Garmin GPSMAP 178 Owner's Manual
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Garmin GPSMAP 178 Owner's Manual

Garmin owner's manual chartplotter & depth-finder gpsmap 178, gpsmap 178c
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Summary of Contents for Garmin GPSMAP 178

  • Page 1 GPSMAP 178/178C chartplotter & depth-finder owner’s manual...
  • 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: Introduction

    Part Two is divided into sections that provide detailed references to the advanced features and opera- tions of the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder. This allows you to concentrate on a specific topic quickly and look up detailed information about the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder.

  • Page 4: Fcc Compliance

    This product does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only be made by an authorized Garmin service center. Unauthorized repairs or modifications could result in permanent damage to the equipment, and void your warranty and your authority to operate this device under Part 15 regulations.

  • Page 5: Warnings And Cautions

    For more information go to: www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/environment/disposal.jsp. MAP DATA INFORMATION: One of the goals of Garmin is to provide customers with the most complete and accurate cartography that is available to us at a reasonable cost. We use a combination of governmental and private data sources, which we identify in product literature and copyright messages displayed to the consumer.

  • Page 6: Warranty And Serial Number

    This Garmin product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. Within this period, Garmin will, at its sole option, repair or replace any components that fail in normal use.

  • Page 7: Capabilities

    • WAAS Capable — receive signals from the additional set of WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) satellites to give you better accuracy • Differential-Ready — just add an optional Garmin beacon receiver for better than 5-meter accuracy • Fully gasketed, high-impact plastic alloy case, waterproof to IEC 529 IPX7 Advanced Navigating and Plotting •...

  • Page 8: Packing List

    Before installing and getting started with your unit, please check to see that your package includes the following items. If any parts are missing, please contact your Garmin dealer immediately. Standard Package: • GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder Unit •...

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i Preface/Registration .

  • Page 10: How To" Index

    “How To” Index The list to the right is provided to help you quickly find some of the more important procedures you may use on your new GPSMAP 178/178C. v TO DO THIS: Turn the unit on or off ......... . 4 Adjust screen backlighting .

  • Page 11: Section One: Getting Started

    (ZOOM) OUT Key The OUT key adjusts the map scale to display a larger area with less detail. (Zooms out) (ZOOM) IN Key The IN key adjusts the map scale to display a smaller area with more detail. (Zooms in) PAGE Key The PAGE key selects the main pages in sequence and returns display from a submenu page.

  • Page 12: Selecting Options

    ‘hands-on’ lesson in using the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder. We strongly encourage you to follow the Getting Started tour before using your unit for actual navigation. The GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder Quick Reference Guide contains helpful tips on using the unit and performing various naviga- tion tasks.

  • Page 13: Entering Data

    Naming a waypoint or placing any sort of data that has not been predefined requires the use of both the ARROW KEYPAD and the ENTER/MARK key. To enter a name or number in a data field: 1. Once you have accessed a page with programmable data fields (e.g. ‘ Waypoint Edit’) you can use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor (highlight) to fields on the page.

  • Page 14: Initializing The Receiver/Power On

    GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder Warning Screen Initializing the Receiver The first time you power up your GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder, the receiver must be given an opportunity to collect satellite data and establish its present position. To ensure proper initialization, the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder is shipped from the factory in AutoLocate mode, which allows the receiver to “find itself”...

  • Page 15: Initializing The Receiver

    • Solid signal strength bars— the receiver has collected the necessary data and the satellites are ready for use. Once the receiver has collected information from at least three satellites, the top of the screen dis- plays either “Ready (2D or 3D)”, and the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder is ready for use. Getting Started Initializing the Receiver Point to your approximate loca- tion and press ENTER/MARK.

  • Page 16: Tour/Backlighting

    The GPS Information Page appears as the receiver begins acquiring satellites. From this or any other page, you may also adjust the screen backlighting. The GPSMAP 178/178C’ s adjustable screen backlighting is controlled with the POWER key. The backlight can cycle through minimum, user-defined, and maximum backlight levels by repeatedly press- ing the POWER key.

  • Page 17: Simulator Mode

    While in Simulator mode, a ‘Running Simulator’ message appears after 2 minutes of inactivity. Now you’re ready to continue the rest of the simulated tour. Keep in mind that the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder does not track satellites in simulator mode, and this mode should never be used for actual navigation.

  • Page 18: Main Pages/Map Page

    Map Page Main Pages The Map Page is one of six main pages used in the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder’ s system. The six main pages are the Map Page, Map/Sonar Split Page, Sonar Page, Compass Page, Highway Page, and Active Route Page. All pages are linked together in a simple chain, which allows you to scroll through the pages in either direction using the PAGE and QUIT keys.

  • Page 19: Map Cursor

    Using the Map Cursor Working from the Map Page is a simple process that centers around the use of 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 of on-screen map items and waypoints.

  • Page 20: Marking Waypoints

    Getting Started Marking Waypoints Press ENTER/MARK after entering the name. You can choose from a list of useful symbols. There are two Diver Down waypoint symbols to select from: the International and U.S. versions. To mark your present position: 1. Hold down the ENTER/MARK key until the ‘New Waypoint’ window appears then release the key. The window shows a default three-digit waypoint name/number (001), symbol (dot), and position.

