Garmin GPSMAP 278 User Manual 2
GPSMAP® 278
chartplotter receiver
Owner’s Manual
© 2009 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc.
1200 East 151st Street,
Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA
Tel. (913) 397.8200 or (800) 800.1020
Fax (913) 397.8282
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Liberty House
Hounsdown Business Park,
Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9RB UK
Tel. +44 (0) 870.8501241 (outside the UK)
0808 2380000 (within the UK)
Fax +44 (0) 870.8501251
Garmin Corporation
No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road,
Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
Tel. 886/2.2642.9199
Fax 886/2.2642.9099
All rights reserved. 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 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
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. Visit the Garmin Web site (
www.garmin.com
) for current updates and supplemental
information concerning the use and operation of this and other Garmin products.
Garmin®, the Garmin logo, GPSMAP®, AutoLocate®, TracBack®, BlueChart®, City Navigator®, MapSource®, and See-Thru® are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its
subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other countries. These trademarks may not be used without the express permission of Garmin.
January 2009 Part Number 190-00691-00 Rev. B Printed in Taiwan
IntroductIon > About thIs MAnuAl
IntroductIon
Thank you for choosing the Garmin® GPSMAP® 278, which uses
the proven performance of Garmin GPS and full-featured mapping
to create an unsurpassed portable marine navigation chartplotter
and automobile navigation device. Take a moment 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.
About This Manual
To get the most out of your new navigation system, read this manual
and learn the operating procedures for your unit. This manual is
organized into the following sections:
The Introduction contains the Table of Contents, Care Information,
Warnings and Cautions.
The Getting Started section provides an overview of the unit, how
to turn the unit on, and how to simulate navigation.
The Marine Mode section provides you with information about
navigating with the GPSMAP 278 in Marine Mode.
The Marine Mode Pages section reviews the main pages in Marine
Mode.
The Automotive Mode section provides you with information about
navigating with the GPSMAP 278 in Automotive Mode.
The Automotive Mode Pages section reviews, in detail, the main
pages and features in Automotive Mode, such as the Trip Data Page
and creating waypoints.
The Main Menu section describes features found on the Main
Menu, and information on how to change settings.
The Using Sonar section provides instructions on using a Garmin
GSD 20 or GSD 21 sounder with your GPSMAP 278.
The Appendix contains specications, optional accessories,
maintenance information, and other product information.
An Index is provided at the end of the manual for reference.
Manual Conventions
This manual uses the term Warning to indicate a
potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
This manual uses the term Caution to indicate a potentially
hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result
in minor injury or property damage. It may also be used
without the symbol to alert you to avoid unsafe practices.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual i
IntroductIon > tAble of contents
table of contents
Introduction ...........................................................................i
About This Manual ................................................................... i
Caring for the GPSMAP 278 .................................................. iv
Warning .................................................................................... v
Battery Warnings .................................................................... vi
Important Information ............................................................ vi
Getting Started .....................................................................1
Unit Overview .......................................................................... 1
Charging the GPSMAP 278 ..................................................... 2
Turning Your GPSMAP 278 On or Off .................................... 3
Adjusting the Backlight and Volume ..................................... 3
Getting Satellite Signals ......................................................... 4
Using the GPSMAP 278 Keypad............................................. 7
Using The GPSMAP 278.......................................................... 8
Using Simulator Mode .......................................................... 12
Marine Mode .......................................................................13
Marine Mode Pages ............................................................... 13
Navigating to a Destination .................................................. 14
Finding an Item ...................................................................... 17
Creating and Using Routes .................................................. 22
Creating and Using Waypoints ............................................ 28
Managing Your Tracks .......................................................... 38
Marine Mode Pages ...........................................................42
Map Page ................................................................................ 42
Compass Page ....................................................................... 49
Highway Page ........................................................................ 52
Active Route Page ................................................................. 54
Position Data Page ................................................................ 55
Automotive Mode ..............................................................56
Automotive Mode Pages ....................................................... 56
Navigating to a Destination .................................................. 57
Automotive Mode Pages ...................................................63
Map Page ................................................................................ 63
Current Route Page ............................................................... 64
Trip Computer Page .............................................................. 65
