Garmin GPSMAP 168 Sounder User manual

owner’s
manual
and
reference
guide
chartplotting receiver
& depth-fi nder
GPSMAP 168 Sounder
168 color cover.indd 1 11/18/2002, 3:32:50 PM

i
Introduction
Foreword
GARMIN®, Autolocate®, See-Thru®, DCG (Depth Control
Gain)® and TracBack® are re istered trademarks, and
MapSourceTM is a trademark of GARMIN Corporation and
may not be used without the express permission of GARMIN
Corporation.
© Copyright 2000-2002
GARMIN Ltd. or its subsidiaries
All Rights Reserved
So tware Version 3.03 or above
Internal Database Version 2.00
GARMIN International, Inc. 1200 East 151
st
Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A.
Tel. [phone] or 800/800.1020 Fax [phone]
GARMIN (Europe) Ltd. Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9AQ, U.K.
Tel. [phone] Fax [phone]
GARMIN Corporation No. 68, Jangshu 2
nd
Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
Tel. [phone] Fax [phone]
Except as expressly provided herein, no part o this manual may be reproduced, copied, transmitted,
disseminated, downloaded or stored in any storage medium, or any purpose without the express prior
written consent o GARMIN. GARMIN hereby grants permission to download a single copy o this
manual and o any revision to this manual onto a hard drive or other electronic storage medium to be
viewed and to print one copy o this manual or o any revision hereto, provided that such electronic
or printed copy o this manual or revision must contain the complete text o this copyright notice
and provided urther that any unauthorized commercial distribution o this manual or any revision
hereto is strictly prohibited.
In ormation 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 noti y any
person or organization o such changes or improvements.
July 2002 Part Number 190-00170-00 Rev. D Printed in Taiwan
,
168 Manual Intro.indd i 11/27/2002, 1:56:35 PM

ii
Introduction
Preface and
Registration
Preface
Congratulations on choosing one o the most advanced depth sounding and marine navigation
systems available! The GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder utilizes the proven per ormance o GARMIN
GPS and ull eatured depth sounding and mapping to create an unsurpassed marine navigation
chartplotter and fi shfi nding package.
To get the most out o your new navigation and sounding system, take the time to go through
this owner’s manual and learn the operating procedures or your unit. This manual is broken down
into two parts or your convenience.
Part One introduces you to the GPSMAP 168 Sounder and provides a Getting Started tour so you
may become more amiliar with the unit. This section will provide you with a basic working knowledge
necessary to use the unit to its ullest potential.
Part Two is divided into sections that provide detailed re erences to the advanced eatures and
operations o the GPSMAP 168 Sounder. This allows you to concentrate on a specifi c topic quickly and
look up detailed in ormation about the GPSMAP 168 Sounder.
Customer Service Product Registration
Help us better support you by completing our on-line registration today! Have the serial
number o your GPSMAP 168 Sounder handy and connect to our website (www. armin.com). Look or
the Product Registration link on the Home page. Also, be sure to record your serial number in the area
provided on page iv o this manual.
NOTE: If you have previously registered a GARMIN product purchase using a mail-in
registration card we invite you to re-register using our NEW on-line system. Many
services provided by our new product registration system are now being automated.
Re-registering your purchase ensures you the best possible support from GARMIN.
Why should you re ister your GARMIN GPS
unit:
• Notifi cation of Product Updates
• Notifi cation of New Products
• Lost or Stolen unit trackin )
+
168 rev C.indb ii 7/15/2002, 11:08:33 AM