  • Page 21: Using The Nav Key

    For our simulated trip, you’re going to select a pre-programmed tour route using the first method. This also shows how the MENU key is used throughout the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder system to provide tab style options and functions. Let’ s start by changing the position to where the practice route is located.

  • Page 22: Simulated Tour

    Getting Started Simulated Tour You can also Invert a route to follow it in reverse. The Set Position, Track Control, Track and Speed fields only show while in simulator mode. To activate the practice route stored in memory for navigation: 1.

  • Page 23: Reviewing/Creatingmap Waypoints

    You’ll now have a clearer picture of the route you are navigating. Keep in mind that when you exceed the usable range of the built-in database or the optional MapSource or BlueChart data in use, the range field displays ‘overzoom’ to indicate that you should exercise extreme caution using the map data. Press the ZOOM IN key to zoom into the 2 nm scale.

  • Page 24: Map/Sonar Split Page

    You may adjust the size of the split (pg 32). Press PAGE key to proceed to the Sonar Page. Sonar Page The Sonar Page is where your GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder becomes a powerful fishfinder. The top left of the screen contains data fields, while the Adjustment Bar above the data fields allows direct access to the settings most commonly changed while using the Sonar Page.

  • Page 25: Using The Adjustment Menu

    Using the Adjustment Menu The Adjustment Menu allows direct access to the settings and features most commonly used on the Sonar Page. There are 10 main adjustment options available: Range, Zoom, View/Span, Gain, Target Level, Whiteline, Frequency, Depth Line, Noise Reject, and Scroll. The currently selected option appears in the upper left of the display with up and down arrows on either side of the option name.

  • Page 26: Compass Page

    Pointer Arrow Compass Page Let’ s move on to the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder’ s navigation pages by pressing the PAGE key. Compass Page The Compass Page provides graphic steering guidance to a destination waypoint, with an emphasis on the bearing to your destination and current direction of travel. The middle of the page features a rotat- ing ‘compass ring’...

  • Page 27: Highway Page

    Page as your primary navigation page (in lieu of the Compass Page) when your main concern is following a defined course. Whenever the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder is in simulator mode, you can also adjust your speed and course from the Highway Page using the ARROW KEYPAD. As you head toward each waypoint in the tour route, try adjusting your boat speed and course to get a feel for how the Highway Page works.
  • Page 28 Getting Started Highway Page You may choose from several different types of data 1. Press either the IN or OUT key to increase or decrease the zoom scale. Changing Data Fields The data fields on the main pages may also be configured to display several different information categories (see pages 30-31 for the complete list).

  • Page 29: Changing Data Fields/Active Route Page

    1. Press the MENU key to display the Page options. 2. Highlight ‘Set Up Page Layout’ and press ENTER. 3. The current setting displays, press ENTER to change. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight ‘the desired setting, then press ENTER. 4.

  • Page 30: Main Menu Page/Deleting Waypoints

    As you’ve seen, the primary pages provide map, sonar, and navigation information. The tour’ s last page is the Main Menu Page, which allows access to the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder’ s waypoint, route, and planning functions, as well as various operational and navigation setup features, and celestial and tide data.

  • Page 31: Powering Off Unit

    2. When the screen is blank, release the POWER key. The next section of the manual describes the pages and functions of the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder in detail. If you are unable to locate a specific option or function, please refer to the Index.

  • Page 32: Section Two: Reference

    When sufficient map coverage is not available to keep the boat centered, the boat icon moves toward the edge of the display. When the ARROW KEYPAD is pressed, the GPSMAP 178/178C enters cursor mode. In cursor mode: • The cursor can be moved over the map display using the ARROW KEYPAD.

  • Page 33: Using The Cursor

    • Whenever you zoom in cursor mode, the cursor is centered on screen. • To return to position mode, press the QUIT key. When the cursor reaches the edge of the map, the unt may pause as t loads new map data.

  • Page 34: Selecting Map Scales

    The scale value represents the dstance from one end of the scale bar to the other. The GPSMAP 178/178C’ s system has a built-in worldwide database to 20 mi, with more detailed coverage available through the use of the optional BlueChart or MapSource data. The GPSMAP 178/178C displays cartography as long as there is chart information available for the range you’ve selected.

  • Page 35: Map Page Options

    Map Page Options Many features of the GPSMAP 178/178C are menu driven. Each of the main pages have an options menu, allowing you to custom tailor the corresponding page to your preferences and/or select special fea- tures that specifically relate to that page. The data window, located at the top of the main pages provides a user-selectable layout of various types of useful data.

  • Page 36: Map Page Options

    Reference Map Page Options Cursor Coordinates Distance and Bearing Map Cursor Full screen map shown Main Menu— Map Configuration Tab • Measure Distance— allows you to measure the bearing and distance between any two points on the map display. To measure the Bearing/distance between two points: 1.