Main Menu ..........................................................................66
Main Menu Tabs ..................................................................... 66
GPS Tab .................................................................................. 67
Route Tab ............................................................................... 67
Points Tab .............................................................................. 68
Track Tab ................................................................................ 68
DSC Tab .................................................................................. 69
Sonar Tab ............................................................................... 71
Alarms Tab ............................................................................. 71
Calendar Tab .......................................................................... 73
Celestial Tab........................................................................... 74
Message Tab .......................................................................... 78
ii GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
Display Tab............................................................................. 79
Sound Tab .............................................................................. 80
Setup Tab ............................................................................... 81
Setting Up and Using Sonar .............................................90
Showing Sonar on the Map Page ......................................... 90
Using the Sonar Page ........................................................... 91
Setting Up Sonar ................................................................... 95
Understanding Sonar ............................................................ 99
Appendix ..........................................................................102
Specications ...................................................................... 102
Optional Accessories .......................................................... 103
Installation Information ....................................................... 104
What is EGNOS/WAAS/MSAS? .......................................... 109
LORAN TD Setup ................................................................. 109
Map Datums and Location Formats ...................................111
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) ........................................... 112
Declaration of Conformity (DoC) ....................................... 117
Messages ............................................................................. 118
Data Field Options ............................................................... 120
Software License Agreement ............................................. 122
Product Registration ........................................................... 122
Limited Warranty ................................................................. 123
FCC Compliance .................................................................. 124
Index .................................................................................125
IntroductIon > tAble of contents
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual iii
IntroductIon > cArIng for the gPsMAP 278
Caring for the GPSMAP 278
The GPSMAP 278 case is constructed of high quality materials and
does not require user maintenance except cleaning.
Cleaning the Case
Clean the unit’s outer casing (except for the screen) using a cloth
dampened with a mild detergent solution and then wipe dry. Avoid
chemical cleaners and solvents that may damage plastic components.
Cleaning the Screen
The GPSMAP 278 screen should be cleaned using a soft, clean, lintfree cloth. Water, isopropyl alcohol, or eyeglass cleaner can be used
if needed. If these are used, apply the liquid to the cloth and then
gently wipe the screen with the moistened cloth.
Storage
Do not store the GPSMAP 278 where prolonged exposure to
temperature extremes may occur (such as in the trunk of a car) as
permanent damage may result. User information, such as waypoints
and routes are retained in the unit’s memory without the need for
external power. It is always a good practice to back up important
user data by manually recording it or downloading it to a PC
(transferring it to MapSource).
Water Immersion
The GPSMAP 278 is waterproof to IEC Standard
60529 IPX7. It can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for 30
minutes. Prolonged submersion can cause damage to the unit. After
submersion, be certain to wipe and air dry the unit before reuse or
charging.
iv GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
Warning
IntroductIon > WArnIng
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations could
result in an accident or collision resulting in death or serious injury.
When installing the unit in a vehicle, place the unit securely so that it does
not obstruct the driver’s view of the road or interfere with vehicle operating
controls, such as the steering wheel, foot pedals, or transmission levers. Do
not place in front of or above any airbag. (See diagram.)
Do not mount
where driver’s
eld of vision is
blocked.
Do not mount in front of an airbag
eld of deployment.
Do not place
unsecured on
the vehicle
dash.
When navigating, carefully compare information displayed on the unit to
all available navigation sources, including information from street signs,
visual sightings, and maps. For safety, always resolve any discrepancies or
questions before continuing navigation and defer to posted road signs.
Always operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Do not become distracted
by the unit while driving, and always be fully aware of all driving
conditions. Minimize the amount of time spent viewing the unit’s
screen while driving and use voice prompts when possible. Do not input
destinations, change settings, or access any functions requiring prolonged
use of the unit’s controls while driving. Pull over in a safe and legal manner
before attempting such operations.
This unit is designed to provide route suggestions. It is not designed to
replace the need for driver attentiveness regarding road closures or road
conditions, trafc congestion, weather conditions, or other factors that may
affect safety while driving.
