Garmin eTrex Venture - Hiking GPS Receiver User manual

owner’s
manual
and
reference
guide
eTrex® Venture
personal navigatorTM

© 2001 GARMIN Corporation
GARMIN International, Inc.
1200 E 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 0 2 U.S.A.
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
GARMIN (Europe) Ltd.
Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9AQ U.K.
Tel. [phone]
Fax.[phone]
GARMIN Corp.
No. 8, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
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 prior written consent of GARMIN Corporation.
GARMIN Corporation hereby grants permission to download a single copy of this
manual onto a hard drive or other electronic storage medium to be viewed for personal
use, provided that such electronic or printed copy of this manual contains the complete
text of this copyright notice and provided further that any unauthorized commercial
distribution of this manual is strictly prohibited.
Information in this manual is subject to change without notice. GARMIN Corporation
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.
Visit the GARMIN website (www.garmin.com) for current updates and supplemental
information concerning the use and operation of this and other GARMIN products.
GARMIN, eTrex, AutoLocate, and TracBack are registered trademarks, and MapSource
and Personal Navigator are trademarks of GARMIN Corporation and may not be used
without the express permission of GARMIN Corporation.
March 2001 Part Number 190-00203-00 Rev. B Printed in Taiwan

Thank you for choosing the GARMIN eTrex Venture.
To get the most from your new eTrex Venture, take time to
read through this owner’s manual in order to understand
all of the operating features. This manual is organized into
four sections.
The Introduction section provides FCC and safety
information and the Table of Contents.
The Getting Started section introduces you to the
eTrex Venture features, main operating pages and basic
navigation methods.
The Reference section provides details about using
the features of the eTrex Venture according to topic. The
explanations for each feature in this section are divided
into: (1) An overview that discusses the feature and how it
functions and (2) A detailed Step-by-Step instruction for
using the feature.
Reading the overview may be all that you require to
operate features, however, the Step-by-Step instructions
are available, if needed.
The Appendices contain information on items such
as Accessories, Specifi cations, a Troubleshooting Guide,
and an Index by Subject.
Standard Package Contents:
1 eTrex Venture Unit
1 Carry Lanyard
1 Owner’s Manual
1 Quick Start Guide
1 PC Interface Cable
About This
Manual
Introduction
SECTION 1 Introduction
i

Introduction
FCC Compliance
Statement
Warnings
and
Precautions
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC limits
for Class B digital devices. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed or used in accordance with the instructions may
cause harmful interference to radio communications.
There is no guarantee that interference will not occur in
a particular instance. If this equipment does cause harm-
ful interference to other equipment, try to correct the
problem by relocating the equipment.
Consult an authorized GARMIN dealer or other qualifi ed
service technician if the problem cannot be corrected.
Operation is subject to the following conditions: (1) This
device cannot cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
The eTrex Venture does not contain any user-serviceable
parts. Repairs should be made only by an authorized
GARMIN service center. Unauthorized repairs can void
the warranty.
CAUTION: The Global Positioning System (GPS) is oper-
ated by the government of the United States, which is
solely responsible for its accuracy and maintenance. The
system is subject to changes which could affect the accu-
racy and performance of all GPS equipment. Although the
eTrex Venture is a precision electronic NAVigation AID
(NAVAID), any NAVAID can be misused or misinterpreted
and, therefore, become unsafe.
CAUTION: IT IS THE USER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO
USE THIS PRODUCT PRUDENTLY. THIS PRODUCT
IS INTENDED TO BE USED ONLY AS A TRAVEL
AID AND MUST NOT BE USED FOR ANY PURPOSE
REQUIRING PRECISE MEASUREMENT OF DIREC-
TION, DISTANCE, LOCATION, OR TOPOGRAPHY.
THIS PRODUCT SHOULD NOT BE USED AS AN AID
TO DETERMINE GROUND PROXIMITY FOR AIRCRAFT
NAVIGATION.
ii