  • Page 37: General Tab

    General Tab Detail— Most, More, Normal, Less, Least: controls how much map detail displays. Those features which have a specified scale or turned “Off” are unaffected by this setting. Orientation— North Up— fixes the top of the map display to a north heading; Track Up Below— fixes the top of the map display to the current track heading and centers your position on the lower portion of the screen.

  • Page 38: Navaids Tab

    Some types of data only shows up to certain zoom scales. Navaids Tab— Symbol Set— Auto, GARMIN, NOAA, International: controls the desired navaid symbol set. Auto - BlueChart maps are drawn using symbols similar to the NOAA/NIMA standard. Non- BlueChart maps are drawn using traditional Garmin symbols.

  • Page 39: Other Tab

    Track Tab— Saved Tracks/Track Log Zoom— Auto, Off, 20 ft.-800 mi.: sets the maximum scale at which the feature should appear on the screen. Some types of data only display up to certain zoom scales. Other Tab— Accuracy Circle— On/Off: toggles the circle “On” and “Off”. The circle represents the approximate accuracy of the unit based on EPE, DOP, and basemap quality.
  • Page 40 Reference Map Page: Options Changing Page Layout Highlight the field you wish to change The following data options are available for data fields on the main pages: • BEARING – Compass direction from your position to destination • COMPASS – Compass ribbon •...
  • Page 41 • TOTAL TRIP TIME – Total travel time of trip, stopped and moving • TRACK – Current compass direction of travel • TRIP ODOMETER – Trip Odometer • TURN – Directional amount of turn needed to match bearing • VELOCITY MADE GOOD – Velocity Made Good to destination •...

  • Page 42: Map/Sonar Split Page

    Reference Map/Sonar Split Page Map/Sonar Split Page You may resize the split to the left or right. Map/Sonar Split Page The Map/Sonar Split Page combines the Map Page on the left half with the Sonar Page on the right by default. The menu options for this page are the same as the Map Page. Any setting changes made from the Map/Sonar Split Page will also affect the Map Page.

  • Page 43: Sonar Page

    Sonar Page The Sonar Page is where your GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder becomes a powerful fishfinder. Fish are displayed as colored arches (178C), arches (178) or as fish icons in three different sizes. Thermoclines are shown as shades of blue (178C) or as a grayscale (178). The sonar display may also be set to show a split screen view of a zoomed portion of the sonar, bottom lock (display scaled from the bottom up), or a combination of these options (see pg.

  • Page 44: Adjustment Menu

    Reference Sonar Page: Adjustment Menu Zoom Adjustment Range Adjustment 4X Split Zoom Display (Dual Frequency Mode) To change a setting back to ‘Normal’ or ‘Auto’: 1. On the adjustment window for the desired option, press MENU. 2. Select the desired setting and press ENTER. Adjustment Menu Options Range—...
  • Page 45 View/Span— available when a Zoom scale other than ‘No Zoom’ is selected. The ‘View’ or ‘Span’ Reference setting is used to change the viewing range of a zoomed display. If the Zoom is set to 2X split or 4X split, only the zoomed portion on the left side of the screen is affected by the change. If the Zoom is set to Bottom Split or Bottom Lock, ‘Span’...

  • Page 46: Sonar Page Options

    Sonar Page Options The GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder’ s Sonar Page features a menu page that provides access to addi- tional functions and to layout and data field options.

  • Page 47: Sonar Page Options

    To mark an underwater waypoint: 1. From the Sonar Page, press MENU, highlight ‘Show Pointer’ and press ENTER to pause the screen movement. 2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to move the cursor onto the target (underwater drop off, stump, etc.) you want to mark.
  • Page 48 Reference Sonar Page Options Double-Arrow ‘Size Split’ Menu Resizing the Split Sonar Display Options Fish Symbols Off— All available information is displayed. Suspended targets displays as fish symbols. Background information is displayed. Same as above with the target depth attached. Suspended targets display as fish symbols.

  • Page 49: Sonar Tab Options

    If the unt s unable to track the bottom for any reason, the dgts n the depth wndow flashes on and off to alert you that the unt s not trackng the bottom. Scale — controls the depth ‘Scale’ displayed vertically along the right side of the graph. The depth ‘Scale’...
  • Page 50 Reference Sonar Tab Options Keel Offset: Transducer at Surface Enter (+) positive number to show depth from bottom of keel Keel Offset: Transducer at Bottom of Keel Enter (-) negative number to show depth from surface Calibrating the Speed Sensor To calibrate the water speed: 1.

  • Page 51: Compass Page

    Once you start movng, the ponter s correct. The GPSMAP 178/178C’ s Compass Page features a menu page that provides access to layout and data field options. The data window, located at the top of the page, provides a user-selectable layout of various types of useful data.

  • Page 52: Highway Page

    Highway Page Highway Page When a Go To, TracBack, or route has been activated, the GPSMAP 178/178C’ s Highway Page pro- vides digital and graphic steering guidance to the destination. The top half of the Highway Page features user-selectable data fields that display useful navigation data. The bottom section of the screen provides visual guidance to the waypoint on a graphic highway display.

