Garmin GPSMAP 296 User Manual 2
GPSMAP® 296
portable aviation receiver
pilot’s guide
© Copyright 2004, 2005 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc.
1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A.
Tel. 913/397.8200 or 800/800.1020
Fax 913/397.8282
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9DL, U.K.
Tel. 44/0870.8501241
Fax 44/0870.8501251
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 (
information concerning the use and operation of this and other Garmin products.
Garmin®, GPSMAP®, AutoLocate®, TracBack®, BlueChart®, MapSource®, and See-Thru® are registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries and may not be
used without the express permission of Garmin.
www.garmin.com
) for current updates and supplemental
September 2005 Part Number 190-00337-00 Rev. D Printed in Taiwan
INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the Garmin GPSMAP
portable aviation receiver that utilizes the proven performance of Garmin
GPS and full-featured mapping. 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.
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.
The Introduction contains the Table of Contents. The Getting Started
section provides information such as an overview of unit features and how
to turn the unit on and adjust the backlight.
The Basic Operation in Aviation Mode section provides you with
information about navigating with the GPSMAP 296 in Aviation Mode.
The Aviation Mode Pages section reviews, in detail, the main pages and
features of Aviation Mode, such as E6B and Terrain.
The Basic Operation in Automotive Mode section provides you with
information about navigating with the GPSMAP 296 in Automotive Mode.
The Automotive Mode Pages section reviews in detail, the main pages and
features in Automotive Mode, such as the Trip Computer Page and creating
waypoints.
®
296, an unsurpassed
The Basic Operation in Marine Mode section provides you with
information about navigating with the GPSMAP 296 in Marine Mode.
The Marine Mode Pages section reviews the main pages and features in
Marine Mode, such as using DSC. For complete information about some
of the main pages and features in Marine Mode, refer to the Aviation and
Automotive sections.
The Main Menu section describes pages and features found in the Main
Menu.
If you have a GSD 20 Sounder Module connected to you GPSMAP 296,
refer to the Setting Up and Using Sonar.
The Appendix contains specifications, 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 296 Pilot’s Guide i
INTRODUCTION > TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
Introduction ...........................................................................i
About This Manual ................................................................... i
Warning ................................................................................... iv
Caution ..................................................................................... v
Care Information .................................................................... vi
Getting Started .....................................................................1
Unit Overview .......................................................................... 1
Charging the GPSMAP 296 ..................................................... 2
Turning On the GPSMAP 296 ................................................. 3
Getting Satellite Signals ......................................................... 4
Learning About the Keypad .................................................... 7
Using the GPSMAP 296 .......................................................... 8
Simulator Mode ..................................................................... 11
Basic Operation In Aviation Mode ...................................13
Aviation Mode Page Sequence ............................................ 13
Creating a Direct To .............................................................. 14
Finding a Nearby Point ......................................................... 17
Selecting an Approach .......................................................... 22
Finding Points on Land ........................................................ 24
Marking a Waypoint ............................................................... 25
Creating a Flight Plan (Route) .............................................. 26
Following your Flight Plan ................................................... 27
Aviation Mode Pages ........................................................28
Map Page ................................................................................ 28
ii GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
Terrain Page ...........................................................................
