Gpsmap 496: Portable Aviation Receiver

Owner’s Manual
GPSMAP 496 ®
portable aviation receiver

© 2006–2007 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc. Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Garmin Corporation

1200 East 151st Street, Liberty House No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road,
Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA Hounsdown Business Park, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
Tel. (913) 397.8200 or (800) 800.1020 Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9RB UK Tel. 886/2.2642.9199
Fax (913) 397.8282 Tel. +44 (0) 870.8501241 (outside the UK) Fax 886/2.2642.9099
0808 2380000 (within the UK)
Fax +44 (0) 870.8501251
All rights reserved. Except as expressly provided herein, no part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, transmitted, disseminated, downloaded or stored in any storage
medium, for any purpose without the express prior written consent of Garmin. Garmin hereby grants permission to download a single copy of this manual onto a hard drive or
other electronic storage medium to be viewed and to print one copy of this manual or of any revision hereto, provided that such electronic or printed copy of this manual must
contain the complete text of this copyright notice and provided further that any unauthorized commercial distribution of this manual or any revision hereto is strictly prohibited.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Garmin reserves the right to change or improve its products and to make changes in the content without
obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes or improvements. Visit the Garmin Web site (www.garmin.com) for current updates and supplemental
information concerning the use and operation of this and other Garmin products.
Garmin®, GPSMAP®, AutoLocate®, TracBack®, BlueChart®, MapSource®, and See-Thru® are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other
countries. These trademarks may not be used without the express permission of Garmin.
XM WX Weather and XM Radio are trademarks of XM Satellite Radio Inc.
November 2007 Part Number 190-00693-00 Rev. E Printed in Taiwan

Introduction > About This Manual
Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Garmin GPSMAP® 496, an unsurpassed
portable aviation receiver that utilizes the proven performance of
Garmin GPS, full-featured built in City Navigator mapping, AOPA
Airport Directory, SafeTaxi Airport Diagrams, XM Radio, and XM
WX Weather. Take a moment now 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.
Manual Conventions
This manual uses the term Warning to indicate a potentially
hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
This manual uses the term Caution to indicate a potentially
hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in minor
injury or property damage. It may also be used without the symbol
to alert you to avoid unsafe practices.
GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Introduction > Table of Contents
Table of Contents Aviation Mode Pages.........................................................29

Map Page................................................................................. 29
Introduction............................................................................i
Terrain Page............................................................................. 37
About This Manual...................................................................... i
Panel Page............................................................................... 40
Warnings.................................................................................... v
Active Route Page.................................................................... 44
Battery Warnings........................................................................vi
Position Data Page................................................................... 45
Important Information.................................................................vi
Flight Log.................................................................................. 46
Getting Started......................................................................1 Aircraft Information................................................................... 47
Unit Overview............................................................................. 1 E6B Tab.................................................................................... 49
Charging the GPSMAP 496....................................................... 2 XM Audio Page......................................................................... 51
Turning On the GPSMAP 496.................................................... 3
Basic Operation In Automotive Mode...............................55
Getting Satellite Signals............................................................. 4
Automotive Mode Page Sequence........................................... 55
Learning About the Keypad........................................................ 7
Navigating in Automotive Mode................................................ 56
Using the GPSMAP 496............................................................. 8
Finding an Item......................................................................... 58
Simulator Mode.........................................................................11
Creating Routes....................................................................... 61
Basic Operation In Aviation Mode....................................13 Creating Waypoints.................................................................. 63
Aviation Mode Page Sequence................................................ 13 Following an Automotive Route................................................ 66
Creating a Direct To.................................................................. 14 Editing Your Route.................................................................... 67
Finding a Nearby Point............................................................. 18
Automotive Mode Pages and Features............................69
Selecting an Approach............................................................. 23
Map Page................................................................................. 69
Finding Points on Land............................................................. 25
Highway Page.......................................................................... 70
Marking a Waypoint.................................................................. 26
Current Route Page................................................................. 72
Creating a Flight Plan (Route).................................................. 27
Trip Computer........................................................................... 73
Following your Flight Plan........................................................ 28
Editing and Managing Routes.................................................. 74
Editing and Managing Waypoints............................................. 78
Managing Your Tracks.............................................................. 87
ii GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual
Basic Operation in Marine Mode.......................................91 Using XM WX Weather.....................................................126

Marine Mode Page Sequence.................................................. 91 Viewing XM WX Weather....................................................... 126
Navigating in Marine Mode....................................................... 92 Setting XM WX Weather Options........................................... 127
Marine Mode Pages and Features....................................93 Using the Weather Tab........................................................... 130
Map Page................................................................................. 93 Finding Weather Information.................................................. 133
Compass Page......................................................................... 94 Setting up and Using Sonar............................................135
DSC.......................................................................................... 96 Showing Sonar on the Map Page........................................... 135
Main Menu.........................................................................101 Using the Sonar Page............................................................ 136
GPS Tab................................................................................. 101 Setting Up the Sonar Page..................................................... 140
Weather Tab........................................................................... 102 Understanding Sonar............................................................. 143
XM Tab................................................................................... 102 Viewing the Sonar Temperature Tab...................................... 146
Flights Tab.............................................................................. 103 TIS(Traffic Information Service)......................................147
Route Tab............................................................................... 103 TIS Limitations........................................................................ 148
Points Tab............................................................................... 104 TIS Symbology....................................................................... 150
Track Tab................................................................................ 104 Traffic Ground Track . ............................................................ 151
Sonar Tab............................................................................... 105 Traffic Warning Window......................................................... 151
Aircraft Tab............................................................................. 105 Map Page............................................................................... 152
Alarms Tab............................................................................. 106 TIS Operational Procedures................................................... 153
Celestial Tab........................................................................... 109 VHF Comm........................................................................154
Message Tab...........................................................................113
Display Tab..............................................................................114
Sound Tab...............................................................................115
Setup Tab................................................................................116
Location Sub Tab.................................................................... 120
GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual iii

Appendix...........................................................................155
Specifications......................................................................... 155
Care Information ................................................................... 156
Optional Accessories.............................................................. 157
Installation Information........................................................... 158
Learning About GPS............................................................... 163
LORAN TD Setup................................................................... 165
Map Datums and Location Formats....................................... 167
Digital Selective Calling (DSC)............................................... 168
Jeppesen Database Information............................................ 170
Messages............................................................................... 171
Data Field Options.................................................................. 174
License Agreement and Warranty.......................................... 177
Index..................................................................................181
iv GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Introduction > Warning
Warnings
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations could result in • The unit is designed to provide route suggestions. It is not designed to replace the
an accident or collision resulting in death or serious injury. need for driver attentiveness regarding road closures or road conditions, traffic
• When installing the unit in a vehicle, place the unit securely so it does not congestion, weather conditions, or other factors that may affect safety while
obstruct the driver’s view of the road or interfere with vehicle operating controls, driving.
such as the steering wheel, foot pedals, or transmission levers. Do not place in • Use the electronic chart in the unit only to facilitate, not to replace, the use of
front of or above any airbag. (See diagram.) authorized government charts. Official government charts and notices to mariners
Do not mount Do not place and pilots (NOTAMs) contain all information needed to navigate safely.
where driver’s unsecured on • When navigating in an aircraft, use the GPSMAP 396 only as an aid for VFR
field of vision is the vehicle navigation. Use terrain and obstacle data only as an aid to situational awareness.
blocked. dashboard. • Use this unit only as a navigational aid. Do not attempt to use the unit for any
purpose requiring precise measurement of direction, distance, location, or
topography. This product should not be used to determine ground proximity for
Do not mount in front of an airbag field of deployment. aircraft navigation.
• When navigating, carefully compare information displayed on the unit to all • This TFR Overlay Display System (TDOS) is updated Monday -Friday,
available navigation sources, including information from street signs, visual 1200-2000 UTC. COMFIRM DATA ACCURACY THROUGH ALTERNATE
sightings, and maps. For safety, always resolve any discrepancies or questions SOURCES AT OTHER TIMES. For interpretation of this TFR contact your local
before continuing navigation and defer to posted road signs. FSS.
• Always operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Do not become distracted by
the unit while driving, and always be fully aware of all driving conditions.
Minimize the amount of time spent viewing the unit’s screen while driving and
use voice prompts when possible. Do not input destinations, change settings, or
access any functions requiring prolonged use of the unit’s controls while driving.
Pull over in a safe and legal manner before attempting such operations.

Introduction > Warning
Battery Warnings Warning: This product, its packaging, and its components contain chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive
If these guidelines are not followed, the internal lithium-ion battery may experience
a shortened life span or may present a risk of damage to the GPS unit, fire, chemical harm. This notice is provided in accordance with California’s Proposition 65. See
burn, electrolyte leak, and/or injury. www.garmin.com/prop65 for more information.
• Contact your local waste disposal department to properly dispose of the unit/
battery. Important Information
Map Data Information: One of the goals of Garmin is to provide
• Do not leave the unit exposed to a heat source or in a high temperature location,
customers with the most complete and accurate cartography that is available to us at
such as in the sun in an unattended vehicle on a hot day. To prevent damage,
a reasonable cost. We use a combination of governmental and private data sources,
remove the unit from the vehicle or store it out of direct sunlight, such as in the
which we identify in product literature and copyright messages displayed to the
glove box.
consumer. Virtually all data sources contain some inaccurate or incomplete data. In
• Do not puncture or incinerate. some countries, complete and accurate map information is either not available or is
• When storing the unit for a limited length of time, store within the following prohibitively expensive.
temperature range: -4° to 140°F (-20° to 60°C). When storing the unit for an
TFR Data: Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) data is provided by the FAA and
extended time, store within the following temperature range: 32° to 77°F (0° to
may not be updated outside of normal business hours. Confirm data currency
25°C).
though alternate sources and contact your local FSS for interpretation of TFR data.
• Do not operate the unit outside of the following temperature range: -4° to 131°F
The California Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003 requires the recycling of
(-20° to 55°C).
certain electronics. For more information on the applicability to this product, see
• Do not recharge the battery out of the unit or disassemble the battery. www.erecycle.org.
• Keep the used battery away from children. Do not disassemble, puncture, or
damage the battery.
• Only replace with a Garmin lithium-ion battery pack. Using another battery
presents a risk of fire or explosion. To purchase a replacement battery, see your
Garmin dealer or the Garmin Web site.
vi GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Getting Started > Unit Overview
Getting Started
Unit Overview
The GPSMAP 496 is an all-in-one, versatile color aviation, automotive, and marine navigator—perfect for air, land, or water. This portable
GPS navigator features a 256-color TFT screen that is easy to read in bright sun, a built-in City Navigator basemap, AOPA Airport Directory,
SafeTaxi Airport Diagrams, Jeppesen aviation database, and auto routing to provide you with automatically generated turn-by-turn directions.
With the included GXM 30A antenna and a subscription to XM WX Satellite Weather, pilots have constant access to NEXRAD radar,
lightning, METARs, TAFs, TFRs, and more. In addition, the GPSMAP 496 offers XM Satellite Radio capabilities, featuring more than
150 digital channels of commercial free music; more than 30 channels of news, sports, talk and entertainment; and more than 20 dedicated
channels of XM Instant Traffic & Weather.
Detachable GPS
GPS antenna antenna collapses Battery pack. Press tab down to remove battery
for storage. Be sure pack for replacement, if necessary. See the
256-Color TFT screen the antenna is up “Battery Warnings” section on page vi for more
with backlighting (as shown here) to information about the lithium-ion battery pack.
receive satellite
signals. Refer to
page 162, for
instructions on
removing the
antenna.
External power
connector under
weather cap
Backlit keypad for easy nighttime operation USB/GXM 30/30A connector Slot for optional Serial Audio (Headphones/Line out)
under weather cap data card number connector under weather cap
Getting Started > Charging the GPSMAP 496
Charging the GPSMAP 496 If you do not want to use the unit, but you would like to charge the
Before using the unit, you need to charge the battery in the battery, you can put the unit into Charge Mode. Connect the unit to
GPSMAP 496. Plug the unit into a 12-Volt connector to charge. You an external power supply. Press and hold the POWER key. Instead
can use the unit while it is charging. of completely turning off, the unit now goes into Charge Mode, as
shown below.
To charge the unit’s battery:
1. Lift the rubber weather cap to expose the power connector on
the back of the unit. Refer to the image on page 1 for connector
location.
2. Align the notches, and push the plug into the connector until fully
seated.
3. Plug the vehicle power cable into a vehicle power outlet
(cigarette lighter receptacle) if you have a vehicle power cable.
Use care when routing the power cable; be certain that it does
Charge Mode
not interfere with vehicle operation.
The unit begins charging as soon as external power is applied. Note: While in Charge Mode, the unit draws a small amount
Placing the unit in Charge Mode charges the unit more quickly than of current from the aircraft/vehicle/boat battery. To avoid
when the unit is turned on and reduces draw on the aircraft/vehicle/ discharging the vehicle’s battery, disconnect the external power
boat battery. cable from the GPSMAP 496 when not in use for several days.
Information about Charge Mode After using the unit a lot, you may notice that the lithium-ion battery
Applying external power to the GPSMAP 496 automatically turns in the unit is not holding a charge any more. This is common for
on the unit for full operation. If the battery is present and needs to be lithium-ion batteries. Contact Garmin or your Garmin dealer to order
charged, the external power source charges the battery while the unit a battery pack replacement if you are experiencing charging issues
is in use. with your battery.
Getting Started > Turning On the GPSMAP 496
Turning On the GPSMAP 496 3. To turn off the GPSMAP 496, press and hold the POWER key
The first time you turn on your new GPSMAP 496, the receiver again.
must collect satellite data and establish its present location. To Adjusting the Backlight and Volume
ensure proper initialization, the GPSMAP 496 is shipped from the The POWER key controls the 10 level backlight and volume of
factory in AutoLocate mode, which allows the receiver to “find the optional headphone jack or external speaker with vehicle power
itself” anywhere in the world. Before you turn on the unit to start cable.
initialization, be sure that the antenna is rotated up as shown on
page 1, and it has a clear and unobstructed view of the sky to receive To adjust the backlight level or volume:
satellite signals. 1. Press and quickly release the POWER key.
2. Press the ROCKER up to increase the brightness or down to
To turn the GPSMAP 496 on and off: decrease. Press right to raise the volume or left to lower.
1. Press and hold the POWER key. When the unit turns on, a tone
3. Press ENTER or QUIT to close the Backlight/Volume adjustment
sounds and the Warning Page appears.
window. Press MENU to view the options menu.
Battery time remaining

and power source
indicator
Backlight Volume
adjustment slider adjustment slider
Warning Page
2. Read and be sure you understand the warning. Press ENTER to

continue.

