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Garmin GPSMAP 278 Owner's Manual

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Summary of Contents for Garmin GPSMAP 278

  • Page 1 Owner’s Manual GPSMAP ®...
  • Page 2 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...

  • Page 3: About This Manual

    Take a moment to compare the contents of this package with the packing list on the outside of the box; if any pieces are missing, contact your Garmin dealer immediately. About This Manual To get the most out of your new navigation system, read this manual and learn the operating procedures for your unit.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Getting Started ...1 Unit Overview ... Charging the GPSMAP 278 ... Turning Your GPSMAP 278 On or Off ... Adjusting the Backlight and Volume ... Getting Satellite Signals ... Using the GPSMAP 278 Keypad ... Using The GPSMAP 278 ...
  • Page 5 Understanding Sonar ... Appendix ...102 Specifications ... Optional Accessories ... Installation Information ... GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual What is EGNOS/WAAS/MSAS? ... LORAN TD Setup ... Map Datums and Location Formats Digital Selective Calling (DSC) ... Declaration of Conformity (DoC) ...

  • Page 6: Caring For The Gpsmap 278

    Cleaning the Screen The GPSMAP 278 screen should be cleaned using a soft, clean, lint- free cloth. Water, isopropyl alcohol, or eyeglass cleaner can be used if needed. If these are used, apply the liquid to the cloth and then gently wipe the screen with the moistened cloth.

  • Page 7: Warning

    Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations could result in an accident or collision resulting in death or serious injury. When installing the GPSMAP 278 in a vehicle, place the unit securely so that it does not interfere with vehicle operating controls or obstruct the driver’s view of the road (see diagram).

  • Page 8: Caution

    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.

  • Page 9: Getting Started

    GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with City Navigator including motels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. In addition, GPSMAP 278 accepts customized points of interest such as school zones and safety cameras and includes proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs.

  • Page 10: Charging The Gpsmap 278

    When you turn on the GPSMAP 278 power source indicator on the GPS tab shows the unit is operating off battery power ( the unit is charging (...

  • Page 11: Turning Your Gpsmap 278 On Or Off

    Turning Your GPSMAP 278 On or Off Before you turn on the GPSMAP 278, be sure the antenna is rotated up as shown on page 1, and it has a clear and unobstructed view of the sky to receive satellite signals.

  • Page 12: Getting Satellite Signals

    ATELLITE IGNALS Getting Satellite Signals After you turn on the GPSMAP 278, the unit automatically begins searching for satellites. The GPS page appears while the unit is gathering satellite signals and acquiring a fix, which should take only a few minutes. While the GPSMAP 278 is getting satellite signals, the GPS page shows the status as “Acquiring Satellites.”...

  • Page 13: Receiver Status

    • Green signal strength bars—the receiver has collected the necessary data from this satellite. When the GPSMAP 278 collects the necessary data from the best satellites in view to calculate a fix, the status field indicates the status of the receiver. The unit updates the location, date, and time.

  • Page 14: Gps Options

    As soon as the receiver gathers enough satellite information, your proper location appears on the map. When you travel more than 600 miles with the GPS receiver turned off, the receiver may take longer than normal to initialize and find your location.

  • Page 15: Using The Gpsmap 278 Keypad

    Using the GPSMAP 278 Keypad PAGE/MODE Key • Press to cycle through main pages in sequence and exit a submenu page. • Press and hold to switch between Marine and Automotive modes. QUIT Key • Press to cycle through main pages in reverse sequence, revert to the previous value in a data entry field, or cancel an unintended function.

  • Page 16: Using The Gpsmap 278

    TARTED SING THE Using The GPSMAP 278 The advanced keypad system on the GPSMAP 278 is designed to allow you to select options and enter data quickly and conveniently. As you progress through this owner’s manual, you are directed to press a specific key or highlight a field on the screen.

  • Page 17: Selecting Options And Entering Data

    3. Press ENTER to select the feature. Another window with more options might appear. If so, select an option and press ENTER again. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ETTING TARTED To exit a menu or return to the previous setting: Press QUIT.

  • Page 18: Restoring Default Settings

    1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight a tab, and then press MENU to open the options menu. Setup Tab Options Menu 3. Highlight Restore Default, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual section beginning on...