iii
Introduction
Warnings and
Precautions
The GPS system is operated by the United States government, which is solely responsible or
its accuracy and maintenance. The system is subject to changes which could a ect the accuracy and
per ormance o all GPS equipment. Although the GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder is a precision
electronic NAVigation AID (NAVAID), any NAVAID can be misused or misinterpreted and, there ore,
become unsa e.
The electronic chart is an aid to navigation and is designed to acilitate the use o authorized
government charts, not replace them. Only o fi cial government charts and notices to mariners contain
all in ormation needed or sa e navigation – and, as always, the user is responsible or their prudent
use.
Use the GPSMAP 168 Sounder at your own risk. To reduce the risk o unsa e operation, care ully
review and understand all aspects o this Owner’s Manual—and thoroughly practice operation using
the simulator mode prior to actual use. When in actual use, care ully compare indications rom
the GPSMAP 168 Sounder to all available navigation sources, including the in ormation rom other
NAVAIDs, visual sightings, charts, etc. For sa ety, always resolve any discrepancies be ore continuing
navigation.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder should not be used as a navigational aid or depth sounder to prevent
collision, grounding, boat damage or personal injury. The digital depth displayed is the depth under the
transducer and not necessarily the ront o the boat. By the time a depth is displayed, most o your boat
may have already passed over that area. We recommend that you operate the boat at a very slow speed
i you suspect shallow water or submerged objects.
CAUTION: IT IS THE USER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT PRUDENTLY. THIS
PRODUCT IS INTENDED TO BE USED ONLY AS A NAVIGATIONAL AID AND MUST NOT
BE USED FOR ANY PURPOSE REQUIRING PRECISE MEASUREMENT OF DIRECTION
DISTANCE LOCATION OR TOPOGRAPHY.
,
MAP DATA INFORMATION: One of the oals of GARMIN
is to provide customers with the most complete and accurate
carto raphy that is available to us at a reasonable cost.
We use a combination of overnmental and private data
sources, which we identify (as required) in product literature
and copyri ht messa es displayed to the consumer. Virtually
all data sources contain inaccurate or incomplete data to
some de ree. This is particularly true outside the United
States, where complete and accurate di ital data is either
not available or prohibitively expensive.
168 rev C.indb iii 7/15/2002, 11:08:33 AM

Introduction
Software License Agreement
iv
Software License Agreement
BY USING THE GPSMAP 168 SOUNDER, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE TERMS AND
CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS
AGREEMENT CAREFULLY.
GARMIN grants you a limited license to use the so tware embedded in this device (the “So tware”) in
binary executable orm in the normal operation o the product. Title, ownership rights and intellectual
property rights in and to the So tware remain in GARMIN.
You acknowledge that the So tware is the property o GARMIN and is protected under the United
States o America copyright laws and international copyright treaties. You urther acknowledge that
the structure, organization and code o the So tware are valuable trade secrets o GARMIN and that the
So tware in source code orm remains a valuable trade secret o GARMIN. You agree not to decompile,
disassemble, modi y, reverse assemble, reverse engineer or reduce to human readable orm the So tware
or any part thereo or create any derivative works based on the So tware. You agree not to export
or re-export the So tware to any country in violation o the export control laws o the United States
o America.
WARNING
These products are intended or recreational fi shfi nding and as a aid or navigation and should not
be relied on as a substitute or o fi cial marine navigation charts. It is the user’s responsibility to be
aware o shallow water and underwater hazards and to exercise common prudence and navigational
judgment.
168 rev C.indb iv 7/15/2002, 11:08:33 AM

Introduction
FCC Compliance
v
FCC Compliance
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder complies with Part 15 o the FCC inter erence limits or Class B digital
devices FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harm ul inter erence in a residential installation, and are more stringent than “outdoor” require-
ments.
Operation o this device is subject to the ollowing conditions: (1) This device may not cause harm ul
inter erence, and (2) this device must accept any inter erence received, including inter erence that may
cause undesired operation.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio requency energy and, i not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harm ul inter erence to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that inter erence will not occur in a particular installation. I this equipment
does cause harm ul inter erence to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the inter erence by one or more
o the ollowing measures:
·• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
·• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
·• Connect the equipment into a di erent outlet or circuit than the one that is curently being used.
·• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician or help.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only be
made by an authorized GARMIN service center. Unauthorized repairs or modifi cations could result
in permanent damage to the equipment, and void your warranty and your authority to operate this
device under Part 15 regulations.
168 rev C.indb v 7/15/2002, 11:08:33 AM