  • Page 53: Highway Page Options

    30-31. Active Route Page When a route is activated in the GPSMAP 178/178C Sounder system, the Active Route Page shows each waypoint of the active route, along with various, user-selectable types of data. For additional details on the Active Route Page, see page 64.

  • Page 54: Waypoints

    Creating and Using Waypoints The Garmin GPSMAP 178/178C stores up to 3000 alphanumeric waypoints with a user-defined icon, comments, depth, or water temperature available for each waypoint. Waypoints can be created using three basic methods: •...

  • Page 55: Creating Waypoints Graphically

    When you move the cursor over a map item, you see a highlighted description of that item. The GPSMAP 178/178C uses the map item text shown on the cartography as the default name and symbol for the new waypoint.

  • Page 56: Additional Options For Creating Waypoints

    Reference Creating Waypoints Highlight the position field and use the ARROW KEYPAD to enter the desired position coordinates. Select a point from which to project a new waypoint. Additional Options For Creating Waypoints Waypoints may also be created by manually entering position coordinates through the Points tab of the Main Menu.

  • Page 57: Waypoint Menu Options

    4. Highlight the distance and/or bearing fields in the reference field and press ENTER. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to enter the projected distance and/or bearing from your current position for the new waypoint and press ENTER. 5. Make any other desired changes to the new waypoint data (name, symbol, etc.), then highlight ‘OK’ and press ENTER to save the waypoint.

  • Page 58: Editing

    Reference Reviewing/Editing Waypoints Waypoint Review Page— Highlight ‘OK’ and press ENTER to exit/save changes. Changing a Waypoint symbol. Reviewing and Editing Waypoints Once you have created and stored a waypoint, it may be modified, reviewed, renamed, moved, or deleted at any time through the Waypoint Review and Waypoint Edit Pages. To access the Waypoint Review Page: 1.

  • Page 59: Editing

    To change the comment/position coordinates/depth/water temperature: 1. Highlight the desired field and press ENTER. 2. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to edit/enter the data. To drop to the next line, press to the right on the ARROW KEYPAD. Press ENTER when done. On the Waypoint Review and Waypoint Edit Pages, you may also delete the selected waypoint, view the waypoint on the map, and move the waypoint on the map.

  • Page 60: Lists

    Options Menu Waypoint Lists The GPSMAP 178/178C’ s Main Menu Page features two waypoint submenu tabs, ‘User’ and ‘Proxim- ity’, that let you manage a large number of waypoints quickly and efficiently. The submenu tabs also provide a continuously updated proximity waypoint alarm function that can be used to define an alarm circle around submerged hazards, shallow waters, etc.

  • Page 61: Proximity Waypoint List

    Once a waypont s deleted from the lst, t cannot be recovered from the unt. It s advsable to backup mportant wayponts to a computer usng an optonal PC cable and nterface software, save them to a data card, or wrte them down by hand. To delete an individual waypoint from the ‘User’...

  • Page 62: Waypoint Lists

    Reference Waypoint Lists Proximity Waypoints List Proximity Waypoint Proximity Circle A dashed circle appears showing the alert boundary for the proximity waypoints. To add a proximity waypoint: 1. Use the ARROW KEYPAD to highlight an empty space on the Proximity list and press ENTER. The ‘Find’...

  • Page 63: Going To A Destination

    (roads, rivers, cities, navaids, etc.), or a new map point (non-map item). If you select a map item as the ‘Go To’ destination, the GPSMAP 178/178C automatically uses the name of the map item, but the point is not stored in the waypoint list (see page 45 for creating waypoints using map items).

  • Page 64: Tracback Navigation

    Reference Going to a Destination/ TracBack Navigation ‘Go To MAP Point’ allows you to navigate to a spot on the map that is not a waypoint or map item. Highlight ‘Save’ and press ENTER to save an active track log. To activate an existing waypoint or map item as a ‘Go To’...
  • Page 65 ENTER. Once a TracBack has been activated, the GPSMAP 178/178C takes the track log currently stored in memory and divides it into segments called ‘legs’. Up to 50 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 order...

  • Page 66: Mob: Man Overboard

    For more information on setting up the Track options and saved tracks, see page 75. MOB Key The GPSMAP 178/178C’ s Man Over Board function (MOB) lets you simultaneously mark and set a course to a position for quick response to emergency situations.

  • Page 67: Routes

    The second way is to ‘Edit as Text’ from the Route Review Page, allowing you to see a list of the waypoints as you create, review, or modify the route. All of the GPSMAP 178/178C’ s route functions are accessed through the Main Menu Page or the NAV key.

  • Page 68: Following

    Reference Creating a Route/ Following a Route Choose the type of point you want to add to the route. Choose a waypoint from either the ‘By Name’ or ‘Nearest’ tab list. To create a route using text from the Route Review Page: 1.

  • Page 69: Route List Page

    1. Press the NAV key, highlight ‘Stop Navigation’ and press ENTER. Route List Page The GPSMAP 178/178C Route List Page (‘Route’ tab of the Main Menu) displays all the routes cur- rently stored in memory, along with a descriptive name for each route. By pressing MENU while on the Route List Page, the following menu options appear: ‘New Route’...