Panel Page ............................................................................. 39
Active Route Page ................................................................. 43
Position Data Page ................................................................ 44
Flight Log ............................................................................... 45
Aircraft Information ............................................................... 46
E6B Tab .................................................................................. 48
Basic Operation In Automotive Mode ..............................50
Automotive Mode Page Sequence ....................................... 50
Navigating in Automotive Mode ........................................... 51
Finding an Item ...................................................................... 53
Creating Routes ..................................................................... 56
Creating Waypoints ............................................................... 58
Following an Automotive Route ........................................... 61
Editing Your Route ................................................................ 62
Automotive Mode Pages and Features ...........................64
Map Page ................................................................................ 64
Highway Page ........................................................................ 65
Current Route Page ............................................................... 67
Trip Computer Page .............................................................. 68
Editing and Managing Routes .............................................. 69
Editing and Managing Waypoints ........................................ 73
Managing Your Tracks .......................................................... 82
Basic Operation in Marine Mode ......................................86
Marine Mode Page Sequence ............................................... 86
Navigating in Marine Mode ................................................... 87
36
INTRODUCTION > TABLE OF CONTENTS
Marine Mode Pages and Features ...................................88
Map Page ................................................................................ 88
Compass Page ....................................................................... 89
DSC Page ............................................................................... 91
Main Menu ..........................................................................96
GPS Tab .................................................................................. 96
Flights Tab ............................................................................. 97
Route Tab ............................................................................... 97
Points Tab .............................................................................. 97
Track Tab ................................................................................ 98
Sonar Tab ............................................................................... 98
Aircraft Tab ............................................................................ 99
Alarms Tab ............................................................................. 99
Calendar Tab ........................................................................ 102
Celestial Tab ........................................................................ 103
Message Tab ........................................................................ 107
Display Tab .......................................................................... 108
Sound Tab ............................................................................ 109
Setup Tab ............................................................................. 110
Location Sub Tab ................................................................ 114
Setting Up and Using Sonar ...........................................120
Showing Sonar on the Map Page ....................................... 120
Using the Sonar Page ......................................................... 121
Setting Up the Sonar Page ................................................. 125
Understanding Sonar .......................................................... 128
Viewing the Sonar Temperature Tab .................................. 131
Appendix ..........................................................................132
Specifications ...................................................................... 132
Optional Accessories .......................................................... 133
Installation Information ....................................................... 134
Learning About GPS ........................................................... 138
LORAN TD Setup ................................................................. 140
Map Datums and Location Formats .................................. 142
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) ........................................... 143
Jeppesen Database Information ........................................ 145
Messages ............................................................................. 146
Data Field Options ............................................................... 148
License Agreement and Warranty ..................................... 150
Index .................................................................................153
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide iii
INTRODUCTION > WARNING
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 GPSMAP 296 in a vehicle, place the unit securely so
that it does not interfere with vehicle operating controls or obstruct the
driver’s view of the road (see diagram).
Do not mount
where driver’s
field of vision is
blocked.
Do not place
unsecured on
the vehicle
dash.
When navigating, carefully compare information shown on the
GPSMAP 296 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.
The GPSMAP 296 contains a replaceable, rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
The battery may present a risk of fire or chemical burn if mistreated.
• Do not recharge out of the unit, disassemble, heat above 140°F
(60°C), or incinerate.
• Keep used battery away from children.
• Only replace with Garmin Lithium-ion Battery Pack. Using another
Do not mount in front of an airbag
field of deployment.
Always operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Do not become distracted by
the GPSMAP 296 while driving, and always be fully aware of all driving
conditions. Minimize the amount of time spent viewing the screen of the
GPSMAP 296 while driving and use voice prompts when possible. Do
not enter 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.
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
• Dispose of used battery or unit properly. Contact your local waste
disposal department for information on properly disposing of
lithium-ion batteries.
Use the electronic chart in the GPSMAP 296 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.
When navigating in an aircraft, use the GPSMAP 296 only as an aid for
VFR navigation. Use terrain and obstacle data only as an aid to situational
awareness.
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, refer to our
Web site at
iv GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
http://www.garmin.com/prop65.
Caution
INTRODUCTION > CAUTION
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations may
result in injury or property damage.
The GPSMAP 296 is designed to provide you with route suggestions. It
does not reflect road closures or road conditions, traffic congestion, weather
conditions, or other factors that may affect safety or timing while driving.
Use the GPSMAP 296 only as a navigational aid. Do not attempt to use the
GPSMAP 296 for any purpose requiring precise measurement of direction,
distance, location, or topography. This product should not be used to
determine ground proximity for aircraft navigation.
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 shown 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.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide v
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is operated by the United States
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 296. Although the GPSMAP 296 is a precision navigation device,
any navigation device can be misused or misinterpreted and, therefore,
become unsafe.
INTRODUCTION > CARE INFORMATION
Care Information
To resolve problems that cannot be remedied using this guide,
contact Garmin Product Support in the U.S.A. at 800/800.1020 or
Garmin Europe at 44/0870.8501241.
Cleaning the Unit
The GPSMAP 296 is constructed of high quality materials and does
not require user maintenance other than cleaning. Clean the unit
using a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution and then wipe
dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that may damage plastic
components.
Storing the GPSMAP 296
Do not store the GPSMAP 296 where prolonged exposure to
temperature extremes can occur (such as in the trunk of a car) as
permanent damage may result. User information, such as waypoints
and routes, is 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).
Immersing the Unit in Water
The GPSMAP 296 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.
vi GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
GETTING STARTED > UNIT OVERVIEW
GETTING STARTED
Unit Overview
The GPSMAP 296 is an all-in-one, versatile color aviation, automotive, and marine navigator-perfect for air, land, or water. This portable
GPS navigator features a 256-color TFT screen that is easy to read in bright sun, a built-in basemap, Jeppesen aviation database, and auto
routing to provide you with automatically generated turn-by-turn directions.