  • Page 19: Using The Main Menu

    Using the Main Menu Use the Main Menu on your GPSMAP 278 to access various waypoint, system, navigation and interface management, and setup menus. Press the MENU key twice from any page to open the Main Menu. For more information, see the “Main Menu”...

  • Page 20: Using Simulator Mode

    Simulator Mode are retained in memory for future use. NOTE: Do not try to navigate using Simulator Mode because the GPS receiver is turned off. Any satellite signal strength bars shown are only simulations and do not represent the strength of actual satellite signals.

  • Page 21: Marine Mode Pages

    Your GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with an enhanced worldwide basemap that depicts shorelines, roads, and surface features. The GPSMAP 278 is compatable with BlueChart g2 marine cartography. Marine Mode Pages Marine Mode has five main pages: Map, Compass, Highway, Active Route, and Position Data. An optional Sonar Page is available when a GSD 21 or GSD 20 is connected.

  • Page 22: Navigating To A Destination

    Navigate Route—select a route to navigate (page 24). Navigate Track (TracBack)—select a saved track to navigate (page 38). MOB (Man OverBoard)—create a MOB waypoint and navigate to that location (page 16). Stop (Resume) Navigation—stop or resume navigation (page 15). GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 23 Highlight a point to navigate  to, and press NAV. To stop navigation: While navigating to a point,  press NAV GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Highlight Go To <point  name>, and press ENTER. Highlight Stop Navigation,  and press ENTER.
  • Page 24 MOB symbol is created, and the unit begins actively navigating to that point. Use any of the navigation pages to guide you back to the MOB point. The MOB waypoint is stored in the waypoint list and can be deleted like any other waypoint. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 25: Finding An Item

    To find an item and go to it: Press FIND to open the  Find menu. Select an item from the list,  and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Highlight a category, and  press ENTER. Highlight the Go To button,  and press ENTER.

  • Page 26: Finding An Item From Another Location

    To find an item from another location on the map: 1. Move the arrow (pointer) to the location you want on the map, and press FIND. 2. Highlight a category, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 27 3. Highlight an item from the search results list, and press ENTER. 4. Press ENTER to go to the item. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE To find an item near another location: 1. Press FIND. 2. Press MENU to open the options menu.
  • Page 28 Select Show Goto History to view the list of items you have recently created a Go To for (Go To History). 5. Highlight Remove Point, and press ENTER to delete the selected recently found point. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 29: Find Menu Options

    2. Press PAGE or QUIT to exit the Information Page. You can also highlight one of the on-screen buttons, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Find Menu Options To view additional Find menu options, press FIND, and then press MENU.

  • Page 30: Creating And Using Routes

    Press MENU once to open the Route options menu. Highlight OK, and press  ENTER to add a route point. Highlight New Route, and  press ENTER. Repeat step 5 to define  additional route points. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 31 Waypoint Page to save the location as a waypoint and continue adding points to your route. You can edit the properties of this waypoint as you can with any waypoint. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Press MENU once to open ...

  • Page 32: Navigating A Saved Route

    3. Highlight Waypoints, and press ENTER. 4. Select a waypoint from the list, and press ENTER to open the Waypoint Review Page. Waypoint Review Page 5. With the Go To button highlighted, press ENTER to begin navigation. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 33: Editing A Route

    Enter a new Route name here Route Review Page 4. Enter the route name, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE To review individual route points: 1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Highlight the Route tab.
  • Page 34 5. Use the ROCKER to drag the route to the new point location, and press ENTER. Editing the route on the map 6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all points are added to the route. Press QUIT when finished. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 35: Manually Transitioning To The Next Waypoint

    You can enter information about your trip so the GPSMAP 278 can estimate information about your trip. To plan your route: 1. Open the Route Review Page options menu. 2. Highlight Plan Route, and press ENTER. Entering Speed and Fuel Flow for Trip Planning 3.

  • Page 36: Creating And Using Waypoints

    REATING AND SING AYPOINTS Creating and Using Waypoints The GPSMAP 278 stores up to 3,000 alphanumeric waypoints with a user-defined icon, comment, elevation, depth, and temperature available for each waypoint. You can create waypoints using three basic methods: • ENTER/MARK—use the ENTER/MARK key to mark your present location.