Use the electronic chart in the unit only to facilitate, not to replace, the use
of authorized government charts. Ofcial government charts and notices to
mariners contain all information needed to navigate safely.
Use this unit only as a navigational aid. Do not attempt to use the unit for
any purpose requiring precise measurement of direction, distance, location,
or topography.
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. See www.garmin.com/prop65 for more information.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual v
IntroductIon > WArnIng
Battery Warnings
If these guidelines are not followed, the internal lithium-ion battery may
experience a shortened life span or may present a risk of damage to the GPS
unit, re, chemical burn, electrolyte leak, and/or injury.
• Do not leave the unit exposed to a heat source or in a high temperature
location, such as in the sun in an unattended vehicle. To prevent
damage, remove the unit from the vehicle or store it out of direct
sunlight, such as in the glove box.
• Do not puncture or incinerate.
• When storing the unit for an extended time, store within the following
temperature range: 32° to 77°F (0° to 25°C).
• Do not operate the unit outside of the following temperature range: -4°
to 131°F (-20° to 55°C).
• Contact your local waste disposal department to properly recycle/
dispose of the unit/battery.
Additional User-Replaceable Battery Warnings:
• Do not use a sharp object to remove the battery.
• Keep the battery away from children.
• Do not disassemble, puncture, or damage the battery.
Important Information
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 some inaccurate or
incomplete data. In some countries, complete and accurate map information is
either not available or is prohibitively expensive.
NOTICE REGARDING WINDSHIELD MOUNTING; SPECIAL
NOTICE TO DRIVERS IN CALIFORNIA AND MINNESOTA: State
law prohibits drivers in California and Minnesota from using suction mounts
on their windshields while operating motor vehicles. Check your state and
local laws and ordinances for similar restrictions. Other Garmin dashboard
or friction mounting options should be used. Garmin does not take any
responsibility for any nes, penalties, or damages that may be incurred as a
result of disregarding this notice or as a result of any other state or local law
or ordinance relating to use of the unit. (See California Vehicle Code Section
26708(a); Minnesota Statutes 2005, Section 169.71.)
The California Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003 requires the
recycling of certain electronics. For more information on the applicability to
this product, see www.erecycle.org.
• If using an external battery charger, only use the Garmin accessory
approved for your product.
• Only replace the battery with the correct replacement battery. Using
another battery presents a risk of re or explosion. To purchase a
replacement battery, see your Garmin dealer or the Garmin Web site.
vi GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
gettIng stArted > unIt overvIeW
GettInG started
Unit Overview
The GPSMAP 278 is an all-in-one, versatile color chartplotter and automobile navigator—perfect for land or water. This portable
GPS navigator features a 256-color TFT display that is easy to read in bright sun and includes a built-in worldwide basemap. The
GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with City Navigator
including motels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. In addition, GPSMAP 278 accepts customized points of interest such as school zones
and safety cameras and includes proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs.
GPS antenna
256-Color TFT display
with backlighting
®
NT Europe, which contains street maps and a points of interest (POIs) database,
Detachable GPS antenna
collapses for storage.
Be sure the antenna
is up (as shown
here) to receive
satellite signals. See
the “Appendix”,
page 108, for
instructions on
removing the
antenna.
External power
connector under
weather cap
Battery pack. Press tab down
to remove battery pack for
replacement, if necessary.
USB connector
Backlit keypad for easy nighttime operation
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 1
under weather cap
Slot for optional data card
Serial number
gettIng stArted > chArgIng the gPsMAP 278
Charging the GPSMAP 278
Before using the GPSMAP 278, you might need to charge the
battery. Plug the power cable into an external power source to
charge. You can use the unit while it is charging.
To charge the battery:
1. Lift the rubber weather cap to expose the power connector
on the back of the unit. See the image on page 1 for
connector location.
2. Align the notches and push the plug into the connector until
fully seated.
3. Plug the 12-Volt adapter into an available AC outlet, or
cigarette lighter receptacle if you have a cigarette lighter
adapter. Use care when routing the cable; make sure it does
not interfere with vehicle operation. The unit begins charging
as soon as external power is applied.