Battery pack. Press tab down to
GPS antenna
256-Color TFT screen
with backlighting
Backlit keypad for easy nighttime operation
Detachable GPS
antenna collapses
for storage. Be sure
the antenna is up
(as shown here)
to receive satellite
signals. Refer to
the Appendix,
page 137, for
instructions on
removing the
antenna.
External power
connector under
weather cap
USB connector under
weather cap
remove battery pack for replacement,
if necessary. See the
section on page iv for more
information about the lithium-ion
battery pack.
Slot for optional
data card
“Warning”
Serial
number
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 1
2 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
GETTING STARTED > CHARGING THE GPSMAP 296
Charging the GPSMAP 296
Before using the unit, you need to charge the battery in the
GPSMAP 296. Plug the unit into a 12 Volt connector to charge. You
can use the unit while it is charging.
If you do not want to use the unit, but you would like to charge the
battery, you can put the unit into Charge Mode. Connect the unit to
an external power supply. Press and hold the POWER key. Instead
of completely turning off, the unit now goes into Charge Mode, as
shown below.
To charge the unit’s battery:
1. Lift the rubber weather cap to expose the power connector
on the back of the unit. Refer to 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 a cigarette lighter receptacle if
you have a cigarette lighter adapter. Use care when routing
the adapter cable; be certain that it does not interfere with
vehicle operation.
The unit begins charging as soon as external power is applied.
NOTE: While in Charge Mode, the unit draws a small amount
Placing the unit in Charge Mode charges the unit more quickly than
when the unit is turned on and reduces draw on the aircraft/vehicle/
boat battery.
Information about Charge Mode
Applying external power to the GPSMAP 296 automatically turns
on the unit for full operation. If the battery is present and needs to be
charged, the external power source charges the battery while the unit
is in use.
After using the unit a lot, you may 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 charging
issues with your battery.
Charge Mode
of current from the aircraft/vehicle/boat battery. To avoid
discharging the vehicle’s battery, disconnect the external power
cable from the GPSMAP 296 when not in use for several days.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 3
GETTING STARTED > TURNING ON THE GPSMAP 396
Turning On the GPSMAP 296
3. To turn off the GPSMAP 296, press and hold the
The first time you turn on your new GPSMAP 296, the receiver
must collect satellite data and establish its present location. To
ensure proper initialization, the GPSMAP 296 is shipped from the
factory in AutoLocate mode, which allows the receiver to “find
Adjusting the Backlight and Volume
The POWER key controls the 10 level backlight and volume of the
external speaker with 12/24-Volt Adapter Cable.
itself” anywhere in the world. Before you turn on the unit to start
initialization, be sure that 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.
To turn on and off the GPSMAP 296:
1. Press and hold the POWER key. When the unit turns on, a
tone sounds and the Warning Page appears.
Warning Page
To adjust the backlight level or volume:
1. Press and quickly release the POWER key.
2. Press the ROCKER up to increase the brightness or down to
3. Press ENTER or QUIT to close the Backlight/Volume
POWER
key again.
decrease. Press right to raise the volume or left to lower.
adjustment window. Press MENU to view the options menu.
Battery time remaining
and power source
indicator
Backlight
adjustment slider
Volume
adjustment slider
2. Read and be sure you understand the warning. Press
ENTER to continue.
4 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
GETTING STARTED > GETTING SATELLITE SIGNALS
Getting Satellite Signals
After you turn on the GPSMAP 296, the unit automatically begins
searching for satellites. The GPS Page appears while the unit is
gathering satellite signals and acquiring a fix. This process should
take only a few minutes. While the GPSMAP 296 is getting satellite
signals, the GPS Page shows the status as “Acquiring Satellites.”
It can take a few minutes to acquire satellites and show your current
location on the map. Be patient as the unit acquires satellite data.
To get signals more quickly, be sure the antenna is raised to the up
location shown in the image on page 1.
Viewing GPS Status With the GPS Tab
The GPS tab provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition,
receiver status, and accuracy. The sky view and signal strength bars
give an indication of what satellites are visible to the receiver and
whether they are being tracked.
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 shown below each bar represent
the particular satellite that is being received. Numbers above 33
indicate WAAS satellites.