  • Page 70: Route Review Page

    Reference Route Review Page Route Name Data Fields Route Points Data Totals Route Review Options Menu Route Review Page Once you have created a route, the Route Review Page allows you to edit a selected route. To access the Route Review page: 1.

  • Page 71: Editing

    • Edit on Map — review and modify the route displayed for each point (waypoint or map item) on a map page. You may also use the cursor to insert a new route point on a route leg, and to review a waypoint or map item.

  • Page 72: Editing Routes

    (shown) to create a new route point. The GPSMAP 178/178C’ s route edit mode also allows you to insert a new route point in any route leg using the map cursor. To insert a new point between two existing route waypoints: 1.
  • Page 73 • Trip Planning — The Route Review and Active Route Pages also display trip-planning information for each leg or the entire route. Available information includes Course, ETA, Fuel (to point), Leg Distance, Leg Fuel, Leg Time, Sunrise and Sunset (at point location), and Time To (point). To use the trip planning feature: 1.

  • Page 74: Active Route Page

    Active Route Page Menu Options Active Route Page Whenever you have activated a route in the GPSMAP 178/178C, the Active Route Page shows each point (waypoint or map item) of the active route, with the point name, distance and choice of Course, ETA, Fuel to point, Leg Distance, Leg Fuel, Leg Time, Sunrise, and Sunset at point location, or Time To point for each point from your present position.

  • Page 75: Find Key

    Find Key The FIND key allows you to search the unit for user waypoints, map items, and any optional BlueChart or MapSource information loaded on a data card. Press the FIND key to search for items from your current location by default. You may also search from other locations. When you press FIND, a list of available items to search for appears.

  • Page 76: Find Options

    Reference Find Options Additional Information Tabs Distance, Bearing, Coordinates of item Additional Option Buttons Additional Information Window Find Menu Options To view details about an item: 1. With the desired item highlighted in the search results list, press ENTER. 2. An Information page appears with details about the item organized in a tabbed format. Depending on the type of item, additional options are available for viewing the item on the map, viewing notes on a MapSource or BlueChart map, viewing a tide chart, viewing a list of maps on your data card, and viewing the next item in the search results list.

  • Page 77: Main Menu Page

    “tab” format. The Main Menu Page is available from any page in the GPSMAP 178/178C’ s system, and is accessed through the MENU key. See pages 2-3 for additional instructions changing settings and entering data.

  • Page 78: Main Menu: Gps Tab

    As soon as the GPSMAP 178/178C has collected the necessary data from the best satellites in view to calculate a fix, the status field indicates a 2D or 3D status. The unit then updates the position, date, and time.

  • Page 79: Waas Capability

    WAAS satellites are numbered 33 or higher when viewing the sky view on your GPSMAP 178/178C. Initial reception of the WAAS signal may take up to 15-20 minutes, then 1-2 minutes afterwards. When WAAS differential correction has been received for GPS satellites (numbers 32 or below), a ‘D’...
  • Page 80 Reference Main Menu: GPS Tab When the GPSMAP 178/178C is using a differ- ential correction signal (either WAAS or DGPS), a “D” is displayed at the bottom of the signal strength indicator bars for the satellites that are corrected. The status field shows one of the following conditions: •...
  • Page 81 The Differential SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio) indicates, on a scale to 0-30db with 30db being the best, the strength of the DGPS signal being received. The SNR depends upon the mounting of your DGPS receiver and the distance from the DGPS transmitting station. The GPS Info tab features an options menu that provides access to functions and features relating to the GPS Info display.
  • Page 82 Reference Station Name Date Tide Chart Event Times Main Menu—Tide Tab You can select from a list of nearest stations. Tide Tab— shows a graphical chart which displays tide station information in a 24 hour span starting at midnight. You can choose from different dates and over 3000 tide stations around the USA coastline, Alaska, Hawaii, western Canada and several of the Caribbean islands.

  • Page 83: Main Menu: Tide Tab

    To select the nearest tide station from your current location: 1. From the “Tide” tab, highlight the ‘At’ field and press ENTER/MARK. 2. Highlight the desired station on the list and press ENTER/MARK twice. If you are not within this range, you will see a message “None Found”. Use the ‘Nearest To Other’ Find option and select a location closer to a tide station.

  • Page 84: Trip Tab

    Reference Main Menu: Trip Tab/ Celestial Tab Main Menu— Trip Tab Date/Time Position Sun/Moon Event Times Skyview Window Moon Phase Position Overhead (90°) 45° 20° Horizon (0°) Main Menu— Celestial Tab Trip Tab— displays Trip Odometer, Moving Average Speed, Total Average Speed, Maximum Speed, Stopped Time, Moving Time, Total Time, and Odometer.

  • Page 85: Track Tab

    Points Tab— contains the ‘User’ and ‘Proximity’ waypoint lists. See page 50. Route Tab— contains a list of available routes. See page 59. Track Tab— lets you specify whether or not to record a track log (an electronic ‘breadcrumb trail’ recording of your path), define how it is recorded, or save track log data for future use.
  • Page 86 Reference Main Menu: Track Tab Reviewing a saved track The track name automatically appears when highlighted on the ‘Saved’ list and NAV is pressed. Saved Submenu Tab— manages a list of any saved track logs, allows TracBack activation, map display of saved logs.