  • Page 37: Creating Waypoints Using The Map

    The GPSMAP 278 uses the map item text shown on the map as the default name and symbol for the new waypoint.

  • Page 38: Creating A Waypoint By Entering Coordinates

    ENTER to open the Waypoint Review Page. If the waypoint is located on a map feature or MapSource or BlueChart feature, the Waypoint Review Page might include additional tabs containing information about other features at that location. Waypoint Review Page GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 39: Adding A Waypoint To A Route

    When you are navigating to a destination, Add to Current Route appears. The selected waypoint is added to the current route before the route destination. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE REATING AND To add a waypoint to the end of the route: 1.

  • Page 40: Projecting A Waypoint

    2. Highlight the Points tab on the Main Menu, and then select a waypoint. Press ENTER. 3. Press MENU to open the New Waypoint Page options menu. 4. Highlight Project Location, and press ENTER. Project Location Menu GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 41: Editing A Waypoint

    The number of stored and available waypoints is shown at the bottom of the User sub tab. Stored waypoints arranged in alphanumeric order. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual section on To navigate (Go To) a waypoint from the Points tab: 1. Select the Points tab on the Main Menu, and then highlight the User sub tab.

  • Page 42: Organizing Waypoints Into Categories

    1. Open the Waypoint Edit Page. (You can also change the category on the New Waypoint Page.) 2. Select the Category field, and press ENTER. 3. Select the category to which you want to assign the waypoint, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 43: Deleting Waypoints

    MENU. 2. Select Delete Category, and press ENTER. 3. Press ENTER again to delete the category. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Deleting Waypoints Select the You can delete waypoints from the waypoint list in the Points tab or category to from the Waypoint pages.

  • Page 44: Proximity Points

    If you enter an alarm circle overlap, you are only alerted to the closest proximity waypoint. To turn proximity alarms on or off: 1. Highlight the Points tab on the Main Menu, and then select the Proximity sub tab. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 45 field is now highlighted. Press ENTER to begin entering the proximity radius. 4. Use the ROCKER to enter a distance value (up to 99.99 units) and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE REATING AND To clear one or all proximity waypoints from the list: 1.

  • Page 46: Managing Your Tracks

    Map Page as you travel. The track log contains points along its path, including time, and location for each point. The track log starts recording as soon as the GPSMAP 278 gets a location fix. For the best results, clear the track log before you start traveling because when the track log is full, new track points overwrite the oldest track points.
  • Page 47 2. Select Save, and press ENTER. A message appears asking if you want to save the entire track. 3. To save the entire track, highlight Yes, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE To save a portion of the track log: 1.

  • Page 48: Saved Tracks

    6. To begin a TracBack, highlight TracBack, and press ENTER. 7. To view the track on the map, highlight Map, and press ENTER. Press QUIT to return to the Track tab. 8. Highlight OK, and press ENTER to save your changes. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 49: Navigating A Saved Track

    GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE TracBack Tips When a TracBack is initiated, the GPSMAP 278 divides the track into segments called legs. Up to 300 temporary turns are created to mark the most significant features of the track in order to duplicate your exact path as closely as possible.

  • Page 50: Marine Mode

    Page is available when a GSD 20 or GSD 21 sounder module is connected. Map Page When you turn on the GPSMAP 278, the Map Page appears after the unit acquires a satellite signal. The position arrow ( ) shows your current location on the map.

  • Page 51: Changing The Page Layout And Data Fields

    1. Press MENU to open the options menu. 2. Highlight Set Up Page Layout, and press ENTER. 3. Select a page layout option, and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE To change a data field display: 1. Press MENU to open the options menu.
  • Page 52 5. Press PAGE or QUIT to exit. Viewing Additional Map Data Use the Map Information page to view the data loaded on your GPSMAP 278 unit and data card. To review/change map information: 1. On the Map Page, press MENU.

  • Page 53: Map Orientation

    To select a map scale (zoom in and out): Press the OUT key to zoom out; press the IN key to zoom in. The GPSMAP 278 has a built-in worldwide land database. The unit shows cartography as long as chart information is available for the zoom scale you selected.