Introduction
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 rea-
sonable cost. We use a combination of governmental and
private data sources, which we identify as required in
product literature and copyright messages displayed to
the consumer. Virtually all data sources contain inaccurate
or incomplete data to some degree. This is particularly
true outside the United States, where complete and accu-
rate digital data is either not available or prohibitively
expensive.
WARNING: For use in vehicles, it is the sole responsibil-
ity of the owner/operator of the eTrex Venture to secure
the GPS unit so that it will not interfere with the vehicle’s
operating controls, obstruct the driver’s view of driving
conditions, or cause damage or personal injury in the
event of an accident. Do not mount the eTrex Venture
over air bag panels or in the fi eld of air bag deployment.
Air bag expand with a rapid force that can propel objects
in their path toward the driver or passengers causing
possible injury. Refer to air bag safety precautions con-
tained in the vehicle owner’s manual. Do not mount
the eTrex Venture in a place where the driver or pas-
sengers are likely to impact it in an accident or collision.
The mounting hardware provided by GARMIN is not
warranted against collision damage or the consequences
thereof.
WARNING: When used in vehicles, it is the sole respon-
sibility of the driver of the vehicle to operate the vehicle
in a safe manner, maintain full surveillance of all driving
conditions at all times, and not become distracted by the
eTrex Venture to the exclusion of safe operating practices.
It is unsafe to operate the controls of the eTrex Venture
while you are driving. Failure by the driver of a vehicle
equipped with an eTrex to pay full attention to operation
of the vehicle and road conditions while the vehicle is
in motion could result in an accident or collision with
Do Not Place Unsecured
on the Vehicle Dash
Do Not Mount
Over Air bag Panels
Do Not Mount in Front of an Air
bag Field of
Deployment
Warnings
and
Precautions
Do Not Mount Where
Driver’s Field of Vision
is Blocked
iii

Section One - Introduction
About This Manual.............................................i
FCC Compliance Statement...............................ii
Warnings and Precautions.............................ii-iii
Table of Contents..............................................iv
Section Two - Getting Started
Setup, Features, & Basic Navigation.....................1
Features and Button Function.............................2
Battery Installation...............................................3
Starting-Up...................................................................3
Backlighting and Contrast...................................4
Map Data Setup...................................................4
Page Basics: The Main Pages.............................5-9
Setting The Correct Time.....................................9
Basic Navigation...........................................10-12
Section Three - Reference
The Satellite Page..........................................13-14
Navigation Methods..........................................15
The Map Page..............................................1 -22
Map Page Options..................................17-22
Panning the Ma p .................................18
Stop Navigation.
..... ..............................19
Navigation Status..................................19
Data Fields.......................................19-20
Map Page Setup..............................21-22
The Navigation Page....................................23-24
Navigation Page Options...
................ ..........23
Bearing/Course Pointer........................23
Data Fields...........................................23
The Trip Computer Page....................................25
The Main Menu................................................2
Marking Your Location...............................27
Creating a Waypoint......
.......... .................28
Moving a Waypoint........
.......... ..................28
Introduction
iv
Table of Contents
Projecting a Waypoint........ ........ .................29
Editing Waypoints...............
........... ............29
Saving as a Waypoint..................................29
The Find Menu......................................30-35
Finding a Waypoint..............................31
Finding a Favorite................................32
Finding a City..........
.............. ...............33
Finding a Point of Interest.
....... ..34-35
Using a Goto..
.............. ................................3
Routes...
............... ..................................37-42
Creating and Using a Route..................37
Editing a Route..................
.............. ......38
Adding or Editing from the Route Map
Page......................................................39
Navigating a Route.............................41
Data Fields..............
............... ..............42
Tracks......
............ ...................................43-44
The Setup Pages.........
.................. ...........45-49
Time Page.............................................45
Units Page.............................................4
Display Page...........
.................... ...........47
Heading Page...........
................ ............47
Interface Page.................
................. .....48
System Page..........................................49
The Accessory Pages..............................50-52
Sun and Moon Page...............................50
Calendar Page..........
.......... ................... 51
Hunt and Fish Page...............................52
Section Four - Appendices
Appendix A: Specifi cations...............................53
Appendix B: Time Offset Chart........................54
Appendix C: Accessories..................................55
Appendix D: Wiring Diagram...........................5
Appendix E: Troubleshooting...........................57
Appendix F: Index......................................58-59
Appendix G: Warranty....................................... 0