  • Page 87: Main Menu: Dsc Tab

    Position Report and as a unique identifier to the Coast Guard when used in an emergency 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! Reference...
  • Page 88 Reference Main Menu: DSC Tab HOW ARE MMSI ASSIGNMENTS OBTAINED? Non-commercial users (e.g. recreational users who remain in domestic waters and only carry VHF, EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons), and Radar) are not required to have a FCC ship station license.

  • Page 89: Dsc Distress Call

    MMSI number attached to the call (if you have DSC support). Any DSC-equipped mariner (on sea or land) within range can receive the call. When the Garmin GPSMAP 178/178C is connected to a VHF with DSC support, the GPS unit displays a Call List, Log, and a Directory available to store incoming information received from another user’...

  • Page 90: Dsc Directory

    Reference Main Menu: DSC Tab DSC Entry Review DSC Log DSC Call List The DSC Call List displays the current calls received. The GPS can manage up to 50 calls. When ‘calls’ are received, they are updated constantly to give the most current information, even if the unit is left unattended.

  • Page 91: Dsc Setup

    DSC users. DSC Setup Garmin chartplotters have the ability to turn DSC ‘On’ or ‘Off’. This option is beneficial for users who have more than one GPS chartplotter. If you want only DSC to display on a particular chartplotter, turn DSC off on the remaining Garmin chartplotters that support DSC.

  • Page 92: Card Tabs

    Card Tab— interface control for saving waypoints, routes and tracks to a data card.When data is saved to a data card, it may be exchanged with other compatible units and Garmin’ s MapSource PC program. To transfer data to/from a data card: 1.

  • Page 93: Temp Tab

    Map Tab— contains setup options for the Map Page. See page 25. Hiway Tab— contains setup options for the Highway Page. See page 43. Temp (Temperature) Tab— displays the water temperature log (if equipped with a temperature transducer/sensor). The chart reads from right to left, so that the most recent temperature measured is displayed on the far right side of the chart.

  • Page 94: Units Tab

    • Defaults – restores settings on System page to default values. • All Unit Defaults – restores all settings to Garmin’ s original setup values for the entire unit. Units SubmenuTab— defines settings for Position Format, Map Datum, Heading, Distance, Speed, Elevation, Depth, and Temperature.
  • Page 95 If you are using a map or chart in conjunction with your GPS, make sure the settings under the ‘Units’ tab of the GPSMAP 178/178C match that of the map or chart. This information should be displayed somewhere on the map or chart.

  • Page 96: Comm Tab

    GPSMAP 178/178C to external NMEA devices, a DGPS beacon receiver, a personal computer, another Garmin GPSMAP 178/178C, etc. If a DGPS receiver is used, WAAS capability is automatically turned to ‘Off’. The unit supports two input/output ports. See page 96 for more information on wiring and NMEA information.
  • Page 97 Port 2: • Garmin DGPS – used to connect the GPSMAP 178/178C with a Garmin DGPS beacon receiver. • Other DGPS – allows DGPS input using a standard RTCM format, without any output capabili- ties. • NMEA In/NMEA Out – supports the input/output of standard NMEA 0183 data and DSC. You may also adjust the NMEA output.
  • Page 98 If ‘Garmin DGPS’ or ‘RTCM In/NMEA Out’ format is selected, additional fields are provided to con- trol a Garmin differential beacon receiver directly from your GPSMAP 178/178C. You may 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 is used to tune the beacon receiver.

  • Page 99: Nmea Interface

    NMEA Interface If you are going to interface the GPSMAP 178/178C with another piece of equipment (such as a radio or autopilot), the unit needs to be set to output NMEA data. More information on wiring and NMEA data may be found on page 96.

  • Page 100: Alarm Tab

    Advanced NMEA Setup Page Main Menu—Alarm Tab (System Submenu) GPSMAP 178/178C NMEA Sentence Output (NMEA version 3 .01 compliant) Always transmitted: GPRMC, GPGGA, GPGLL, GPBWC, GPVTG, GPXTE, GPRMB, SDDBT, SDDPT, SDMTW, SDVHW Switchable sentences: GPGSA, GPGSV, GPWPL, GPRTE Garmin proprietary: PGRME, PGRMZ, PGRMM Alarm Tab—...

  • Page 101: Set Alarms

    Sonar Submenu Tab Shallow Water/Deep Water – set alarms to sound when you enter an area of specified depth that is too shallow and/or too deep. You must be receiving sonar data for this function to work. Water Temperature – sets an alarm to sound when the transducer reports a temperature either above, below, inside or outside the specified values.