  • Page 54: Panning The Map

    When you zoom in pan mode, the arrow stays centered on the screen. When the arrow is stationary, fixed coordinates appear in the position field, and the distance and bearing from your present location update as you move. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 55: Clearing Unwanted Details From The Map

    In some cases, additional information tabs appear at the top of the Information Page or Waypoint Page. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE 3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the extra tabs and view the information.

  • Page 56: Measuring Distance

    Push pin indicating the beginning point of the measurement Measure Distance 5. Press QUIT to finish. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual End point of measurement, labeled ENT REF...

  • Page 57: Compass Page

    GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual If the arrow points up, you are going directly to the waypoint. If the arrow points any direction other than up, turn toward the arrow until it points up, and then continue in that direction.

  • Page 58: Using The Marine Timer

    4-minute preparation countdown, and finally a one-minute final countdown. Then during the race, mariners might want to count up to keep track of their time. You can use your GPSMAP 278 to perform each of these different countdowns. To open the Marine Timer: 1.
  • Page 59 If you want to change the length of time and the behavior or the timer, open the Timers Setup tab on the Main Menu. NOTE: You can set the timer countdown for up to 60 minutes. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE To set the Marine Timer: 1.

  • Page 60: Highway Page

    Nearby waypoints not in the active route can also be shown. You can zoom in or out to show a larger or smaller view of the highway. To change the highway perspective scale: Press IN to zoom in; press OUT to zoom out. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 61 Change Data Fields—change onscreen data fields. Set Up Highway—shows an options menu with two sub tabs: Line and Waypoint. Each tab has on/off settings for options including enabling the line for the Active Leg and Track Log. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE AGES IGHWAY...

  • Page 62: Active Route Page

    CTIVE OUTE Active Route Page When you are navigating a route using your GPSMAP 278, the Active Route Page shows each point (waypoint or map item) of the active route, with the point name, course, distance, and several other fields of information. The current destination point, the active point, is marked with an arrow icon.

  • Page 63: Position Data Page

    fields. The compass ribbon appears at the top of the page to show your current heading with a red, vertical bar. To stay on course, steer toward the violet bar (or arrows) until it is aligned with the red bar. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ARINE Position Data Page Options Press MENU to open the Position Data Page options menu.

  • Page 64: Automotive Mode

    UTOMOTIVE Your GPSMAP 278 comes preloaded with City Navigator Europe NT v 9.0, which contains detailed maps of major metropolitan areas in Europe, including motorways, national and regional thoroughfares, local roads, and points of interest such as food and drink, lodging, border crossings, petrol stations, hospitals and more.

  • Page 65: Navigating To A Destination

    Navigating to a Destination You can navigate to your destination in Automotive Mode using the Map Page. As you travel, your GPSMAP 278 guides you to your destination with voice prompts, arrows, and directions along the top of the screen. When you are actively navigating, you see a magenta line that always runs from your current location to the destination or to the next turn on the Map Page.

  • Page 66: Stopping And Resuming Navigation

     press NAV Highlight Go To <point  name> and press ENTER. Highlight Stop Navigation,  and press ENTER. Follow the magenta line  created on the Map Page. Highlight Resume Navigation,  and press ENTER. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 67 Activating a Go To using the Find menu 5. Highlight the Go To button, and press ENTER to begin navigation. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual UTOMOTIVE To go to a destination using the Find menu: 1. Press FIND to open the Find menu.

  • Page 68: Following A Saved Route

    4. Press MENU to open the options menu. 5. Highlight Follow Roads, and press ENTER to create a turn-by-turn route (auto-route), which appears in the Current Route Page. You can also navigate a saved route from the Route tab on the Main Menu. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 69: Editing Your Route

    Press ENTER to select the first point. 6. Move the arrow to the end point, and press ENTER. During route calculation and navigation, the GPSMAP 278 avoids the area within the box or the selected area of the road.

  • Page 70: Creating A Detour

    OUTE Creating a Detour If there is road construction or some other form of a detour while navigating a route, you can have your GPSMAP 278 create a detour route for you. To create a detour: 1. While navigating a course, press NAV.

  • Page 71: Automotive Mode

    The top of the screen shows the GPS status or the route leg. You can also add data fields to the page or select a full-screen map without data fields. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual AGES Current location section.