1
Setup,
Features,
and
Basic Navigation
SECTION 2
Before you begin to explore the eTrex Venture’s
operating features, you will want to follow these “Getting
Started” instructions to prepare it for operation by
installing batteries, adjusting the screen contrast, loading
optional GARMIN “Points of Interest” data, and setting
the correct time for your current location.
The operating features of the unit are structured to
be accessed and activated by pressing buttons on the unit
which is explained on the following page.
The fi ve Main Pages are your primary access to
operating the eTrex Venture. Each page provides either
a basic navigation function or access to features which
enhance navigation or customize the unit’s operation to
meet your requirements.
This “Getting Started” section will introduce you to
the Main Pages and how they are structured. You will also
be shown how to perform basic navigation techniques to
help you start using your eTrex Venture immediately.
Detailed instructions on using the eTrex Venture’s
features and their options are contained in the “Reference”
section.
Features inc ude:
Storage for 500 Waypoints with name and graphic symbol.
An automatic Track Log with storage capability for 10
Tracks with 250 points each.
Route building capability, with storage for 20 Routes with
50 Waypoints each.
A Trip Computer for displaying a variety of navigation
data such as speed, ETA, ETE, heading, odometer, etc.
A Find Feature for locating Waypoints, Cities, and Points
of Interest*.
Point of Interest data storage, allowing transfer from a
GARMIN MapSource CD-ROM.
Pre-loaded MapSource Major Cites mapping data.
Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) capability.**
Getting Started
* Points of Interest data
must be transferred to the unit
using a GARMIN MapSource
“Points of Interest” CD ROM.
See pages 4 and 55 for more
information.
** About WAAS
Because the Wide Area Aug
mentation System (WAAS) is
currently under development
and is not fully supported by
geo stationary satellites, effec
tive use of the WAAS feature
may be limited by your geo
graphic location in relation to
those satellites now in service.
There are two WAAS satellites
in service in geo stationary
orbit above the Equator, one
over the Atlantic Ocean and
one over the Pacifi c Ocean.
Currently, WAAS satellite signal
reception requires an absolute
clear view of the sky and works
best when there are no nearby
obstructions such as buildings,
mountains, etc. In fact, you may
not be able to receive or easily
maintain a WAAS satellite signal
until full satellite support for this
program is complete.
Not enabling WAAS when you
cannot receive a signal will
speed unit map drawing and
conserve battery power.
See page 49 for enabling WAAS
and satellite reception
techniques.

2
LEGEND
Features and
Button
Function
The ZOOM IN/OUT buttons:
• Press and hold to Zoom in and out on the Map Page
• Press and hold when on the Satellite Page to adjust the
screen contrast
The FIND button:
• Press and release to access the Find Menu
The PAGE button:
• Press and release to cycle through main pages
The POWER button:
• Press and hold to turn the unit On/Off
• Press and release to toggle display backlighting On/Off
The CLICK STICK (Five Position Switch)
• Press In and release to enter highlighted
options and to confi rm messages
• Press In and hold to mark your current
location as a waypoint
• Move Up/Down or Right/Left to move
through lists, highlight fi elds, on-screen
buttons, icons, enter data or move the map
panning arrow
Battery
Compartment
Cover
Internal Antenna
Power/Data
Connector Cover
External Power
and
Data Connector
LCD
Display
Carry
Lanyard
Slot
Getting Started
N TE: The eTrex Vent re is designed to be
held and operated in the left hand, b t it
can be held and operated sing the right
hand as well to s it yo r preference.
F
VENTURE