  • Page 102: Appendix A: Installation

    3. Once the GPSMAP 178/178C unit has been 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...

  • Page 103: Unit Installation

    • The mounting surface should be heavy enough to support the unit and protect it from excessive vibration and shock. • For GPSMAP 178/178C with a built-in internal antenna, it should be mounted in a location that has the clearest, most unobstructed view of the sky in all directions to ensure the best reception.
  • Page 104 Appendix A Unit Installation Installing the Unit on the Mounting Bracket 1. Align the slot on the back of the unit with the long mounting knob and slide in place. It may be necessary to adjust the long mounting knob to spread the bracket arms apart. Turn counter-clockwise to widen the bracket arms, clockwise to tighten.
  • Page 105 Flush Mounting the GPSMAP 178/178C External Antenna Unit The GPSMAP 178/178C External Antenna only can be flush mounted on a flat panel. When flush mounting the GPSMAP 178/178C, be sure to choose an appropriately sized location for the unit. Check that all cables reach the unit mounting location before beginning installation.

  • Page 106: Wiring And Interfacing

    703-836-4229 FAX www.rtcm.org Connecting the Power/Data Cable The power/data cable connects the GPSMAP 178/178C to 10-35 volt DC system and provides interface capabilities for connecting external devices. The color code in the diagram below indicates the appropriate harness connections. Note: During a typical installation, only the Red and Black wires are used.

  • Page 107: Selecting A Transducer

    Since many mounting locations vary, there are a variety of standard and optional transducers, and accessories which are available. See your local Garmin dealer or contact Garmin to help you in your selection of optional transducers and accessories.

  • Page 108: Transom Mount Installation

    Proper transducer installation is key to getting the best performance from your new unit. 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 voids your warranty. The cable cannot be spliced and connected to any existing (Garmin or non-Garmin) transducer cables.

  • Page 109: Shoot-Thru-Hull Installation

    To avoid drilling a hole to mount a thru-hull transducer, a transom mount transducer may be used with epoxy inside a boat (“shoot-thru-hull” installation). For a transducer to be mounted inside the hull (shoot-thru, not thru-hull), the boat must be fiberglass, no core (contact your boat manufacturer if you are unsure).

  • Page 110: Testing The Installation

    Press the POWER button and the GPSMAP 178/178C should power on. If the unit fails to power on, verify that the wiring adapter is seated properly in the back of the unit, the Red and Black wires are connected to the correct polarity, and that the fuse is installed and not blown.

  • Page 111: Installing And Removing Data Cards

    If you insert a data card and get a ‘card format not recognized’ message, try removing the card and reinserting it. If the card is still not recognized, contact the Garmin or your Garmin dealer for assistance. Data cards are not waterproof, should not be exposed to moisture or excessive static charges, and should be stored in the case supplied with the card.

  • Page 112: Appendix B: Loran Td

    Appendix B Loran TD On the Units Tab of the Main Menu, press MENU, then highlight ‘Loran TD On’ and press ENTER to select Loran TD. Or, highlight the Position Format field, highlight ‘Loran TD’ and press ENTER to select Loran TD. Loran TD System LORAN-C is a radio navigation aid operated and maintained in the United States by the United States Coast Guard.

  • Page 113: Loran Td Setup

    Because of this the unit can navigate to a TD coordi- nate anywhere in the world. For more information on Loran TDs, you may download Garmin’ s “Loran TD Position Format Hand- book” from the Garmin web site.

  • Page 114: Appendix C: Map Datums

    Appendix C Map Datums The ‘User’ datum is based on a WGS-84 Local datum and is an advanced feature for unlisted or custom datums. To learn more, check your local library or on the world wide web for educational materials on datums and coordinate systems. Adindan Adindan- Ethiopia, Mali, Senegal, Sudan Afgooye...

  • Page 115: Map Datums

    Kandawala Kandawala- Sri Lanka Kerguelen Islnd Kerguelen Island Kertau 1948 West Malaysia, Singapore L. C. 5 Astro Cayman Brac Island Liberia 1964 Liberia 1964- Liberia Luzon Mindanao Luzon- Mindanao Island Luzon Philippine Luzon- Philippines (excluding Mindanao Isl.) Mahe 1971 Mahe 1971- Mahe Island Marco Astro Marco Astro- Salvage Isl.

  • Page 116: Appendix D: Messages

    Arrival At Waypoint— You have arrived at the destination waypoint. Basemap Failed Unit Needs Repair— Internal problem with the unit. Contact your dealer or Garmin Product Support (pg. iv) to have the unit serviced. Battery Alarm— Specified amount of input voltage has been detected.
  • Page 117 Shallow Water Alarm— Specified shallow water alarm depth has been detected below transducer. Sonar Failed Unit Needs Repair— Internal problem with the unit. Contact your dealer or Garmin Product Support (page. iv) to have the unit serviced. Track Already Exists: <track name>— You have entered a saved track name that already exists in memory.

  • Page 118: Appendix E: Navigation Terms

    Avg Speed— The average of all second-by-second speed readings since last reset. Appendix E Bearing (BRG)— The compass direction from your present position to a destination waypoint. Course— The desired course between the active ‘from’ and ‘to’ waypoints. Navigation Terms Distance (Dist)—...
  • Page 119 Odometer— A running tally of distance travelled, based upon the distance between second-by-second Appendix E position readings. Off Course— The distance you are off a desired course in either direction, left or right. Also referred Navigation Terms to as ‘cross-track error’ or ‘course error’. Speed—...