  • Page 72: Current Route Page

    URRENT OUTE Current Route Page When navigating a route using your GPSMAP 278 in Automotive Mode, the Active Route Page shows each turn of the active route, with the distance to the turn, the street name, and estimated time to arrival and time of arrival. As you navigate a route, the turn list automatically updates to indicate the next turn at the top of the list.

  • Page 73: Trip Computer Page

    Trip Computer Page Reset the Trip Computer before beginning a trip. If you make frequent stops, leave the GPSMAP 278 turned on in order to receive satellites. This allows the unit to accurately measure elapsed time during the trip.

  • Page 74: Main Menu

    (page 73). Celestial—view tide, hunting & fishing, and sun & moon information (page 74). Message—view system-generated messages (page 78). Display—adjust backlighting and page display (page 79). Sound—customize GPSMAP 278 sounds (page 80). Setup—adjust system settings (page 81). GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 75: Gps Tab

    For more information about GPS, see pages 4-6. Main Menu—GPS Tab GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Route Tab The Route tab shows all the routes currently stored in memory, along with a descriptive name for each route.

  • Page 76: Points Tab

    The Active sub tab is for the active log (the log currently being recorded.) It shows the amount of track memory used and current settings. Saved Sub Tab The Saved sub tab shows a list of all saved tracks in your GPSMAP 278. “Managing Your Tracks” GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 77: Dsc Tab

    Identity (MMSI) numbers, see pages 116-117 DSC Page GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual DSC Call List The Call List sub tab shows the 50 most recent calls, even if the unit is left unattended. The Call List only shows the most recent call from a vessel.

  • Page 78: Dsc Directory

    Another way to input a name is from the Entry Review Page or the DSC Distress Call or DSC Position Report pages. The Name and MMSI are sent to other Garmin GPS units: Only the MMSI numbers are sent to other non-Garmin DSC users.

  • Page 79: Sonar Tab

    “Setting Use the Alarms tab to define alarm settings. When an alarm goes off, for more the alarm message appears on the GPSMAP 278 and the unit emits five (5) beeps. To set an alarm: 1. Highlight the Alarms tab on the Main Menu.

  • Page 80: System Alarms

    Clock—set an alarm based on the unit’s clock. Select On, and then enter a specific time that you want the alarm to sound. The GPSMAP 278 must be on for the clock alarm to work. Ext. (External) Voltage—set an alarm to sound when the external voltage drops below a specified amount.

  • Page 81: Calendar Tab

    Select On and then enter a specific distance. Fish—set an alarm to sound when fish are detected with sonar. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Calendar Tab Use the Calendar tab to plan trips, view sun and moon, and hunting and fishing information for the day.

  • Page 82: Celestial Tab

    fishing information. You can view data for your current location, a location from the map, or a waypoint location. Also, you can select a different date and time, or use the current data. Main Menu—Celestial Tab Optional BlueChart data shown. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 83: Tide Sub Tab

    The bottom of the page indicates the times with the highest and lowest tides. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual To view a tide chart for a different tide station: 1. From the Tide sub tab, highlight the At field, and press ENTER.
  • Page 84 MENU, highlight Use Current Date, and press ENTER. Select the date and location Animation controls for the sky view Sun & Moon Sub Tab GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Moon phase Location of the sun and moon in the sky view...
  • Page 85 To use the current location, highlight the From field. Press ENTER, highlight Current Location, and press ENTER again. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Hunt & Fish Sub Tab The Hunt & Fish sub tab provides you with predictions of the best times to hunt and fish in a selected location on a specific date.

  • Page 86: Message Tab

    Message Tab The Message tab shows a list of messages generated by the GPSMAP 278. Use the ROCKER to scroll through the list of messages on the Log sub tab. Use the Log Filter sub tab to show only the message types that you want to view.

  • Page 87: Display Tab

    ENTER. The message name appears in the Hide window. 4. Highlight the message, and press ENTER to show it again. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Display Tab Use the Display tab to set display features, such as pages to show in the main page sequence and how long the backlight stays on Main Menu—Display Tab...

