Garmin GPSMAP 172 User manual

owner’s manual
GPSMAP 172/172C
chartplotting receiver

© 2004-2007 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc.
1200 East 151st Street,
Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA
Tel. [phone] or [phone]
Fax [phone]
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Liberty House,
Hounsdown Business Park,
Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9RB UK
Tel. [phone] (outside the UK)
0808 2380000 (within the UK)
Fax [phone]
Garmin Corporation
No. 68, 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 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, pro-
vided that such electronic or printed copy of this manual must contain the complete text of this copyright notice and provided further that any unauthor-
ized 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®is a trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other countries. Garmin®, GPSMAP®, AutoLocate®, TracBack®,
BlueChart®, and MapSource®are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. These trademarks may not be used without the express permission of
Garmin.
January 2007 Part Number 190-00321-00 Rev. C Printed in Taiwan

Preface
Congratulations on choosing one of the most advanced marine navigation systems available! The
Garmin GPSMAP 172/172C models utilize the proven performance of Garmin GPS and full-featured map-
ping to create an unsurpassed marine navigation chartplotter.
This manual covers instructions for the GPSMAP 172 and GPSMAP 172C (color). Unit operation
and specifications will be the same on both models unless otheriwse specified. For GSD 20 sonar related
operations, refer to “GSD 20 Sounder Module with Garmin Chartplotters” (190-00241-03). To get the
most out of your new navigation system, take the time to go through this owner’s manual and learn the
operating procedures for your unit. This manual is broken down into two parts for your convenience.
Part One introduces you to the GPSMAP 172/172C and provides a Getting Started tour so that you
may become more familiar with the unit. This section provides you with a basic knowledge necessary to
use the unit.
Part Two is divided into sections that provide detailed references to the advanced features and opera-
tions of the GPSMAP 172/172C. This allows you to concentrate on a specific topic quickly and look up
detailed information about the GPSMAP 172/172C.
Customer Service Product Registration
Help us better support you by completing our online
registration today! Connect to our Web site at
www.garmin.com/registration/.
Use this area to record the serial number (8-digit
number located on the back of the product name) in
case your product name needs service. Keep the original
sales receipt, or a photocopy, in a safe place.
Serial Number:
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ __
Contact Garmin
Contact Garmin if you have any questions while
using your product name. In the USA contact Garmin
Product Support by phone: [phone] or (800)
800-1020, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM Central Time;
or go to www.garmin.com/support/, and click
Product Support.
In Europe, contact Garmin (Europe) Ltd. at
+44 (0) 870.8501241 (outside the UK) or
0808 2380000 (within the UK).
Software License Agreement
BY USING THE GPSMAP 172/172C, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE TERMS AND CONDI-
TIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT
CAREFULLY.
Garmin grants you a limited license to use the software embedded in this device (the “Software”) in
binary executable form in the normal operation of the product. Title, ownership rights and intellectual
property rights in and to the Software remain in Garmin.
You acknowledge that the Software is the property of Garmin and is protected under the United States
of America copyright laws and international copyright treaties. You further acknowledge that the structure,
organization, and code of the Software are valuable trade secrets of Garmin and that the Software in source
code form remains a valuable trade secret of Garmin. You agree not to decompile, disassemble, modify,
reverse assemble, reverse engineer, or reduce to human readable form the Software or any part thereof or
create any derivative works based on the Software. You agree not to export or re-export the Software to
any country in violation of the export control laws of the United States of America.
i
Introduction
Preface/Registration/
Software License Agreement

FCC Compliance
This product has been tested and found to comply with Part 15 of the FCC interference limits for Class B
digital devices FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE. These limits are designed to provide more reasonable pro-
tection against harmful interference in a residential installation, and are more stringent than “outdoor”
requirements.
Operation of this device is subject to the following conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and may cause harmful interfer-
ence to radio communications if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one of the following
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet that is on a different circuit from the GPS unit.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This product does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only be made by an authorized
Garmin service center. Unauthorized repairs or modifications could result in permanent damage to the
equipment, and void your warranty and your authority to operate this device under Part 15 regulations.
Industry Canada Compliance
Category I radiocommunication devices comply with Industry Canada Standard RSS-210. Category II
radiocommunication devices comply with Industry Canada Standard RSS-310.
ii
Introduction
FCC Compliance