3
Starting Up
Installing the Batteries
The eTrex Venture operates on two “AA” batteries
(not included), which are located in the back of the unit.
Rechargeable Alkaline, NiCad or
Lithium batteries may also be used.
Stored data will not be lost when
the batteries are removed.
To install batteries:
1. Remove the battery cover on the
back of the unit. Turn the D-ring
1/4 turn counter-clockwise & pull away.
. Insert the batteries
observing proper
polarity as shown
at the right.
3. Reinstall the battery
cover by turning the
D-ring 1/4 turn
clockwise.
Battery Cover
D-ring
Battery Compartment
Important Note:
When replacing batteries, use
only new or fully recharged bat
teries and do not mix Alkaline,
NiCad or Lithium batteries.
Remove the batteries from the
unit if you don’t plan to use it
for several months.
Follow the battery manufactur
er’s instructions for proper care
and disposal of used batteries.
In typical use,
battery life will vary.
Extensive use of backlighting
will reduce battery life.
When using ‘Battery Saver’ or
‘Use With GPS Off’ mode when
not navigating, batteries can
last up to 20 hours.
Starting Up Your eTrex Venture
To start up the eTrex Venture, take the unit outside
and fi nd an open area where the built-in antenna has a
clear view of the sky. Hold the unit at a comfortable height
with the antenna pointing up. Press and hold the POWER
button to turn the unit on. You will see the Welcome Page.
Press the PAGE button to acknowledge the copyright and
warning messages and move to the Satellite Page.
F
N TE: When yo se the nit for the fi rst
time. It may take p to fi ve min tes to fi nd
yo r location. After that, it will take abo t
15 to 45 seconds to locate yo r position.
Battery
Installation
Getting Started
When a suffi cient number of satellites have been
located the window at the top of the page will display a
“Ready to Navigate” message. If you experience diffi culty
in tracking satellites, refer to pages 13 and 14 for informa-
tion about satellite reception and remedies.
GPS Receiver Status Message
Satellites Signal Strength
Satellite Page

4
Backlighting
and
Contrast
Getting Started
Display Backlighting and Contrast Set Up
If lighting conditions make it hard for you to see
the display screen, you can adjust the contrast or turn on
the backlight.
To turn on the backlighting:
1. Press and release the P WER button to turn on
the backlight feature from any page on the unit. The
backlight will remain on until the set timeout period is
completed or the P WER button is pressed again.
The unit is factory set to timeout 15 seconds after
the last button press.
To adjust the screen contrast:
1. Use the Z M IN or UT buttons to adjust the
contrast with the Satellite Page displayed.
Map Data
Setup
Transferring MapSource “Points of Interest” Data
If you have purchased a GARMIN MapSourceTM “Points
of Interest” CD-ROM, you may want to load data for restau-
rants, shopping malls, lodging, attractions, entertainment,
transportation, etc. before beginning use. The eTrex Venture
will currently accept only the “Points of Interest” map data
guide.
Data transfer requires the use of a PC, a GARMIN
MapSource “Points of Interest” CD-ROM, and the PC Inter-
face Cable with RS232 serial port connector supplied with
this unit. Follow detailed i nstructions for data transfer in the
MapSource User’s Manual.
For detailed information concerning GARMIN MapSource
CD-ROM products contact yout GARMIN Dealer or use the
GARMIN website (www.garmin.com).
Use ZOOM IN & OUT Buttons
to Adjust Contrast
Press & Release POWER Button
to turn Backlighting On/Off

5
Getting Started
Page Basics:
The Main Pages
Main Page Menu Button
Moving from main page to main page
All of the information you need to operate the eTrex
Venture can be found on fi ve main pages (or display screens).
You can simply press and release the PAGE button to cycle
through the Satellite Page, Map Page, Navigation Page, Trip
Computer and Main Menu Page.
While these fi ve pages provide you with different types
of navigation information, they all share common features like
Option Menus and a Main Page Menu, both of which are
accessed by on-screen buttons. To display these menus, simply
highlight the on-screen button and press in on the CLICK
STICK.
Satellite Page Map Page Navigation Page Trip omputer Main Menu
Option Menu Button
Main Page Menu
Use to go directly to a Main
Page and as an alternate to
cycling through the Main Pages.
Double click on the on screen
button to toggle between two
pages.
An Option Menu
These menus allow you to
access options that provide
additional features or
customize the unit to your
preferences. To exit these
and other pop up type
menus, move the CLICK
STICK to the left or right.