vi
Introduction
Warranty and
Serial Number
The GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder has no user-service-
able parts. The GPSMAP 168 Sounder is fastened shut with
screws. Any attempt to open the case to chan e or modify
the unit in any way will void your warranty and may result
in permanent dama e to the equipment.
LIMITED ARRANTY
This GARMIN product is warranted to be ree rom de ects in materials or workmanship or one year rom the
date o purchase. Within this period, GARMIN will at its sole option, repair or replace any components that ail
in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer or parts or labor, provided
that the customer shall be responsible or any transportation cost. This warranty does not cover ailures 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 OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY LIABILITY ARISING UNDER
ANY WARRANTY 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 CONSE-
QUENTIAL 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 o incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
GARMIN retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit or so tware or o er a ull re und o 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 Customer Service
at one o the numbers shown below, or shipping instructions and an RMA tracking number. The unit should be
securely packed with the tracking number clearly written on the outside o the package. The unit should then
be sent, reight charges prepaid, to any GARMIN warranty service station. A copy o the original sales receipt is
required as the proo o purchase or warranty repairs.
GARMIN International, Inc. GARMIN (Europe) Ltd.
1200 East 151st Street Unit 4, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate
Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A. Romsey, SO51 9AQ, U.K.
Phone: [phone] Phone: [phone]
FAX: [phone] FAX: [phone]
,
Serial Number
Use this area to record the serial number (8-di it number
located on the bottom of the unit) in case it is lost, stolen, or
needs service. Be sure to keep your ori inal sales receipt in a
safe place or attach a photocopy inside the manual.
Serial Number:
168 rev C.indb vi 7/15/2002, 11:08:33 AM

vii
Introduction
Capabilities
Designed or detailed electronic charting capability, the GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder is a
power ul navigation device that can give you the navigation in ormation you need:
Precision Performance
• High-contrast, our-level gray, LCD screen with backlighting
• 12-channel parallel receiver tracks and uses up to 12 satellites or ast, accurate positioning
• Di erential-Ready — just add an optional GARMIN beacon receiver or better than 5-meter
accuracy
• Fully gasketed, high-impact plastic alloy case, waterproo to IEC 529-IPX-7
Advanced Navigating and Plotting
• 500 alphanumeric waypoints with selectable icons
• Built-in Americas basemap to 20 miles includes detailed ocean, river and lake coastlines, cities,
interstates, US state highways and local thorough ares
• 20 reversible routes with up to 30 waypoints each
• Uploadable maps up to 2.5 Megabytes o data using GARMIN’s MapSource PC products
• Coordinates: Lat/Lon, UTM/UPS, Loran TD, plus 15 grids, including Maidenhead
• TracBack route eature which allows you to quickly retrace your track log to a starting position
• Built-in simulator mode
Superior Fishfi nding Ability
• Whiteline eature provides a clear image o both bottom hardness and structure
• See-Thru technology which helps separate fi sh returns rom thermoclines and structure
• Four zoom levels with a moving view window
• Underwater waypoint marking
• Map/Sonar split screen combines navigation and fi shfi nding in ormation
• Fish and depth alarms
168 Manual Intro.indd vii 11/18/2002, 3:33:32 PM

viii
Packing List
Introduction
Be ore installing and getting started with your unit, please check to see that your package includes
the ollowing items. If any parts are missing please contact your GARMIN dealer immediately.
Standard Package:
• GPSMAP 168 Sounder Unit
• Bail Mount with knobs
• Mounting Bracket*
• Mount Bracket with Internal Antenna**
• GA 29 Remote Marine Antenna with 30’ cable and BNC connector*
• Power/Data Cable
• AC Power/PC Inter ace Cable
• Protective Cover
• Owner’s Manual and Quick Re erence Guide
* Not included with part number 010-00202-00 or 010-00202-02.
** Not included with part number 010-00199-00 or 010-00199-02.
Optional Accessories:
• US A/C PC Adapter
• EURO A/C PC Adapter
• UK A/C PC Adapter
• Cigarette Lighter Adapter
• MapSource CDs: Fishing Hot Spots, US Waterways & Lights, US Topo, US Roads & Recreation,
European Roads & Recreation, and WorldMap
• Beacon Receiver or di erential corrections: GBR21 (E-Field Antenna,
GBR23 (H-Field Antenna,)
• 2nd Mounting Station
• Quick Release Flush Mounting Kit
• Marine Swivel Mount, 1” RAM® Mount
,
GPSMAP 168 Sounder
Standard and Optional Transducers
Unit part numbers 010-00199-00 and 010-00202-00
include a 200 kHz, 20 de ree, plastic, depth and temp,
transom mount transducer. For a complete list of optional
transducers, see pa e 93.
168 Manual Intro.indd viii 11/18/2002, 3:33:32 PM