Warnings and Precautions
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations could result in an accident
or collision resulting in death or serious injury.
• When navigating, carefully compare information displayed on the unit to all available naviga-
tion sources, including information from visual sightings, and maps. For safety, always resolve
any discrepancies or questions before continuing navigation.
• Use the electronic chart in the unit 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.
• Use this unit only as a navigational aid. Do not attempt to use the unit for any purpose requir-
ing 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 provided in accordance
with California’s Proposition 65. See www.garmin.com/prop65 for more information.
Hg - LAMP(S) INSIDE THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS MERCURY AND MUST BE RECYCLED OR DIS-
POSED OF ACCORDING TO LOCAL, STATE, OR FEDERAL LAWS.
For more information go to:
www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/environment/disposal.jsp.
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.
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. iii
Introduction
Warnings and
Precautions

The Garmin GPSMAP 172/172C has no user-serviceable
parts. and is fastened shut with screws. Any attempt to
open the case to change or modify the unit in any way voids
your warranty and may result in permanent damage to the
equipment.
This Garmin product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the date of
purchase. Within this period, Garmin will, at its sole option, repair or replace any components that fail in normal
use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer for parts or labor, provided that the
customer shall be responsible for any transportation cost. This warranty does not cover failures due to abuse, misuse,
accident, or unauthorized alteration or repairs.
THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES EXPRESS, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY LIABILITY ARISING UNDER ANY WAR-
RANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL GARMIN BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE, OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR
FROM DEFECTS IN THE PRODUCT. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential dam-
ages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. Garmin retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit
or software or offer a full refund of the purchase price at its sole discretion. SUCH REMEDY SHALL BE YOUR SOLE
AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.
To obtain warranty service, contact your local Garmin authorized dealer or call Garmin Product Support for shipping
instructions and an RMA tracking number. Securely pack the unit and a copy of the original sales receipt, which is
required as the proof of purchase for warranty repairs. Write the tracking number clearly on the outside of the pack-
age. Send the unit, freight charges prepaid, to any Garmin warranty service station.
Online Auction Purchases: Products sold through online auctions are not eligible for rebates or other special offers
from Garmin. Online auction confirmations are not accepted for warranty verification. To obtain warranty service, an
original or copy of the sales receipt from the original retailer is required. Garmin will not replace missing components
from any package purchased through an online auction.
International Purchases: A separate warranty is provided by international distributors for units purchased outside
the United States. This warranty is provided by the local in-country distributor and this distributor provides local
service for your unit. Distributor warranties are only valid in the area of intended distribution. Units purchased in the
United States or Canada must be returned to the Garmin service center in the United Kingdom, the United States,
Canada, or Taiwan for service.
Garmin International, Inc.
1200 East 151st Street,
Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA
Tel. [phone] or
[phone]
Fax [phone]
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Liberty House,
Hounsdown Business Park,
Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9RB UK
Tel. [phone] (outside the UK)
0808.2380000 (within the UK)
Fax [phone]
Garmin Corporation
No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road,
Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
iv
Introduction
Warranty and
Serial Number

Designed for detailed electronic charting capability, the Garmin GPSMAP 172/172C is a powerful
navigation device that can give you the information you need:
Precision Performance
• (172) 10 level grayscale FSTN display with backlighting
• (172C) 256-color CSTN display with backlighting
• 12-channel parallel receiver tracks and uses up to 12 satellites for fast, accurate positioning
• WAAS Capable — receive signals from the additional set of WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation
System) satellites to give you better accuracy
• Differential-Ready — just add an optional Garmin beacon receiver for better than 5-meter
accuracy
• Fully gasketed, high-impact plastic alloy case, waterproof to IEC 60529-IPX-7
Advanced Navigating and Plotting
• 3000 alphanumeric waypoints with selectable icons and comments
• Built-in Worldwide basemap to 20 miles includes detailed ocean, river and lake coastlines,
cities, interstates, US state highways and local thoroughfares
• 50 reversible routes with up to 50 waypoints each
• Uploadable maps using Garmin’s MapSource PC products and BlueChart Data Cards
• Coordinates: Lat/Lon, UTM/UPS, Loran TD, over 20 grids, including Maidenhead
• TracBack route feature which allows you to quickly retrace your track log to a starting position
• Built-in simulator mode
• Built-in tide information from over 3,000 tide stations around the USA coastline, Alaska,
Hawaii, western Canada and several Caribbean Islands
Superior Fishfinding Ability (when com-
bined with the GSD 20 Sounder Module)
• Whiteline feature provides a clear image
of bottom hardness and structure
• See-Thru technology which helps sepa-
rate fish returns from thermoclines and
structure
• Depth Control Gain (DCG) feature
automatically adjusts fishfinder sensitivity
according to depth
• Multiple Zoom levels with a moving view
window, plus bottom lock
• Underwater waypoint marking
• Map/Sonar split screen combines
navigation and fishfinding ability
• Fish and Depth alarms
v
Introduction
Capabilities