  • Page 88: Sound Tab

    Attention Tone—turn the attention tone on or off that sounds before the vocal prompts. Voice Prompt—set the vocal prompt to operate for Guidance and Status, Route Guidance Only, or No Voice Prompts. Voice Language—set the language for vocal prompts. Speaker Volume—set the external speaker volume. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 89: Setup Tab

    Setup Tab To customize how your GPSMAP 278 looks, use the System tab to adjust certain system settings. System Sub Tab Use the System sub tab to control settings for system mode, speed filter, language, and external power Main Menu—System Setup Tab System Mode—sets the unit to operate in Normal mode, Battery...
  • Page 90 Minor roads using a slider scale. This is useful if you want to avoid major highways, for example. Select Reset to use preset values. Guidance Sub Tab Use the Guidance sub tab to set guidance information. Guidance Sub Tab GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 91 Current Time and Date field. Time Sub Tab Time Zone—choose the time zone for your location so the GPSMAP 278 shows the correct local time. Select Other to enter a UTC Offset. If the wrong date appears, press MENU, highlight Set Date, and press ENTER.

  • Page 92: Location Sub Tab

    Datums are used to describe geographic positions for surveying, mapping, and navigation and are not actual maps built in the unit. Only change the datum if you are using a map or chart that specifies a different datum. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 93: Selecting A Different Heading Reference

    Failure to update this setting can result in substantial differences between the information shown on your unit and external references, such as a magnetic compass. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual Welcome Sub Tab Use the Welcome sub tab to enter information, such as your name and address, or a welcome message that appears when you turn on your GPSMAP 278.
  • Page 94 Serial Data Format—sets the data format to one of the following: • Garmin Data Transfer—provides the proprietary format used to exchange data with a computer or another Garmin unit. Garmin Data Transfer is disabled when the USB is connected, and the unit automatically switches to USB format.
  • Page 95 If you select GARMIN DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out format, you can control a differential beacon receiver directly from your GPSMAP 278 using the COM 1 or COM 2 sub tab. You can have the unit automatically scan for the DGPS beacon signal, or you can enter the beacon frequency and bit rate on the unit, and the information will be used to tune the beacon receiver.

  • Page 96: Advanced Nmea Output Setup

    Advanced NMEA Output Setup If you are going to interface the GPSMAP 278 with another piece of equipment (such as a radar or autopilot), you must set the unit to output NMEA data. The NMEA data transmission can be customized to keep the output rate at two seconds.
  • Page 97 Use the Advanced NMEA Output Setup Page to set the output rate, change the precision of the Lat/Lon minutes, set Waypoint IDs to names or numbers, and turn on and off the GPS status, the Garmin Proprietary sentences, and Waypoint/Route (WPL, RTE).

  • Page 98: Setting Up And Using Sonar

    SING This section covers the additional sonar options for the GPSMAP 278 when used in conjunction with a GSD 21 or GSD 20 Sounder Module. Read the GSD 21 or GSD 20 Sounder Module Installation Instructions to properly install the sounder module.

  • Page 99: Using The Sonar Page

    Using the Sonar Page When combined with a GSD 21 or GSD 20 Sounder Module, your GPSMAP 278 becomes a powerful fishfinder/flasher with the Sonar Page. If a GSD 21 or GSD 20 is attached, but the unit does not detect a transducer, a “Sonar Turned Off”...
  • Page 100 1/2 depth scale. • 2X Zoom—shows the 2X zoomed picture on the full screen. • 4X Split—shows two reduced pictures, the right at the original depth scale and the left at 1/4 the original depth scale. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 101 Target Level—adjusts colors used to display sonar information. A Color Bar appears on the right side of the screen as you adjust this setting. A higher percentage results in more strong-signaled colors GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ETTING UP AND SING ONAR shown on the sonar display.

  • Page 102: Resizing The Split Screen

    4. When you are done making changes, highlight OK, and press ENTER. 5. To return to the standard Sonar Page, press QUIT; or press MENU, highlight Hide Pointer, and press ENTER. to reference sonar items and GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 103: Setting Up Sonar

    Because sound waves travel through fresh and salt water at different rates, it is necessary to select the water type to ensure accurate readings on the unit. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ETTING UP AND SING Depth Number—select how efficient the digital depth update rate is.