Getting Started > Getting Satellite Signals
Getting Satellite Signals Viewing GPS Status With the GPS Tab
After you turn on the GPSMAP 496, the unit automatically begins The GPS tab provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition,
searching for satellites. The GPS Page appears while the unit is receiver status, and accuracy. The sky view and signal strength bars
gathering satellite signals and acquiring a fix. This process should give an indication of what satellites are visible to the receiver and
take only a few minutes. While the GPSMAP 496 is getting satellite whether they are being tracked.
signals, the GPS Page shows the status as “Acquiring Satellites.” As the receiver locks onto satellites, a signal strength bar appears
It can take a few minutes to acquire satellites and show your current for each satellite in view, with the appropriate satellite number
location on the map. Be patient as the unit acquires satellite data. underneath each bar. The numbers shown below each bar represent
To get signals more quickly, be sure the antenna is raised to the up the particular satellite that is being received. Numbers above 33
position shown in the image on page 1. indicate WAAS satellites.
The sky view shows a birds-eye view of the location of each satellite
relative to the receiver’s last known location. The outer circle
represents the horizon (north up), the inner circle represents 45º
above the horizon, and the center point represents a location directly
overhead. You can also set the sky view to a Track Up configuration,
causing the top of the sky view to align along your current track
heading.
GPS Page A power source indicator shows the unit is operating off battery
power ( ), that the unit is charging ( ), or that an
Note: While acquiring satellites, the Map Page can show the external power source is in use ( ).
wrong location, such as China. This does not mean your unit
has the wrong data loaded. The GPS receiver needs a few more
minutes to acquire satellites and find your current location.
Signal Receiver • Searching the Sky—the receiver is looking for satellites.

strength status field
bars
• AutoLocate—the receiver is looking for any satellite whose
almanac has been collected, which can take up to 5 minutes.
• Acquiring Satellites—the receiver is looking for and collecting
Sky view
Power data from satellites visible at its last known or initialized
source location, but has not acquired a fix.
indicator
• 2D GPS Location—At least three satellites have been acquired
GPS Page and a two-dimensional location fix has been calculated. “2D
Differential” appears when you are receiving DGPS corrections
The progress of satellite acquisition is shown in three stages:
in 2D mode and a “D” appears on the strength bar of satellites
• No signal strength bars—the receiver is looking for the being corrected.
satellites indicated. • 3D GPS Location—At least four satellites have been
• White signal strength bars—the receiver has found the satellite acquired and a three-dimensional fix has been calculated. “3D
and is collecting data. Differential” appears when you are receiving DGPS corrections
• Green signal strength bars—the receiver has collected the in 3D mode and a “D” appears on the strength bar of satellites
necessary data from this satellite. being corrected.
As soon as the GPSMAP 496 has collected the necessary data from • Lost Satellite Reception—the receiver is no longer tracking
the best satellites in view to calculate a fix, the status field indicates enough satellites for a 2D or 3D fix.
the status of the receiver. The unit then updates the location, date, • Receiver Not Usable—the receiver is unusable, possibly due to
and time. interference or abnormal satellite conditions. Turn the unit off
and back on to reset.
Receiver Status
• Simulating GPS—the receiver is in Simulator Mode.
The Receiver Status field shows one of the following conditions:
• GPS Off—the GPS receiver is turned off.
GPS Tab Options GPS Tips

Press MENU two times to open the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER While the receiver is gathering information, your location on the
to highlight GPS. Press MENU to open the options menu: map can show as different from where you actually are located. Be
patient; as soon as the receiver gathers enough satellite information,
your proper location is shown on the map.
Any time you have traveled more than 600 miles with the GPS
receiver turned off, the receiver can take longer than normal to
initialize and find your location.
The GPS receiver can lose satellite signals due to interference from
such items as buildings, tunnels, and heavy tree cover. Monitoring
GPS Tab Options Menu the GPS status is recommended.
To learn about GPS, see page page 163.
Start/Stop Simulator—starts and stops Simulator Mode, which is
helpful when learning how to use your unit.
Enable WAAS—enables WAAS capability. Refer to page 164 for
more information about WAAS.
Track/North Up Skyview—orients the sky view page on the GPS
tab to north up or track up.
New Altitude—allows you to manually enter your altitude.
New Location—allows you to enter a new location automatically
or using the map. When in Aviation Mode, you can enter the airport
identifier.
Getting Started > Learning about the Keypad
Learning About the Keypad

PAGE/MODE Key IN/OUT Keys
• Press to cycle through the main pages in sequence •P
ress to zoom in or out on the Map Page.
and return the screen from a submenu page. ROCKER Keypad
• Press and hold to switch between Aviation, Marine, •P
ress up, down, right or left to move through
and Automotive Modes. lists, highlight fields, on-screen buttons and
QUIT Key icons, enter data, or move the map pointer.
• Press to cycle through the main pages in reverse NRST/FIND Key
sequence, revert to the previous value in a data •S
hows the nearest airports, navaids, points of
entry field, or cancel a function. communication, and airspace boundaries in
ENTER/MARK Key Aviation Mode.
• Press to select a highlighted option, initiate entry, •P
ress multiple times in Aviation Mode to show
and then confirm. the Find Menu.
• Press and hold to mark a waypoint. DIRECT TO Key
MENU/WX Key •P
ress to start a Go To using airports, navaids,
• Press to view the Options Menu for the current recently used waypoints, or user-created
page. waypoints.
• Press twice to show the Main Menu. •P
ress and hold to show additional information
for the current destination (such as
• Press and hold to toggle XM WX weather on or off
communication frequency and runway data).
on the Map Page.
•W
hile in Automotive Mode, press and hold for
POWER Key
more than one second to show the Next Turn
• Press and hold to turn the unit on or off. Page and announce the next turn.
• Press and release to adjust the backlighting and
external speaker volume.

Getting Started > Using the GPSMAP 496
Using the GPSMAP 496 Field—the location on a page where data or an option can be
This section explains how to enter and select information with the entered and shown. Select (highlight) a field using the ROCKER to
GPSMAP 496. To switch between Aviation, Marine, and Automotive begin entering data or selecting options.
Modes, press and hold PAGE. Use the ROCKER to select a mode, On-Screen Button—use the ROCKER to highlight a button and
and press ENTER. press ENTER to select the button.
Understanding Terms Scroll Bar—when viewing a list of items too long to show on
The GPSMAP 496 unit’s advanced keypad system is designed to the screen, a scroll bar appears along the right side of the list.
allow quick, convenient selection of navigation options and data The location of the scroll bar indicates which portion of the list is
entry. As you progress through this owner’s manual, you are directed currently shown. To scroll through a list, press up or down on the
to press a specific key or highlight a field on the screen. When you ROCKER.
are directed to press a key, you should press and quickly release the Default—the factory setting saved in the unit’s memory. You can
key. If the key needs to be held down for a period of time to start a change the settings as you like, but you can also revert to the factory
secondary function, the instructions tell you to do so. When a field is (default) settings when you select Restore Defaults.
selected on the screen, it is highlighted in yellow. The location of the
highlight is controlled by the ROCKER.
The following features are referred to throughout this manual:
Highlight—move the highlighted area on the screen up, down, left,
or right with the ROCKER to select individual fields. Moving the
highlight to a given location allows you to make a selection, begin
data entry, or scroll through a list.
Field On-screen
buttons
Selecting Options and Entering Data To exit a menu or return to the previous setting:
To enter data and select options, you must use the ROCKER to 1. Press QUIT to move backward through your steps.
highlight, select, or choose an item in a list or a field on the screen. 2. To return to the starting page, press QUIT repeatedly.
Use the ENTER and ROCKER keys to select options, enter names To select and start an on-screen button:
and numbers in data fields, and start your selections. 1. On a page with on-screen buttons, use the ROCKER to highlight
the on-screen button you want.
To select and start an option:
1. Press MENU on any page. An options menu appears with a list 2. Press ENTER.
of optional features for that page.
2. Use the ROCKER to move the highlight up, down, right, or left on
the menu to your selection.
On-Screen Button
Selecting an option from an options menu.

To enter data in a data field: GPSMAP 496 Databases

1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the data field you want, and press Your GPSMAP 496 comes with built-in City Navigator street and
ENTER to activate the field. points of interest mapping, AOPA Airport Directory, Jeppesen®
2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select characters. Press database, Obstacle database, Terrain database, and Voice Guidance
right to move to the next character or press left to move back database. You also should update your Jeppesen database to use the
to the previous character. If there are two lines of data, keep most current data. Refer to page 170 for more information.
pressing right to drop to the next line.
3. After entering the data, press ENTER. MapSource Detailed Maps
Optional Garmin data cards and MapSource CD-ROMs enhance the
versatility of your GPSMAP 496. With optional BlueChart g2 data,
you can access marine navaids, wrecks, obstructions, and anchorage
locations.
The included USB Interface Cable or an optional PC Interface Cable
(with a serial connector) is used to transfer MapSource CD-ROM
data to the optional data card.
Entering Data For compatible MapSource products, refer to the Garmin Web site at
www.garmin.com/cartography.
Note: To clear the entire data field, highlight the left-most
character field and press left once more on the ROCKER.
Not all fields are programmable. When you are on a page with fields
that are not selectable, the highlight skips over them.
10 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Getting Started > Simulated Basic Navigation
Simulator Mode
The GPSMAP 496 contains a Simulator Mode. Simulator Mode is
helpful for practicing with the unit indoors or when no satellite or
XM signals are available or if either antenna is not connected. All
waypoints and routes created in Simulator Mode are retained in
memory for future use. The following section describes how to use
Simulator Mode and walks you through some basic navigation using
the simulator.
To start Simulator Mode using the Setup tab:
NOTE: Do not attempt to navigate using Simulator Mode. When
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
the unit is set to Simulator Mode, the GPS receiver is turned off.
Any Satellite Signal Strength Bars shown are only simulations 2. Highlight Setup from the vertical menu.
and do not represent the strength of actual satellite signals. 3. Highlight the System sub tab.
4. Select Simulator from the System Mode field.
Starting Simulator Mode
You can start Simulator Mode from the GPS tab or the Setup tab on
the Main Menu.
To start Simulator Mode using the GPS tab:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Highlight GPS from the vertical menu.
3. Press MENU to open the GPS tab options menu.
4. Highlight Start Simulator, and press ENTER.
Setup tab System tab
GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 11

Getting Started > Simulated Basic Navigation
Entering a New Location To adjust the simulated speed, heading, and altitude from
From the GPS options menu you can enter a New Location and the Panel, Pointer, or Highway Pages:
New Altitude to simulate from. 1. Press up on the ROCKER increase the speed in
10 knot/kph/mph increments. Press down on the ROCKER to
To enter a New Location using the map: decrease the speed in the same increments.
1. Press MENU twice, and highlight GPS from the vertical menu. 2. Press left or right on the ROCKER to change heading.
2. Press MENU to open the options menu. 3. Press the IN and OUT Zoom keys to increase or decrease
3. Highlight New Location, and press ENTER. altitude (Aviation Mode only).
4. Highlight Use Map, and press ENTER.
5. Use the ROCKER to move the panning arrow to the location on
the map you want, and press ENTER.
You can also select a New Location by entering an airport identifier
(code). Select Use Identifier from the GPS tab options menu. Enter
the airport code using the ROCKER. Refer to page 14 for complete
instructions about entering airport identifiers and user waypoints.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Aviation Mode Page Sequence
Basic Operation In Aviation Mode
Aviation
Aviation Mode Page Sequence
The GPSMAP 496 offers three usage modes, Aviation Mode (default), Automotive Mode, and Marine Mode. The main pages are linked
together in a series that you can cycle through by pressing PAGE to move forward and QUIT to reverse. Each page also has an options menu
that allows you to customize each page (in all three modes) to your preferences and/or select features that specifically relate to that page. To
view the options menu for any page, press MENU.
Aviation Mode features five main pages: Map Page, Terrain Page, Panel Page, Active Route Page, Position Data Page, and an optional
XM Audio Page. The XM Audio Page must be turned on using the Main Menu (page 114). An example of each page in Aviation Mode
appears below. Each page has a specific use and is discussed later in this manual. Aviation Mode is the default mode for the GPSMAP 496.
This manual first addresses each page, such as the Map Page, as shown in Aviation Mode. The manual then describes the page as shown in
Automotive and Marine Mode.
Map Page Terrain Page Panel Page Active Route Page Position Data Page XM Audio
(Optional)
To switch usage modes:

1. Press and hold PAGE/MODE.
2. Use the ROCKER to select either Aviation, Automotive, or Marine, and press ENTER.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Creating a Direct To
Creating a Direct To To go to an airport or navaid:

In Aviation Mode, press Direct To to select a destination. When 1. Press Direct To to show the Go To Page. Use the ROCKER
Aviation
to show the Aviation tab.

a Go To or route is currently in use, holding Direct To down
briefly shows a detailed information page for the current destination. 2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select the identifier, facility
name, or city field, and press ENTER.
In Marine or Automotive Mode, pressing Direct To shows the 3. Use the ROCKER to enter the word to search for. Press up and
Navigate menu, which allows you to start navigation or edit a route. down to change the highlighted character. Press right to move to
Also, in Marine Mode, pressing Direct To twice creates a MOB the next character field. As you scroll through the characters the
waypoint and starts navigating to that point. GPSMAP 496 shows database entries with the same characters
you have entered to that point. If more than one entry exists in
Press MENU on any tab of the Go To Page to open an options menu the database for the characters you have entered, a window
for that tab. Based on the tab you selected, you can Show Details, appears. Use ENTER and the ROCKER to select the point.
Select Approach, Select Route, Find Land Points, and Remove
4. Press ENTER when the point is shown.
Point.
5. With the on-screen Go To button highlighted, press ENTER. The
Airport GPSMAP 496 creates a course from your present location to the
identifier selected destination.
Facility
name
City
Go To Page: Aviation Tab

To go to a recently-used or user-created waypoint: Viewing Details for the Destination

1. Press Direct To to show the Go To Page. Use the ROCKER The Show Details option shows detailed information for your
Aviation
to select the Recent or User tab. destination waypoint or the next waypoint in a route. This feature
is handy for retrieving airport information, such as communication
frequencies and runway information. You can view details by using
the options menu or by selecting the Show Details button on the Go
To Page, and pressing ENTER.
To view the details for the selected destination:
1. Press MENU to open the options menu. Use the ROCKER to
highlight Show Details, and press Enter.
Go To Page: Recent Tab OR
Press and hold Direct To .
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the point from the list, and press OR
ENTER. Use the ROCKER to highlight Show Details, and press ENTER.
A new screen appears showing sub tabs along the top of the
From the User tab, you can also select the top waypoint name
screen.
line and then spell out the waypoint name using the ENTER and
the ROCKER keys. 2. Use the ROCKER to select the tab to view the information.
3. Highlight the on-screen Go To button, and press ENTER. A
course is plotted from your present location to the selected
destination.