Before installing and getting started with your unit, please check to see that your package includes
the following items. If any parts are missing, please contact your Garmin dealer immediately.
Standard Package:
• GPSMAP 172/172C Unit
• GA 29 Remote External Antenna and 30’ cable*
• Internal Antenna**
• Single-Knob Tilt & Swivel Bracket
• Power/Data Cable
• Owner’s Manual
• Quick Reference Card
• Protective Cover
* Not included with part numbers 010-00327-01 with internal antenna.
** Not included with part numbers 010-00327-00 with remote antenna.
Optional Accessories:
• US A/C, PC Adapter
• EURO A/C, PC Adapter
• UK A/C, PC Adapter
• Cigarette Lighter Adapter
• BlueChart Marine Data Cards, MapSource CDs, USB Data Card Programmer, and Data Cards
• GSD 20 Remote Sounder Module
• GBR 23 Beacon Receiver for differential corrections
vi
Packing List
Introduction

Introduction.............................i
Preface/Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
Software License Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
FCCCompliance........................ii
Warnings and Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Warranty and Serial Number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Capabilities............................v
PackingList........................... vi
TableofContents ......................vii
“HowTo”Index....................... viii
Section One: Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
KeypadUsage..........................1
SelectingOptions .......................2
EnteringData ..........................3
Initializing the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Power On/Screen Backlighting . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
SimulatorMode.........................7
MainPages ............................8
MapPage..............................8
Waypoints............................10
Marking Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
UsingtheNAVKey.....................11
SimulatedTour........................12
Reviewing/Creating Map Waypoints . . . . .13
Compass Navigation Page . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
HighwayPage......................15
Active Route Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
MainMenuPage....................16
Deleting Waypointst . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Powering Off Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Section Two: Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-77
MapPage.............................18
Cursor and Zooming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Options...........................21
CompassPage.........................27
HighwayPage.........................28
Highway Page Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Waypoints............................30
Creating ..........................30
Reviewing.........................34
Editing............................34
Lists..............................36
Going to a Destination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
TracBack Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
MOB:ManOverBoard...................42
Routes...............................43
Creating...........................44
Following .........................44
ListPage ..........................45
ReviewPage........................46
Editing............................47
ActiveRoutePage......................50
FindKey.............................51
FindOptions.......................52
MainMenuPage.......................53
GPSTab...........................54
TideTab ..........................58
Trip..............................60
CelesTab..........................60
TrackTab..........................61
DSCTab ..........................63
CardTabs .........................68
TempTab..........................69
SetupTab .........................69
CommTab.........................72
AlarmTab.........................76
Appendix A: LORAN TD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Appendix B: Time Offsets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Appendix C: Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Appendix D: Map Datums. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Appendix E: Navigation Terms . . . . . . . . . . . .85
Appendix F: Specifications/Unit Care . . . . . . .87
Appendix G: Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
AppendixH:Index .....................94
vii
Introduction
Table of Contents