Introduction i-viii
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
Pre ace and Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii
Warnings and Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Warranty and Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
Packing List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
“How To” Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii
Section One: Getting Started 1-19
Keypad Usage, Selecting Options, Entering
Data, Initializing the Receiver, Power
On/O , Contrast, Backlighting, Simulator,
Description o Main Pages, Simulated Tour
Section Two: Reference 20-82
Status Page and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Map Page and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Map Page Confi guration . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Sonar Page and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Sonar Page Confi guration . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Compass Page and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Highway Page and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Creating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Reviewing and Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Waypoint List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Nearest and Proximity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
ix
Introduction
Table of Contents
Going to a Destination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
TracBack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
MOB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Creating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Reviewing and Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Active Route Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Main Menu Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Track Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Trip, Time and Pages Tabs . . . . . . . . . . . .72
System Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Units Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Communication Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Alarm Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Celestial Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Tides Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Appendix A: Loran TD 83
Appendix B: Time Offsets 85
Appendix C: Messages 86
Appendix D: Map Datums 88
Appendix E: Navigation Terms 90
Appendix F: Specifi cations 92
Appendix G: Installation 93
Appendix H: Understanding Sonar 103
Appendix I: Advanced NMEA Setup 108
Appendix J: Index 109
168 Manual Intro.indd ix 11/18/2002, 3:33:32 PM

x
Introduction
“How To” Index
The list to the ri ht is provided to help you quickly fi nd some
of the more important procedures you will use on your new
GPSMAP 168 Sounder.
+
TO DO THIS: SEE PAGE(S):
Turn the unit on or o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 6, 19
Initialize the GPS receiver (fi rst time use) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Adjust screen contrast or backlighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Enter data and select options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Operate the unit’s unction keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Mark your present location as a waypoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 48
Go to a destination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11, 56-60
Create and use a route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61-68
Learn about the Map page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9, 24-26
Pan using the map arrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9, 25
Zoom in or out on the Map page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9, 29
Reconfi gure the Map page display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-37
Access the Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 69
Change units o measure (statute, nautical, metric) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74-75
Change the displayed time (zone) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Setup Loran TD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
View tide in ormation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81-82
View celestial in ormation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Set alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78-79
See current position, date and time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 20
View a unit message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86-87
168 Manual Intro.indd x 11/18/2002, 3:33:32 PM

1
Getting Started
Keypad Usage
Always press and release a key to perform
its primary function. Pressin and holdin
the ENTER/MARK or NAV/MOB keys
will activate their secondary function.
The IN Key
The IN key adjusts the map scale to display a smaller area with more detail. (Zooms in)
The OUT Key
The OUT key adjusts the map scale to display a larger area with less detail. (Zooms out)
The PAGE Key
The PAGE key selects the main pages in sequence and returns display rom a submenu page.
The ARROW KEYPAD
The ARROW KEYPAD is used to select (Highlight) menu options and enter data. It also controls
cursor movement on the Map Page.
The 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 or more than one second.
The QUIT Key
The QUIT key returns the display to the previous page and, when entering data, it restores the previous
value (cancels data entry).
The MENU Key
The MENU key displays a menu o available options or the current page. Press twice to display
the Main Menu.
The NAV/MOB Key
The NAV/MOB key displays the Go To and Follow navigation menu. It also activates the MOB (Man
OverBoard) unction when pressed and held or more than one second.
The POWER/BACKLIGHT/CONTRAST Key ( )
The POWER/BACKLIGHT/CONTRAST key turns the unit and display illumination on/o .
168 Manual Part 1.indd 1 11/18/2002, 3:36:18 PM