TIP: Placing the unit in Charge Mode charges the unit more
quickly than when the unit is turned on and reduces draw on the
vehicle/vessel battery.
When you turn on the GPSMAP 278 power source indicator on the
GPS tab shows the unit is operating off battery power ( ), that
the unit is charging ( ), or that an external power source is in
use ( ).
Using Charge Mode
If you want to charge the battery when you are not using the unit,
you can put the unit into Charge Mode.
To put the GPSMAP 278 in charge mode:
1. Connect the GPSMAP 278 to an external power supply.
2. Press and hold the
turning off, the GPSMAP 278 goes into Charge Mode.
NOTE: While in Charge Mode, the GPSMAP 278 draws a small
amount of current from the vehicle/vessel battery. To avoid
discharging the vehicle’s battery, disconnect the external power
cable from the unit when not in use for several days.
Over time, you might notice that the lithium-ion battery in the unit
is not holding a charge any more. This is common for lithium-ion
batteries. Contact Garmin or your Garmin dealer to order a battery
pack replacement if you are experiencing battery charging issues.
POWER key. Instead of completely
2 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
gettIng stArted > turnIng Your gPsMAP 278 on or off And AdjustIng the bAcklIght And voluMe
Turning Your GPSMAP 278 On or Off
Before you turn on the GPSMAP 278, be sure the antenna is rotated
up as shown on page 1, and it has a clear and unobstructed view of
the sky to receive satellite signals.
Adjusting the Backlight and Volume
You can adjust the backlight to see the display better. If you are
using the External Speaker with 12/24-Volt Adapter Cable with the
GPSMAP 278, you can adjust the volume level of the audio output.
The rst time you turn on your GPSMAP 278, the GPS receiver
must collect satellite data and establish its current location. To
ensure proper initialization, the GPSMAP 278 is shipped from the
factory in AutoLocate mode, which allows the receiver to “nd
itself” anywhere in the world.
To turn the GPSMAP 278 on and off:
1. Press and hold the POWER key. When the unit turns on,
a tone sounds and the Warning Page appears.
Warning Page
2. Read the warning, and then press ENTER to continue.
3. To turn off the GPSMAP 278, press and hold the
POWER key again.
To adjust the backlight level or volume:
1. Press and quickly release the POWER key.
2. Press up on the ROCKER to increase the brightness or
press down to decrease. Press right to raise the volume or
left to lower.
3. Press ENTER or QUIT to close the Backlight/Volume
adjustment window.
Battery time remaining and power source indicator
Backlight
adjustment slider
Volume
adjustment slider
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 3
gettIng stArted > gettIng sAtellIte sIgnAls
Getting Satellite Signals
After you turn on the GPSMAP 278, the unit automatically begins
searching for satellites. The GPS page appears while the unit is
gathering satellite signals and acquiring a x, which should take
only a few minutes. While the GPSMAP 278 is getting satellite
signals, the GPS page shows the status as “Acquiring Satellites.”
As the receiver locks onto satellites, a signal strength bar appears
for each satellite in view, with the appropriate satellite number
underneath each bar. The numbers below each bar represent the
particular satellite that is being received. Numbers above 33 indicate
EGNOS satellites.
The sky view shows a birds-eye-view of the position of each
satellite relative to the receiver’s last known position. The outer
circle represents the horizon (north up), the inner circle represents
45º above the horizon, and the center point represents a position
directly overhead. You can also set the sky view to a Track Up
conguration, causing the top of the sky view to align along your
current track heading. Press MENU to change the conguration of
the sky view.
NOTE: While acquiring satellites, the Map Page might show
the wrong location, such as China. You need to wait a few more
minutes to acquire satellites and nd your current location.
strength bars
Viewing GPS Status
The GPS tab provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition,
receiver status, and accuracy. The sky view and signal strength bars
show of what satellites are visible to the receiver and whether they
are being tracked.
Signal
Sky view
Receiver
status
Power
source
indicator
4 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
gettIng stArted > gettIng sAtellIte sIgnAls
The progress of satellite acquisition is shown in three stages:
•
No signal strength bars—the receiver is looking for the
satellites indicated.
