Garmin GPSMAP 188C Owner's Manual
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Garmin GPSMAP 188C Owner's Manual

Chartplotting receiver
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See also: Owner's Manual and Reference Guide
GPSMAP
188/188C Sounder
®
chartplotting receiver
owner's manual
(GPSMAP 188C shown)

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Summary of Contents for Garmin GPSMAP 188C

  • Page 1 GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder ® chartplotting receiver owner’s manual (GPSMAP 188C shown)
  • Page 2 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.

  • Page 3: About This Manual

    You can also find warranty and FCC information in the Appendix. Read the Safety Information to learn how to install and use your Garmin GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder safely and responsibly. An Index is provided at the end of the manual for reference.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Proximity Waypoint List ... 51 Routes Tab ... 53 Route Review Page ... 54 Route Review Menu Options ... 55 Track Tab ... 59 DSC Tab ... 61 Card Tab ... 62 Time Tab ... 62 GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 5 NTRODUCTION Whiteline ... 91 Thermoclines ... 91 Appendix ...92 Specifications ... 92 Installing the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder ... 93 Mounting the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder ... 94 Installing the Transducer ... 96 Connecting the Power/Data Cable ... 98 Interfacing ... 99 Installing and Removing Data Cards ...

  • Page 6: Care Information

    NFORMATION Care Information Cleaning the Unit The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder is constructed of high quality materials and does not require user maintenance other than cleaning. Clean the unit using a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution and then wipe dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that can damage plastic components.

  • Page 7: Basic Operation

    ASIC PERATION Initializing the Receiver The first time you turn on the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder, the receiver must be given an opportunity to collect satellite data and establish its present location. To ensure proper initialization, the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder is shipped from the factory in AutoLocate Mode.
  • Page 8 • Solid signal strength bars—the receiver is ready to use. When the receiver has collected information from at least three satellites, the top of the screen displays either “Ready 2D or 3D”, and the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder is ready for use. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 9: Simulator Mode

    Simulator Mode. While in Simulator Mode, a “Running Simulator” message appears after 2 minutes of inactivity. Keep in mind that the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder does not track satellites in Simulator Mode, and this mode should never be used for actual navigation.

  • Page 10: Adjusting The Backlight

    2. Press the POWER key again to start the user-defined backlight level. To adjust this level, press up or down on the ROCKER. If you press POWER one more time, the backlight is at the maximum setting. 3. Press ENTER or QUIT when finished. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 11: Interface Keys

    • Press to search for points such as user waypoints, cities, and services. POWER Key • Press and hold to turn unit on or off. • Press and release to adjust backlighting. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual ASIC PERATION NTERFACE IN/OUT Zoom Keys •...

  • Page 12: Entering Data And Selecting Options

    Entering Data and Selecting Options You can select and start options, and enter data to customize the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder to fit your requirements. Use the ENTER key and the ROCKER to select options, enter names and numbers in data fields, and activate your selections.

  • Page 13: Using The Map Pointer

    Current Location Map Range GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual ASIC PERATION To pan the map: 1. Use the IN/OUT keys to select a map range. 2. Use the ROCKER to move the pointer. A data field appears...

  • Page 14: Creating And Using Waypoints

    REATING AND SING AYPOINTS Creating and Using Waypoints The Garmin GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder stores up to 3,000 alphanumeric waypoints with a user-defined symbol, comments, and depth available for each waypoint. Waypoints can be created using two basic methods: ENTER/MARK Key—marks your present location, and provides options to select a map location or map item from the map display.

  • Page 15: Creating Waypoints Graphically

    ENTER/MARK. When selecting a location or map item, a description of the point, its distance and bearing from your current location, and the latitude/longitude of the pointer is displayed along the top of the map. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual ASIC PERATION REATING AND To create a new waypoint graphically: 1.

  • Page 16: Man Overboard (Mob)

    ASIC PERATION OARD Man OverBoard (MOB) The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder’s Man OverBoard (MOB) function simultaneously marks and sets a course back to the marked location for quick response to emergency situations. The MOB function allows you to quickly activate navigation back to a location.

  • Page 17: Reviewing And Editing Waypoints

    User or Proximity waypoint lists. 2. Press ENTER to display the Waypoint Edit Page. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual 3. From the Waypoint Edit Page, change the name, symbol, comment, location coordinates, or depth for the selected waypoint.

