Map Pointer
Working from the Map Page centers around the use of the pointer.
Controlled by the ROCKER, the pointer is used to pan to map
To pan the map:
1. Use the IN/OUT keys to select a map zoom range.
2. Use the ROCKER to move the pointer. A data field appears
locations, mark and edit waypoints and routes, and review position
data of on-screen map items and waypoints. When you move the
pointer over a map item, a highlighted description of that item
appears.
Current
location
Map Zoom Range
3. Press QUIT to re-center your boat on the Map Page.
The Map Page actively scrolls or pans enabling you to explore
areas around the world and create waypoints and routes. Pressing
QUIT returns the map to your present location.
at the top of the screen showing the bearing and distance
from your boat to the pointer, along with the latitude/
longitude of the pointer.
Distance
Bearing
Pointer Coordinates
Map Pointer
NOTE: When the pointer reaches the edge of the map, the unit
can pause as it loads new map data.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 7
BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
Creating and Using Waypoints
The Garmin GPSMAP 198C Sounder stores up to 3,000
alphanumeric waypoints with a user-defined symbol, comments,
and depth available for each waypoint. Waypoints can be created
using two basic methods:
ENTER/MARK Key—marks your present location, and provides
options to select a map position or map item from the Map
Page. Also, you can enter a new waypoint’s location coordinates
ENTER/MARK Key
The GPSMAP 198C Sounder’s ENTER/MARK key quickly
captures your present location to create a new waypoint. The unit
must have a valid position (2D or 3D) fix to mark your present
location. You can also use this option to manually enter waypoint
coordinates.
To mark your present position:
1. Press and hold ENTER/MARK until the New Waypoint
manually.
Graphically—defines a new waypoint location from the Map Page
using the ROCKER.
2. To accept the waypoint with the default name and symbol,
3. To enter a different name, highlight the name field, and
4. To select a different symbol, highlight the symbol field to
window appears. A default three-digit name and symbol are
created for the new waypoint.
highlight OK, and press ENTER/MARK.
press ENTER/MARK. Use the ROCKER to enter the new
letter/numbers, and press ENTER/MARK when finished.
You can use up to 10 characters for the name.
the left of the name, and press ENTER/MARK. Use the
ROCKER to highlight the new symbol, and press
ENTER/MARK.
8 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
5. To enter optional comments or a depth, highlight the
Comments or Depth field to the right of the location
coordinates, and press ENTER/MARK, use the ROCKER to
enter a value, and press ENTER/MARK.
6. To manually enter a set of coordinates, highlight the
coordinates, and press ENTER/MARK, use the ROCKER to
enter the new coordinates, and press ENTER/MARK when
finished.
7. Use the ROCKER to highlight OK. When finished, press
ENTER/MARK to save the waypoint into memory.
Creating Waypoints Graphically
To create a new waypoint graphically:
1. Use the ROCKER to move the pointer to a map location. If
2. Press and release ENTER/MARK to capture the pointer
If you are not using a map item to create a waypoint, go to
3. Highlight Create Wpt or OK, and press ENTER/MARK.
4. To accept the waypoint with the default name and symbol,
You create waypoints graphically from the Map Page. To mark
a map location or map item, select the location or item with the
5. To change the name, symbol, or add a comment or depth,
pointer, and press ENTER. When selecting a location or map
item, a description of the point, its distance and bearing from your
current location, and the latitude/longitude of the pointer is shown
along the top of the map.
6. Move the highlight back to OK, and press ENTER/MARK to
you want to create the new waypoint at an on-screen map
item, highlight the map item on the screen.
location. Do not hold the button down, doing so marks your
present location, not the map location.
step 4.
press ENTER/MARK.
highlight the appropriate field, and press ENTER/MARK.
Make your changes, and press ENTER/MARK when
finished.
confirm the changes.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 9
BASIC OPERATION > MAN OVERBOARD (MOB)
Man OverBoard (MOB)
The GPSMAP 198C Sounder’s Man OverBoard function (MOB)
simultaneously mark and set a course back to the marked location
for quick response to emergency situations.
When a MOB is active, a MOB waypoint with an international
MOB symbol is created and the unit is on an active navigation to
that point. Use any of the Navigation Pages to guide you back to
the MOB point. The MOB waypoint is stored in the waypoint list
and works like any other waypoint.
The MOB function allows you to quickly start
navigation back to a location.