The list to the right is provided to help you quickly find
some of the more important procedures you may use on
your new GPSMAP 172/172C.
H
TO DO THIS: SEE PAGE(S):
Turntheunitonoroff.......................................... 6
Adjustscreenbacklighting....................................... 6
Enterdataandselectoptions..................................... 3
Learn how to operate the unit’s function keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Mark your present location as a waypoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Gotoadestination............................................ 11
Createandusearoute ......................................... 30
Panusingthemaparrow....................................... 19
ZoominoroutontheMappage ................................. 18
ReconfiguretheMappagedisplay ................................ 21
AccesstheMainMenu......................................... 53
Change units of measure (statute, nautical, metric) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Change the displayed time (zone). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Viewtideinformation.......................................... 58
Viewcelestialinformation ...................................... 60
SetAlarms .................................................. 76
UsetheFindfunction.......................................... 51
Viewaunitmessage........................................... 81
viii
Introduction
“How To” Index

Always press and release a key to perform its primary func-
tion. Press, hold for more than one second, then release the
ENTER/MARK , NAV/MOB, and MENU keys to activate
their secondary function.
Arrow Keypad
Power Key
IN
OUT
NAV
MOB
PAGE
QUIT
MENU
ENTER
MARK
FIND
(ZOOM) OUT Key
The OUT key adjusts the map scale to display a larger area with less detail. (Zooms out)
(ZOOM) IN Key
The IN key adjusts the map scale to display a smaller area with more detail. (Zooms in)
PAGE Key
The PAGE key selects the main pages in sequence and returns display from a submenu page.
QUIT Key
The QUIT key returns the display to the previous page and, when entering data, it restores the previous value
(cancels data entry).
ARROW KEYPAD
The ARROW KEYPAD is used to select (Highlight) menu options and enter data. It also controls cursor move-
ment on the Map Page.
ENTER/MARK Key
The ENTER/MARK key selects a highlighted menu option. When entering data, it allows you to initiate entry, and
then to accept the selected value(s). It also marks the current location as a waypoint when pressed and held for
more than one second.
MENU Key
The MENU key displays a menu of available options for the current page. Press twice (or press and hold for more
than one second) to display the Main Menu.
NAV/ MOB Key
The NAV key displays the Go To and Follow navigation menu. MOB (Man OverBoard) actives the Man OverBoard
navigation feature when pressed and held for more than one second.
FIND Key
The FIND key activates the find function to search for nearby items and user waypoints.
POWER/ BACKLIGHT Key
The POWER/ BACKLIGHT key turns on/off the unit and adjusts the display illumination/contrast. Multiple
presses toggle the unit’s backlight between maximum, user-set, and minimum brightness levels.
1
Getting Started
Keypad Usage

The GPSMAP 172/172C’s advanced keypad system is designed to allow for fast, convenient selec-
tion of navigation options and data entry. The Getting Started Tour introduces you to the keypad and
provides a ‘hands-on’ lesson in using the GPSMAP 172/172C. We strongly encourage you to take the
Getting Started tour before using your unit for actual navigation. The GPSMAP 172/172C Quick Refer-
ence Guide contains helpful tips on using the unit and performing various navigation tasks.
How To Select Options and Enter Data
You can select and activate options and enter data to customize the GPSMAP 172/172C to fit your
requirements. You can use the ENTER/MARK key and ARROW KEYPAD to select options, enter
names and numbers in data fields, and activate your selections.
To select and activate an optional feature:
1. With any page displayed, press the MENU key to pop-up the options menu. The options menu
displays a list of optional features which are specific for that particular page. To select any feature
on the list of options requires movement of the cursor, which is called “highlighting”, selecting or
choosing an item in a list or a field (box) on a page.
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor (highlight) up and down a list or up, down, and
sideways on menus.
3. Once you have moved to the desired selection, press the ENTER/MARK key to either activate the
feature or the MENU key to pop-up a sub-menu or list of yet more feature options. Repeat this
process to select an option from the list or press the QUIT key to return to the previous setting.
The QUIT key moves backwards through these steps back to the main page you started on.
To select and activate a function button:
1. When moving about a page with function buttons, like the ‘New Map Waypoint’ page, you observe
functions such as ‘Show Map’, ‘Delete’ and ’OK’. To activate the function, highlight the desired
button and press the ENTER key.
Options Menu with
highlighted option.
Use the ARROW
KEYPAD to highlight
the next option. Press
ENTER/MARK to
activate.
Pop-up list of options for a highlighted field.
2
Getting Started
Selecting Options