White signal strength bars—the receiver has found the
•
satellite and is collecting data.
Green signal strength bars—the receiver has collected the
•
necessary data from this satellite.
When the GPSMAP 278 collects the necessary data from the best
satellites in view to calculate a x, the status eld indicates the
status of the receiver. The unit updates the location, date, and time.
Receiver Status
The Receiver Status eld shows one of the following conditions:
Searching the Sky—the receiver is looking for satellites.
•
AutoLocate—the receiver is looking for any satellite whose
•
almanac was collected, which can take up to ve minutes.
Acquiring Satellites—the receiver is looking for and
•
collecting data from satellites visible at its last known or
initialized location but has not acquired a x.
2D GPS Location—At least three satellites were acquired
•
and a two-dimensional position x was calculated. “2D
Differential” appears when you are receiving EGNOS
corrections in 2D mode, and a “D” appears on the strength bar
of satellites being corrected.
3D GPS Location—At least four satellites were acquired
•
and a three-dimensional x was calculated. “3D Differential”
appears when you are receiving EGNOS corrections in 3D
mode, and a “D” appears on the strength bar of satellites being
corrected.
Lost Satellite Reception—the receiver is no longer tracking
•
enough satellites for a 2D or 3D x.
Receiver Not Usable—the receiver is unusable, possibly due
•
to interference or abnormal satellite conditions. Turn the unit
off and back on to reset it.
• Simulating GPS—the receiver is in Simulator Mode.
GPS Off—the GPS receiver is turned off.
•
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 5
gettIng stArted > gettIng sAtellIte sIgnAls
GPS Options
Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to
highlight the GPS tab. Press MENU to open the options menu.
Start/Stop Simulator—start and stop Simulator Mode, which is
helpful when learning how to use your unit.
Enable/Disable EGNOS—enable or disable EGNOS capability.
See page 109 of the “Appendix” for more information about
EGNOS.
Track Up Skyview/North Up Skyview—orient the sky view
display on the GPS page to North up or Track up.
New Altitude—manually enter your altitude.
New Location—enter a new location automatically or using the
map.
GPS Tips
While the receiver is gathering information, your location on the
map might appear different from where you are actually located.
As soon as the receiver gathers enough satellite information, your
proper location appears on the map.
When you travel more than 600 miles with the GPS receiver turned
off, the receiver may take longer than normal to initialize and nd
your location.
The GPS receiver can lose satellite signals due to interference from
such items as buildings, tunnels, and heavy tree cover. Monitoring
the GPS status is recommended.
To learn about GPS, visit www.garmin.com/aboutGPS/.
6 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
Using the GPSMAP 278 Keypad
PAGE/MODE Key
• Press to cycle through main pages in sequence and
exit a submenu page.
• Press and hold to switch between Marine and
Automotive modes.
QUIT Key
• Press to cycle through main pages in reverse
sequence, revert to the previous value in a data
entry eld, or cancel an unintended function.
ENTER/MARK Key
• Press to select a highlighted option.
• Press and hold to mark your current location as a
waypoint.
MENU Key
• Press to open the options menu for the current page.
• Press twice to open the Main Menu.
POWER Key
• Press and hold to turn the unit on or off.
• Press and release to adjust the backlighting and
external speaker volume.
gettIng stArted > usIng the gPsMAP 278 keYPAd
IN Key/OUT Key
• Press to adjust map scale to show a larger area
with less detail (zoom out) or a smaller area with
more detail (zoom in).
ROCKER
• Press up, down, left, or right to highlight options
and to enter data, or use to pan the arrow on the
Map Page.
NAV/MOB Key
• Press to show the navigation menu.
• In Marine Mode, press and hold to activate the
MOB function.
In Automotive Mode, press and hold to show the
Next Turn page and announce the next turn when
using the external speaker.
FIND Key
• Press to quickly search for and access user
waypoints, cities, and other items used for
navigation.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 7
gettIng stArted > usIng the gPsMAP 278
Using The GPSMAP 278
•
The advanced keypad system on the GPSMAP 278 is designed to
allow you to select options and enter data quickly and conveniently.