6
Page Basics:
The Main Pages
Getting Started
Map Page Basics
The Map Page displays your present position and
direction of movement using a triangular ‘Position Icon’
that is centered on the map. As you travel the map display
leaves a “trail” (track log) of your movements.
The map also displays geographic details such as major
cities. The map can display more map item details when
GARMIN MapSource “Points of Interest” data has been
downloaded to the unit using a CD-ROM program
To allow you to view the map from different perspec-
tives, the scale can be changed from 120 feet to 500 miles.
The ZOOM IN and OUT buttons on the side of the unit
allow you to zoom In or Out on the map. Pressing and
holding these buttons causes the scale to change rapidly
instead of changing in increments. The IN button will
show you a larger area with less map details while the
OUT button displays less area but more map details.
A Status Window at the top of the page provides
you with current satellite tracking and position accuracy
information.
Position Icon
Status Window
Map Scale
On Screen
Page and Option
Menu Buttons
Major Cities on Map

7
Navigation Page Basics
The Navigation Page displays directional information
to guide you to a destination. The Status Window at
the top of the page shows you the name of your destina-
tion, the distance and the time to go. A Bearing Pointer
and Compass Ring are displayed to provide you with
navigational guidance. Two Data Fields are provided, and
can be programmed to display a variety of navigation
data.
To navigate, simply follow the Bearing Pointer. The
Bearing Pointer will always point directly to the destina-
tion, no matter what your current location might be.
When you are not on an active Goto, Track or Route
(in other words: not traveling to a recorded destination),
the window at the top of the page will display the status
of the GPS Receiver and the approximate accuracy of your
current position. The Compass Ring will be displayed,
indicating your heading while you are moving, but the
data fi elds at the bottom of the page will not display
any destination related data, such as Estimated Time of
Arrival, etc.
Getting Started
Page Basics:
The Main Pages
The Navigation Page
when not on an active Goto,
Track, or Route.
Time to Destination
Straight Line Distance
to the Destination
Selectable Data Fields
Bearing Pointer
Compass Ring
Destination (Waypoint) Name

8
Trip Computer Page Basics
The Trip Computer page displays up to eight different
types of navigation data. Each data fi eld is selectable and
can contain one of many data information options.
By selecting the information options that you prefer
and arranging them in a desired order on the page, you
can customize the Trip Computer Page to meet your
navigation needs.
The Page Options Menu allows you to reset the Trip
Computer data when you are ready to start a new trip.
Getting Started
Page Basics:
The Main Pages
Selectable Data Fields

9
To exit these pages, highlight the on screen ‘X’
button and press in on the CLICK STICK.
The Main Menu Page with
Feature Icons
&
Power Supply, Time/Date, and
Backlighting Status Bar.
Getting Started
Page Basics:
The Main Pages
Main Menu Pages
Mark Waypoint Page - Allows you to mark and record your current location.
Find Menu - Allows you to fi nd and Goto a map item location or a waypoint.
Routes Page - Allows you to create a route to a destination, with waypoints along the way.
Tracks Page - Allows you to save a Track Log and navigate a previous path of travel.
Setup Pages - Allow you to set the time, select units of measure, set display backlight-
ing and contrast, select from heading options, select interfaces to compatible external
devices, and select system operating modes.
Accessories Page - Provides Sun & Moon position data, a Calendar with date and note
capability, and best times for Hunting and Fishing.
Setting the Correct Time
If the time displayed in the fi eld at the bottom of the Main Menu does not match
the time for your current location (time zone), you may need to set the time. Use the
Main Menu to access the Setup Pages, select the Time Icon and then follow instructions
for setting the time on page 45.
Main Menu Page Basics
The Main Menu provides you with a directory of the eTrex Venture’s advanced
features. From the Main Menu page you can mark and create new waypoints, fi nd map
items such as cities, points of interest, etc., create routes, save track logs, Setup system
operating features, access and use unit accessories.