Naming a waypoint or placing any sort of data that has not been predefined requires the use of
both the ARROW KEYPAD and the ENTER/MARK key.
To enter a name or number in a data field:
1. Once you have accessed a page with programmable data fields (e.g. ‘ Waypoint Edit’) you can use
the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor (Highlight) to fields on the page. Use the UP/DOWN
arrows to move up or down and the LEFT/RIGHT arrows to move sideways.
2. Pressing the ENTER key with the field highlighted begins the process for entering data in the form
of alphanumeric characters.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD UP/DOWN arrows to cycle through numbers 0 to 9, plus/minus symbols,
blank space, and the alphabet. Pressing and releasing the keypad moves you character by character
through the list. Pressing and holding the keypad moves you rapidly through the list.
4. Use the ARROW KEYPAD LEFT/RIGHT arrows to move to the next character on the line or back-
wards to edit characters. If there are more than two lines of data, keep pressing to the RIGHT to
drop down to the next line.
5. When data entry is completed press ENTER to accept data, then move to the next programmable
field. Not all data fields are programmable, such as the date and time. When moving about a page
with these fields, the cursor skips over them.
Every field and button on this page
can be programmed or activated.
Pressing UP or DOWN
on the ARROW KEYPAD
changes numbers and
letters.
Pressing LEFT or RIGHT
on the ARROW KEYPAD
moves the cursor along the
line or to the next line.
Data Entry Field
Non-programable
data fields
A waypoint symbol can be selected
from a list of symbols.
A comment can be added.
The coordinates can be changed.
The waypoint can be renamed.
A depth can be entered.
A water temperature can be
entered.
Option buttons can be activated.
3
Getting Started
Entering Data

Initializing the Receiver
The first time you power up your new GPSMAP 172/172C, the receiver must be given an oppor-
tunity to collect satellite data and establish its present position. To ensure proper initialization, the
GPSMAP 172/172C is shipped from the factory in AutoLocate mode, which allows the receiver to “find
itself” anywhere in the world. To speed up the initialization process, we recommend using the graphic
initialization process described on the next page, which usually provides a position fix within a few
minutes.
Before you initialize, make sure the GPSMAP 172/172C unit and antenna have been correctly
installed on your vessel according to the instructions in Appendix G. The antenna needs to be in a
location with a clear and unobstructed view of the sky to receive satellite signals.
To turn the GPSMAP 172/172C on:
1. Press and hold the POWER key until the power tone sounds and the display comes on, then release
the POWER key.
An introduction page appears, asking you to read and acknowledge important information regard-
ing the proper use of the unit.
To acknowledge the introduction:
1. After reading the introduction page, press the ENTER key if you agree.
GPSMAP 172/172C
Warning Screen
4
Initializing the Receiver
Getting Started

To graphically initialize the GPSMAP 172/172C:
1. Press the MENU key twice for the Main Menu. Press Up or Down on the ARROW KEYPAD until
the ‘GPS’ tab is highlighted, then press the MENU key once.
2. Using the ARROW KEYPAD, highlight ‘Initialize Position’ and press ENTER to initialize the
receiver from the map. The Initialize Position Page appears, prompting you to select your approxi-
mate location with the map cursor.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the map cursor and point to your approximate location within
200 miles. If you have difficulty identifying your position, press and release the IN key to see the
next lower map scale.
4. Once you have determined your approximate location on the map, press the ENTER key.
This does not “calibrate” the unit in any way, but rather helps to speed up the initial
satellite acquisition. If the unit displays “Ready (2D) or (3D )” during this process, it is
not necessary to initialize the unit.
The GPS Information Page appears as the receiver begins acquiring satellites for your region and
should acquire a fix within a few minutes. When viewing the ‘GPS’ tab on the Main Menu, a signal
strength bar for each satellite in view appears on the bottom of the page, with the appropriate satellite
number under each bar. The progress of satellite acquisition is shown in three stages:
• No signal strength bars— the receiver is looking for the satellites indicated.
• Hollow signal strength bars— the receiver has found the indicated satellite(s) and is collecting
data.
• Solid signal strength bars— the receiver has collected the necessary data and the satellite(s) are
ready for use.
Once the receiver has collected information from at least three satellites, the top of the screen
displays either “Ready (2D or 3D)”, and the GPSMAP 172/172C is ready for use.
Point to your approximate loca-
tion and press ENTER/MARK.
A satellite’s strength bars turns
green when it’s ready for use.
I
5
Getting Started
Initializing the Receiver