To start the MOB function:
1. Press MOB.
2. Press ENTER to begin navigating to the MOB location.
3. To stop navigation to the MOB location, press NAV,
highlight Stop Navigation, and press ENTER.
To stop navigation, highlight
Stop Navigation, and press ENTER.
10 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > REVIEWING AND EDITING WAYPOINTS
Reviewing and Editing Waypoints
Waypoints are reviewed, modified, renamed, moved, or deleted at
any time through the Waypoint Edit Page. The Waypoint Edit Page
is available for any stored waypoint. Select the waypoint on the
map or from the waypoint lists in the Main Menu—Points tab.
Sub Tabs
Waypoint List
To access the Waypoint Edit Page:
1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the waypoint on the Map
Page.
Or
Press MENU twice, highlight the Points tab, and choose a
waypoint from the User or Proximity sub tabs.
2. Press ENTER to show the Waypoint Edit Page.
3. From the Waypoint Edit Page, change the name, symbol,
comment, location coordinates, or depth for the selected
waypoint. When finished, highlight Next, and press ENTER
to save them or press QUIT.
Symbol
Coordinates
Waypoint Edit Page
Name
Comment
Depth
To change the waypoint name:
1. Highlight the waypoint name field, and press ENTER.
2. Use the ROCKER to enter a new name, and press ENTER
when finished.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 11
BASIC OPERATION > NAVIGATING TO A DESTINATION
To change the waypoint symbol:
1. Highlight the waypoint symbol field to the left of the
waypoint name, and press ENTER.
2. Use the ROCKER to select a new symbol, and press
ENTER.
To change the Comment, Location, Coordinates,
or Depth:
1. Highlight a field, and press ENTER.
2. Use the ROCKER to edit or enter the data. To move to the
next line, press right on the ROCKER.
3. Press ENTER when finished.
To move the waypoint on the map:
1. From the Waypoint Edit Page, highlight Show Map, and
press ENTER. Highlight the waypoint, and press ENTER.
A MOVE label now appears under the pointer arrow in
addition to a distance, bearing, and coordinate window. You
can also use the IN and OUT keys to zoom the map. The
map zoom range appears in the lower right corner.
2. Use the ROCKER to point to the new location, and press
ENTER.
3. To stop the move process, press QUIT.
Navigating to a Destination
Using the Nav Key
The NAV key provides three ways to navigate to a destination:
Go To Point, Follow Route, and Follow Track (TracBack). When
you are actively navigating, the Map Page shows a straight line
from your current location to the destination. The Go To option is
the easiest method for selecting a destination. A Go To allows you
to select a destination point and quickly set a direct course from
your present location. If you have a point highlighted on a list or
the map, Go To <point name> appears in addition to Go To Point.
The Go To function is accessed from any list of points or
graphically from the Map Page.
12 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > NAVIGATING TO A DESTINATION
To start a Go To from a point list:
1. Press NAV. Highlight Go To Point, and press ENTER.
2. From the Find menu, highlight Waypoints or another menu
option, and press ENTER.
3. To select a waypoint from the waypoint lists, use the
ROCKER to highlight either the By Name or Nearest tab,
select a waypoint, and press ENTER.
Or
Select a waypoint from the map, highlight either the User
or Nearest tab, and press MENU. With Select From Map
highlighted, press ENTER. Use the zoom IN and OUT keys
and the ROCKER to select a waypoint, and press ENTER.
Selecting a Go To Graphically
A graphical Go To can be used to select one of three items from
the Map Page: an existing waypoint, an on-screen map item such
as roads, rivers, cities, and navaids, or a new map point. If you are
selecting a map item as the Go To destination, the GPSMAP 198C
Sounder automatically uses the name of the map item, but the
point is not stored in the waypoint list. See page 21 for creating
waypoints using map items. If you are selecting a new map point
(non-map item) as the Go To destination, the GPSMAP 198C
Sounder automatically creates a waypoint at the pointer location.
To start an existing waypoint or map item as a
Go To from the Map Page:
1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the waypoint or on-screen
map item, and press NAV. Go To <waypoint name>
appears, then press ENTER.
Or
Highlight the waypoint or map item, and press ENTER.