  • Page 104: Calibrating The Water Speed

    If there is a problem with the speed sensor or if a speed senor is not installed, “Water Speed Sensor Is Not Working” appears at the bottom of the screen. Check connections of speed sensor cables. Calibrating the Water Speed GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 105: Setting Up The Sonar Display

    This graphic Flasher shows structure and bottom returns much the same as a true Flasher. You might find this feature useful when using Fish Symbols. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual ETTING UP AND SING Temperature Graph—select On to show a temperature graph along...

  • Page 106: Viewing The Temperature

    Temp as the Transducer type on the Setup sub tab. NOTE: You must be receiving proper sonar data from another device, such as a Garmin GSD 20 or GSD 21 Sounder Module, to view temperature information. Temperature Sub Tab...

  • Page 107: Understanding Sonar

    The transducer collects the reflected sound waves and sends the data to the GSD 21 or GSD 20 Sounder Modules and then to the GPSMAP 278 to be processed and shown. The underwater data is shown on the Sonar display in the order that it is returned;...

  • Page 108: Transducer Coverage

    6-foot diameter 40° Cone Angle (50 kHz) 10° Cone Angle (200 kHz) circle at a 30-foot depth. Dual frequency mode combines both frequencies to get the best coverage area and contour/depth readings. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 109 Thermoclines are shown as the weakest colors. One of the unique features offered by Garmin is See-Thru technology, which allows the GPSMAP 278 to hear both weak and strong signals simultaneously so it can identify fish returns under the toughest conditions, such as suspended in thermoclines or even hiding near structures.

  • Page 110: Appendix

    15 meters (49 feet) RMS 95% typical DGPS (USCG): 3–5 meters (10–16 ft), 95% typical DGPS (WAAS): < 3 meters (10 ft) 95% typical with DGPS corrections Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS steady state Dynamics: 6 g's GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 111: Optional Accessories

    32 MB, 64 MB, 128 MB, 256 MB, and 512 MB sizes. Download detailed map data from MapSource CD-ROMs to a data card, either directly through your GPSMAP 278 using the PC USB cable, the optional PC Interface cable, or with the optional USB Data Card Programmer.

  • Page 112: Installation Information

    GPSMAP 278 to auxiliary devices and removing the antenna. Connecting the Power/Data Cable The power/data cable connects the GPSMAP 278 to an 11–35 VDC system and provides interface capabilities for connecting external devices. The color code in the diagram below and to the right indicates the appropriate harness connections.

  • Page 113: Information About Usb Drivers

    To connect your GPS to your computer: 1. Connect the small end of your cable to the lower connector on the back of the GPSMAP 278, shown in the illustration to the left. 2. When using the supplied USB Data Cable, connect the larger end of the cable to an available USB data port (see the illustration on the left).

  • Page 114: Using Ximage For Customized Waypoint Icons

    Internet. Some custom POI databases contain alert information for points such as safety cameras and school zones. Your GPSMAP 278 can notify you when you approach one of these points. After downloading your POI database, use the Garmin POI loader to install the POIs to your unit.

  • Page 115: Installing And Removing Data Cards

    Installing and Removing Data Cards You can use optional Garmin data cards in your GPSMAP 278 to show digital charts and maps. Install the data card in the card slot located on the bottom of the unit. Install or remove the data card at any time, whether the unit is on or off.
  • Page 116 BNC connector is exposed and ready for use with an external antenna. For information on connecting an external antenna to the GPSMAP 278, refer to the installation instructions that came with the antenna. To remove the GPS antenna: 1.

  • Page 117: What Is Egnos/Waas/Msas

    GPS satellites alone. For this reason, when you enable EGNOS/WAAS on your Garmin GPS receiver, the receiver automatically uses the method that achieves the best accuracy. To enable EGNOS/WAAS, see to page 6.