GPSMAP 172/172C Getting Started Tour
The Garmin GPSMAP 172/172C is a powerful electronic navigation system that provides detailed
map coverage and convenient control of many advanced features right from the screen display. This
tour is designed to take you through the basic pages and functions of the system using the simulator
mode. Once you’re familiar with the main pages and functions of the unit, refer to the reference section
for instructions on performing specific tasks and functions. For GSD 20 sonar related operations, refer
to “GSD 20 Sounder Module with Garmin Chartplotters” (190-00241-03).
The Getting Started Tour assumes that the receiver has been properly installed and initialized, and
you have not changed any of the default unit settings. If you have changed any settings (position for-
mats, units of measure, etc.), the descriptions and pictures in the tour may not match your configura-
tion.
To turn the GPSMAP 172/172C on:
1. Press and hold the POWER key until the power tone sounds, then release the POWER key. The
Warning Page appears while the unit conducts a self-test.
2. Once the self-test is complete, press the ENTER/MARK key, if you agree, to acknowledge the
warning.
The GPS Information Page appears as the receiver begins acquiring satellites. From this or any
other page, you may also adjust the screen backlighting.
The GPSMAP 172/172C’s adjustable screen backlighting is controlled with the POWER key. The
backlight can cycle through minimum, user-defined, and maximum backlight levels by repeatedly
pressing the POWER key.
To adjust the backlighting and contrast:
1. Press POWER and the Light/Contrast window appears.
2. Press POWER again and the user-defined level of backlighting activates. You may adjust this level
by pressing UP or DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD. If you press POWER one more time, the back-
lighting is at the minimum setting. Press LEFT (brighter) or RIGHT (darker) to adjust the contrast.
3. Press ENTER or QUIT when done.
A full-screen GPS Information pop-up page is displayed
after you press the ENTER key to acknowledge the
Warning Page. The pop-up page goes away after the unit
gets a position fix or you press either ENTER or QUIT.
Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the backlighting slider
UP for brighter or DOWN for dimmer backlighting. Press
LEF or RIGHT to adjust the display contrast.
6
Getting Started
Power On/Screen Backlighting

Each page of the GPSMAP 172/172C’s system also features an options page, which gives you access
to other functions and features that relate to the specific page you are viewing. To get a feel for how the
options pages work, let’s put the GPSMAP 172/172C into simulator mode.
To place the GPSMAP 172/172C in simulator mode:
1. Press the MENU key twice for the Main Menu. Press Up or Down on the ARROW KEYPAD until
the ‘GPS’ tab is highlighted, then press the MENU key once.
2. Use the UP or DOWN arrow of the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the ‘Start Simulator’ option and
press ENTER. Choose ‘No’ to the retail demonstration and press the ENTER key.
3. Press the ENTER key to confirm the ‘Running Simulator’ message that appears at the bottom of the
display. ‘Simulating’ appears at the top of the Main pages.
While in Simulator mode, a ‘Running Simulator’ message appears after 2 minutes of inactivity. Now
you’re ready to continue the rest of the simulated tour. Keep in mind that the GPSMAP 172/172C
does not track satellites in simulator mode, and this mode should never be used for actual
navigation. All the waypoint and route planning done in simulator mode is retained in memory for
future use.
A “Running Simulator” message
appears at 2 minute intervalss.
7
Getting Started
Simulator Mode