The sky view shows a birds-eye view of the location of each satellite
relative to the receiver’s last known location. The outer circle
represents the horizon (north up), the inner circle represents 45º
above the horizon, and the center point represents a location directly
overhead. You can also set the sky view to a Track Up configuration,
causing the top of the sky view to align along your current track
heading.
GPS Tab
A power source indicator shows the unit is operating off
power ( ), that the unit is charging ( ), or that an
NOTE: While acquiring satellites, the Map Page can show the
wrong location, such as China. This does not mean your unit
has the wrong data loaded. The GPS receiver needs a few more
minutes to acquire satellites and find your current location.
external power source is in use ( ).
battery
GETTING STARTED > GETTING SATELLITE SIGNALS
Signal
strength bars
Sky view
GPS Page
Receiver
status field
Power
source
indicator
Receiver Status
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.
As soon as the GPSMAP 296 has collected the necessary data from
the best satellites in view to calculate a fix, the status field indicates
the status of the receiver. The unit then updates the location, date
and time.
The Receiver Status field 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 has been collected, which can take up to 5 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 fix.
• 2D GPS Location—At least three satellites have been acquired
and a two-dimensional location fix has been calculated. “2D
Differential” appears when you are receiving DGPS corrections in
2D mode and a “D” appears on the strength bar of satellites being
corrected.
• 3D GPS Location—At least four satellites have been acquired
and a three-dimensional fix has been calculated. “3D Differential”
appears when you are receiving DGPS 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 fix.
• Receiver Not Usable—the receiver is unusable, possibly due to
interference or abnormal satellite conditions. Turn the unit off and
back on to reset.
• Simulating GPS—the receiver is in Simulator Mode.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 5
GETTING STARTED > GETTING SATELLITE SIGNALS
GPS Tab Options
Press MENU two times to open the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER
to highlight GPS. Press MENU to open the options menu:
GPS Tips
While the receiver is gathering information, your location on the
map can show as different from where you actually are located. Be
patient; as soon as the receiver gathers enough satellite information,
your proper location is shown on the map.
Any time you have traveled more than 600 miles with the GPS
receiver turned off, the receiver can take longer than normal to
initialize and find your location.
The GPS receiver can lose satellite signals due to interference from
such items as buildings, tunnels, and heavy tree cover. Monitoring
GPS Tab Options Menu
Start/Stop Simulator—starts and stops Simulator Mode, which is
the GPS status is recommended.
To learn about GPS, refer to
“Learning about GPS” on page 138.
helpful when learning how to use your unit.
Enable/Disable WAAS—enables or disables WAAS capability.
Refer to page 139 of the “Appendix” for more information.
Track/
North Up Skyview—orients the sky view page on the GPS
tab to North Up or Track Up.
New Altitude
—allows you to manually enter your altitude.
New Location—allows you to enter a new location automatically
or using the map. When in Aviation Mode, you can enter the airport
identifier.
6 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
Learning About the Keypad
PAGE Key
• Press to cycle through the main pages in sequence
and return the screen from a submenu page.
• Press and hold to switch between Aviation,
Automotive, and Marine Modes.
QUIT Key
• Press to cycle through the main pages in reverse
sequence, revert to the previous value in a data entry
field, or cancel a function.
ENTER/MARK Key
• Press to select a highlighted option, initiate entry,
and then confirm.
• Press and hold to mark a waypoint.
MENU Key
• Press to view the Options Menu for the current page.
• Press twice to show 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 > LEARNING ABOUT THE KEYPAD
IN/OUT Keys
• Press to zoom in or out on the Map Page.
ROCKER Keypad
• Press up, down, right or left to move through
lists, highlight fields, on-screen buttons and icons,
enter data, or move the map pointer.
NRST/FIND Key
• Shows the nearest airports, navaids, points of
communication, and airspace boundaries in
Aviation Mode.
• Press multiple times in Aviation Mode to show
the Find Menu.
DIRECT TO Key
• Press to start a Go To using airports, navaids,
recently used waypoints, or user-created
waypoints.
• Press and hold to show additional information for
the current destination (such as communication
frequency and runway data).
• While in Automotive Mode, press and hold for
more than one second to show the Next Turn
Page and announce the next turn.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 7
8 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
GETTING STARTED > USING THE GPSMAP 296
Using the GPSMAP 296
This section explains how to enter and select information with the
GPSMAP 296. To switch between Aviation, Marine, and Automotive
Modes, press and hold PAGE. Use the ROCKER to select a mode,
and press ENTER.