2. Highlight the Go To button at the bottom of the window, and
press ENTER.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 13
BASIC OPERATION > NAVIGATING TO A DESTINATION
To Go To a new map point (non-map item):
1. Use the ROCKER to move the map pointer to the location.
2. Press NAV.
3. With Go To MAP Point highlighted, press ENTER.
TracBack Navigation (Navigating a Track)
The TracBack function retraces your path using the track log
automatically stored in the receiver’s memory. This feature
eliminates the need to store waypoints along the way. TracBack
routes are created by reducing your track log into a route of up to
254 turns and activating an inverted route along those points. When
started, a TracBack route leads you back to the oldest stored track
log point, so it is a good idea to clear the existing track log before
you start your current trip.
You must save a track before using the Follow Track option.
14 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > NAVIGATING TO A DESTINATION
To clear the track log and define a starting point for a
TracBack route:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Using the ROCKER, highlight the Track tab, then highlight
the Active sub tab.
3. Use the ROCKER to select the Erase button, and press
ENTER.
4. Highlight the OK, and press ENTER.
You must save the track log before you can use Follow Track. The
Save feature stores up to 15 track logs.
To
save a track log:
1. From the Main Menu, use the ROCKER to highlight the
Track tab, then highlight the Active sub tab to the right.
2. Use the ROCKER to select Save, and press ENTER.
3. From the Save Back Through window, highlight time,
date, or Entire Log, and press ENTER. When the track is
saved, the Save Track window appears. The default name,
distance, number of points (500 max), and color are shown
in the Save Track window.
To change the name of the saved track, highlight the name
field, and press ENTER. Make your changes and press
ENTER.
To show the track on the Map and Highway Pages, highlight
the check box to the left of Show on Map and Highway,
and press ENTER.
To view the track on the map, highlight Review on Map, and
press ENTER.
4. Highlight OK, and press ENTER to save the track. Press
QUIT to exit.
Default Track Name
Total number of points
Total Distance
Change color
of track line
Check this box to
show track
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 15
BASIC OPERATION > NAVIGATING TO A DESTINATION
To start a TracBack using the NAV key:
1. Press NAV, highlight the Follow Track, and press ENTER.
2. Highlight the track you want to follow, and press ENTER.
3. Choose Original to navigate from the start to the end of
your trip, or Reverse to navigate from the end to the start of
your trip, and press ENTER.
4. To stop TracBack navigation, press NAV, highlight Stop
Navigation, and press ENTER.
• If the track log interval is set to the Time option, the route
• If the receiver is turned off or satellite coverage is lost during
• If the track log’s changes in distance and direction are too
When a TracBack is active, the GPSMAP 198C Sounder takes the
track log currently stored in memory and divides it into segments
called legs. Up to 254 temporary turns (BEGIN, TURN 1, TURN
2, TURN 3,...., TURN X, END) are created to mark the most
significant features of the track log in order to duplicate your exact
For more information on setting up the Track options and saved
tracks, see pages 59.
path as closely as possible. To get the most out of the TracBack
feature, remember the following tips:
• Always clear the track log at the starting point.
• Set the Record Mode option on the track log setup page to
Fill or Wrap.
• The track log memory must contain at least two points to
create a TracBack route.
can not follow your exact path. For best performance, keep
the interval set to resolution.
your trip, the TracBack draws a straight line between any
point where coverage was lost and where it resumed.
complex, 254 waypoints can not mark your path accurately.
The receiver then assigns the 254 waypoints to the most
significant points of your track, and simplifies segments with
fewer changes in direction.
16 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > ROUTES
Routes
You can create and store up to 50 user-defined reversible routes
(numbered 1-50), with up to 254 waypoints each. Routes are
To create a route using the Route Edit Map Page:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Route tab, and press
created and modified in two ways. The first method creates the
route using a Map Page. This method selects points on the map.
The second method enters the waypoint names as text on the Route
Review Page. This method lists the waypoints as you create the
route. All of the route functions are accessed through the Main
3. Select New Route, and press ENTER.
4. To add an existing waypoint or map item to the route, use
Menu or the NAV key.