  • Page 118: Using The Loran Td Format

    Setup TD field, the active waypoint information reflects those changes. Because the GPSMAP 278 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 119: Map Datums And Location Formats

    Every chart has a map datum reference, and you can set the GPSMAP 278 to match most of those commonly used. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 120: Digital Selective Calling (Dsc)

    Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number. Understanding Distress Calls With your GPSMAP 278 properly connected to a VHF radio with DSC output, you can receive any DSC distress call within range. An alert message appears and a tone sounds when a distress call is received.
  • Page 121 1. Open the Call List or Log from the DSC tab. 2. Highlight the call you want to review. 3. Press ENTER to open the DSC Entry Review Page. DSC Entry Review Page GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual PPENDIX IGITAL DSC Call List The Call List shows the 50 most recent calls, even if the unit is left unattended.

  • Page 122: Receiving A Position Report Or Distress Call

    ENTER. Press MENU, highlight New Item, and press ENTER. 3. Enter the MMSI number, the name, and any comments. 4. When finished, highlight OK, and press ENTER. Blank entry. Press ENTER to add a directory entry. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...

  • Page 123: Setting Up Dsc

    Another way to input a name is from the Entry Review Page or the DSC Distress Call or DSC Position Report pages. The Name and MMSI are sent to other Garmin GPS units: Only the MMSI numbers are sent to other non-Garmin DSC users.

  • Page 124: How Are Mmsi Assignments Obtained

    Coast Guard when used in an emergency distress call. To obtain a MMSI number, users must register their VHF radio with the FCC (Form 605). Garmin does not supply this number! For more information regarding MMSI numbers, visit www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/gmdss/mmsi.htm.

  • Page 125: Declaration Of Conformity (Doc)

    (on sea or land) within range can receive the call. When the GPSMAP 278 is connected to a VHF with DSC support, the GPSMAP 278 shows a call list, log, and a directory. Basic wiring is required for the Garmin unit and VHF radio to send and receive NMEA data from each other.

  • Page 126: Messages

    Memory Full—unit memory is full, no further data can be saved. Memory (RAM) Failed Unit Needs Repair—there is an internal problem with your unit. Contact Garmin Product Support to have the unit serviced. Memory (ROM) Failed Unit Needs Repair—there is an internal problem with your unit.
  • Page 127 Water Alarm. Sonar Failed Unit Needs Repair—there is an internal problem with the unit. Contact Garmin Product Support to have the unit serviced. Sunrise, Switching to Day Mode—the unit is switching to Day Mode. Sunset, Switching to Night Mode—the unit is switching to Night Mode Track Already Exists—a saved track with the same name already exists.

  • Page 128: Data Field Options

    Elevation—the altitude (height) above or below mean sea level (MSL). GPS Status—the current status of the GPS receiver, such as “3D GPS.” Location (Lat/Lon)—your current location as latitude/longitude coordinates. Location (Selected)—your current location described in the selected units of measure (other than lat/lon).
  • Page 129 R indicates you should turn right. The degrees indicates the difference angle and the number of degrees you should turn. GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual User Timer—the timer you set on the Main Menu. Velocity Made Good—the rate of closure on a destination based on your current speed and course of travel.

  • Page 130: Software License Agreement

    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...

  • Page 131: 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 132: Fcc Compliance

    PPENDIX OMPIANCE FCC Compliance The GPSMAP 278 complies 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 protection against harmful interference in a residential installation, and are more stringent than “outdoor” requirements.

  • Page 133: Index

    1, 3, 108 calibrate water speed append to route cards, data carpool lanes GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual categories find menu waypoint caution CDI. See Course Deviation Indicator 3, 5 celestial tab hunt & fish sub tab 56–63, 63–65...
  • Page 134 42, 63 declutter setup marine mode pages 42–46 marine pages 42–55 84, 111 active route compass highway position data marine timer maritime mobile service identity. See MMSI marking a waypoint underwater GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual 9, 29, 30, 32...
  • Page 135 POIs altitude custom location 6, 12 position data page waypoint 30, 32 options menu position report GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual power 2, 3, 104 connector 86, 88, 108 outlet 6, 45 practice mode. See simulator mode project waypoint location proximity...
  • Page 136 27, 73 water speed calibrating water temp waypoint categories create 28–37 edit information page name projecting proximity reviewing 1, 105 symbol transition to next week view welcome message whiteline 93, 101 xImage zoom GPSMAP 278 Owner’s Manual...
  • Page 138 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 2006 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries Garmin International, Inc. 1200 East 151 Garmin (Europe) Ltd.

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