  • Page 18: Navigating To A Destination

    If you have a point highlighted on a list or the map, Go To <point name> appears in addition to Go To Point. The Go To function is accessed from any list of points or graphically from the Map Page. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 19: Selecting A Go To Graphically

    If you are selecting a map item as the Go To destination, the GPSMAP 188/ 188C Sounder automatically uses the name of the map item, but the point is not stored in the waypoint list. See waypoints using map items.

  • Page 20: Tracback Navigation (Navigating A Track)

    TracBack route leads you back to the oldest stored track log point, so it is a good idea to clear the existing track log before you start your current trip. You must save a track before using the Follow Track option. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 21 Show on Map and Highway, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To view the track on the map, highlight Review on Map, and press ENTER. Pressing MENU to activate the Measure Distance (see then exit the Save Track window.
  • Page 22 When a TracBack is active, the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder takes the track log currently stored in memory and divides it into segments called legs. Up to 50 (188) or 254 (188C) temporary turns (BEGIN, TURN 1, TURN 2, TURN 3,..., TURN X, END) are created to mark the most significant features of the track log in...

  • Page 23: Routes

    All of the route functions are accessed through the Main Menu or the NAV key. Route Tab GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To create a route using the Route Edit Map Page: 1. Press MENU twice to display the Main Menu.
  • Page 24 4. Press MENU, select Edit as Text, and press ENTER. 5. Use the ROCKER to highlight the first field under the word Waypoint, and press ENTER. Choose the category you want to add a route point from. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 25: Find

    Press QUIT to return to the Route List. Choose a waypoint from either the By Name or Nearest tab list. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Find Use the FIND key to search the unit for user waypoints, map items and any BlueChart or MapSource information loaded to the unit or on a data card.
  • Page 26 • Nearest To Other—centers your search around another map location. • Nearest To Next—centers search from the next point of your active route. • Nearest To Destination—centers search from the last point of your active route. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 27: Additional Information

    2. Using the ROCKER, highlight a category from the list, and press ENTER. 3 From the search results list, press MENU, highlight an option, and press ENTER. Find Menu Options GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual ASIC PERATION Additional Information Items located using the Find feature have information about the point available.

  • Page 28: Dsc

    The chartplotter repeats the call properties received from the VHF radio on the chartplotter. The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder requires input from a DSC enabled VHF radio to display position, and sound/ display alerts from a Distress Call or Position Report. Conversely, the VHF radio requires input from a GPS to transmit position coordinates for a Distress Call or Position Report.

  • Page 29: Understanding Position Reports

    Create Wpt button. To close the Notification Page, press QUIT. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual When a Distress Call or Position Report is placed in the Call List and Log, the information on the Notification Page is retained.

  • Page 30: Dsc Directory

    When a Distress Call, Position Report, or Directory item is named, the name is attached to that particular MMSI number. If a name is used, all DSC entries of the same MMSI number show the name. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 31: Navigating To A Position Report Or Distress Call

    1. Highlight the call on the Call List or Log, and press NAV. 2. With Go To MMSI/Name or DSC highlighted, press ENTER. Navigating to a DSC Call GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Setting up DSC The DSC Setup sub tab turns DSC chartplotter information display On and Off.

  • Page 32: Main

    Use the ROCKER to select an item from the options menu and press ENTER. Many of the menus in the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder are arranged in a tab layout. Use the ROCKER to move left or right from tab to tab.

  • Page 33: Map Page

    Name Map Page shown using optional MapSource data. The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder system starts in the Position Mode, with your location centered on the map display. When sufficient map coverage is not available to keep your location centered, the position triangle moves toward the edge of the display.

  • Page 34: Using The Map Pointer

    ENTER to show details of the map item. When in the BlueChart coverage area or using optional MapSource data, additional information tabs appear. Use the ROCKER to highlight the individual tabs, and display additional information and options. 3. Press QUIT to re-center your location on-screen. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 35: Selecting Map Ranges

    4. Press ENTER to confirm the new waypoint using the default three-digit name and symbol. For more information about waypoints, see GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Selecting Map Ranges The map display has 28 available zoom ranges from 20 ft to 800 mi (5 m to 1200 km.) The map range is controlled by the IN and OUT...