Viewing Frequency Restrictions

The Comm tab on the Airport Details Page provides a list of
Aviation
communication frequencies for that airport. Some frequencies are

noted with an asterisk (*), which indicates that the frequency has
usage restrictions. You can show the usage restriction information on
your GPSMAP 496.
To view usage restrictions for a communication frequency:
Airport Tab of Details Page 1. With the Comm tab selected, use the ROCKER to highlight any
frequency with usage restrictions (noted with an asterisk), and
3. Highlight Show Map, and press Enter to view the item on the press ENTER. A Usage Restrictions Page appears describing the
map. Press Quit when done. Highlight OK, and press Enter to restrictions for the selected frequency.
return to the Go To Page.
When viewing information for the Runway or Approach tabs, use
the ROCKER to highlight the runway designation or approach
name, and press ENTER. Then press up or down on the ROCKER
to scroll through available runways and approaches. Press ENTER
to select the runway or approach for which you would like to view
additional information.
Usage Restrictions Page
2. To return to the Comm Information Page, press ENTER.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Viewing AOPA Airport Directory Information and SafeTaxi Diagrams
Viewing AOPA Airport Directory Information Viewing SafeTaxiTM Diagrams

The AOPA Airport Directory contains airport statistics such as Garmin SafeTaxi diagrams provide detailed taxiway diagrams and
Aviation
pattern altitudes, noise abatement information, FBO phone numbers, position information on more than 650 airports in the USA. Taxi
hours of operation, local attractions, ground transportation, lodging, diagrams are integrated in the Map Page.
and services.
To view a SafeTaxi diagram:
To view the AOPA Airport Directory information: 1. Zoom in on an airport that has a taxi diagram available.
1. Select an airport using the map or the NRST/FIND key. 2. Use the ROCKER to view items on the taxi diagram.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the AOPA tab.
3. Press up and down on the ROCKER to scroll through the AOPA
Directory listings.
SafeTaxi Airport Diagram
AOPA Airport Directory Tab
AOPA Service Icon Legend

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Finding a Nearby Point
Finding a Nearby Point Aviation Nearest Categories

In Aviation Mode, press NRST/FIND to open the Nearest Pages. In Aviation Mode, the Nearest Pages contain the following
Aviation
These pages provide detailed information on the nearest airports, information:

airport weather sources, navaids, cities, and user waypoints. Airport—nearest 15; identifier, bearing, distance, length of the
In Marine and Automotive Modes, press NRST/FIND to open the longest runway, and common traffic advisory (CTAF) or tower
Find Menu. You can easily search waypoints, cities, exits, and tide frequency.
stations using the Find Menu. Wx (Airport Weather Sources)—nearest 15; airport weather
sources including AWOS, ASOS, ATIS, and current METAR data.
VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Radio Beacons)—nearest 15;
identifier, facility type (symbol), bearing, distance, and frequency.
NDB (Non Directional Beacons)—nearest 15; identifier, facility
type (symbol), bearing, distance, and frequency.
INT (Intersection)—nearest 15; identifier, bearing, and distance.
Nearest Page: Airport Tab User (Waypoints)—nearest 15; name, bearing, and distance.
While in Aviation Mode
City—nearest 15; name, bearing, and distance.
Press MENU when the Nearest Page is open to show the Nearest ARTCC (Air Route Traffic Control Center)—nearest 5; bearing,
Page options menu. You can Show Arrows (or Show Bearing) and distance, and frequency.
Set Airport Criteria.
FSS (Flight Service Station)—nearest 5; bearing, distance,
frequency, and VOR (for duplex operations).
Airspace—up to 15 (based on number of alerts provided); name,
time to entry (when applicable), and status. Viewing Details for a Nearby Point
Aviation
To view details for a nearby point:
Selecting a Nearby Point as Your Destination 1. Press Nrst to show the nearest pages. Select the sub tab.
In an emergency, you can press a few keys to have the GPSMAP 496
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the item on the list and press
guide you to the closest point to land. Enter. The corresponding information page appears.
To select a nearby point as your destination:
1. Press Nrst.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the sub tab along the top of the page.
3. Highlight the point using the ROCKER.
4. Press Direct To . The Go To Page opens for the selected
point.
OR
You can press Enter to show the Information Page (Details
Page). Information Page for a VOR
5. Press Enter when Go To is highlighted. On airport information pages, use the ROCKER to select the sub
To select the nearest airport as your destination: tabs across the top of the information pages and show the airport
1. Press NRST twice to show the Airport tab and highlight the data.
nearest airport. 3. Press Quit to return to the Nearest Pages. You can also
2. Press ENTER to view airport information. highlight any one of the on-screen buttons to perform that action,
3. Verify the Go To button is highlighted, and press ENTER. such as Show Map or Go To.

Viewing Communication Frequencies 4. Select the numbered item that you want from the list, and press
The Nearest Pages list up to five nearest flight service station Enter to show the communication information. The lowest
Aviation
(FSS) and air route traffic control center (ARTCC) points of numbers on the list are the closest communication points.
communication. The closest communication point is shown first, Viewing Airspace Alert Information
with additional points available when selected. For duplex operation, When an airspace alert appears, press NRST to automatically show
the corresponding VOR is listed (by identifier) and the transmit and nearby airspace information in the Airspace tab. This information
receive frequencies are denoted by a TX and RX respectively. includes name, time to entry (if applicable), and status. Normally,
To view additional communication frequencies: only one or two airspace alerts occur at a time, but with sectorized
1. Press NRST to open the Nearest Pages. controlled airspace, such as many Class B areas, there are more.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the ARTCC or FSS sub tab.
Status information can appear as follows:
3. Press the ROCKER down to highlight Center or Station (based Ahead—your projected course takes you inside an airspace within
on which tab you are on), and press Enter. the next 10 minutes or less.
Near—you are within two nautical miles of an airspace but not
projected to enter it.
Near & Ahead—you are within two nautical miles of an airspace
and your current course takes you inside the airspace.
Inside Airspace—you are within the boundaries of the airspace.
ARTCC Tab

Viewing Additional Airspace Information 2. Use the ROCKER to select the airspace alert entry on the page,
From the Nearest Pages, you can show additional airspace and press Enter. An information page opens to show the
Aviation
information, such as floor and ceiling limits or communication controlling agency, status, and floor/ceiling limits.
frequencies. 3. To show a communication frequency for the airspace, select the
Frequencies button, and press Enter.
To view additional airspace information: To return to the Nearest Pages, select the OK button, and press
1. When an airspace alert appears, press Nrst to show the Enter.
Nearest Pages and the airspace information. If you are already
viewing the Nearest Pages, use the ROCKER to select the Note: When an airspace alert appears, press NRST to
Airspace tab. automatically show nearest airspace information. Press NRST
a second time to quickly show the nearest airports list. Press
NRST a third time to show the Find Menu.
Nearest Pages: Airspace Tab

Setting Airport Criteria 3. Select Set Airport Criteria, and then press Enter. A window
From the Nearest Airport tab, an options window allows you to appears with the current settings for runway surface and
Aviation
filter out airports that do not meet a defined criteria. This allows you minimum runway length.
to only show airports with a surface type and runway length you
want. You can also select the Include Private Airports and Include
Heliports check boxes to include private airports and heliports in
the Nearest Airport tab.
Runway Surface—allows you to set criteria for the type of surface
on the runway:
• Any—shows any runway, regardless of surface type, including
Airport Criteria Page
water landing facilities.
• Hard Only—shows only runways with a concrete, asphalt, or 4. With the runway surface field highlighted, press Enter. Select
similar sealed surface. the surface type, and press Enter.
• Hard or Soft—shows all runways except water landing facilities. 5. Highlight the minimum runway length field, and press Enter.
• Water Only—shows only water landing facilities. 6. Use the ROCKER to enter the minimum acceptable runway
length. Press Enter.
Minimum Runway Length—allows you to enter a specific length
for the shortest runway allowed. Note: Use caution when changing the nearest airport criteria.
In an emergency, a short runway is still typically preferable to an
To enter airport criteria: off-field landing. If you set the runway length too low or exclude
1. Press Nrst, and open the Airport tab. many runway surfaces, you may not be alerted to a nearby
2. Press Menu to show the options menu. airport that otherwise would be listed.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Selecting an Approach
Selecting an Approach To select an approach for the destination airport:

1. Press Direct To to show the Go To Page. Select the
Aviation
Caution: The approaches provided in the Jeppesen database
destination you want to travel to.
are for monitoring purposes only. The GPSMAP 496 is not an
IFR-approved instrument and should not be used as a primary 2. Press Menu to open the options menu. Highlight Select
source of navigation guidance in instrument conditions. Approach, and press Enter.
3. Use the ROCKER to select the approach from the window, and
When you select an approach, it replaces the destination airport with press Enter. A Vectors? window appears. See the following
the sequence of waypoints for the selected approach. Keep in mind page for more information on vectors.
that the airport must have a published approach (GPS, RNAV, VOR,
NDB, localizer, or ILS) and only the final course segment (usually
from final approach fix to missed approach point) of the published
approach is available in the GPSMAP 496.
Note: When using a route, the selected approach for the
destination airport overrides your current route. The original
route is saved in the Route tab.
You can select an approach several ways: Selecting an Approach
• Press Direct To and press Menu on the Go To Page, as 4. Use the ROCKER to select Yes or No, and press Enter. The
described in the steps to the right. GPSMAP 496 removes the destination airport from the Go To
• From the Active Go To (or Active Route) Page, press Menu. and replaces it with the approach waypoints.
• From the Airport Details Page, select the Approach tab.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Selecting an Approach
Understanding Vectors If No is selected for the Vectors? option, the GPSMAP 496 creates
The Vectors? option, which appears after you select an approach, a straight-line course directly to the first waypoint in the approach
Aviation
determines how you navigate to the final approach waypoint. (from wherever you are when you initiate the approach). This works
much like any other route with course guidance from point to point.
If you select Yes, the GPSMAP 496 creates an extension of the final
A turn usually required as you cross each waypoint.
course, beyond the final approach waypoint in the database (final
approach fix [FAF]). On the Active Route Page, a Vector to Final Caution: Steep Turns are not allowed on an IFR (Instrument
symbol appears beside the first approach waypoint. Flight Rules) approach. Follow the approach plate or air traffic
control instructions to complete the approach without a steep
turn.
If air traffic control clears your approach to an airport, loading the

approach cancels your Direct To and initiates a route to the FAF.
Load the approach only when cleared by air traffic control.
To cancel the vectors and/or approach:
1. Press Direct To , and press Menu on the Go To Page.
Active Approach Page OR
Using vectors in the approach From the Active Go To (or Active Route) Page, press Menu.
2. Highlight Cancel Approach, and press Enter to cancel
The GPSMAP 496 provides no guidance to the inbound course. the entire approach. If you enabled Vectors, highlight Cancel
The course deviation needle on the graphic HSI remains off-center Vectors, and press Enter to navigate directly to the FAF.
until you are established on this final approach course. The HSI
automatically slews (rotates to show the direction) to the inbound
course. The Map Page shows an extension of the final approach
course using a bold magenta line.
Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Finding Points on Land
Finding Points on Land

To take full advantage of the trip-planning capabilities of the
Aviation
GPSMAP 496, you can find points on the land and then create a
turn-by-turn route (auto-route) to that point. For example, you can
find a restaurant to eat dinner at when you land.
To Find Land Points:
1. Press Direct To to show the Go To Page.
Find Menu
2. Press Menu to open the options menu.
4. Press Menu to select the search method. For example, if you
want to find a land point near you destination, select Near
Destination, and press Enter.
5. Highlight the find menu icon for the category, and press Enter.
6. Enter the necessary information, such as the restaurant name
and press enter. Refer to page 58 for complete information.
7. Select Save to save the location as a waypoint to use later when
creating a route. Select Show Map to show the location on the
Go To Page Options Menu
map, or select OK to return to the search results list.
3. Highlight Find Land Points, and press Enter. The Find Menu
opens.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Marking a Waypoint
Marking a Waypoint To mark a selected location as a waypoint:

Waypoints are locations or landmarks you record and store in your 1. Press Page to open the Map Page.
Aviation
GPSMAP 496. Press the Enter/Mark to capture your present 2. Use the ROCKER to move the arrow to the location you want to
location to create a new waypoint. You must have a valid 2D or 3D save as a waypoint.
satellite fix to mark your location. Press Menu twice and open the 3. Quickly press and release Enter/Mark to open the
GPS tab to view your satellite receiver status. Information Page for the map item.
For more information about editing waypoints, see the “Editing and
Managing Waypoints” section beginning on page 78.
To mark your present location:
1. Press and hold Enter/Mark until the Mark Waypoint Page
appears.
2. To accept the waypoint with the default name (“Waypoint”), use
the ROCKER to highlight OK, and press Enter.
Saving the Selected Item as a Waypoint
4. To save the waypoint, use the ROCKER to highlight Save, and

press Enter.
5. To accept the waypoint with the default name, highlight OK, and
press Enter.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Creating a Flight Plan (Route)
Creating a Flight Plan (Route) 6. Highlight the point in the list. Highlight OK, and press Enter.
You can create a Flight Plan (or route) using the Route Page in the The selected point is added to the route.
Aviation
Main Menu. The Route is then saved for future use. You can also
create a route using the Active Route Page for immediate use. For Highlight a
more information, refer to “Creating Routes” beginning on page 61 blank line
and press
and “Editing and Managing Routes” beginning on page 74.
ENTER to
Note: After you perform an update to your Jeppesen Database, continue adding
waypoints.
verify that all of your flight plans in your unit are still current.
If there is an obsolete Jeppesen aviation point in a saved route,
the route is locked and unusable. You need to create a new route
with current Jeppesen database points. 7. Continue steps 4 through 6 until all points are added to the route.
The route is automatically saved to the unit’s memory.
To create a route:
To navigate a saved route:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Routes, and press Enter.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Routes, and press Enter.
3. Press Menu to show the options menu. Use the ROCKER to
3. Highlight the route you want to take from the list, and press
highlight New Route, and press Enter, or highlight the first
Menu.
blank line, and press Enter.
4. Highlight Activate Route, and press Enter.
4. Press Menu to show the options menu. Use the ROCKER to
highlight Add Waypoint, and press Enter. You can also create a flight plan to use at a later time. For more
OR information, refer to “Creating Routes” beginning on page 61 and
Highlight the first blank line, and press Enter. “Editing and Managing Routes” beginning on page 74.
5. The Aviation Find Page (Go To Page) opens allowing you to
select an aviation point. Enter the ID, Facility name, or city.

Basic Operation in Aviation Mode > Following your Flight Plan
Following your Flight Plan Terrain and Obstacle Changes

When you have created and started your flight plan (or route), the Press Page to open the Terrain Page, and watch the changes in the
Aviation
GPSMAP 496 guides you to the destination using a variety of tools. terrain and the obstacles you are flying over with the Terrain Page.
Terrain and obstacles that are less than 100 feet from your aircraft
Note: After you perform an update to your Jeppesen database, are shown in red. For complete information, see page 37.
verify that all of your flight plans (routes) in your unit are still
current. If there is an obsolete Jeppesen aviation point in a saved View the HSI on the Panel Page
route, the route is locked and unusable. You need to create a new You can use the Panel Page to view the HSI, your bearing to the
route with current Jeppesen database points.
course, and other information such as speed, altitude, and ETA. Use
the compass in the center of the page to determine if you are on the
Track Your Progress on the Map Page proper course. Also, you can help keep the aircraft within the VNAV
On the Map Page, your current location is shown as an airplane
profile when viewing the VNAV indicator. For complete information
(when in Aviation Mode). You can see how the airplane moves
about the Panel Page, see pages 40–43.
across the map; this is a graphic view of your flight. Your route is
marked with a magenta line. The airplane should be on top of the Alerts
magenta line as you move. When you are on the magenta line, you As you travel, a variety of alerts appear on your current page, such
are directly on course. For complete information about the Map as Airspace, Terrain, Obstacle, and Descent Rate Alerts. When
Page and the features of the Map Page, see pages 29–36. an Airspace Alert pops up, press NRST to view the Airspace
Note: In Aviation (and Marine) Mode, the Go To line and
Information. When a Terrain or Obstacle alert pops up, press PAGE
navigation guidance are fixed. The From point is the location or NRST to open the Terrain Page. From here you can view any
where the Go To was initiated. In Automotive Mode, the Go To terrain and obstacles that might become a problem to you. Possible
line on the map is constantly updated to your present location. points-of-impact are shown as Xs. Adjust your altitude to avoid the
obstacles and terrain.

Aviation Mode Pages > Map Page
Aviation Mode Pages In Aviation Mode, by default, four user-selectable data fields appear
in the corners of the screen that can be configured to show any one
Aviation
This section discusses the major pages, such as the Map and Terrain of the several data options. You can also change the layout of the
Pages, as well as some additional aviation features, such as E6B. map and data fields. See page 34 for information.
Map Page Compass Arc
The GPSMAP 496 features a real-time moving map that can do Data field
much more than just plot your course. The Map Page shows map
Airports
information (digital cartography) that includes airspace boundaries, Map
airports, navaids, lakes, rivers, coastlines, cities, and highways. zoom range
Current
Dedicated zoom keys (In and Out) are provided for range location
adjustments.
Two basic map operating modes, location mode and pan mode, Map Page (Aviation Mode)
determine what cartography is shown on the Map Page. Location
A navigation arc (Horizontal Situation Indicator, or HSI) appears
mode pans the map to keep your present location in the screen area.
by default on the Map Page. The arc works like the compass on the
The location marker (icon) that shows your travel on the Map Page
Panel Page, indicating the course and your deviation left or right of
is an aircraft symbol in Aviation Mode and a triangle symbol
this course. If the route line and magenta arrow are heading straight
in Marine and Automotive modes. The GPSMAP 496 always
up, you are heading directly to your destination.
turns on in location mode, with the last known location centered on
the map. When you press the ROCKER, the GPSMAP 496 enters Note: The navigation arc only shows up in Aviation Mode
pan mode, which moves the map to keep the white arrow (map when the Map Page is set to Track Up. See page 34.
pointer) within the screen area.

Map Orientation Map coverage conforms to the following conditions:

There are three map orientation options: North Up orients the map
Aviation
• Cartography is shown when the selected zoom range is covered

like a paper map, Track Up orients the map in the direction of travel, by either the internal map data or other MapSource data loaded
and Course Up orients the map in the direction of the destination. onto a data card.
When using Track Up or Course Up, the North arrow indicates the
orientation. To change the map orientation, press PAGE to open the • When the selected zoom range is covered by both the internal
Map Page. Press Menu. Select Set up Map, and press Enter. map data and data card map information, the cartography with
Refer to page 34 for information. the best resolution is shown.
• When the selected zoom range exceeds the resolution of the data
Selecting Map Ranges in use, “overzoom” appears below the map range detail of the
The Map Page has 28 available range scales from 20 ft to 800 nm built-in City Navigator map data.
(20 ft to 800 mi or 5 m to 1200 km). The map range is controlled by
the In and Out keys, with the current range shown at the bottom
right of the data window. Using the built-in City Navigator maps.
Note: The range value represents the distance between the
• When internal City Navigator map data is used, “detail map”
ends of the range bar ( ).
appears below the map range.
To select a map zoom range (zoom in and out):
• Press the Out key to zoom out.
• Press the In key to zoom in. Using the built-in City Navigator maps.
The system has a built-in City Navigator street mapping data.
Detailed marine chart coverage is available through the use of the
BlueChart, or MapSource software.

Panning the Map arrow stays centered on the screen. When the arrow is stationary,
The panning arrow allows you to pan the map to show other map fixed coordinates appear in the location field, and the distance and
Aviation
areas. As you pan past the edge of the current map, the screen moves bearing from your present location update as you move.
to provide continuous map coverage.
To re-center your location on-screen:
To pan the map: 1. When you are finished panning the Map, press Quit.
Press up, down, right, or left on the ROCKER. The panning 2. The map automatically moves to show your present location, and
arrow moves the map so you can view different parts of the map. the unit returns to location mode.
Panning Arrow The arrow can also be used to select on-screen map items, allowing
data window: you to review a selected item directly from the map screen.
Shows the distance
AOPA Airport
and bearing from To view details about an on-screen point:
Directory 1. Use the ROCKER to move the arrow to the waypoint or map item
your present
service icons you want. If there are several items grouped closely together,
location, feature’s
Map feature elevation, time to zoom in closer for a better view.
highlighted the feature, and When a waypoint or map item is selected, it is highlighted on
arrow’s location screen with the name and location shown at the top of the
coordinates. screen, along with the distance and bearing from your current
Panning the Map location, as shown in the image to the left.
2. Press Enter to view more information about the point. The
information and on-screen buttons shown vary based on the
type of item selected. In some cases, additional information tabs
AOPA Service Icon Legend appear at the top of the Information Page or Waypoint Page.
3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the extra tabs and view the
As you move the arrow, the distance and bearing from your present information.
location to the arrow is shown in the data window, along with the 4. Select an on-screen button, and press Enter.
arrow’s location coordinates. When you zoom in pan mode, the 5. Press Quit to exit the Information Page.
Airspace Information
Pan mode can also be used to retrieve information on airspaces
Aviation
depicted on the map.

Highlighted
airspace area
Information box
with airspace
name, type,
Airport Information Page and floor/ceiling
limits
Smart Airspace
Smart Airspace shows airspace at and immediately surrounding your
Airspace Information
current altitude in bold. Airspaces at all other altitudes are de-emphasized.
To retrieve airspace information from the Map Page:

1. Use the ROCKER to select an area within the airspace boundary.
The boundary line is highlighted and the airspace type and floor/
ceiling limits are shown.
2. To show additional information, press Enter.
View communication frequencies by highlighting the
on-screen Frequencies button, and pressing Enter.
Smart Airspace on the Map Page 3. To return the to Map Page, highlight OK, and press Enter.

Clearing Unwanted Details from the Map Measuring Distance

You can remove items from the map (declutter the screen) to remove You can measure the distance and bearing between two map items.
Aviation
unwanted items, such as highways. Aviation Mode has various
To measure the bearing/distance between two points:
levels of declutter.
1. From the Map Page, press Menu to open the options menu.
To quickly declutter the map, press Enter. You can also declutter 2. Highlight the Measure Distance option, and press Enter. An
the map on the Terrain Page. on-screen arrow appears on the map at your present location
with ENT REF below it.
To declutter the Map Page:
1. From the Map Page, press Enter. Clear-1 appears under the 3. Move the arrow to the reference point (the starting point that you
map range. The background map detail—including highways, want to measure from), and press Enter. A push-pin icon marks
cities, rivers & smaller lakes—is removed from the map. the starting point on the map.
2. Press Enter again. Airspace boundary detail is removed from Push pin End point of
the map. Clear-2 appears below the map range. indicating the measurement,
beginning labeled “ENT
3. Press Enter again. Only the waypoints and navaids that are point of the REF”
part of the current Go To or route appear on the map. Clear-3 measurement
appears below the map range.
4. In Aviation Mode, press Enter again to return ALL detail to the
map.
In Marine and Automotive Modes, press Menu, highlight Measure Distance
Declutter On or Declutter Off, and press Enter.
4. Move the arrow to the point want to measure to. The bearing and
distance from the reference point and arrow coordinates appear
in the data window at the top of the screen.
5. Press Quit to finish.

Setting the Bug Indicator Setting Up the Map Page

You can set a bug indicator to show bearing or course to steer. You The Map Page Setup allows you to adjust the way items appear on
Aviation
can also enter a specific heading reference for the indicator. the Map Page.
To set the Bug Indicator: To change a map setup option:
1. From the Map Page, press Menu to open the options menu. 1. From the Map Page, press Menu to open the options menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Set Bug Indicator and press 2. Highlight Set up Map, and press Enter.
Enter. 3. Press left or right on the ROCKER to highlight the tab, then up
3. A list of Bug Indicator options appears. By default, the bug or down on the ROCKER to highlight to the field you want to
indicator shows Bearing (BRG) to waypoint, but can also show change, and press Enter.
the Course to Steer (CTS) or can be User Selected. The User
Selected option allows you to mark a heading reference on the
graphic HSI. This provides a visual cue of an important heading
for current or future use. You can also turn the Bug Indicator off
here.
4. Highlight the option from the list, and press Enter.
You can also set the Bug Indicator on the HSI shown on the Panel
Page. Open the Panel Page and press Menu. Follow steps 2
through 4 above. General Tab of the Map Page Setup
4. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight to the setting, and

press Enter to select the new setting.
5. Press page or Quit to exit.

Changing the Page Layout and Data Fields To change a data field:
To customize the pages to show what you want, adjust the page 1. Press Page to show the page you want to change.
Aviation
layout and data fields. 2. Press Menu to open the options menu.
3. Highlight Change Data Fields, and press Enter
You can adjust how the following pages look on the screen: Map,
Terrain, Panel, Compass, Highway, Location Data, Trip Computer, 4. Move the field highlight to the data field you want to change, and
and optional Sonar Page. You can adjust the data fields on many of press Enter.
these pages as well. 5. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight the data you want
to show, and press Enter.
To set up the page layout: 6. To return the field to the default setting, press Menu and then
1. Press Page to show the page you want to change. Enter.
2. Press Menu to open the options menu. 7. Press Quit to exit.
3. Highlight Set up Page Layout, and press Enter.
Changing a Data Field

Changing the layout of the Map Page
4. Select the option you want, and press Enter. The options vary
between the three usage modes and the page you are setting up.