Understanding Terms
The GPSMAP 296 unit’s advanced keypad system is designed to
allow quick, convenient selection of navigation options and data
entry. As you progress through this Pilot’s Guide, you will often be
directed to press a specific key or highlight a field 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 field is selected on the screen, it is highlighted in yellow. The
Field—the location on a page where data or an option can be
entered and shown. Select (highlight) a field using the ROCKER to
begin entering data or selecting options.
On-Screen Button
press ENTER to select the button.
Scroll Bar
the screen, a scroll bar appears along the right side of the list.
The location of the scroll bar indicates which portion of the list is
currently shown. To scroll through a list, press up or down on the
ROCKER.
Default—the factory setting saved in the unit’s memory. You can
change the settings as you like, but you can also revert to the factory
(default) settings when you select Restore Defaults.
location of the highlight is controlled by the ROCKER.
The following features are referred to throughout this manual:
Highlight—move the highlighted area on the screen up, down, left,
or right with the ROCKER to select individual fields. Moving the
highlight to a given location allows you to make a selection, begin
data entry, or scroll through a list.
—use the ROCKER to highlight a button, and
—when viewing a list of items too long to show on
A Field On-screen
buttons
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 9
GETTING STARTED > USING THE GPSMAP 296
Selecting Options and Entering Data
To enter data and select options, you must use the ROCKER to
highlight, select, or choose an item in a list or a field on the screen.
Use the ENTER and ROCKER keys to select options, enter names
and numbers in data fields, and start your selections.
To select and start an option:
1. Press MENU on any page. An options menu appears with a
list of optional features for that page.
2. Use the ROCKER to move the highlight up, down, right, or
left on the menu to your selection.
Selecting an option from an options menu
To exit a menu or return to the previous setting:
1. Press QUIT to move backward through your steps.
2. To return to the starting page, press QUIT repeatedly.
To select and start an on-screen button:
1. On a page with on-screen buttons, use the ROCKER to
highlight the on-screen button you want.
2. Press ENTER.
On-screen buttons
10 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
GETTING STARTED > USING THE GPSMAP 296
To enter data in a data field:
1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the data field you want, and
press ENTER to activate the field.
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 to drop to the next line.
3. After entering the data, press ENTER.
Entering data
NOTE: To clear the entire data field, highlight the left-most
character field and press left once more on the ROCKER.
Not all fields are programmable. When you are on a page with fields
that are not selectable, the highlight skips over them.
GPSMAP 296 Databases
Your GPSMAP 296 comes with a Jeppesen® database, an Obstacle
database, a Terrain database, a Voice Guidance database, and a
basemap. You also should update your Jeppesen database to use the
most current data. Refer to page 145 in the “Appendix” for more
information.
MapSource Detailed Maps
Optional Garmin Data Cards and MapSource CD-ROMs enhance
the versatility of your GPSMAP 296. With optional MapSource
City Select® data, you can view listings of nearby restaurants,
lodging, shopping centers, attractions, and entertainment, and even
retrieve addresses and phone numbers for any listed location. With
optional BlueChart data, you can access marine navaids, wrecks,
obstructions, and anchorage locations.
The included USB Interface Cable or an optional PC Interface Cable
(with a serial connector) is used to transfer MapSource CD-ROM
data to the optional Data Card.
For compatible MapSource products, refer to the Garmin Web site at
http://www.garmin.com/cartography/
Simulator Mode
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 11
GETTING STARTED > SIMULATOR MODE
The GPSMAP 296 contains a Simulator Mode, which is helpful
for practicing with the unit indoors or when no satellite signals are
available or if the antenna is not connected. All waypoints and routes
created in Simulator Mode are retained in memory for future use.
The following section describes how to use Simulator Mode and
walks you through some basic navigation using the simulator.
NOTE: 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.
Starting Simulator Mode
To start Simulator Mode using the Setup tab:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Highlight Setup from the vertical menu.
3. Highlight the System sub tab.
4. Select Simulator from the System Mode field.
You can start Simulator Mode for the GPS tab or the Setup tab on
the Main Menu.
To start Simulator Mode using the GPS tab:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Highlight GPS from the vertical menu.
3. Press MENU to open the GPS tab options menu.
4. Highlight Start Simulator, and press ENTER.
Setup tab of Main Menu
System sub tab
GETTING STARTED > SIMULATOR MODE
Entering a New Location
From the GPS options menu you can enter a New Location and
New Altitude to simulate from.