5. To add a new waypoint to the route, use the map pointer
As you add each new waypoint to the route, the data
Route Tab
MENU to show the route options page, or highlight the first
available blank route slot, and press ENTER. (Skip to step 4
if you use this method.)
the map pointer to select a waypoint or map item, and press
ENTER. Map items do not appear in the waypoint list. To
create a waypoint from a map item, see page 21.
to select a map location, and press ENTER. Press ENTER
again to confirm the new waypoint. You can also change the
name and symbol of the new waypoint (see page 8).
window at the top of the Map Page shows the waypoint/
map item name, bearing and distance from your location,
and coordinates of the pointer. The bottom of the screen
shows the number of available and used points. A route line
appears on the map to indicate each completed leg, and a
dotted line appears indicating the distance and bearing to
the arrow pointer from the last route waypoint.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 17
BASIC OPERATION > ROUTES
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until you have finished defining all
route waypoints.
7. When finished, press QUIT twice to return to the Route List
Page. Highlight Edit as Text, and press ENTER to return to
the Route Review Page.
ADD appears below the
pointer as you insert points.
To create a route using text on the Route
Review Page:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Route tab, and press
MENU to show the route options menu, or highlight the first
available blank route slot, and press ENTER. (Skip to step 4
if you use this method.)
3. Select New Route, and press ENTER.
4. Press MENU, select Edit as Text, and press ENTER.
5. Use the ROCKER to highlight the first field under the word
Waypoint, and press ENTER.
Choose the category you want to
add a route point from.
18 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > FIND
6. From the Find menu, highlight Waypoints or another
menu item, and press ENTER. From either the By Name
or Nearest tab lists, choose a waypoint, and press ENTER.
(See page 50 for searching for waypoints by name.)
7. From the Waypoint Review Page, OK is automatically
highlighted. You can use Show Map to view a point on the
map. When finished viewing, then press QUIT to return to
the Waypoint Review Page. Press ENTER to add the point
to the route. The next field automatically highlights.
8. Repeat steps 5-7 until all the route points have been
entered. Press QUIT to return to the Route List Page.
Choose a waypoint from either the
By Name or Nearest tab list.
Find
The FIND key searches the unit for user waypoints, map items,
and any optional BlueChart or MapSource information loaded on
a data card. Press FIND to show a list of available find categories.
The default items are Waypoints, Cities, Tide Stations, and
Transportation. Additional items, such as Anchorages, Businesses,
Exits, Navaids, Restricted Areas, and Wrecks Obstructions, appear
if an optional BlueChart data card inserted into the unit. If you
press FIND and are in Pan Mode, the unit centers its search from
the location where the map pointer is located. Your location or
the map pointer must be within a map outline area to search for
BlueChart information.
Find Items List
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 19
BASIC OPERATION > FIND
To Find an item from your current location:
1. From any page, press FIND.
2. Using the ROCKER, highlight a category from the list, and
press ENTER.
3. For Waypoints and Cities, search using By Name or
Nearest. Use the ROCKER to highlight a tab. For By
Name, use the top field to spell out the name, or scroll down
through the list. (See page 8 for steps on entering a name.)
To Find an item from other locations:
1. From the Map Page, use the ROCKER to pan select a
location, and press FIND.
2. Using the ROCKER, highlight a category from the list, and
press ENTER.
You can also Find
from items found on
the Find List.
The Find option also supports a “find from” feature that centers
your search around an item you have just found. For example,
you search for “Restricted Areas” and you find a point named
“Anchoring Prohibited.” If you press FIND again, “From
Anchoring Prohibited” appears as the new search from point.
You can also use the Find feature to center your search from any
waypoint, route list entry, map item, or tide station. Highlight the
item you want to find from and press
FIND.
• Nearest To Boat—centers search from your boat’s current
location.
• Nearest To Other—centers your search around another map
location.
• Nearest To Next—centers search from the next point of your
active route.
• Nearest To Destination—centers search from the last point
of your active route.
20 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
To Find an item using the Find options:
1 From any page, press FIND.
2. Using the ROCKER, highlight a category from the list, and
press ENTER.
3 From the search results list, press MENU, highlight an
option, and press ENTER.
Find Menu Options
Additional Information
Items located using the Find feature have information about the
point available. The information varies depending on the type of
data loaded on the optional data card. Sub tabs along the top of the
detail window contain the information available for the item. Any
additional options are shown along the bottom.
To view additional information for a Find item:
1. From the Find list, highlight an item, and press ENTER.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the individual tabs, and show
the information. To scroll the text, highlight the field, and
press ENTER. Use the ROCKER to scroll.
Or
Press MENU, and choose a scroll option.
Additional
Information Tabs
Distance, Bearing,
and Coordinates of
item
Additional Options
Information Window
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 21
BASIC OPERATION > DSC
DSC
The DSC Page of the Main Menu controls and sets up the Digital
Selective Calling (DSC) features on the GPSMAP 198C Sounder.