  • Page 36: Map Page Options

    Overzoom warning appears below the range. Map Page Options Many features of the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder are menu driven. Each main page has an options menu, allowing you to customize the corresponding page to your preferences and select special features that specifically relate to that page.
  • Page 37 Page is now maximized with no data fields. 2. To show the data fields again, press MENU, highlight Show Data, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Change Numbers—specifies the type of data displayed in each data field used on the map display.
  • Page 38 Press QUIT to finish. Coordinates Distance and Map Pointer Full screen map shown (with BlueChart data) GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Pointer Bearing...

  • Page 39: Pointer Page

    • All Map Defaults—restores settings back to factory settings for all tabs. Turn Declutter On/Off—toggles between showing BlueChart spot soundings and map outlines for easier viewing. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Pointer Page The Pointer Page provides graphic steering guidance to a page 64 destination waypoint, with an emphasis on the bearing to your destination and current direction of travel.

  • Page 40: Numbers Page

    fields in large lettering for better readability or you can split any or all of the data fields to show four smaller data fields. See page 31 for detailed instructions on changing the data fields and layout of the Numbers Page. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 41: Highway Page

    4. To return to the original configuration, repeat steps 1 and 2, but instead of Split Numbers, select either Merge Numbers or Defaults. Press QUIT to finish. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Highway Page The Highway Page provides graphic steering guidance to a destination waypoint, placing greater emphasis on the straight-line course, and the distance and direction you are off course.
  • Page 42 The data window layout can be configured to display additional data fields and change the size of the data displayed. To display and select the Highway Page options: 1. Press MENU. 2. Using the ROCKER, highlight an option, and press ENTER. Zoom Range GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 43: Active Route Page

    field used. For detailed instructions on changing the data fields and layout of the Highway Page, see page GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Active Route Page The Active Route Page shows each point of the active route, with the point name, distance and choice of Course, ETA, Fuel, Leg Distance, Leg Fuel, Leg Time, Sunrise, Sunset, or Time To for each point from your present location.

  • Page 44: Active Route Page Options

    The active leg defines the current from and to waypoints. for instructions (same To re-evaluate an active route: 1. From the Active Route Page, press MENU. 2. Using the ROCKER, highlight Re-evaluate and press ENTER to recalculate. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 45: Main Menu

    Main Menu Tabs Main Menu GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To select a Menu tab from the Main Menu Page: 1. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight a tab. The information for the highlighted tab automatically appears to the right.
  • Page 46 Bars The status field indicates a 2D or 3D, when the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder has collected the necessary data from satellites to calculate a fix. The unit then updates the location, date, and time. You can use the sky view to help determine if any satellites are being blocked, and whether you have a current location fix...
  • Page 47 FAA web site (http://gps.faa.gov). Because WAAS requires CPU resources of the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder to search for and track the satellites, you can disable the WAAS feature to improve unit performance if WAAS reception is not available in your area. Refer to the “Appendix”...
  • Page 48 The SNR depends on the mounting of your DGPS receiver and the distance from the DGPS transmitting station. If no optional DGPS receiver is used with the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder, the DGPS Rcvr field displays Off. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 49: Tide Tab

    1. Press MENU. 2. Using the ROCKER, highlight an option, and press ENTER. NOTE: If a DGPS receiver is attached to the unit and Garmin DGPS, RTCM In/NMEA Out, or Other DGPS is enabled on Port 2, WAAS is automatically disabled (WAAS Off). It is not possible for the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder to receive WAAS and DGPS corrections at the same time.
  • Page 50 To select the nearest tide station from you current location: 1. From the Tide tab, highlight the At field, and press ENTER. 2. Highlight a tide station on the list, and press ENTER twice. Current Time Bar Current Tide Height Bar MLLW Night GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 51 “None Found.” Use the Nearest To Other Find option and select a location closer to a tide station. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To select a tide station from the map: 1. When the search results appear, press FIND, and highlight Tide Stations.

  • Page 52: Trip Tab

    The Trip tab displays the Trip Odometer, Moving Average speed, Total Average speed, Maximum Speed, Stopped Time, Moving Time, Total Time, and Odometer. To reset the data, choose from Reset Trip, Reset Max Speed, Reset Odometer, or Reset All, and press ENTER. mode. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 53: Celes (Celestial) Tab

    Sun Position Overhead (90°) Horizon (0°) 70° 45° GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To choose a position: 1. From the Celes tab, highlight the At field, and press ENTER. 2. From the Find list highlight any category except Other Location, and press ENTER. If you want to reference a Find item, select from the Find list, and press ENTER.