2
Getting Started
Selecting Options
How To Select Options and Enter Data
Be ore moving ahead into GPSMAP 168 eatures, you will need to learn basic operation. You can
select and activate options and enter data to customize the GPSMAP 168 to fi t your requirements. You
can use the ENTER/MARK key and ARROW KEYPAD to select options, enter names and numbers
in data fi elds, 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 will
display a list of optional features which are specifi c for that particular page. To select any feature on
the list of options requires movement of the cursor, which is identifi ed as highlighting, selecting or
choosing an item in a list or a fi eld ( ox) 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 selection desired, press the ENTER/MARK key to either activate the
feature or pop-up a su -menu or list of yet more feature options. Just repeat this process to select
an option from the list or press the QUIT key to return to the previous setting.
The QUIT key when pressed, will move ackwards through each step to the main page you
started on.
To select and activate a function button:
1. When moving a out a page with function uttons, like the ‘New Map Waypoint’ page, you will
o serve functions such as ’OK’, ‘Go To’ and ‘Delete’. To activate the function, highlight the desired
utton and press the ENTER/MARK key.
Use the ARROW KEYPAD to hi hli ht
the next option. Press ENTER/MARK
to activate the option.
Pop-up list of options for a hi hli hted
fi eld.
168 Manual Part 1.indd 2 11/18/2002, 3:36:19 PM

3
Getting Started
Entering Data
Naming a waypoint or placing any sort o data that has not been predefi ned requires the use o
both the ARROW KEYPAD and the ENTER/MARK key.
To enter a name or number in a data fi eld:
1. Once you have accessed a page with programma le data fi elds (i.e. ‘ Waypoint Edit’) you can use
the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor (highlight) to fi elds 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/MARK key with the fi eld highlighted egins the process for entering data in
the form of alphanumeric characters.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD UP/DOWN arrows to cycle through num ers 0 to 9, plus/minus sym ols,
lank space, and the alpha et. Pressing and releasing the keypad moves you character y 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
ackwards 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/MARK to accept data, then move to the next
programma le fi eld. Not all data fi elds are programma le, like the date and time. When moving
a out a page with these type of fi elds, the cursor will skip over them.
Every fi eld and button on this pa e can be pro rammed or activated.
• A waypoint symbol can be selected
from a list of symbols.
• The coordinates can be chan ed.
• The waypoint can be renamed.
• A depth will be set by the sonar
• Option buttons can be activated.
Pressin UP or DOWN
on the ARROW KEYPAD
chan es numbers and
letters.
Pressin LEFT or RIGHT
on the ARROW KEYPAD
moves the cursor alon
the line or to the next line.
Data Entry Field
Non-pro ramable
data fi elds
168 Manual Part 1.indd 3 11/18/2002, 3:36:20 PM