To enter a New Location using the map:
1. Press MENU twice and highlight GPS from the vertical menu.
2. Press MENU to open the options 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
on the map you want, and press ENTER.
You can also select a New Location by entering an airport identifier
(code). Select Use Identifier from the GPS tab options menu. Enter
the airport code using the ROCKER. Refer to page 14 for complete
instructions about entering airport identifiers and user waypoints.
To adjust the simulated speed, heading, and altitude
from the Panel, Pointer, or Highway pages:
1. Press up on the ROCKER increase the speed in
10 knot/kph/mph increments. Press down on the ROCKER to
decrease the speed in the same increments.
2. Press left or right on the ROCKER to change heading.
3. Press the IN and OUT Zoom keys to increase or decrease
altitude (Aviation Mode only).
12 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > AVIATION MODE PAGE SEQUENCE
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE
Aviation Mode Page Sequence
The GPSMAP 296 offers three usage modes, Aviation Mode (default), Automotive Mode, and Marine Mode. The main pages are linked
together in a series that you can cycle through by pressing PAGE to move forward and QUIT to reverse. Each page also has an options menu
that allows you to customize each page (in all three modes) to your preferences and/or select features that specifically relate to that page. To
view the options menu for any page, press MENU.
Aviation Mode features five main pages: Map Page, Terrain Page, Panel Page, Active Route Page, and Position Data Page. An example of
each page in Aviation Mode appears below. Each of these pages has a specific use and each page is discussed later in this manual. Aviation
Mode is the default mode for the GPSMAP 296. This manual first addresses each page, such as the Map Page, as shown in Aviation Mode.
The manual then describes the page as shown in Automotive and Marine Mode.
Panel Page Active Route Page Terrain Page Map Page Position Data Page
To switch usage modes:
1. Press and hold PAGE.
2. Use the ROCKER to select Aviation, Automotive, or Marine, and press ENTER.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 13
14 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > CREATING A DIRECT TO
Creating a Direct To
In Aviation Mode, press Direct To to select a destination. When
To go to an airport or navaid:
1. Press the Direct To to show the Go To Page. Use the
a Go To or route is currently in use, holding Direct To down
briefly shows a detailed information page for the current destination.
In Marine or Automotive Mode, pressing Direct To
shows the
2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select the identifier,
3. Use the ROCKER to enter the word to search for. Press up
Navigate menu, which allows you to start navigation or edit a route.
Also, in Marine Mode, pressing Direct To twice creates a MOB
waypoint and starts navigating to that point.
Press MENU on any tab of the Go To Page to open an options menu
for that tab. Based on the tab you selected, you can Show Details,
Select Approach, Select Route, Find Land Points, and Remove
Point.
Airport
Identifier
Facility
Name
City
Go To Page: Aviation Tab
4. Press ENTER when the point is shown.
5. With the on-screen Go To button highlighted, press ENTER.
ROCKER to show the Aviation tab.
facility name, or city field, and press ENTER.
and down to change the highlighted character and right to
move to the next character field. As you scroll through the
characters the GPSMAP 296 shows database entries with
the same characters you have entered to that point. If more
than one entry exists in the database for the characters
you have entered, a window appears. Use ENTER and the
ROCKER to select the point.
The GPSMAP 296 creates a course from your present
location to the selected destination.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 15
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > CREATING A DIRECT TO
To go to a recently-used or user-created waypoint:
1. Press the Direct To to show the Go To Page. Use the
ROCKER to select the Recent or User tab.
Go To Page: Recent Tab
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the point from the list, and
press ENTER.
From the User tab, you can also select the top waypoint
name line and then spell out the waypoint name using the
ENTER and the ROCKER keys.
3. Highlight the on-screen Go To button, and press ENTER. A
course is plotted from your present location to the selected
destination.
Viewing Details for the Destination
The Show Details option shows detailed information for your
destination waypoint or the next waypoint in a route. This feature
is handy for retrieving airport information, such as communication
frequencies and runway information. You can view details by using the
options menu or by selecting the Show Details button on the Go To
Page, and pressing ENTER.
To view the details for the selected destination:
1. Press MENU to open the options menu. Use the ROCKER to
highlight Show Details, and press ENTER.
Or
Press and hold the Direct To .
Or
Use the ROCKER to highlight Show Details, and press
ENTER. A new screen appears showing sub tabs along the
top of the screen.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the tab to view the information.