As you progress through this owner’s manual, you are directed to
press a specic key or highlight a eld on the screen. When you
are directed to press a key, you should press and quickly release the
key. If the key needs to be held down for a period of time to start a
secondary function, the instructions tell you to do so. When a eld is
selected on the screen, it is highlighted in yellow.
The following terms are used throughout this manual:
Default—the factory setting saved in the unit’s memory. You
can change the settings, and you can also revert to the factory
(default) settings when you select Restore Defaults.
Field
• Highlight
—move the highlighted area on the screen up,
Highlighted eld
On-screen buttons
down, left, or right with the ROCKER to select individual
elds. Moving the highlight to a given location allows you to
make a selection, begin data entry, or scroll through a list.
Field—the location on a page where data or an option can
•
be shown and entered. Select (highlight) a eld using the
ROCKER to begin entering data or selecting options.
On-screen button—use the ROCKER to highlight a button,
•
and press ENTER to select the button.
Scroll bar—when viewing a list of items too long to show on
•
the screen, a scroll bar appears along the right side of the list.
To scroll through a list, press up or down on the ROCKER.
8 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
Cartography
The GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with City Navigator NT
Europe v 9.0
Optional preloaded Garmin data cards and MapSource CD-ROMs
enhance the versatility of your GPSMAP 278. With optional
MapSource BlueChart g2, you can view information that is not
already pre-loaded.
See the Garmin Web site at www.garmin.com/cartography/ for
compatible MapSource products.
gettIng stArted > usIng the gPsMAP 278
Selecting Options and Entering Data
To enter data and select options, use the ROCKER to highlight,
select, or choose an item in a list or a eld on the screen. Use the
ENTER key and the ROCKER to select options, enter names and
numbers in data elds, and activate your selections.
To exit a menu or return to the previous setting:
Press QUIT. The QUIT key moves backward through your
steps. Press QUIT repeatedly to return to the starting page.
To select an on-screen button:
On a page with on-screen buttons, use the ROCKER to
highlight an on-screen button, and press ENTER.
To select an optional feature:
1. From any page, press MENU. The options menu shows a list
of optional features specic to that page.
On-screen
button
To mark your current location as a waypoint, press and hold
ENTER/MARK until the New Waypoint Page appears.
2. Use the ROCKER to move the highlight up, down, right, or
left on the menu to the option you want to select.
3. Press ENTER to select the feature. Another window with
more options might appear. If so, select an option and press
ENTER again.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 9
To enter data in a data eld:
1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the data eld and press
ENTER to edit it.
2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select characters.
Press right to move to the next character or press left to
move back to the previous character. If there are two lines of
data, keep pressing right on the ROCKER to go to the next
line.
gettIng stArted > usIng the gPsMAP 278
Restoring Default Settings
You can restore factory defaults for the following Main Menu tabs:
Entering
data
TIP: To clear the entire data eld, highlight the left-most
character eld and press left on the ROCKER again.
3. Press ENTER.
Not all elds are programmable. When you are on a page with elds
that are not selectable, the highlight skips over them.
Track, Alarms, Display, Sound, and Setup. For more information
about the Main Menu, see the “Main Menu” section beginning on
page 66.
To restore default settings:
1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight a tab, and then press MENU to
open the options menu.
Setup Tab Options Menu
3. Highlight Restore Default, and press ENTER.
10 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
gettIng stArted > usIng the gPsMAP 278
Using the Main Menu
Use the Main Menu on your GPSMAP 278 to access various
waypoint, system, navigation and interface management, and setup
menus. Press the MENU key twice from any page to open the Main
Menu. For more information, see the “Main Menu” section on
page 66.
Main Menu
To select a tab from the Main Menu:
1. From any page, press MENU twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight a tab. The
information for the highlighted tab automatically appears
on the right. To highlight a sub tab, press left or right on the
ROCKER, and then press up or down to select individual
elds.
By default, the Main Menu tabs are shown as icons along the left
side of the screen. You can change the Main Menu to show tabs in a
text-only format.