10
To begin learning how to use your eTrex Venture,
begin by using some basic navigation techniques such as
marking your current location as a waypoint, and travel
a short distance and allow yourself to be guided back to
where you started.
Marking your Current Location as a Waypoint
The fi rst step in most navigation exercises is to mark
your current location as a waypoint so you can return
to it later.
To Mark a Waypoint:
1. Press in and hold the CLICK STICK until the ‘Mark
Waypoint’ Page is displayed. Whenever you hold in on the
CLICK STICK, your current location will be marked as a
new waypoint with a three-digit number assigned.
Before saving it, you can personalize the newly marked
waypoint by changing the numeric designation to a more
meaningful name. You can Also give it a map symbol to make it
more recognizable when viewed on the map.
To change the waypoint name:
1. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the waypoint
name fi eld (001) and then press it in to display
the data entry keyboard.
. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the desired charac-
ters for your new name and then press it in to
place a character in the data fi eld. The fi eld will automati-
cally move to the next character position.
3. Repeat the process until you have completed the new
name or have reached the character limit for the fi eld.
Then highlight ‘OK’ on the keyboard and then press in on
the CLICK STICK to complete the name entry and close
the keyboard.
F
N TE: The eTrex Vent re m st be “READY TO
NAVIGATE” before yo can Mark a waypoint.
Getting Started
Basic Navigation
The Mark Waypoint Page dis
playing your Marked Waypoint,
along with the latitude and lon
gitude and approx. elevation.
On screen buttons can create
a Direct path (Goto) to the
waypoint, show it on the map
(Map), and confi rm your selec
tion as a waypoint (OK).
The Data Entry Keyboard

11
Getting Started
Basic Navigation
The Map Page displaying your
Marked Waypoint and a Track
defi ning your path of travel.
To change the waypoint symbol:
1. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the waypoint
symbol fi eld on the Mark Waypoint Page and then press it
in to display the list of symbols.
. Use the CLICK STICK to move up and down the list
to highlight the desired symbol and then press it in to
place the symbol in the fi eld on the page.
3. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the on-screen
‘OK’ button at the bottom of the page and then press it
in to save your new waypoint. The waypoint can be
retrieved later using the Find Menu.
Now that you’ve marked your location, you can begin
to practice some basic navigation techniques.
There are two main pages that help you navigate; the
Map Page and the Navigation Page.
Press the PAGE button repeatedly until the Map Page
is displayed. You will see the new waypoint in the center
of the map. If you renamed it, it will display the new
name and a map symbol.
Adjust the map scale to 300 feet by pressing the
ZOOM IN or OUT button on the side of the unit until
the scale in the lower left corner of the map reads 300 ft.
To Use the Map Page:
1. Observe the new waypoint you just marked displayed in
the center of the map.
. Begin walking or driving around for a few minutes and
then stop. (If in a car, make certain the unit has a clear
view of the sky through the windshield in order to receive
satellite signals.)
3. Observe that your location and movement is shown by the
‘Pointer Icon’ and that your path of travel (a Track) is shown
by a dotted line.
4. You can follow the Track back to the waypoint, but instead we’ll
save time and take a direct route to it using another navigation
tool, called a Goto, as explained on the following page.
The Mark Waypoint Page with
the list of
Map Symbols displayed

12
Navigating Back to Your Starting Point
Now we will navigate back to the waypoint you
marked at the beginning of this exercise using the Goto
function.
Going To (Goto) the Marked Waypoint:
1. Press and release the FIND key to display the Find Menu.
. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight and select ‘Way-
points’, from the list of categories.
3. You will be prompted to select fi nd ‘Nearest’ or fi nd ‘By
Name’. Select ‘Nearest’ and press in on the CLICK STICK
to display the Nearest List.
4. The waypoint you had previously marked and saved
will be on the list. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the
waypoint and then press in to display the Information
Page for the waypoint.
5. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the ‘Goto’ on-
screen button and then press it in to activate a Goto.
Press the PAGE button until the Navigation Page is
displayed.
Walk in the direction of the bearing pointer until it
points to the top of the compass ring. If the it points
to the right, you need to move to the right, if it points
left, you need to move to the left. When it points straight
up, you are on course to your destination. The Goto will
provide you with a direct route back to the waypoint and
will not necessarily follow the track you created.
The destination name, distance to the destination, and
time to reach it are displayed in the window at the top
of the screen. Two additional data fi elds are provided at
the bottom of the page and can be programmed to display
a variety of navigation data such as speed, heading, etc.
When you begin to approach the waypoint, an “Arriving
At Destination” message will appear. You can view your
progress by toggling between the Map and Navigation
Page.
To stop navigation, select ‘Stop Navigation’ from either
the Map or Navigation page’s options menus.
You have now completed a basic exercise in GPS naviga-
tion. As you learn more about the unit’s operation, you will
be able to apply more features to your navigation skills.
The Map Page with a Goto line
connecting your location to your
original Marked Waypoint
The Navigation Page with the
Bearing Pointer showing you
the direction to go. The
Compass Ring provides you
with orientation information.
Getting Started
Basic Navigation
The ‘Stop Navigation’ Option.