16 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > CREATING A DIRECT TO
Viewing Frequency Restrictions
The Comm tab on the Airport Details Page provides a list of
communication frequencies for that airport. Some frequencies are
noted with an asterisk (*), which indicates that the frequency has
usage restrictions. You can show the usage restriction information on
your GPSMAP 296.
Airport Tab of Details Page
3. Highlight Show Map, and press ENTER to view the item on
the map. Press QUIT when done. Highlight OK, and press
ENTER to return to the Go To Page.
To view
frequency:
1. With the Comm tab selected, use the ROCKER to highlight
usage restrictions for a communication
any frequency with usage restrictions (noted with an
asterisk), and press ENTER. A Usage Restrictions Page
appears describing the restrictions for the selected frequency.
When viewing information for the Runway or Approach tabs, use
the ROCKER to highlight the runway designation or approach
name, and press ENTER. Then press up or down on the ROCKER
to scroll through available runways and approaches. Press ENTER
to select the runway or approach for which you would like to view
additional information.
Usage Restrictions Page
2. To return to the Comm Information Page, press ENTER.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 17
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT
Finding a Nearby Point
In Aviation Mode, press NRST/FIND to open the Nearest Pages.
These pages provide detailed information on the nearest airports,
airport weather sources, user waypoints within 200 miles of your
present location, and other points.
In Marine and Automotive Modes, press
Find Menu. You can easily search waypoints, cities, exits, and tide
stations using the Find Menu.
NRST/FIND to open the
Aviation Nearest Categories
In Aviation Mode, the Nearest Pages contains the following
information:
Airport—nearest 15; identifier, bearing, distance, length of the
longest runway, and common traffic advisory (CTAF) or tower
frequency.
WX (Airport Weather Sources)
information sources including AWOS, ASOS, and ATIS.
VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Radio Beacons)
identifier, facility type (symbol), bearing, distance, and frequency.
NDB (Non Directional Beacons)—nearest 15; identifier, facility
type (symbol), bearing, distance, and frequency.
INT (Intersection)—nearest 15; identifier, bearing, and distance.
User (Waypoints)
Nearest Page: Airport Tab
While in Aviation Mode
Press MENU when the Nearest Page is open to show the Nearest
Page options menu. You can Show Arrows (or Show Bearing) and
ARTCC (Air Route Traffic Control Center)
distance, and frequency.
FSS (Flight Service Station)—nearest 5; bearing, distance,
frequency, and VOR (for duplex operations).
Set Airport Criteria.
Airspace—up to 15 (based on number of alerts provided); name,
time to entry (when applicable), and status.
—nearest 15 airport weather
—nearest 15;
—nearest 15; name, bearing, and distance.
—nearest 5; bearing,
18 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT
Selecting a Nearby Point as Your Destination
In an emergency, you can press a few keys to have the GPSMAP
296 guide you to the closest point to land.
To select a nearby point as your destination:
1. Press NRST.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the sub tab along the top of the
page.
3. Highlight the point using the ROCKER.
4. Press Direct To . The Go To Page opens for the selected
point. Or you can press ENTER to show the Information
Page (Details Page).
5. Press ENTER when Go To is highlighted.
To select the nearest airport as your destination:
1. Press NRST twice to show the Airport tab, and highlight the
nearest airport.
2. Press ENTER to view airport information.
3. Verify the Go To button is highlighted, and press ENTER.
Viewing Details for a Nearby Point
To view details for a nearby point:
1. Press NEAREST to show the nearest pages. Select a sub
tab.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the item on the list, and press
ENTER. The corresponding information page appears.
Information Page for a VOR
On airport information pages, use the ROCKER to select the
sub tabs across the top of the information pages and show
the airport data.
3. Press QUIT to return to the Nearest Pages. You can also
highlight any one of the on-screen buttons to perform an
action, such as Show Map or Go To.
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 19
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT
Viewing Communication Frequencies
The Nearest Pages list up to five nearest flight service station
(FSS) and air route traffic control center (ARTCC) points of
communication. The closest communication point is shown first,
with additional points available when selected. For duplex operation,
the corresponding VOR is listed (by identifier) and the transmit and
receive frequencies are denoted by a TX and RX respectively.
To view additional communication frequencies:
1. Press NEAREST to open the Nearest Pages.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the ARTCC or FSS sub tab.
3. Press the ROCKER down to highlight Center or Station
(based which tab you are on), and press ENTER.
ARTCC Tab
4. Select the numbered item that you want from the list, and
press ENTER to show the communication information. The
lowest numbers on the list are the closest communication
points.