Additional Map Data 3. The first page shows the Map Families that are stored on the
You can view the data that is currently loaded on your GPSMAP 496 data card and whether they are shown on the Map Page.
Aviation
unit and data card. To change the setting for a Map Family, highlight the box next to
the Map Family name, and press Enter to select (check mark)
To review or change data card information: or deselect (no check mark) the Show setting.
1. Access the Map Page, and press Menu.
4. To view the list of maps within a Map Family, highlight the name
2. From the options menu, highlight Map Information, and press of the Map Family, and press Enter.
Enter.
5. To view detailed information about an individual map, highlight
the Map Name, and press Enter. Highlight OK, and press
Map Family
Enter to exit the map information page.
highlighted.
Press ENTER 6. To select or deselect individual maps, highlight the box next to a
to view the map, and press Enter to check or uncheck the Show box.
individual maps OR
in the family. Press Menu, and select one of the options (Show All, Hide All,
or Show Defaults), and press Enter.
7. Press Quit to exit the Map Information Page.
Map Card Information Page

Aviation Mode Pages > Terrain Page
Terrain Page Obstacle Information

The Terrain Page, available only in Aviation Mode, provides an Obstacles are shown on the Terrain Page at or below the map range
Aviation
overhead view of the terrain and obstacles beneath you. Alert of 12 nm. Obstacles are also shown on the Map Page when the map
windows appear on all pages to inform you of your proximity to the range is set to 3 nm or below.
terrain and obstacles, as well as an unsafe descent rate. These alerts Standard aeronautical chart symbols are used for lighted or unlighted
depend on user-defined parameters in the Terrain setup. obstacles taller than 200 feet Above Ground Level (AGL). Refer to
Red Terrain the Obstacle Icons legend below.
area: terrain Yellow Terrain
within 100 feet area: terrain Lighted Obstacle 1000 ft AGL and higher.
of aircraft between 100
and 1000 feet of Unlighted Obstacle 1000 ft AGL and higher.
Elevation the aircraft
Scale Lighted Obstacle below 1000 ft AGL.
Lighted Unlighted Unlighted Obstacle below 1000 ft AGL.
obstacle obstacle
Terrain Page Obstacle Icons
Terrain Information Each obstacle is labeled with the altitude of the top of the obstacle,
The areas of the terrain shaded red are predicted to be within or Mean Sea Level (MSL). Each obstacle also lists, in parentheses,
100 feet below or above the aircraft. The yellow terrain areas are the actual height of the obstacle, or Above Ground Level (AGL).
between the user-defined Caution Elevation and 100 feet below the
Terrain and Obstacle Color Code
aircraft. By default, the Caution Elevation is 1,000 feet; therefore,
Red—terrain or obstacle is within 100 feet of the aircraft.
the areas in yellow are between 1,000 feet and 100 feet below the
aircraft. The black areas are further than the Caution Elevation. A Yellow—terrain or obstacle is between the user-defined Caution
projected point of impact is marked with an “X” symbol. Elevation and 100 feet below the aircraft.
Alerts Additional Terrain Page Options

If you are on another page of the GPSMAP 496 unit, Terrain, Access the Terrain Page options menu by pressing Menu while
Aviation
Obstacle, and Descent Rate Alerts show in the lower-left corner to you are on the Terrain Page.
inform you of the situation. The alert remains on the screen until
the flight path has cleared the obstacle or terrain, or until you press
Quit.
Terrain Page Options Menu
• Press Enter to quickly declutter the map, just as you would on

Obstacle Warning the Map Page. See page 33.
Shown on the Panel Page • To quickly disable alerts, highlight Disable Alerts and press
Enter. Repeat to enable alerts again.
• You can pan the map and zoom in and out using the same
techniques you use on the Map Page. See page 30.
• You can change the layout of the Terrain Page. Refer to
page 37. Also, refer to page 174, for information about the data
fields.

Setting Up the Terrain Page and Alerts To set up the Terrain Page:
Use the Terrain Setup Page to set levels for terrain alerts as well as 1. On the Terrain Page, press Menu to access the Terrain Page
Aviation
obstacles in or near your flight path. options menu.
2. Select Set up Terrain, and press Enter.
Caution Elevation
Select the Caution Elevation. If the terrain or an obstacle is within
the Caution Elevation you entered, the GPSMAP 496 provides an
alert.
Look Ahead Time

The Look Ahead Time for Terrain and Obstacle Alerts determines
the time when an alert annunciation occurs. For example, if
120 seconds is selected, the GPSMAP 496 provides an alert up to Terrain Setup Page
120 seconds before you reach the terrain or obstacle.
3. Make the adjustments to the Terrain Setup Use the ROCKER to
Alert Sensitivity select options, and press Enter. Select an option, and press
The three Alert Sensitivity settings (Terrain, Obstacle, and Enter.
Descent Rate) determines what level of alerts are annunciated. The 4. Press page or Quit to accept the changes and exit the Set up
GPSMAP 496 defaults to High sensitivity, which annunciates all Terrain Page.
red and yellow alerts at the time set in Look Ahead Time. Medium
sensitivity annunciates all of the red and the highest priority of
yellow alerts, and Low only annunciates red alerts.

Aviation Mode Pages > Panel Page
Panel Page The graphic HSI depicts the course to the destination or the next
The Panel Page shows GPS-derived data in a graphical format, waypoint in a route, current ground track, off course error, and a
Aviation
similar to an instrument panel. Keep in mind the differences between To/From indication. The rotating compass indicates your current
this page and your mechanical instruments, as your mechanical ground track at the top of the page.
panel instruments use sensors that provide information different The course pointer and course deviation needle indicate the course
from that derived using GPS. The Panel Page appears only when the and whether you are on the course. A bug indicator provides
GPSMAP 496 is in Aviation Mode. information to guide you back to the course if you stray off course.
The Panel Page shows a graphic Horizontal Situation Indicator If you move off course, the Course Deviation Indicator, or needle,
(HSI) surrounded by additional indicators. indicates how far off course you are, left or right, based on its
Next waypoint HSI showing placement along the course deviation scale. To get back on course
and distance Course and center the needle, steer toward the needle.
to it Deviation
Indicator (CDI) The course deviation scale setting is adjustable for Auto, ±0.25, 1.25
Ground speed or 5.0 (nautical mile, statute mile, or kilometer) full-scale deflection.
Turn rate Altitude The course deviation scale appears on the lower right corner of
indicator the HSI. The default setting is Auto, which uses three factors to
Vertical speed
Estimated determine the distance from the center of the CDI to full left or right
time enroute CDI scale
Panel Page
limits:
• When you are within 30 nm of any airport in the active route,
Auto sets the CDI scale at 1.25.
• When you are on an approach leg or within 2 nm of the FAF or
MAP waypoints, Auto sets the scale at 0.25.
• If the previous two conditions do not exist, Auto sets to 5.0.
Setting Up the Panel Page Manually Setting a Course

You can set the bug indicator and change the CDI scale to suit your Use the Set OBS and Hold option to manually set your course to
Aviation
needs. the destination.
To set a user-defined bug heading reference: To manually set a course to the destination waypoint:
1. When the Panel Page appears, press Menu to show the Panel 1. With the Panel Page shown, press Menu to show the Panel
Page options menu. Page options menu.
2. Highlight Set Bug Indicator, and press Enter. 2. Highlight Set OBS and Hold, and press Enter. An OBS data
3. Highlight User Selected, and press Enter. A window appears field appears on the screen. Keep in mind that you must have a
at the center of the HSI, showing the current bug indicator destination waypoint selected.
setting. 3. Select the OBS course by pressing the ROCKER left and right.
4. Select the heading reference by pressing left or right on the Press Enter. The course deviation needle and course pointer
ROCKER. Press Enter. The bug indicator remains fixed on the now provide steering guidance to the selected course.
selected heading until a new bug heading is chosen. To release the waypoint hold and return to automatic sequencing
of route waypoints, press Menu. Highlight Release Hold, and
To change the CDI scale:
press Enter.
1. With the Panel Page shown, press Menu to show the Panel
Page options menu. To cancel the OBS course and reset a direct course to the
waypoint, press Direct To , highlight Resume Route, and
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Set CDI Scale, and press Enter.
press Enter to re-start the route.
A window appears at the center of the HSI, showing the scale
settings. The current setting is highlighted.
3. Use the ROCKER to select the scale, and press Enter.

VNAV (Vertical Navigation)

The VNAV sub tab in the Main Menu provides settings for the
Aviation
VN
vertical navigation feature. These settings create a three-dimensional
AV
Pr
of
ile
profile that guides you from your present location and altitude to a
final (target) altitude at a specified location. Distance to Profile
Glid
eR
When the VNAV profile is defined, message alerts help keep you atio
to T
arg
et
informed of your progress. The teal bar on the HSI on the Panel
Page shows your VNAV profile. Target Altitude
To use the vertical navigation feature, your ground speed must be Distance to Target Airport
greater than 35 knots and you must be navigating a Go To or a route. Visual representation of VNAV
The “Approaching VNAV Profile” message appears one minute

prior to the initial descent point. The descent angle locks to prevent Using the VNAV Feature
changes in speed from altering the profile. The VNAV feature does Use the VNAV (Vertical Navigation) feature to ensure that you are
not take into account any changes in groundspeed that occur during flying at the proper altitude. The VNAV Indicator appears on the
the transition from level flight to descent or climb. HSI (Panel Page) as a horizontal teal bar, as shown in the image on
the next page. A message appears when you are approaching the
At 500 ft above the target altitude, the “Approaching Target VNAV Profile. When the bar is in the vertical center of the HSI, you
Altitude” message appears, the time to vertical navigation goes are at the proper altitude for the VNAV Profile. Make sure VNAV
blank, and the VNAV indicator disappears from the Panel Page. Indicator is On in the options menu. From the Panel Page, press
Caution: The GPSMAP 496 is a VFR navigation tool and Menu to open the options menu. Select Capture VNAV Profile,
should not be used to perform instrument approaches. VNAV and press Enter to center or re-center the VNAV indicator on
is only a VFR navigation aid and is not intended for instrument the graphic HSI. You must have entered a valid vertical navigation
approaches. profile and be navigating.

The VNAV
Waypoint
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automatically
VNAV changes to
Indicator your destination
after you begin
navigating to a
destination.
Panel Page Showing the VNAV Indicator
VNAV Setup Tab
VNAV indicators also appear on the Map Page when the page layout Target Altitude—enter the altitude you want to be at when you
is set to Map With Overlay. You are at the proper altitude for the reach your target location. Select Above Waypoint to use field
VNAV profile when the blue bars are centered within the VNAV elevation for airports in the Jeppesen database or Above MSL to
indicators. specify an exact MSL altitude target.
By—defines the target location with settings of distance Before or
After a reference waypoint (the final destination airport). To set a
target location at a reference waypoint, enter a distance of zero.
VNAV VNAV Waypoint—allows you to select any waypoint along the

Indicator currently active route (or Go To) as your reference waypoint. The
reference waypoint defines the target location.
Map Page Showing the VNAV Indicator
VNAV Profile—allows you to select the descent rate.
Setting up VNAV
VNAV Messages—enables and disables VNAV alert messages.
To open the VNAV tab, press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then select VNAV from the
row of tabs along the top of the page.
Aviation Mode Pages > Active Route Page
Active Route Page Active Route Page Options

Whenever you start a route (flight plan) or initiate a Go To while Press Menu while on the Active Route Page to open the options
Aviation
in Aviation or Marine Mode, the Active Route Page shows each menu. You can edit the route using many of the options in the menu
point (waypoint or map item) of the active route, with the point such as Edit on Map (see page 77 for information), Add Waypoint,
name, Course, Distance, and several other fields of information. The and Invert. You can also change the data fields to suit your needs.
current destination point, the active point, is marked with an arrow. You can also select an approach for your landing and set your fuel
As you navigate a route, the list automatically updates to indicate the flow (or plan your route, based on your current Usage Mode):
active point first. The Active Route and Route Review Pages share
many of the same features and options. Select Approach—(Aviation Only) allows you to select the
final course segment of a published approach, replacing the
Press Page repeatedly to open the Active Route Page. final destination airport in a Go To or route with the sequence of
waypoints for the selected approach. The approaches provide only
the final course segment, usually from final approach fix (FAF)
to missed approach point (MAP), and are based on existing GPS,
RNAV, VOR, NDB, localizer, or ILS approach procedures. All
approach procedures are flown as a sequence of waypoints in the
route. To select an approach and add the waypoints to the route,
the final destination in the Go To or route must be an airport with a
published approach.
Active Route Page
Set Fuel Flow (Plan Route)—allows you to enter information about
Note: If you have created a route (Flight Plan) with a Jeppesen your aircraft and route.
point that is no longer current after you perform an update to
your Jeppesen database, the route is locked. You need to create a
new route with current Jeppesen database points.

Aviation Mode Pages > Position Data Page
Position Data Page Position Data Page Options

The Position Data Page provides a quick reference for the important With the Position Data Page open, press Menu to open the options
Aviation
data you want to show while navigating a route in Aviation and menu. You can set up the layout of the page and change the data
Marine Modes. The default page shows a compass ribbon, your fields. For an explanation of the data fields, refer to page 174. You
current latitude and longitude, the current date and time, the location can also select one of the following options:
you are in reference to the nearest landmark, and eight user- Change Nearest Type—allows you to specify the type of item to
selectable data fields. The compass ribbon is shown at the top of the be used as the nearest item (shown in the lower-left data field). The
page to show your current heading with a red, vertical bar. To stay choices differ based on the Usage Mode you are currently using.
on course, steer toward the violet bar (or arrows) until it is aligned Choose Automatic to allow the unit to pick the appropriate type of
with the red bar. landmark for your present location.
Press Page repeatedly to open the Position Data Page. Reset Trip—clears trip information, except the maximum speed and
the odometer.
Reset Max Speed—clears the maximum speed.
Reset Odometer—clears the running total of the distance traveled
since the odometer was last reset.
Reset All—clears all trip information including the maximum speed
and odometer.
Position Data Page
Airport is selected as the Nearest Type. The Wheeler Downtown (KMKC)
airport is the nearest airport, and you are 6.3 nm S of KMKC.