  • Page 54: Points Tab

    The sub tabs also provide a continuously updated proximity waypoint alarm function that can be used to define an alarm circle around items such as submerged hazards or shallow waters. Sub Tabs Main Menu Tabs GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 55: User Waypoint List

    User page, with the stored waypoints arranged in numerical/alphabetical order. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual The following options are available from the User submenu of the Points tab: •...
  • Page 56 1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the waypoint to delete, and press MENU. 2. Highlight Delete Waypoint, and press ENTER. You can also highlight the waypoint, press ENTER, highlight Delete, and press ENTER. 3. Select OK, and press ENTER to confirm the deletion warning. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 57: Proximity Waypoint List

    2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Delete All, and press ENTER. 3. Highlight OK, and press ENTER to confirm. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Proximity Waypoint List The Proximity list allows you to define an alarm circle around a stored waypoint location, and can be used to help you avoid reefs, rocks, or restricted waters.
  • Page 58 4. Use the ROCKER to highlight OK, and press ENTER. The following options are available from the Proximity sub tab of the Points tab: • Delete Alarm—removes a selected waypoint from proximity list. • Delete All—removes all waypoints from proximity list. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 59: Routes Tab

    3. Choose Activate or Invert and Activate, and press ENTER. Activate uses the route as is. Invert and Activate reverses the route, then starts. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual If you highlight a route name from the Route List and press NAV,...

  • Page 60: Route Review Page

    To enter a custom route name: 1. From the Route Review Page, highlight the name field, and press ENTER to begin editing. 2. Use the ROCKER to enter a name, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Route Name Data Fields Route Points...

  • Page 61: Route Review Menu Options

    This allows you to review each point on the route by pressing ENTER repeatedly. Route Review Options Menu GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Route Review Menu Options Menu options available from the Route Review Page are Edit on Map, Add Before, Remove, and Trip Planning.
  • Page 62 (ADD is displayed below the arrow and the route lines move with the arrow), and press ENTER. 3. If you are not inserting an existing point, press ENTER to confirm the new waypoint. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 63 Nearest tab and press MENU. With Select From Map highlighted, press ENTER. Use the zoom IN and OUT keys, and the ROCKER to highlight a waypoint on the map, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Drag the route leg to an existing waypoint (shown),...
  • Page 64 To delete a route: 1. From the Route Review Page, press MENU. 2. Highlight Delete Route and press ENTER. 3. Press ENTER again to confirm the deletion. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Trip Planning...

  • Page 65: Track Tab

    The Active sub tab is for the active log (the log currently being recorded). It displays track memory used and current settings. Active Sub Tab GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Saved Sub Tab The Saved sub tab displays and manages a list of any saved track logs, allows for TracBack activation, and map display of saved logs.
  • Page 66 For the Saved sub tab, the following menu options are available: • Review On Map—displays the saved track log on a Track Map Page. • Delete Track—deletes the highlighted saved track log from memory. • Delete All—deletes all saved track logs from memory. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 67: Dsc Tab

    Saved list and NAV is pressed. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual DSC Tab Digital Selective Calling (DSC) uses marine VHF radio and Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies to transmit and receive location information. DSC is used by mariners to assist them in two major areas: Distress Calls and Position Reporting.

  • Page 68: Card Tab

    The Card tab contains options for saving waypoints, routes and tracks to a data card. When data is saved to a data card, it can be exchanged with other compatible units and Garmin’s MapSource PC program. To transfer data to/from a data card: 1.

  • Page 69: Pages Tab

    1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the First page option, and press ENTER. 2. Highlight the page you want to appear first, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual You can also press MENU, choose from one of the following, and press ENTER: • All Pages—selects all pages.

  • Page 70: Map Tab

    • Basemap—On/Off: turns the built-in basemap on or off. • Data Card Maps—On/Off: turns on or off all BlueChart or MapSource data loaded in the unit or on the data card. • Built-in Maps—On/Off: turns on or off all built-in BlueChart maps. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 71: Waypoints Sub Tab

    ENTER, and use the ROCKER to scroll up, down, left, and right, or press MENU and choose a scroll option. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Waypoints Sub Tab The Waypoints and Active Route options each contain adjustments for text and zoom.

  • Page 72: Points Sub Tab

    Map Page. Some types of data only are visible to specific zoom ranges. Navaids Sub Tab • Symbol Set—Auto, Garmin, NOAA, International: controls a navaid symbol set. • Text Size—Small, Medium, and Large: controls the screen size of the name.