Viewing Airspace Alert Information
When an airspace alert appears, press the NEAREST to
automatically show nearby airspace information in the Airspace tab.
This information includes name, time to entry (if applicable), and
status. Normally, only one or two airspace alerts occur at a time,
but with sectorized controlled airspace, such as many Class B areas,
there are more. Status information can appear as follows:
Ahead—your projected course takes you inside an airspace within
the next 10 minutes or less.
Near—you are within two nautical miles of an airspace but not
projected to enter it.
Near & Ahead
and your current course takes you inside the airspace.
Inside Airspace
—you are within two nautical miles of an airspace
—you are within the boundaries of the airspace.
20 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT
Viewing Additional Airspace Information
From the Nearest Pages, you can show additional airspace
information, such as floor and ceiling limits or communication
frequencies.
To view additional
1. When an airspace alert appears, press NEAREST to show
the Nearest Pages and the airspace information. If you are
already viewing the Nearest Pages, use the ROCKER to
select the Airspace tab.
airspace information:
Nearest Pages: Airspace Tab
2. Use the ROCKER to select the airspace alert entry on the
page, and press ENTER. An information page opens to show
the controlling agency, status, and floor/ceiling limits.
3. To show a communication frequency for the airspace, select
the Frequencies button, and press ENTER.
To return to the Nearest Pages, select the OK button, and
press ENTER.
NOTE: When an airspace alert appears, press NEAREST
to automatically show nearest airspace information. Press
NEAREST a second time to quickly show the nearest airports
list. Press NEAREST a third time to show the Find Menu.
Setting Airport Criteria
GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide 21
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > FINDING A NEARBY POINT
From the Nearest Airport tab, an options window allows you to filter
out airports that do not meet a defined criteria. This allows you to
only show airports with a surface type and sufficient runway length
you want.
Runway Surface—allows you to set criteria for the type of surface
on the runway:
Any—shows any runway, regardless of surface type, including
water landing facilities.
Hard Only—shows only runways with a concrete, asphalt, or
similar sealed surface.
Hard or Soft—shows all runways except water landing facilities.
Water Only
Minimum Runway Length—allows you to enter a specific length
for the shortest runway allowed.
To enter airport criteria:
1. Press NEAREST, and open the Airport tab.
2. Press MENU to show the options menu.
3. Select Set Airport Criteria, and then press ENTER. A
window appears with the current settings for runway surface
and minimum runway length.
—shows only water landing facilities.
Airport Criteria Page
4. With the runway surface field highlighted, press ENTER.
Select the surface type, and press ENTER.
5. Highlight the minimum runway length field, and press
ENTER.
6. Use the ROCKER to enter the minimum acceptable runway
length. Press ENTER.
NOTE: Use caution when changing the nearest airport criteria.
In an emergency, a short runway is still typically preferable
to an off-field landing. If you set the runway length too low or
exclude many runway surfaces, you may not be alerted to a
nearby airport that otherwise would be listed.
22 GPSMAP 296 Pilot’s Guide
BASIC OPERATION IN AVIATION MODE > SELECTING AN APPROACH
Selecting an Approach
CAUTION: The approaches provided in the Jeppesen database
are for monitoring purposes only. The GPSMAP 296 is not an
IFR-approved instrument and should not be used as a primary
source of navigation guidance in instrument conditions.
To select an approach for the destination airport:
1. Press the Direct To to show the Go To Page. Select the
2. Press MENU to open the options menu. Highlight Select
3. Use the ROCKER to select the approach from the window,
When you select an approach, it replaces the destination airport with
the sequence of waypoints for the selected approach. Keep in mind
that the airport must have a published approach (GPS, RNAV, VOR,
NDB, localizer, or ILS) and only the final course segment (usually
from final approach fix to missed approach point) of the published
approach is available in the GPSMAP 296.
NOTE: When using a route, the selected approach for the
destination airport overrides your current route. The original
route is saved in the Route tab.
You can select an approach several ways:
4. A Vectors? window appears. See the following page for more
• Press the Direct To and press MENU on the Go To Page,
as described in the steps to the right.
• From the Active Go To (or Active Route) Page, press
MENU.
• From the Airport Details Page, select the Approach tab.
destination you want to travel to.
Approach, and press ENTER.
and press ENTER.
Selecting an Approach
information on vectors. Use the ROCKER to select Yes or
No, and press ENTER. The GPSMAP 296 removes the
destination airport from the Go To and replaces it with the
approach waypoints.
Loading...