13
Reference
The Satellite
Page
verview
Because the eTrex Venture relies on satellite signals to
provide you with navigational guidance, the unit’s view of
the sky will determine how fast you achieve navigational
status. GPS signals do not travel through rocks, build-
ings, people, metal, or heavy tree cover...so keep the unit
in clear view of the sky for best results.
The Satellite Page provides picture of satellite signal
tracking and tells you when the unit is ready for navigation.
At least three satellite signals are needed to fi nd your location.
The Skyview graphic represents a view looking up
at the sky from your current location showing satellites
and their assigned number. The outer ring represents
the horizon around you and the inner circle a position
in the sky at a 45o angle from your location. A Signal
Strength Bar for each satellite shown just below. Satellites
and their signals appear as hollow shapes until a signal is
received and then they appear darkened in. The stronger
the signal, the taller the signal bar.
If the unit cannot initially (when fi rst turned on)
determine its location, it will display a “Poor Satellite
Reception” message with four options. Each offers a brief
explanation when highlighted to guide your decision.
When indoors or where a clear view of the sky is
obstructed or you want to save battery power, select the
‘Use With GPS Off’ option from the Satellite Page Option
Menu. You can enter data, create routes, etc., but cannot
navigate in this mode. You can orient the satellite skyview
by selecting optional ‘Track Up’ (your direction of travel)
or ‘North Up’ with the satellite skyview oriented to the
north. You can manually enter a new, more accurate eleva-
tion, if known, to increase position accuracy. If you have
moved more than 00 miles since you last used the unit
you may require use of the ‘New Location’ option which
helps the unit to fi nd itself and speeds acquisition.
Once satellite tracking has been achieved, your
location coordinates and the elevation are shown at the
bottom of the Satellite Page.
SECTION 3
Satellite Page
with 8 Satellites Being Tracked
There are four initialization
options for the “Poor Satellite
Reception” message.
Satellite Page Options Menu
Highlight the on screen button
at the top of the page & press
in on the CLICK STICK.

14
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to select the ‘Use With GPS ff’ option:
1. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the Option Menu
button at the top of the page and then press it in to
display the Options Menu.
. Use the CLICK STICK to highlight the ‘Use With GPS Off’
option and then press it in to activate.
3. Observe that the Satellite Page title block now states
“GPS Off”.
4. The eTrex Venture will now stop tracking satellites
and should not be used for navigation. Whenever the unit
is turned On it returns to Normal GPS operation.
How to select ‘Track Up’ or ‘North Up’:
1. Follow procedures for displaying the Options Menu.
. Highlight either the ‘Track Up’ or ‘North Up’ option
(depending on which is currently in use), and press
in on the CLICK STICK to activate.
How to enter a new elevation:
1. Use the CLICK STICK to display the Options Menu.
. Highlight ‘New Elevation’ and then press in
on the CLICK STICK. Observe the highlighted
fi rst character in the elevation fi eld and the numerical
keyboard at the bottom of the Satellite Page.
3. Enter the desired elevation by using the CLICK STICK
to highlight the desired numerals and then pressing it
in. Highlight ‘OK’ and press in to complete entry.
How to enter a new location:
1. Follow procedures for displaying the Options Menu.
. Highlight ‘New Location’ and press in on the CLICK
STICK to display choices of ‘Auto’ or ‘Use Map’.
3. If you choose ‘Auto’ the eTrex Venture will determine
your new location automatically.
4. If you choose ‘Use Map’ a map page will appear with
instructions stating, “Point to your approximate location
and press ENTER”. Use the CLICK STICK to move the
map pointer to your location on the map and press it in.
This option reduces the time required to search for location.
Reference
The Satellite
Page
The Satellite Page
Options Menu
‘North Up’ Skyview Orientation
Enter new elevation data
‘Use Map’ option for determin
ing your current location.
“GPS Off”
Message