  • Page 73: Nav Line Sub Tab

    • Zoom—Auto, Off, 120 ft-800 mi: sets the maximum range the feature should appear on the Map Page. Some types of data only are visible to specific zoom ranges. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Other Sub Tab • Accuracy Circle—On/Off: toggles the circle On and Off.

  • Page 74: Hiway (Highway) Tab

    The Sonar tab contains setup options for the Sonar Page. The Sonar Page is not active if you do not have a transducer connected. Refer to the “Using Sonar” section on pages 78-91 on sonar setup options. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual for more information...

  • Page 75: Systm (System) Tab

    • System Information—displays the unit’s software, basemap version, and electronic serial number. Press MENU to access the following options: • Defaults—restores settings on Systm page to default values. • All Unit Defaults—restores all settings to Garmin’s original setup values for the entire unit. YSTM...

  • Page 76: Units Tab

    If you are using a map or chart in conjunction with your GPS, make sure the settings under the Units tab of the GPSMAP 188/ 188C Sounder match that of the map or chart. This information should be displayed somewhere on the map or chart. If the...
  • Page 77 GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual 70). User Mag Var allows • Distance, Speed and Elevation—allows you to select the...

  • Page 78: Comm (Communications) Tab

    RTCM format and also provides NMEA 0183 output. • None—provides no interfacing capabilities. NOTE: The GPSMAP 188/188C can only send DBT and DPT NMEA sentences. It cannot input DBT and DPT sentences. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 79 2. Use the ROCKER to select a setting, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To select a transfer mode: 1. Use the ROCKER to select Garmin Data Transfer in the Serial Data Format field. 2. Highlight the Transfer Mode field, and press ENTER.
  • Page 80 To have the unit automatically scan for a frequency: 1. With the unit set to Garmin DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out, use the ROCKER to highlight the Beacon field, and press ENTER.
  • Page 81 Press MENU, highlight Restart Scan, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To manually enter a frequency and bit rate: 1. With the unit set to Garmin DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out, use the ROCKER to highlight the Beacon field, and press ENTER.

  • Page 82: Alarm Tab

    • Water Temperature—sets an alarm to sound when the transducer reports a temperature either above, below, inside, or outside the specified values. • Fish—sets alarm to sound when unit detects a fish of the specified symbol size. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 83 3. Enter a setting, and press ENTER. 4. If you want the alarm to display and beep until acknowledged, highlight the Persist box, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual LARM If Persist is checked, an alarm stays active until acknowledged.

  • Page 84: Using Sonar

    Read the Transducer’s Installation Instructions to properly install the transducer. NOTE: You MUST have a transducer installed and connected to your GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder to use the sonar features. Sonar Page The Sonar Page is where your GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder becomes a powerful fishfinder/flasher.

  • Page 85: Using The Adjustment Menu

    1. Press MENU, highlight Adjustments and press ENTER. A list of all options and their current settings appears, with the selected option highlighted. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual 2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select the option, and press ENTER to access the adjustment window.
  • Page 86 1/4 the original depth scale. • 4X Zoom—displays only the 4X zoomed picture on the full screen. However, if Dual Frequency Display is set to Split, then a 50/200kHz split screen appears. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 87 View Adjustment data. In Zoom mode, you can control the view of the left side of the split. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Gain—allows you to control the sensitivity of the unit’s receiver. This provides some flexibility in what is seen on the display.
  • Page 88 To turn the Depth Line Off, press the ROCKER up until the setting bar is all the way at the top of the range and reads Off. Noise Reject Adjustment GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 89: Sonar Page Options

    Scroll Adjustment Sonar Page Options The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder’s Sonar Page features a menu page that provides access to additional functions and to layout and data field options. Sonar Page Menu Options GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual To display the Sonar Page options: Press MENU.
  • Page 90 Show/Hide Numbers—toggles showing/hiding the data fields on the sonar display. Show Numbers Option Change Numbers—allows you to specify the type of data displayed in each data field. For detailed instructions on changing the data fields, see page GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 91: Sonar Tab Options