Aviation Mode Pages > Flight Log
Flight Log To view details for a flight:

The Flights tab shows a list of any recorded flights, including date, 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
Aviation
route of flight, and flight time. The GPSMAP 496 saves up to 50 2. Highlight Flights from the vertical menu of tabs.
recorded flights while in Aviation Mode. Entries on this list are 3. Press Menu and select Show Hours and Minutes to view the
automatically created for each flight. flights in minutes and hours, if you prefer.
4. Highlight the flight, and press Enter. The flight details window
The bottom of the Flights tab shows the time of your last flight. This
opens, shown below.
resets if you select All Unit Defaults from the System tab options
5. With OK highlighted, press Enter to return to the Flights tab.
menu.
An optional FlightBook software package is available to further
simplify your flight record keeping. For details about FlightBook,
visit the Garmin Web site at www.garmin.com/aviation.
Viewing the Flight Log

Recording begins when your speed exceeds 30 knots and you
gain 250 feet of altitude. The Route of Flight field uses the
nearest airport as the departure airport. The destination airport is Flight Tab
continuously updated as your flight progresses. Showing the flight details page
If you land and groundspeed drops below 30 knots, the flight entry
is saved and a new entry is recorded when you depart the airport. Deleting Flight Records
A touch-and-go or brief stop of less than 10 minutes appends to the You can delete the highlighted flight record (Delete Flight) or delete
current flight record, rather than starting a new entry. all flight records from the Flight Log (Delete All). To delete flights,
press Menu (with the Flights tab information shown). Use the
Select any listed entry in the log to view additional information. ROCKER to highlight a menu option, and press Enter.

Aviation Mode Pages > Aircraft Information
Aircraft Information Cruising speed and fuel flow are used as default settings when
The Aircraft tab is divided into two sub tabs: Aircraft Profile and viewing trip planning information on the Route Review Page. The
Aviation
Weight & Balance. maximum speed is used to define the range for airspeed on the Panel
Page and is automatically updated if you exceed this figure.
To open the Aircraft tab:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. To enter an aircraft profile:
2. Highlight Aircraft from the vertical list of tabs. 1. From the Aircraft Profile tab, use the ROCKER to highlight New,
and press Enter.
3. Press the ROCKER right or left to highlight either the Aircraft
Profile tab or the Weight & Balance tab from the top of the 2. Highlight the Current Aircraft field, and press Enter.
screen. OR
Highlight the Rename button, and press Enter.
3. Use the ROCKER to enter the aircraft tail number (or other
identifying information) in the Current Aircraft field. Press
Enter when finished.
4. Use the ROCKER to enter information for the cruising and
maximum speeds for your aircraft, your aircraft’s fuel flow, and
the symbol for your aircraft.
Select a symbol for your aircraft to change the data fields on the
Aircraft Profile Tab Panel Page and the map symbol.
To select a saved aircraft profile:
Entering Your Aircraft Profile 1. From the Aircraft Profile tab, use the ROCKER to highlight the
The Aircraft Profile tab allows you to profile cruising speed, Current Aircraft field, and press Enter.
maximum speed, fuel flow, and map symbol. The unit can save up to 2. Use the ROCKER to select the aircraft profile, and press Enter.
10 aircraft profiles.

Aviation Mode Pages > Aircraft Information
To rename or delete a saved aircraft profile:

1. From the Aircraft Profile tab, use the ROCKER to highlight the
Aviation
Current Aircraft and to select the profile you want to rename.

2. Use the ROCKER to select the on-screen Rename or Delete
button, and press Enter. If Rename is selected, use the
ROCKER and Enter keys to enter a new tail number.
Calculating the Weight & Balance Weight & Balance Tab

Weight & Balance may be used during your pre-flight preparations
to verify the weight and balance conditions for your aircraft. By 4. Highlight the weight field, and press Enter.
entering the weight and arm values on this page, the GPSMAP 496 5. Use the ROCKER to enter the weight figure. Press Enter.
can calculate the total weight, moment, and center of gravity (CG) to 6. Change the weight units. Highlight lbs, and press Enter.
ensure a safe flight. OR
Select Kgs, and press Enter.
Before entering the various figures, you need to determine the 7. Highlight the corresponding arm field, and press Enter.
empty weight of the airplane and the arm (or “station”) for each 8. Use the ROCKER to enter the arm figure. Press Enter.
weight entered. These figures should be determined using the pilot’s 9. Repeat steps 4 through 8 until all figures are entered. The
operating handbook for your airplane, which also notes the weight calculated moment, weight, and CG figures appear at the bottom
limitations and fore/aft CG limits. Compare those figures to the of the page. Keep in mind that the “Aircraft” (empty weight/arm)
values calculated by the GPSMAP 496. figures must be entered as a reference to calculate a valid
moment, weight, and CG.
To perform weight and balance calculations: 10. To empty the aircraft, press Menu, select Empty Aircraft, and
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. press Enter.
2. Highlight Aircraft from the vertical list of tabs. Note: This information is only for flight planning purposes.
3. Press the ROCKER right to highlight Weight & Balance. Consult your aircraft’s pilot handbook for the official weight and
balance data.

Aviation Mode Pages > E6B Tab
E6B Tab Baro Pressure—when the unit is receiving XM weather

The E6B tab in the Main Menu calculates Density Altitude, True information, the field automatically updates to the barometric
Aviation
Airspeed, and Winds Aloft (Head Wind, Tail Wind, Wind From, and pressure of the nearest METAR. If XM weather information is not
Wind Speed), based on information you enter. available you need to enter the current barometric pressure.
To open the E6B tab of the Main Menu: Total Air Temperature—required entry for density altitude/true
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. airspeed calculation. Total Air Temperature (TAT) is the temperature
2. Highlight E6B from the vertical list of tabs. of the air including the heating effect caused by speed. The
temperature reading on a standard outside air temperature gauge
Barometric found on most piston aircraft is TAT.
pressure
Calculated from the Head Wind—(calculated figure) determined from entry of heading
figure nearest and true airspeed.
METAR
Calculated or Calculated Wind From—(calculated figure) determined from entry of heading
user-entered figures and true airspeed.
figure
Wind Speed—(calculated figure) determined from entry of heading
E6B Tab and true airspeed.
Indicated Altitude—required entry for density altitude/true airspeed True Airspeed—(calculated or user-entered figure) determined
calculation. Enter the aircraft’s altimeter reading. from entry of calibrated airspeed, barometric pressure, and total
air temperature. This can also be entered directly for winds aloft
Calibrated Airspeed—required entry for density altitude/true calculations.
airspeed calculation. Enter the aircraft’s airspeed indicator.
Density Altitude—(calculated figure) determined from entry of
Heading—required entry for winds aloft calculation. Use heading indicated altitude, barometric pressure and total air temperature.
from the aircraft’s heading indicator or directional gyro.
Aviation Mode Pages > E6B Tab
To calculate true airspeed and density altitude: To calculate winds aloft:

1. From the E6B tab, highlight the Indicated Altitude field (at the 1. Follow the steps in the previous procedure to determine true
Aviation
top of the page), and press Enter. airspeed.

2. Use the ROCKER to enter the altitude shown on your altimeter. OR
Press Enter when finished. Use the ROCKER and Enter keys to manually enter a true
airspeed figure in the True Airspeed field.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 to enter the Calibrated Airspeed,
Baro Pressure, and Total Air Temperature. (For Calibrated 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Heading field, and press
Airspeed, use the speed shown on your airspeed indicator. Enter.
Use the current altimeter setting for Baro Pressure. Total Air 3. Use the ROCKER to enter the aircraft heading shown on your
Temperature is the temperature of the outside air including directional gyro or compass. Press Enter when finished.
the heating effect caused by speed. For most aircraft, this is The calculated figures for Head Wind, Wind From, and Wind
the temperature reading on a standard outside air temperature Speed appears.
gauge.) The calculated figures for True Airspeed and Density
Altitude are shown in the designated fields. Note: If a True North reference is currently selected as the
heading reference on your GPSMAP 496, you must enter
Barometric Heading using a True North reference to determine winds
pressure accurately.
Calculated from the
figure nearest
METAR To restore defaults on the E6B tab:
1. Open the E6B tab on the Main Menu.
Calculated or Calculated
figures 2. Press Menu to open the options menu.
user-entered
figure 3. Highlight Restore Default, and press Enter.
E6B Tab

Aviation Mode Pages > XM Audio Page
XM Audio Page The XM Audio Page is divided into three panes. The first pane
Use the XM Audio Page to view and select XM Radio channels, add contains a list of XM Radio categories into which XM Radio
Aviation
channels to or remove channels from the Favorites category, and channels are grouped (Classical, Decades, Traffic, and so on). For
turn XM audio output on or off. a complete list of available categories and channels, visit the XM
Radio Web site at www.xmradio.com. Select All Channels to view
Note: You MUST have a GXM 30A or GXM 30 smart a list of all channels in numerical order. You can also view a list of
antenna connected to your GPSMAP 496 and a subscription to
your favorite channels.
XM Radio to use XM Radio features. Additionally, you must
use an optional external speaker with vehicle power cable, The middle pane shows a list of channels in the selected category.
third-party FM modulator, headphones, or another audio device Each channel has a description and the artist currently playing. You
plugged in to hear the audio. can adjust this setting to show the song title instead of the artist. The
bottom pane shows the song and artist or program name, the channel
Category name
number and name, and the strength of the XM Radio signal.
Channels Turning on the XM Audio Page
The XM Audio Page is off by default.
Channel
Artist name name To show the XM Audio Page:
Song title Signal 1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
strength 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Display tab.
Channel
indicator
number XM Audio Page 3. Highlight the XM Audio Page field, and press ENTER.
4. Select On, and press ENTER.
The XM Audio page is available in Aviation, Marine, and
Automotive Modes, but it is not shown by default in any mode. Note: Audio interference can occur while using some aviation
However, the XM tab always appears on the Main Menu, even if the audio panels and FM Modulators. Use of a Ground Loop Isolator
can eliminate this interference.
XM Audio Page is turned off.
XM Audio Page Options

Use the options menu to customize the XM Audio Page. When the
Aviation
XM Audio Page is open, press MENU to open the options menu.
XM Audio Page Field on the Display Tab
To select an XM Radio channel:

Press up or down on the ROCKER to scroll through the list XM Audio Page Options Menu
of channels, highlight the channel you want, and then press
ENTER. A triangle ( ) appears to the left of the channel currently The following options are available on the XM Audio Page options
playing. menu:
To select an XM Radio category:
Add to Favorites—enables you to add channels to the Favorites
Press the IN or OUT keys to change the category.
category. See page 53 for more information.
OR
Highlight the category field, and press ENTER. Use the Scan—enables you to scan all channels, scan by category, or scan
ROCKER to change the category. favorites. Each channel is played for five seconds before advancing
to the next channel in the list. For more information see page 54.
Display Artist (Display Song) In List—enables you to select
whether to display the artist or song title in the channel list.
Mute/Enable Audio Output—enables you to toggle XM audio
output on or off.
Using Favorites 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Favorites.

You can create a customized list of up to 30 of your XM Radio 3. Press ENTER.
Aviation
favorites.
Selected
To add a channel to Favorites: channel
1. Use the ROCKER to select a channel, or use the IN and OUT
keys to select a category, and then highlight a channel.
2. Press MENU once.
3. Highlight Add To Favorites, and press ENTER. Repeat to add
additional channels. Favorites List
You can delete a channel from the Favorites list or delete all
channels.
To delete a channel from Favorites:
1. In the Favorites category, highlight the channel you want to
delete, and press MENU.
Adding a channel to Favorites 2. Highlight Delete Favorite to delete the selected channel from
your favorites list.
To view and select Favorites with the IN and Out keys: OR
1. Press the IN and OUT keys to change the category to Favorites. Highlight Delete All Favorites to delete all channels from your
2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight the channel you Favorites list.
want to select from your list of favorites, and press ENTER. A 3. Press ENTER.
triangle appears to the left of the newly selected channel. 4. Highlight OK, and press ENTER again to confirm.
To view and select Favorites with the ROCKER:
1. Highlight the category field, and press ENTER.
Scanning XM Radio Channels Turning Audio On or Off

From the XM Audio Page, you can scan all channels, scan channels
Aviation
To turn audio on or off:

in a specific category, or scan channels in your Favorites. 1. On the XM Audio Page, press MENU.
2. Highlight Mute Audio Output on the options menu to turn off the
To scan XM Radio channels:
audio. A music note with a red slash appears in the Song pane.
1. On the XM Audio Page, press MENU.
Highlight Enable Audio Output to resume audio output.
2. Select Scan on the options menu, and press ENTER.
Audio output is off
3. Select All Channels to scan all channels.
OR
Select Category to scan only channels in the selected category.
OR
Select Favorites to scan only channels in your Favorites list.
4. Press ENTER. Each channel plays for five seconds, and then
advances to the next channel.
5. Press any key to stop scanning and select the current channel.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Automotive Mode Page Sequence
Basic Operation In Automotive Mode

1. Press and hold Page/MODE.
2. Use the ROCKER to select either Aviation, Automotive, or Marine, and press Enter.
Automotive Mode Page Sequence
Automotive
Automotive Mode features two main pages: the Map and Trip Computer Pages. Optional Highway, Compass, and XM Audio Pages can
be enabled in Automotive Mode. Two additional pages appear during active navigation while in Automotive Mode—a Current Route Page
appears if you are navigating a turn-by-turn route, and an Active Route Page appears if you are navigating “Off Road.” See “Navigating in
Automotive Mode” beginning on the next page for more information.
Map Page Compass Page Highway Page Current Route Page Trip Computer Page XM Audio Page
(Optional) (Optional) (Optional)
To add the Compass, Highway, or XM Audio Pages:

1. Press Menu twice to show the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Display tab.
2. Highlight the Highway Page, Compass Page, or XM Audio Page fields, and press Enter. Select On, and press Enter.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Navigating in Automotive Mode
Navigating in Automotive Mode To go to a highlighted map item:

Automotive Mode and Marine Mode are similar. Most of the 1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the item you would like to navigate
to on the Map Page.
features discussed here also apply to Marine Mode.
2. Press Direct To . Go To <point name> is added to the list
There are several ways to begin navigating to a point in Automotive of options and automatically highlighted. If you have selected an
Mode: area of the map that is not a map feature, Go To MAP Point is
listed. Select Go To <point name> or Go To MAP Point, and
• Select a point on the map and press Direct To .
press Enter.
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• Press Direct To to start a new route using the Find menu, or

start a saved route or track.
• Press Nrst/Find to search for a particular item and create a
route to it.
You can also start a saved route through the Routes tab on the Main
Menu. For more information, refer to page 61.
Navigate Options in Automotive Mode

With Map Feature highlighted while navigating a course
3. Follow the magenta route created on the Map Page. Follow the
turn-by-turn route (auto-route) by using the Next Turns Page and
Current Route Page. If you are using the external speaker, follow
the voice prompts.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Navigating in Automotive Mode
To start new route using the Find Menu: To search for an item and route to it:
1. Press Direct To to open the Navigate menu. 1. Press Nrst/Find to open the Find Menu.
2. Highlight New Route (or Go To Point when in Marine Mode), 2. Using the ROCKER, highlight a category, such as Cities, and
and press Enter to open the Find Menu. press Enter.
3. From the Find Menu, highlight Waypoints, and press Enter. 3. Press Enter and use the ROCKER to begin entering the letters
(You can also choose to go to other points, such as Cities or contained in the item name. The list begins to sort by the items
Services from this list. The steps vary only slightly from those that contain the letters you are entering. Press Enter.
Automotive
listed for Waypoints.)
4. Select a waypoint from the list, and then press Enter to show
the Waypoint Page.
Finding an item using the Containing field: The unit searches for items
containing the letter combination you enter and shows them in the list.
Waypoint Page 4. Highlight an item from the list, and press Enter.
Activating a Go To using the Find Menu 5. Highlight the Go To button, and press Enter.
For complete information about finding an item, refer to page 58.
5. The Waypoint Page automatically opens. With the Go To button
highlighted, press Enter to begin navigation.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Finding an Item
Finding an Item Using the Find From Feature

The Find Menu allows you to easily search the stored waypoints and The Find option also supports a “find from” feature that allows you
points of interest. Press Nrst/Find to access the Find Menu. to center your search around an item that you have just found.
The Find Menu is comprised of several default categories such as To find an item from another location on the map:
Waypoints, Cities, Exits, Addresses, Crossroads, Food & Drink, 1. Open the Map Page. Use the ROCKER to pan the arrow
Attractions Aviation Points, Transportation, and Weather Data. (pointer) to the location you want, and press Nrst/Find.
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Find From Map Pointer

Find Menu
Follow the directions on the previous page to search for an item near 2. The Find Menu opens showing “From Map Pointer.” The list of
your current location and then route to it. items is sorted to show items nearest the selected location. Using
the ROCKER, highlight the category you want from the list, and
press Enter.
3. Using the ROCKER, highlight an item from the list, and press
Enter. The item’s information page automatically opens,
allowing you to save the item as a waypoint, show the item on
the map, or automatically create a route to (Go To) the item.

To find an item from another location: To find an item near another item:
1. From any page, press Nrst/Find. 1. Press Nrst/Find.
2. Using the ROCKER, highlight the category you want from the list, 2. From the Find Menu, highlight the item you want to Find From.
and press Enter. 3. Press Nrst/Find with the item highlighted. The Find Menu
3. Press Menu. Highlight Near Other, and press Enter. If you opens again with items near the previously selected item. Search
are actively following a route, you can also choose one of the for the item.
other options listed in the Find From list, as shown below.
Recently Found Items
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The Recently Found Page shows a list of the items you have
searched for or gone to recently.
To view recently found items:
1. Press Nrst/Find. The Find Menu opens.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Recently Found. Press Enter.
The Recently Found Page opens.
3. Press Menu to show the options menu:
Find From Options
Show Find History—allows you to toggle between showing the
4. Select a reference location on the map, and press Enter. The items you have searched for recently (Find History) and the items
list shows items near the new map location. you have recently created a Go To for (Go To History).
Remove Point—removes the point that is highlighted in the list.

Viewing the Information Page Find Menu Options

Each item on the map and each item listed in the Find Menu results To view additional options for the Find Menu, press Nrst/FInd,
list has an information page. and then press Menu.
To view details about an item: Enable Auto Arrange—automatically arranges the Find Menu.
1. Highlight a point on the map or in the search results list, and Disable Auto Arrange and Restore Default options appear when
press Enter. you select Enable Auto Arrange.
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An Information Page appears with details about the item in a Near Other—allows you to select a new location from which to
tabbed format. Based on the type of item, additional options
compile the Find items list. Using the ROCKER, move the map
are available for viewing the item on the map, viewing the list of
maps on your data card, and viewing the next item in the search arrow to a location, and press Enter.
results list. Map Information—shows information about the detailed map data
stored on the data card and allows you to select which maps are
shown on the Map Page.
Additional selections are included in the options menu when you are
navigating:
Near Next—compiles the Find items lists based on the next turn in
the route.
Information Page Near Destination—compiles the Find items lists based on the route
destination.
2. Press Page or Quit to exit the information page. You can also
highlight one of the on-screen buttons, and press Enter to Near Current Route—compiles the Find items lists based on the
perform that operation. active route.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Creating Routes
Creating Routes To create a route using the Find Menu:

1. Press Menu twice to show the Main Menu.
The GPSMAP 496 lets you create and store up to 50 reversible
routes, with up to 300 waypoints each. 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Route from the vertical list
of tabs.
Routes can be created in two ways. The first way is to select 3. Press Menu to show the Route options menu. Select New
waypoints from the Find Menu, allowing you to see a list of the Route, and press Enter.
route points as you create the route. The second way is by selecting OR
Highlight the first available blank route slot and press Enter.
waypoints or map items from the Map Page, allowing you to see
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The Route Review Page automatically opens, showing a blank
each route point graphically on-screen as you create the route. route.
4. Press Enter to find items to add to the route.
5. The Find Page or Find Menu opens (based on which Usage
Mode you are in). Using the methods discussed in the “Finding
an Item” section beginning on page 58, select a point to add
to your route. When you find an item, highlight OK, and press
Enter to add the point to the route. Repeat until you have
added all of the points to the route.
Route Tab
Creating a New Route on Route Review Page

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Creating Routes
To create a route graphically: 5. Repeat until you have added all points to the route.
1. Press Menu twice to show the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to 6. When finished, press Quit twice to return to the Route Review
highlight Route from the vertical list of tabs. Page.
2. Press Menu to show the Route options menu. Select New OR
Route, and press Enter. Press Menu, highlight Edit as Text, and press Enter to view
the Route Review Page.
3. Highlight the first blank slot in the Route List Page, and press
Menu. Use the ROCKER to highlight Edit on Map, and press To follow a saved route in Automotive Mode:
1. Press Menu twice to show the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to
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Enter.
highlight Route from the vertical list of tabs.
4. Use the ROCKER to highlight the location, and press Enter.
2. Highlight the route you want to start, and press Menu.
Press MENU and select Append To Route.
3. Highlight Activate Route, and press Enter.
If you select an area of the map that is not a feature or waypoint,
a new waypoint is created for that location. Press Enter on 4. The Active Route Page opens. Press Menu. Highlight Follow
Roads, and press Enter. The GPSMAP 496 automatically
the New Waypoint Page to save the location as a waypoint and
generates a turn-by-turn route following roads.
continue adding points to your route. You can edit the properties
of this waypoint as you can with any waypoint. If you want to follow roads on your route, press Menu and select
Follow Roads on the Active Route Page.
Creating a New Route on the Map

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Creating Waypoints
Creating Waypoints Marking Your Present Location

Waypoints are locations or landmarks you record and store in your The Enter/Mark key lets you quickly capture your present
GPSMAP 496. Save your current location as a waypoint by pressing location to create a new waypoint. You must have a valid location
and holding Enter/Mark. You can also find waypoints using the (2D or 3D) fix to mark your present location. You can determine the
map or Find Menu and them store them in the unit. satellite fix by looking at the GPS tab on the Main Menu.
The GPSMAP 496 stores up to 3,000 alphanumeric waypoints To mark your present location:
with a user-defined icon, category, comment, altitude, depth, and 1. Press and hold Enter/Mark until the New Waypoint Page
Automotive
temperature available for each waypoint. Waypoints can be created appears, then release it. A default four-digit name and symbol are
using three basic methods: assigned for the new waypoint.
• Enter/Mark —allows you to quickly mark your present

location.
• Graphically—allows you to define a new waypoint location
from the map show using the ROCKER.
• Text Entry—allows you to enter a new waypoint’s location
coordinates manually.
New Waypoint Page
2. To accept the waypoint with the default information, use the

ROCKER to highlight OK, and press Enter.
3. To change any information on the New Waypoint Page, highlight
the appropriate field, and press Enter. After entering and
confirming your changes, highlight OK, and press Enter.

Creating Waypoints From the Map

You can create a waypoint using the Map Page. When you pan the
map and move the arrow over a map item, a highlighted description
of that item appears. The GPSMAP 496 uses the map item text
shown on the map as the default name and symbol for the new
waypoint.
Automotive
To create a new waypoint using the Map Page:

1. Press page until the Map Page appears. Map Feature Information Page
2. Use the ROCKER to move the arrow to the map location, or map Select Save to save the map feature as a waypoint
feature.
4. To accept the waypoint with the default information, highlight OK,
3. Press and quickly release Enter/Mark to capture the arrow and press Enter.
location. Pressing and holding Enter/Mark, marks your
To change the any information on the New Map Waypoint Page,
present location, not the arrow’s location.
highlight the appropriate field, and press Enter. After entering
If you have highlighted a map feature, an information page your changes, highlight OK, and press Enter.
appears after you press Enter. Use the ROCKER to highlight
Save, and press Enter to save the item as a waypoint. The
New Map Waypoint Page appears.

Creating a Waypoint by Entering Coordinates

You can manually enter location coordinates to create a waypoint.
This method is useful for creating a waypoint at a specific latitude/
longitude location from a chart. You can manually change the
location coordinates in the New Waypoint Page to create a new
waypoint or use the Create Waypoint selection in the User Points
tab options menu.
Automotive
To create a new waypoint by entering location coordinates: To change the location of a waypoint, highlight the
character you want to change in the Location field.
1. Press Enter/Mark to create a waypoint (or use your favorite
Press up or down on the ROCKER to change the
method discussed in previous sections). The new waypoint
character. Repeat until the new location is entered.
is created with the next available waypoint number and the
receiver’s last known location as the default location. 2. On the New Waypoint Page, use the ROCKER to highlight the
Location field, and press Enter. Use the ROCKER to enter the
location coordinates, and press Enter when finished.
3. To change any of the other information, highlight the appropriate
field, and press Enter. Use the ROCKER to enter the new
information.
4. After entering your changes, highlight OK, and press Enter.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Following an Automotive Route
Following an Automotive Route Current Route Page in Automotive Mode

The GPSMAP 496 guides you to your destination using many tools, Whenever you have started a turn-by-turn route in the GPSMAP 496
such as the Map Page and Current Route Page. set in Automotive Mode, the Current Route Page shows each turn
of the active route, with the distance to the turn, the street name,
Track Your Progress with the Map Page estimated time to arrival, and time of arrival. As you navigate a
You can track the progress of your route on the Map Page. Your route, the next turn appears at the top of the list.
route is shown with a magenta line. The next turn appears in the top
Automotive
bar on the Map Page.
Current Route Page
Map Page Displaying Your Route Starting and Stopping Navigation

Press Direct To to open the Navigate menu. Highlight
Watch your Trip Data Stop/Resume Navigation.
Use the Trip Computer Page to view your trip data. You can track
your speed here, as well as other information related to your trip.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Editing Your Route
Editing Your Route Entering Custom Avoids

When you are navigating a route, you can edit that route. You can Custom Avoids allow you to enter specific areas and roads that
add areas and roads to avoid as well as temporary detours to your you would like to avoid in your navigation. Custom Avoids apply
current route. You can also add stops along your trip, called Via to all routes, but Detours apply to only the active route. Custom
Points. Avoids can be added while you are navigating a route or before you
navigate.
While navigating, press Direct To to open the Navigate Menu,
shown below.
Automotive
To enter a custom avoid:
1. Press Direct To while in Automotive Mode.
OR
Open the Map Page, and press Menu.
2. Select Custom Avoid. Press Enter.
3. Press Enter when the Add Avoid button is highlighted.
4. Select Avoid Road or Avoid Area, and press Enter.
5. Use the ROCKER to move the arrow to the first point in the
avoidance area. Press Enter to select the first point.
Navigate Options in Automotive Mode 6. Move the arrow to the end point and press Enter. During route
While navigating a course calculation and navigation, the GPSMAP 496 avoids the area
within the box or the selected area of the road.
7. When finished, highlight the OK button, and press Enter.

Basic Operation in Automotive Mode > Editing Your Route
Creating a Detour To add Via Points to your route:

If, while navigating a route, there is road construction or a closed 1. While navigating your route, press Direct To to open the
road, you can have your GPSMAP 496 create a detour route. While Navigate menu.
navigating a course, press Direct To . Select Detour from the 2. Use the ROCKER to select Edit Vias, and press Enter.
Navigate menu. Select the distance you want, and press Enter. 3. The Add/Edit Vias window opens. Press enter with Add Via
The GPSMAP 496 recalculates your course based on your detour Point highlighted.
distance. To end the detour manually, press Direct To again and 4. From the window, highlight either Use Map or Find and press
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select Cancel Detour. Enter.