  • Page 120: Appendix F: Time Offsets

    Appendix F Time Offsets A simple way to determine your local time offset is how many hours you are behind or ahead of UTC (also called ‘Greenwich’ or ‘zulu’ time). Example: EST (Eastern Standard Time) is 5 hours behind UTC, so your offset would be -5. Adding one hour for day- light savings would make EDT (Eastern Daylight Time) - 4.

  • Page 121: Appendix G: Understanding Sonar

    (page 113) you can see that the branches and the fish where the strongest secondary returns are indicated in black on the display. That is brief description of how your GPSMAP 178/178C operates. Let’ s take a look at how this data can help you to improve your fishing.

  • Page 122: Transducer Coverage

    When using the GPSMAP 178/178C in ‘Dual’ frequency mode, the unit transmits both 50kHz and 200kHz signals at the same time. The ‘Dual’ frequency capability of the GPSMAP 178/178C allows you to have a large coverage area and still retain good bottom resolution. When in ‘Dual’ frequency mode the unit uses the narrow cone angle (200kHz) to display detailed bottom information, keeping “Dead Zones”...

  • Page 123: Understanding The Graph

    Understanding the Graph It is important to understand that the unit does not display a 3-D representation of the underwater environment. The unit can display multiple things at the same time, but cannot determine where the return originated – only when it was received. Examples 1 and 2 provide a look at the underwater world from a top view, and illustrate how these views would be displayed on the graph.
  • Page 124 Whiteline The GPSMAP 178/178C can help you to determine if the bottom is hard or soft. When the sonar soundwaves are reflected back by the bottom, a hard bottom returns a stronger signal than a soft bottom.
  • Page 125 One of the unique features offered by Garmin is See-Thru technology. See-Thru technology allows the GPSMAP 178/178C to “see” through thermoclines and helps locate fish where they live; and fish love thermoclines! A rough definition of a thermocline is a break in water where the water temperature Understanding the Graph changes faster than the water above it.

  • Page 126: Specifications

    Position*: <15 meters (49 feet), 95% typical* Velocity: 0.05 meters/sec steady state DGPS (USCG) Accuracy: Position: 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) with optional Garmin DGPS receiver, 95% typical* Velocity: 0.05 meters/sec steady state DGPS (WAAS) Accuracy: Position: <3 meters (10 feet), 95% typical* Velocity: 0.05 meters/sec steady state...

  • Page 127: Appendix H: Specifications/Unit Care

    After submersion, be certain to remove the data card and dry the compart- ments before reuse. To resolve problems that cannot be remedied using this guide, contact Garmin Product Support in the U.S.A. at 800-800-1020 or Garmin Europe at 44-1794-519944.

  • Page 128: Appendix I: Index

    Appendix I Index Accuracy 69 Accuracy Alarm 90 Accuracy Circle 29 Active Route Page 19, 43, 64 Adjustments, Sonar 36 Adjustment Menu 15, 33, 34, 36 Alarm Tab 90, 91 Anchor Drag Alarm 90 Append to Route 47 Arrival Alarm 90 ARROW KEYPAD 1 AutoLocate 71 AutoZoom 27...
  • Page 129 Editing Routes 60-63 Editing Waypoints 48, 49 Elevation Units 85 Entering Data 3 ENTER Key 1 Erasing Tracks 75 FCC Compliance ii Find 65, 66 FIND Key 1, 65 Find Options 66 Fish Alarm 91 Fish Symbols 38 Flasher 39 Following Routes 58, 59 Follow Route 11 Follow Track 11, 54...
  • Page 130 Appendix I Index MENU Key 1 MENU key 20 Merge From Card 82 Messages 106, 107 MGRS 84 MMSI Number 77, 78, 81 MOB 56 MOB Key 1, 56 Moon Phase 74 Moon Rise/Set 74 Mounting the Transducer 98, 99 Move Waypoint 47 Moving Waypoints 49 Navaids, Set Up 28...
  • Page 131 Saved Tracks 76 Savings Tracks 75 Scale, Highway 42 Scale, Map 24, 39 Scroll, Sonar 15, 36 Selecting Options 2 Serial Number iv Serial Number, Electronic 84 Service iv Setup Tab 83 Set 2D Elevation 71 Set Up Highway 43 Set Up Map 26 Set Up Page Layout 19, 29, 40, 43 Set Up Sonar 38...

  • Page 132: Warranty

    Appendix I Index Trip Tab 74 Turn Declutter On/Off 31 Understanding Sonar 111-115 Understanding the Graph 113-115 Underwater Waypoints 37 Units 84, 85 Unit Care 117 User Datum 104 User Waypoint List 50 View 15, 35 WAAS 69, 71 Warnings iii WARRANTY iv Water Immersion 117 Water Speed 39, 40...
  • Page 134 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 . © 2004-2007 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries Garmin International, Inc. 1200 East 151 Garmin (Europe) Ltd.

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