    3. Highlight the setting, and press ENTER. 4. Press QUIT to return to the Sonar Page or a previous page. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Fish Symbols—determines how the Sonar Page displays underwater targets and background information. If you select off, the unit does not show fish symbols.
  • Page 92 This graphic Flasher displays structure and bottom returns much the same as a true Flasher. This feature is particularly useful when using fish symbols. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Color Bar Flasher...
  • Page 93 Full Range shows the entire scale of 2X or 4X left side split of Sonar Page. Maximum Detail displays what is shown on the left side of a split sonar screen. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Background Color—sets the background color on the Sonar Page to Black, Blue, or White.
  • Page 94 To restore default settings to the Sonar Tab: 1. Press MENU. 2. Highlight Page Defaults, and press ENTER. To restore default settings to the Sonar Tab: Press MENU. With Page Defaults highlighted, press ENTER. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 95: Understanding Sonar

    The transducer collects the reflected sound waves and sends the data to the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder to be processed and displayed. The underwater data is shown on the Sonar display in the order that it is returned: first returned is the first on the display.

  • Page 96: Transducer Coverage

    10° Cone Angle (200 kHz) angle produces a coverage area of approximately a 6-foot diameter circle at a 30-foot depth. Dual frequency mode combines both frequencies to get the best coverage area and contour/depth readings. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 97: Whiteline

    Thermoclines are shown as the weakest colors. One of the unique features offered by Garmin is See-Thru technology, which allows the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder to hear both weak and strong signals simultaneously so as to identify fish returns under the toughest conditions, such as suspended in...

  • Page 98: Appendix

    Size: 188: 6.2" H x 6.3" W x 2.6" D (15.8cm x 16.0cm x 6.6cm) 188C: 6.2" H x 6.3" W x 3.7" D (15.8 cm x 16.0 cm x 9.4 cm) Weight: 188: 1.7 lbs. (.77Kg); 188C: 2.6 lbs. (1.18 kg) Display: 188: 5.5"...

  • Page 99: Installing The Gpsmap 188/188C Sounder

    NSTALLING THE Suggested locations for mounting the external antenna. The Garmin antenna screws directly onto any standard 1" x 14- thread antenna mount. If you need to raise the antenna to avoid shading, try using a 1" x 14-thread extension mast available at most marine dealers.

  • Page 100: Mounting The Gpsmap 188/188C Sounder

    3. After the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder unit is installed, connect the cable to the antenna connector on the back of the display unit. Make sure that you turn the antenna cable connector 1/4 turn clockwise to lock the cable into place.
  • Page 101 Flush Mounting the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder can be flush mounted on a flat panel. When flush mounting the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder, be sure to choose an appropriately sized location for the unit (see unit...

  • Page 102: Installing The Transducer

    A 50/200 kHz dual frequency 40°/10° cone angle, temperature sensing, transom mount transducer is included in the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder (with transducer) package. This transducer provides good all-around performance. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 103 The following diagram is for mounting the transducer included with the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder with transducer package. If the transducer lead is too short, extension cables are available from your Garmin dealer. DO NOT cut the transducer lead or any part of the transducer cable, as this will void your warranty.

  • Page 104: Connecting The Power/Data Cable

    Connecting the Power/Data Cable The power/data cable connects the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder to a DC system and provides interface capabilities for connecting external devices. The color code in the diagram below indicates the appropriate harness connections. Replacement fuse for the GPSMAP 188 AGC/3AG - 2 Amp fuse and a AGC/3AG - 5 Amp fuse for the GPSMAP 188C.

  • Page 105: Interfacing

    Approved sentences—GPRMC, GPGGA, GPGSA, GPGSV, GPGLL, GPBOD, GPRTE, and GPWPL. Proprietary sentences—PGRME, PGRMZ, and PSLIB. The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder accepts NMEA input with support for the DBT, DPT, MTW, and VHW sentences. GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder also includes NMEA input with...

  • Page 106: Installing And Removing Data Cards

    NSTALLING AND EMOVING Installing and Removing Data Cards The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder uses optional Garmin marine BlueChart and MapSource data cards to display digital charts and maps on-screen. Data cards are installed in the card slot located at the bottom right of the unit. Data cards can be installed or removed at any time, whether the unit is on or off.

  • Page 107: Satellite Information

    Date, Time, and Current Location The GPS gets date and time information from the satellite’s on- board atomic clock. When the GPS receiver has achieved a 2D or 3D GPS location, the current location is displayed in the selected location format.