4
Initializing the Receiver
Getting Started
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s advanced keypad system is designed to allow or ast, convenient
selection o navigation options and data entry. The Getting Started Tour will introduce you to the
keypad and provide a “hands-on” lesson in using the GPSMAP 168 Sounder. We strongly encourage
you to take the Getting Started tour be ore using your unit or actual navigation.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder Quick Re erence Guide contains help ul tips on using the unit and
per orming various navigation tasks. It’s a good idea to keep the Quick Re erence Guide nearby
whenever you’re operating your new GPSMAP 168 Sounder.
Initializing the Receiver
The fi rst time you power up your new GPSMAP 168 Sounder, the receiver must be given an
opportunity to collect satellite data and establish its present position. To ensure proper initialization, the
GPSMAP 168 Sounder is shipped rom the actory in AutoLocate mode, which will allow the receiver
to “fi nd itsel ” anywhere in the world. To speed up the initialization process, we recommend using
the graphic initialization process described on the next page, which will usually provide a position
fi x within a ew minutes.
Be ore you initialize, make sure the GPSMAP 168 Sounder unit and antenna have been correctly
installed on your vessel according to the instructions in Appendix G. The antenna needs to be in a clear
and unobstructed view o the sky to receive satellite signals.
To turn on the GPSMAP 168 Sounder:
1. Press and hold the POWER key until the power tone sounds and the display comes on, then
release the POWER key.
The Welcome Page will appear while the unit conducts a sel -test. Once the internal test is
complete, a warning page will appear, asking you to read and acknowledge important in ormation
regarding the proper use o the unit.
To acknowledge the warning:
1. After reading the warning, press the ENTER/MARK key if you agree.
GPSMAP 168 Sounder Self-Test Screen
GPSMAP 168 Sounder Warnin Screen
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5
Getting Started
Initializing the Receiver
,
To graphically initialize the GPSMAP 168 Sounder:
1. From the Status Page, press the MENU key. The Status Page options menu window will appear.
2. Using the ARROW KEYPAD, highlight ‘Initialize Position’ and press ENTER/MARK to initialize the
receiver from the uilt-in worldwide map. The Initialize Position Page will appear, prompting you to
select your approximate location with the map cursor.
3. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the map cursor and point to your approximate location within
100 miles. If you have diffi culty identifying your position, press and release the IN key to zoom in
to see the next lower map scale.
4. Once you have determined your approximate location on the map, press the ENTER/MARK key.
This does not “calibrate” the unit in any way but rather helps to speed up the initial
satellite acquisition. If the unit switches to the Map Page or displays ‘2D’ or ‘3D
Navigation’ during this process it is not necessary to initialize the unit.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder will now begin searching or the appropriate satellites or your region
and should acquire a fi x within a ew minutes. A signal strength bar or each satellite in view will appear
on the top middle o the page, with the appropriate satellite number under each bar. The progress o
satellite acquisition is shown in three stages:
• No signal strength bars— the receiver is looking or the satellites indicated.
• Hollow signal strength bars— the receiver has ound 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 or use.
Once the receiver has collected in ormation rom at least three satellites, the top o the screen will
display either ‘2D’ or ‘3D Navigation’, and the GPSMAP 168 Sounder is ready or use.
Point to your approximate location
and press ENTER/MARK.
A satellite’s stren th bars will turn
black when it’s ready for use.
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6
Getting Started
Power On — Screen Contrast
GPSMAP 168 Sounder Getting Started Tour
The GARMIN GPSMAP 168 Sounder is a power ul electronic navigation system that provides
detailed map coverage and convenient control o many advanced eatures right rom the screen display.
This tour is designed to take you through the basic pages and unctions o the system using the
simulator mode. Once you’re amiliar with the main pages and unctions o the unit, re er to the
Re erence section or instructions on per orming specifi c tasks and unctions.
The Getting Started tour assumes that the receiver has been properly installed and initialized, and
you have not changed any o the de ault unit settings. I you have changed any settings (position
ormats, units o measure, etc.), the descriptions and pictures in the tour may not match your
confi guration.
To turn on the GPSMAP 168 Sounder:
1. Press and hold the POWER key until the power tone sounds, then release the POWER key. The
Welcome Page will appear 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 Status Page will appear as the receiver begins acquiring satellites. From the Status Page or any
other page, you may also adjust the screen contrast and backlighting.
To adjust the screen contrast:
1. Press POWER and the Light and Contrast window will appear.
2. To decrease or increase the screen contrast, press LEFT or RIGHT on the ARROW KEYPAD.
3. Press the ENTER/MARK key to fi nish.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder adjustable screen backlighting is controlled with the POWER key, and