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) uses marine VHF radio and
Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies to transmit and
receive location information. The chartplotter repeats the call
properties received from the VHF radio on the chartplotter. The
GPSMAP 198C Sounder requires input from a DSC enabled VHF
radio to show position, and sound/show alerts from a Distress
Call or Position Report. Conversely, the VHF radio requires input
from a GPS to transmit position coordinates for a Distress Call or
Position Report. For connection information, refer to “Connecting
the Power/Data Cable” on page 99.
An emergency DSC Distress Call allows a vessel in trouble
to transmit a substantial amount of information in a single
transmission or call, without the need for voice communication.
When any nearby rescuer receives the DSC signal, an alarm sounds
and they immediately receive the location of the caller. The rescuer
can choose to navigate to the caller’s location to assist, or forward
the call on to the Coast Guard. When the Coast Guard receives the
call, they can immediately access the caller’s information (such as
who they are and the type of vessel) in their database while they
are in transit to the caller’s location.
A non-emergency DSC Position Report allows mariners to
exchange and show the positions of one another. When a DSC
position is received, the mariner can choose to create a waypoint or
to show the received location on an electronic map.
Anytime a vessel receives a DSC call, they can store and quickly
navigate to that location using a Go To. In order to use DSC, users
must first register their VHF radio with the FCC and receive a
Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number. Garmin does
not provide MMSI numbers.
For more information about Digital Selective Calling and Maritime
Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers, refer to page 104 in the
“Appendix.”
Understanding Distress Calls
When the GPSMAP 198C Sounder receives a Distress Call
from a connected DSC enabled VHF radio, an alert message and
notification page are shown, and an alarm tone is sounded. Distress
Calls are shown in the DSC Call List, and Log with a checkered
symbol.
22 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
BASIC OPERATION > DSC
Understanding Position Reports
A Position Report is similar to a Distress Call except no alarm is
sounded. Position Reports are not broadcast to all DSC users and
are shown with a boat symbol.
When a Distress Call or Position Report is placed in the Call List
and Log, the information on the Notification Page is retained.
To review a DSC call or log entry, highlight the entry and
press ENTER. The DSC Entry Review Page is identical to the
Notification Page with one exception, the entry can be deleted.
Receiving DSC Calls
Each time you receive a Distress Call or Position Report, a
Notification Page is shown, and the call is placed in the DSC Call
List and Log. The Notification Page contains information about
the call including: the type of call (distress or position report),
the MMSI number of the caller, a user definable name, the time
and date of the call, the Bearing and Distance from your current
position, and the coordinates of the caller. To see the callers
location on a map, select the Show Map button. To create a
waypoint at the caller’s location, select the Create Wpt button. To
close the Notification Page, press QUIT.
To review a call or log entry:
1. Press Menu twice.
2. Open the Call List or Log from the DSC tab.
3. Press up or down on ROCKER to highlight the call you want
4. Press ENTER to open the DSC Entry Review Page.
DSC Entry Review Page
to review.
GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual 23
BASIC OPERATION > DSC
DSC Call List
The DSC Call List shows the 50 most recent calls, even if the unit
3. Enter the MMSI number, a Name, and any comments.
4. When finished, highlight
is left unattended. The Call List shows the most recent call from a
vessel. If a second call from the same vessel is received, it replaces
the first call in the Call List. Press MENU to sort the list and delete
entries.
DSC Log
When DSC calls are received, they are automatically placed in the
Log, with the most recent call at the top. The unit can log up to 100
calls. When 100 calls are logged, the oldest log is removed when a
new call is received. Press MENU to sort the list and delete entries.
DSC Directory
The DSC Directory acts much like a phone book and can hold up
to 50 entries. Pressing MENU from this page shows options to add
a New Item, Delete a highlighted entry, or Delete All entries.
When a Distress Call, Position Report, or Directory item is named,
the name is attached to that particular MMSI number. If a name is
used, all DSC entries of the same MMSI number show the name.
To add a new Directory entry:
1. Open the DSC Directory in the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the first blank space in the
directory list, and press ENTER.
Or
Press MENU, highlight New Item, and press ENTER.
OK, and press ENTER.
New Directory Item Page
24 GPSMAP 198C Sounder Owner’s Manual
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