The Map Page is one of six main pages used in the GPSMAP 172/172C’s system. The six main pages
are the Map Page, Map/Sonar Split Page*, Sonar Page* , Compass Page, Highway Page, and Active Route
Page. All pages are linked together in a simple chain, which allows you to scroll through the pages in
either direction using the PAGE and QUIT keys.
(* If equipped with GSD 20. For GSD 20 sonar related operations, refer to “GSD 20 Sounder Module
with Garmin Chartplotters” (190-00241-03))
Map Page
The GPSMAP 172/172C’s Map Page combines digital chartplotting with a user-selectable display
of navigation data and a built-in worldwide database. It is also the page you use most to create and
edit waypoints and routes. Before we take off on our practice route, let’s take a brief look at its various
features and displays.
The map display shows your “boat” as a triangle marker on an electronically generated chart.
Geographic names, roads, markers and buoys that are provided by the optional BlueChart or MapSource
data are also shown. It also displays your track, routes and nearby waypoints. An on-screen cursor
lets you pan to other map areas, determine the range and bearing to a position, and perform various
waypoint and route functions.
The data window, located at the top of the page, provides a user-selectable display of various naviga-
tion data, including speed over ground, distance to the next navigation point, compass ribbon and
current position coordinates. The current map scale setting is located at the bottom right of the page.
PAGE
QUIT
Active Route Page
Highway Page
Map Page Compass Page
Map/Sonar Split Page Sonar Page
8
Getting Started
Main Pages/
Map Page

Using the Map Cursor
Working from the Map Page is a simple process that centers around the use of the cursor. Con-
trolled by the ARROW KEYPAD,the cursor is an important tool that can be used to pan to other map
locations, mark and edit waypoints and routes, and review position data of on-screen map items and
waypoints.
To get a feel for using the Map Page and using the cursor, try the following exercise:
1. Use the IN/OUT keys to set the map scale to the 50 nm setting. Your boat should be near the
center of the map, at the receiver’s last known position. (If your boat isn’t where it should be, make
sure that you have initialized the receiver and acquired a position as described on pages 1-2.)
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor. Notice how another data field appears, showing the
bearing and distance from your boat to the cursor, along with the latitude/longitude of the cursor.
3. Press the QUIT key to remove the cursor and re-center your boat on the map display.
As you become more familiar with the cursor, you’ll see that the map display actively scrolls or
‘pans’, letting you explore areas around the world and create waypoints and routes. Wherever you
move the cursor, you’ll always be just one QUIT keystroke away from returning the map to your pres-
ent position.
Now that you’ve seen how the Map Page can be used to monitor your present location, let’s take a
minute to learn how to mark and store your present position as a “waypoint”. (Since you’re in simula-
tor mode, the present position displayed is the last position calculated by the receiver, which should be
the spot where you’ve initialized the unit.) This also gives you an opportunity to see how the GPSMAP
172/172C’s keypad and ENTER key are used for data entry and changing the waypoint name and
symbol.
Current position Map Scale
Map Cursor
Cursor
Coordinates
Distance/
Bearing
9
Getting Started
Map Cursor

To mark your present position:
1. Hold down the ENTER/MARK key until the ‘New Waypoint’ window appears then release the key.
The window shows a default three-digit waypoint name/number (001), symbol (dot), and position.
You can leave the name as the auto-assigned number, but for this exercise, lets change the name to
‘DOCK’.
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the waypoint name field (001) and press ENTER.You see
that just the first ‘0’ is now highlighted.
3. Press LEFT on the ARROW KEYPAD to clear the name field.
4. Press UP or DOWN on of the ARROW KEYPAD until the letter ‘D’ appears, and then press RIGHT
to go to the next space to the right, then UP or DOWN again until ‘O’ appears. Repeat this until
you have entered the name ‘DOCK’. If you make a mistake and select an incorrect character, simply
press LEFT on the ARROW KEYPAD to backspace the cursor and then UP or DOWN to correct the
entry. (If you accidentally press ENTER before you are done, simply press ENTER again and move
the highlight to where you left off.)
5. After you have entered all the letters, press ENTER to confirm the name.
6. To access the waypoint symbol page, highlight the waypoint symbol field which is to the left of the
waypoint’s name and press ENTER. Note: The default symbol is a dot.
7. You see a grid of available waypoint symbols to choose from. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to high-
light the ‘ANCHOR’ symbol.
8. Press ENTER to confirm the ‘ANCHOR’ symbol.
9. Highlight ‘OK’ at the bottom of the window and press ENTER again to confirm the ‘OK’ prompt
and save the waypoint.
The waypoint is now stored in memory. Note that waypoints may also be created graphically from
the map display or by manually entering position coordinates. Each of these techniques is described in
thes reference section of this manual.
Press ENTER/MARK
after entering the name.
You can choose from a list of useful symbols.
There are two Diver Down waypoint
symbols to select from: the International and
U.S. versions.
10
Getting Started
Marking Waypoints