may be adjusted at any time rom any page. The backlight can cycle through o , user-defi ned, and
maximum backlight levels by repeatedly pressing the POWER key.
To adjust the screen contrast, press LEFT or
RIGHT on the ARROW KEYPAD to move
the contrast slider.
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7
Getting Started
Backlighting/
Simulator Mode
To turn on and adjust the backlighting:
1. Press POWER and the Light and Contrast window will appear.
2. Press POWER again and the user-defi ned level of acklighting will activate. You may adjust this
level y pressing UP or DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD. If you press POWER one more time, the
acklighting will e at the maximum setting.
3. Press ENTER/MARK or QUIT when done.
The backlight will now cycle through o , the user-defi ned, and maximum backlight levels by
repeatedly pressing the POWER key.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s Status Page provides a visual re erence o satellite acquisition, receiver
status, date, time and position coordinates. Each page o the GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s system also
eatures an options menu, giving you access to other unctions and eatures related to the specifi c
page you are viewing. To get a eel or how the options menus work, let’s put the GPSMAP 168
Sounder into simulator mode.
To place the GPSMAP 168 Sounder in simulator mode:
1. From the Status Page, press the MENU key. A menu of options and functions for the Status Page
will appear.
2. Press UP or DOWN on the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight the ‘Start Simulator’ option and press
ENTER/MARK.
3. Press the ENTER/MARK key to confi rm the ‘Running Simulator’ message that appears at the
ottom of the display.
Once the simulator has been started, the status fi eld at the top o the page will display a ‘Simulating
Navigation’ status. Now you’re ready to continue the rest o the simulated tour.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder 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 will still be retained in memory
or uture use.
Press UP or DOWN on the ARROW
KEYPAD to move the backli htin
slider up for bri hter or down for
dimmer backli htin ..
When the unit is in simulator mode,
an ‘S’ will appear in the lower left
corner of every screen and the Status
Pa e will show “Simulatin Navi a-
tion.”
,
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8
Getting Started
Status Page/Map Page
The Status Page is one o six main pages used in the GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s system. The six main
pages are: the Status Page, Sonar Page, Map Page, Compass Page, Highway Page and Active Route Page.
All six 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.
To continue the tour, let’s move on to the next page, the Map Page.
To scroll to the next page in sequence:
1. Press the PAGE key.
The GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s Map Page combines digital chartplotting with a user-selectable display
o navigation data and a built-in worldwide database to 20 mi. It will also be the page you use most
to create and edit waypoints and routes. Be ore we take o on our practice route, let’s take a brie
look at its various eatures 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 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 per orm various waypoint
and route unctions.
The data window, located at the top o the page, provides a user-selectable display o various
navigation data, including course, speed over ground, and bearing and distance to the cursor or a
particular waypoint. The current map scale setting is located at the bottom right o the page.
Map Pa e Active Route Pa eHi hway Pa e
Compass Pa e
Status Pa e Sonar Pa e
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9
Getting Started
Map Cursor
Using the Map Cursor
Working rom the Map Page is a simple process that centers around the use o the cursor.
Controlled 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 o on-screen map
items and waypoints.
To get a eel or using the Map Page and using the cursor, try the ollowing exercise:
1. Use the IN/OUT keys to set the map scale to the 50 nm setting. Your oat should e near the center
of the map, at the receiver’s last known position. (If your oat isn’t where it should e, make sure
that you have initialized the receiver and acquired a position as descri ed on pages 1-2.)
2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor. Notice how another data fi eld appears at the
top of the page, showing the earing and distance from your oat to the cursor, along with the
latitude/longitude of the cursor.
3. Press the QUIT key to remove the cursor and re-center your oat on the map display.
As you become more amiliar 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 rom returning the map to your
present position.
Now that you’ve seen how the Status and Map Pages can be used to monitor satellite acquisition
and 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 simulator mode, the present position displayed will be the last
position calculated by the receiver, which should be the spot where you’ve initialized the unit. This
will also give you an opportunity to see how the GPSMAP 168 Sounder’s ARROW KEYPAD and
ENTER/MARK key are used or data entry and changing the waypoint name and symbol.
Current position
Map Scale
Map Cursor Cursor Coordinates
Bearin
Distance
168 Manual Part 1.indd 9 11/18/2002, 3:36:23 PM