To view the Main Menu icons in text only format:
1. Highlight the Display tab, and press ENTER.
2. Select the Main Menu eld. Press ENTER.
3. Highlight Text Only, and Press ENTER.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 11
gettIng stArted > usIng sIMulAtor Mode
Using Simulator Mode
Simulator Mode is great for practicing with the unit if you are
indoors or when satellite signals are not available. All waypoints and
routes created in Simulator Mode are retained in memory for future
use.
NOTE: Do not try to navigate using Simulator Mode because
the GPS receiver is turned off. Any satellite signal strength bars
shown are only simulations and do not represent the strength of
actual satellite signals.
To turn on Simulator Mode:
1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Highlight the GPS tab.
3. Press MENU to open the GPS tab options menu.
4. Highlight Start Simulator, and press ENTER.
Entering a New Location
Use the GPS options menu to enter a new location to simulate from.
To enter a new location using the map:
1. Highlight the GPS tab on the Main Menu.
2. Press MENU
3. Highlight New Location, and press ENTER.
4. Highlight Use Map, and press ENTER.
5. Use the ROCKER to move the panning arrow to the location
GPS tab
Starting Simulator Mode from the GPS tab
to open the options menu.
you want on the map, and press ENTER.
12 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
MArIne Mode > MArIne Mode PAges
MarIne Mode
Your GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with an enhanced worldwide basemap that depicts shorelines and surface features. The GPSMAP 278 is
compatible with BlueChart g2 marine cartography.
Marine Mode Pages
Marine Mode has ve main pages: Map, Compass, Highway, Active Route, and Position Data. An optional Sonar Page is available when a
GSD 21 or GSD 20 is connected. See the “Setting Up and Using Sonar” section beginning on page 90 for more information.
Map Page Compass Page Highway Page
Position Data Page Active Route Page
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 13
MArIne Mode > nAvIgAtIng to A destInAtIon
Navigating to a Destination
You can navigate to your destination using the Map Page. As you
Navigate Options Menu
Press NAV to open the Navigate options menu.
travel, you see a magenta line that always runs from your current
location to the destination or to the next turn on the Map Page. You
can use the Map Page, Compass Page, or Highway Page to help
navigate.
You can navigate to a destination using one of the following
methods:
• Select a point on the map and press the NAV
• Press the NAV
key to navigate a new route using the Find
key (page 15).
Menu, or to navigate a saved route or track (page 24).
• Press the FIND
key to search for a particular item and create
Go To Point—select a waypoint or point of interest from the
Find menu to which to navigate (page 15).
a route to it (see page 17).
Marine Mode and Automotive Mode are similar. Most of the
features discussed here also apply to Automotive Mode.
Navigate Route—select a route to navigate (page 24).
Navigate Track (TracBack)—select a saved track to navigate
(page 38).
MOB (Man OverBoard)—create a MOB waypoint and navigate
to that location (page 16).
Stop (Resume) Navigation—stop or resume navigation
(page 15).
Navigate Options Menu
14 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
To navigate (Go To) a point on the map:
Highlight a point to navigate
to, and press NAV.
To stop navigation:
While navigating to a point,
press NAV.
Highlight Go To <point
name>, and press ENTER.
Highlight Stop Navigation,
and press ENTER.
MArIne Mode > nAvIgAtIng to A destInAtIon
Follow the magenta line
created on the Map Page.
Highlight Resume Navigation, and
press ENTER to resume navigation.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 15
MArIne Mode > nAvIgAtIng to A destInAtIon
Man OverBoard (MOB)
2. Press ENTER to conrm and begin navigating to the MOB
Use the MOB function to simultaneously mark your current location
and create a direct route back to that location for quick response to
emergency situations.
To activate the MOB function:
1. Press and hold the NAV/MOB key, or press the NAV/MOB
key twice.
When a MOB is activated, a MOB waypoint with an international
MOB symbol is created, and the unit begins actively navigating 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
can be deleted like any other waypoint.
location.
16 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
MArIne Mode > fIndIng An IteM
Finding an Item
Use the Find menu to search for addresses, food & drink, fuel services, lodging, banks/ATMs, cities, shopping, stored waypoints, and
points of interest (POIs). To open the Find menu, press the FIND key. The Find menu is comprised of several default categories, including
Waypoints, Cities, Exits, Transportation, and Data, just to name a few. Additional categories appear depending on the optional BlueChart g2
or MapSource data card in the unit.