  • Page 108: What Is Waas

    3 vertical meters throughout the majority of the continental U.S. and portions of Alaska. For more information, go to http://gps.faa.gov/Programs/WAAS/waas.htm. NOTE: If you are using the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder outside of the U.S.A, we recommend you turn off WAAS for the most accurate location fix.

  • Page 109: What Is Maritime Mobile Service Identity (Mmsi)

    Distress Call. In order to obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number, users must register their VHF radio with the FCC (Form 605). Garmin does not supply this number. How are MMSI Assignments Obtained? Non-commercial users (for example, recreational users who remain...

  • Page 110: Navigation Terms

    Course—the course between the active from and to waypoints. Depth—the depth below transducer. This field is active only if a transducer is connected to the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder. Distance (Dist)—the distance from the current location to a destination.
  • Page 111 Voltage—current voltage reading being received by unit. Water Speed—the speed through the water. This field is only active if the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder is receiving speed readings from a NMEA device. Water Temp—the water temperature. This field is only active if the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder is receiving speed readings from a NMEA device.

  • Page 112: Messages

    Narrow the search using the city or postal code. Database Error—internal problem with the unit. Contact your dealer or Garmin Product Support to have the unit repaired. Deep Water—the water is deeper than the amount set in the Deep Water Alarm.
  • Page 113 This is only displayed when the track recording setting is set to “Stop When Full.” GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Track Truncated—a complete uploaded track does not fit in memory. The oldest track log points have been deleted.

  • Page 114: Loran Td System

    Setup TD field, the active waypoint information reflects those changes. Because the GPSMAP 188/188C does not rely on the LORAN signal for navigation, it can reference a different GRI chain and/or secondary stations and still navigate to the location stored in memory.
  • Page 115 ENTER. 6. When finished, highlight Save, and press ENTER. Loran TD Setup Page GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual If the active GRI Chain, secondary stations, or offsets were changed since the waypoint was created, the waypoint now references the active GRI-chain and secondary stations. You must adjust the TD coordinates accordingly.

  • Page 116: Optional Accessories

    MapSource CD-ROMs to a data card, either directly through your GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder using the PC Interface Cable, or with the Data Card Programmer. USB Data Card Programmer—programs blank data cards at high speed through a PC.

  • Page 117: Software License Agreement

    Look for the Product Registration link on our Home page. Use this area to record the serial number (8-digit number located on the back of the box) in case your GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder unit is lost, stolen, or needs service. Be sure to keep your original sales receipt in a safe place or attach a photocopy inside the manual.

  • Page 118: Limited Warranty

    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.

  • Page 119: Fcc Compliance

    Should you ever encounter a problem with your unit, please take it to an authorized Garmin dealer for repairs. The GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder is fastened shut with screws. Any attempt to open the case to change or modify the unit in any way will void your warranty and may result in permanent damage to the equipment.

  • Page 120: Safety Information

    AFETY NFORMATION Safety Information CAUTION: Use the GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder at your own risk. To reduce the risk of unsafe operation, carefully review and understand all aspects of this Owner’s Manual—and thoroughly practice operation using Simulator Mode prior to actual use. When in actual use, carefully compare...

  • Page 121: Index

    Fish Change Numbers Off Course Show Shallow/Deep Water Split Fields Temperature Date/Time Alarm Tab Daylight Saving Time GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual Delete DSC Directory Item Depth Line DGPS Alarm Differential GPS Dilution of Precision Distance Distress Calls 22, 22–25...
  • Page 122 Sonar Page Adjustment Menu Bottom Split Options Sonar Tab Options Specifications Speed Filter Spot Sounding Storage System Information System Tab Temperature Scale Temperature Tab Thermoclines Tide Stations Tide Tab Time Format Time Tab Time Zone GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 123 Wiring Installation Trip Tab Zoom Keys Underwater Waypoints Zoom Range Units Tab Zoom Settings Unit Defaults WAAS 40, 102 Disable/Enable Waterproof Water Speed Water Temperature Alarm Waypoints Creating Creating Graphically Editing Enter/Mark GPSMAP 188/188C Sounder Owner’s Manual 82, 91 NDEX...
  • Page 126 For the latest free software updates (excluding map data) throughout the life of your Garmin products, visit the Garmin Web site at www.garmin.com. © Copyright 2005 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries Garmin International, Inc. 1200 East 151 Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A.

This manual is also suitable for:

Gpsmap-188Gpsmap 188/188c sounderGpsmap 188Gpsmp 188c sounderGpsmp 188 sounder

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