To nd an item and go to it:
Press FIND to open the
Find menu.
Highlight a category, and
press ENTER.
Press ENTER, and then
spell the name of the item.
Select an item from the list,
and press ENTER.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 17
Highlight the Go To button,
and press ENTER.
Follow the magenta line
created on the Map Page.
MArIne Mode > fIndIng An IteM
Finding an Item From Another Location
You can use the Find menu to center your search around an item you
To nd an item from another location on the map:
1. Move the arrow (pointer) to the location you want on the
just found. For example, you search for Restricted Areas and the
search shows an “Anchoring Prohibited” search result. If you press
FIND again, you will see “From Anchoring Prohibited” as the new
search from point. You can also use the Find feature to center your
search from any waypoint, route list entry, map item, or POI.
To nd an item near another item:
1. Follow the steps on page 17 to nd an item.
2. Press FIND to open the Find menu.
2. Highlight a category, and press ENTER.
3. Select a category, and press ENTER. Items near the
previously-selected item are shown in the search results list.
map, and press FIND.
18 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
MArIne Mode > fIndIng An IteM
3. Highlight an item from the search results list, and press
ENTER.
4. Press ENTER to go to the item.
To nd an item near another location:
1. Press FIND.
2. Press MENU to open the options menu.
3. Highlight Near Other, and press ENTER.
4. Select a reference location on the map, and press ENTER.
The list shows items nearest to the new map location.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 19
MArIne Mode > fIndIng An IteM
Viewing Recently Found Items
The Recently Found Page shows a list of the items you have
searched for or gone to recently.
To view a list of recently found items:
1. Press FIND to open the Find menu.
2. Highlight Recently Found, and press ENTER to open the list
of recently found items.
3. Press MENU to open the options menu.
4. Select Show Find History to view the list of items you have
searched for recently.
OR
Select Show Goto History to view the list of items you have
recently created a Go To for (Go To History).
5. Highlight Remove Point, and press ENTER to delete the
selected recently found point.
20 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
MArIne Mode > fIndIng An IteM
Viewing the Information Page
Each item on the map and each item listed in the results list has an
Information Page.
To view details about an item:
1. Highlight a point on the map or in the search results list, and
press ENTER.
An Information Page appears with details about the item
in a tabbed format. Depending on the item selected, and if
you are using optional BlueChart g2 data cards, additional
information is available for viewing the item on the Map,
viewing a tide chart, viewing the list of maps on your data
card, and viewing the next item in the search results list.
Find Menu Options
To view additional Find menu options, press FIND, and then press
MENU
Enable Auto Arrange—automatically arranges the Find menu.
When selected, Disable Auto Arrange and Restore Default
options are available.
Near Other—select a new location from which to compile the
Find items lists. Using the ROCKER, move the map arrow to
the location you want, and press ENTER.
Map Information—shows information about the detailed map
data stored on the data card and allows you to select which
maps appear on the Map Page.
Additional selections are available on the options menu when you
are navigating:
Near Next—compiles the Find items lists based on the next
turn in the route.
Near Destination—compiles the Find items lists based on the
Map Feature Information Page
2. Press PAGE or QUIT to exit the Information Page. You
can also highlight one of the on-screen buttons, and press
ENTER.
route destination.
Near Current Route—compiles the Find items lists based on
the active route.
.
GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 21
MArIne Mode > creAtIng And usIng routes
Creating and Using Routes
You can create and store up to 50 reversible routes, with up to 300 points each.
Creating a New Route
Use the Route tab to create a route by selecting waypoints from the Find menu, or by selecting waypoints or map items from the Map Page.
To create a route using the Find menu:
Highlight the Route tab on
the Main Menu.
Press MENU once to open
the Route options menu.
Highlight New Route, and
press ENTER.
Press ENTER to nd items
to add to the route.
22 GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual
Highlight OK, and press
ENTER to add a route point.
Repeat step 5 to dene
additional route points.
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