5. If you selected Use Map, use the ROCKER to select an item on
Adding and Editing Stops (Via Points) the map and press Enter.
You can add Via Points—points through which you would like to If you selected Find, select an item from the Find Menu as
travel—to your route using the Edit Vias option. Via points are great discussed in the “Finding an Item” beginning on page 58.
for adding a stop at the gas station or bank to your route and are Remember you can press Menu while the Find Menu is open to
really helpful when planning a long trip. find an item near another location, such as your destination.
6. The new point is added to the route and appears in the Add/Edit
Vias Page. Continue steps 2 through 4 until you have added
all of the Via Points that you want. Highlight Done, and press
Enter to apply the new Via Points to the route.
Add/Edit Vias Page

Showing the original route without via points

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Map Page
Automotive Mode Pages and

Features Data Fields
This section discusses the major pages in Automotive Mode, such

as the Map Page, as well as some additional features, such as routes
and points. Current
Location Map Zoom
Automotive
Range
Map Page Map Page
Refer to pages 29–36 in the “Aviation Mode Pages” section for more
details about the Map Page. Press the zoom keys (In and Out) to change the map range. Some
items on the map appear only if the map is zoomed in to a certain
The location marker (icon) that shows your travel on the Map Page
level.
is a triangle symbol in Marine and Automotive modes. The
GPSMAP 496 always turns on in location mode, with the last known Press Menu to open the options menu for the Map Page.
location centered on the map. When you press the ROCKER, the Enter Custom Avoids so your routes does not include areas you
GPSMAP 496 enters pan mode, which moves the map to keep the would like to avoid, such as high traffic areas.
white arrow (map pointer) within the screen area.
Use the ROCKER to measure the distance between two objects on
In Automotive Mode, by default, four user-selectable data fields the map.
appear on the right side of the screen that can be configured to show
any one of the possible data options. The top of the screen shows the Change the page layout and data fields to customize the Map Page.
GPS status or the route leg. You can also add additional data fields to
the page or select a full screen map without data fields.

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Highway Page
Highway Page To hide/show the Highway Page:

The Highway Page is only available in Marine Mode and 1. Press Menu twice to show the Main Menu.
Automotive Mode. In Automotive Mode, the Highway Page is 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Display tab.
not shown by default. See the directions to the right to show the 3. Highlight the Highway Page field, and press Enter.
Highway Page. 4. Select Off to hide or On to show, and press Enter.
Using the Highway Page

Automotive
To stay on course, steer toward the violet bar (or arrows) until
it lines up with the red bar in the middle. The bottom section of
the screen provides visual guidance to the waypoint on a graphic
highway. The line down the center of the highway represents your
track line.
As you head toward your destination, the highway perspective
Highway Page moves to indicate your progress to the waypoint and which direction
you should steer to stay on course. If you are navigating a route, the
When you are navigating, the Highway Page provides digital and Highway Page shows each route waypoint in sequence connected
graphic steering guidance to the destination. The right side of the by a black “road” with a white line down the middle, which is your
Highway Page features user-selectable data fields showing useful track line. Nearby waypoints not in the active route can also be
navigation information. A compass ribbon appears at the top of shown. You can zoom in or out to show a larger or smaller view of
the page to show your current heading as the violet bar and a red the highway.
vertical bar indicates the bearing to your course.
To change the highway perspective scale:
• Press In to zoom in.
• Press Out to zoom out.

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Highway Page
Highway Page Options The following options are available from the Highway Page menu:
The Highway Page options menu allows you to define the data fields Set up Page Layout—allows you to choose the number of data
and select which waypoints and track are shown on the screen. The fields.
data fields, located along the right side of the page, provide a user-
selectable layout of various types of useful data. The layout can also Change Data Fields—allows you to specify the type of data shown
be changed to show additional data fields. in each data field used on the map screen. This option is available
from any of the main pages. See page 174 for a listing of the data
Automotive
To show and select the Highway Page Options: fields.
1. Press page repeatedly until the Highway Page appears.
2. Press Menu. Set Up Highway—shows an options menu with two tabs: Line, and
Waypoint. Each tab has On/Off settings for several options, such as
3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the option.
enabling the line for the Active Leg and Track Log.
4. Press Enter.
Set up Highway
Highway Page Options Menu

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Current Route Page
Current Route Page

Whenever you have started a route in the GPSMAP 496 in
Automotive Mode, the Current Route Page shows each turn of
the active route, with the distance to the turn, the street name, and
estimated time enroute 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.
Automotive
Next Turn Page
Saving the Current Route

You can save the current route from the Current Route Page. Press
Menu to save the route. Press Enter when Save Route is
highlighted. Your route is automatically saved, using the starting
point and destination as the route name. Highlight OK and press
Enter to complete saving the route.
Current Route Page
You can scroll through the entire list by pressing the ROCKER up
or down. Highlight any of the turns on the list and press Enter to
view the Next Turn Page for that turn. The Current Route and Next
Turn Page screen show similar information, just in a different layout.
The Next Turn Page shows your next turn on a map.

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Trip Computer
Trip Computer Set Up Page Layout—allows you to choose the layout and number
The Trip Computer Page provides a quick reference for the of data fields. You can also select a graphical Dashboard, select to
important data you want to show in Automotive Mode. It indicates show the Position Data Page layout (2 Columns), or select 4 Big
your current speed and many helpful statistics about your trip, such Fields as the layout of the page. You can change the Data Fields on
as bearing, average speed, and moving time. the 2 Columns and 4 Big Fields layout pages.
You can reset the Trip Computer before beginning a trip. If you Change Nearest Type—allows you to specify the type of item to
make frequent stops, leave the GPSMAP 496 turned on to allow the be used as the nearest item (shown in the lower-left data field of the
Automotive
unit to accurately measure elapsed time during the trip. Position Data (2 Columns) layout). The choices differ based on the
Usage Mode you are currently using.
Reset Trip—clears trip information, except the maximum speed and
the odometer.
Reset Max Speed—clears the maximum speed.
Reset Odometer—clears the running total of the distance traveled.
Reset All—clears all trip information including the maximum speed
and odometer.
Trip Computer Page
Trip Computer Page Options

Press Menu while on the Trip Computer to show the options menu.
The following options are available from the Trip Computer Page.
Some options are only available if you have changed the page layout
from the default.

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Editing and Managing Routes
Editing and Managing Routes Using the Route Options

The Route tab shows the routes you have created in your The Route tab in the Main Menu shows all the routes currently
GPSMAP 496 unit. For complete information on routes, see pages stored in memory, along with a descriptive name for each route.
61–62. Highlight a route, and press Menu to open the options menu.
From here you can start a route, copy it, delete it, delete all routes,
Viewing All of Your Saved Routes and create a new route. You can also set up the routes to manually
The Route tab in the Main Menu lists all of your saved routes and transition to the next waypoint.
Automotive
routes on one easy-to-read route list.

Manually Transitioning to the Next Waypoint
From the Route tab Option Menu, highlight �Set up Routes, and
press Enter to set the route leg transition (or waypoint transition).
Select Distance to enter a radius so that when you are within the
entered distance, the GPSMAP 496 leads you to the next point on
your route.
When you select Manual, you can transition to the next waypoint
while navigating a route. While you are navigating the route,
Route Tab open the Active Route Page. Press Menu. Highlight Next Route
Waypoint, and press Enter to have the GPSMAP 496 start
To view the route list: routing you to the next point in your route.
2. Highlight Route from the vertical menu of tabs using the
ROCKER.

Navigating a Saved Route Editing a Route

The Navigate Route option allows you to easily select a saved route. After you create a route, use the Route Review Page to edit, change
For information about creating routes, see pages 61–62.. the name, and review route points for a selected route.
To navigate a route in Automotive Mode: To change the name of the route:
1. In Automotive Mode, press Direct To . 1. Press Menu twice, and highlight Route.
2. Use ROCKER to highlight Navigate Route, and press Enter. 2. From the Route List Page, use the ROCKER to highlight the
Automotive
3. Highlight a route, and press Enter. The Active Route Page name of the route, and press Enter.
automatically opens with the route started. 3. From the Route Review Page, use the ROCKER to highlight the
route name field at the top of the page, and press Enter.
Select route
from list
Enter a new
Route name
here
Select Route
Route Review Page
5. Highlight Follow Roads, and press Enter to create a turn-by- 4. Use the ROCKER to enter the route name and then press
turn route (auto-route), which appears in the Current Route Page. Enter.

To review individual route points: To add points to the route:

1. Press Menu twice, and highlight Route. 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the name of the route, and press select Route.
Enter. 2. Use the ROCKER to select the route, and press Enter.
3. From the Route Review Page, highlight the point, and press 3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the spot in the route that you
Enter. want to add the new point. (The new point is added before the
highlighted route point.) Press Menu.
Automotive
4. Highlight Insert Waypoint, and press Enter. The Find Menu

automatically opens for you to search for and select the point you
want to add to the route.
5. In the point review page, highlight OK, and press Enter to add
the new point to the route.
Route Review Page
4. On the point review page, choose Next (highlight the next point
on the route list), Show Map (show the point on a map window),
or Save (save the point as a waypoint), and press Enter. If the
route point is a user waypoint, you can edit any of the waypoint
properties on the Waypoint Page (see the “Editing and Managing
Waypoints” section beginning on page 78).
When you return to the Route Review Page, the next point in the
route is automatically highlighted. This allows you to review each
point on the route by pressing Enter repeatedly.
To edit the route on the map: To set speed and fuel/plan your route:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. Use the ROCKER to 1. Open the Route Review Page options menu.
select Route from the vertical menu of tabs. 2. Highlight Plan Route, and press Enter. (Highlight Set Speed
2. Select the route, and press Enter. Press Menu to open the and Fuel in Aviation Mode.)
Route Review Page options menu.
3. Highlight Edit on Map, and press Enter.
4. Use the ROCKER to select a location on the route (the route
Automotive
turns white when the arrow is over the route). Press Enter.
5. Use the ROCKER to drag the route to the new point location,
and press Enter.
Entering Speed and Fuel Flow for trip planning
3. Enter the data for Speed and Fuel Flow. When in Marine and
Automotive Modes, you also can enter the date and time of you
departure. Press Quit to return to the Route Review Page.
NOTE: Fuel flow rates are measured in “units per hour”. System
Editing the route on the map setting changes for units of measure (statute, nautical or metric)
do not affect the fuel flow measure. You should enter fuel
6. If the New Waypoint Page opens, edit the waypoint, highlight OK, flow rates based on information for your vehicle (such as the
and press Enter. operator’s manual or performance specifications) and note the
units of measure (gallons or liters).
7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 until all points are added to the route.
Press Quit to finish.

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Editing and Managing Waypoints
Editing and Managing Waypoints To access the Waypoint Edit Page:

When you have created and stored a waypoint, you can modify, 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
review, rename, move, or delete it at any time through the Waypoint 2. Use ROCKER to highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs,
Review and Waypoint Edit Pages. These pages provide virtually the and highlight the waypoint from the list.
same information. For practical purposes, we refer to these pages
as the “Waypoint Pages,” unless it is necessary to discuss them
individually.
Automotive
To access the Waypoint Review Page from the Map:

1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the waypoint on the Map Page.
2. Press Enter to show the Waypoint Review Page. If the
waypoint is located on a map feature or MapSource or BlueChart
feature, the Waypoint Review Page can include additional tabs Points Tab in the Main Menu
containing information about the other features at that location.
3. Press Enter to show the Waypoint Edit Page.
If the waypoint is located on a map feature or MapSource or
BlueChart feature, the Waypoint Edit Page does NOT show the
details of the other map features.
Use either of these methods to access the Waypoint Page so you can
edit and manage the waypoint.
Waypoint Review Page

To change the waypoint name: To view the waypoint on the map:

1. Open the Waypoint Review or Waypoint Edit Page. 1. From the Waypoint Page, highlight Show Map.
2. Highlight the Name field, and press Enter. 2. Press Enter. The waypoint is highlighted on a map with an
3. Use the ROCKER to enter a new name, and press Enter when information window at the top that shows the waypoint name,
finished. location and distance and bearing from your current location.
On the Show Map screen, two additional options are available by
pressing Menu:
Automotive
Symbol field Name field
Measure Distance—allows you to measure the distance and bearing
between two points on the map (see page 33 for more information).
Point to on Main Map—returns to the highlighted waypoint on the
Map Page and exits the Waypoint Page.
Waypoint Review Page
To change the waypoint symbol or other element:

1. Open the Waypoint Review or Waypoint Edit Page.
2. Highlight the waypoint symbol field to the left of the waypoint
name or highlight another field you want to change, and press
Enter.
3. Use the ROCKER to select the symbol or enter data, and press
Enter.

Adding a Waypoint to a Route Averaging the Waypoint’s Location

Append to Route adds the selected waypoint to the end of a route. Average Location makes the unit take several sample location
This option appears when you are not navigating. When you are measurements for the waypoint and recalculate for a more accurate
navigating to a destination, Add to Current Route appears. The location reading.
selected waypoint is added to the current route before the route
To calculate the average location:
destination.
1. Open the Waypoint Page, and press Menu to open the options
menu.
Automotive
To add a waypoint to the end of the route:

1. Open the Waypoint Page, and press Menu to open the options 2. Select Average Location from the menu, and press Enter.The
menu. Average Location window appears.
Waypoint Options Menu Average Location
2. Select Append To Route from the options menu. The Select 3. Watch the fields change as the unit calculates the average
Route window appears. location of the waypoint. Press Enter to save the location.
3. Highlight the route or select New Route, and press Enter. Note: You must have a GPS satellite fix before you can
4. With OK highlighted, press Enter to save the waypoint. average a waypoint’s location.

Projecting a Waypoint 6. To change the location from which you are projecting the new
You can also create a new waypoint by “projecting” the distance and waypoint, highlight the From field, and press Enter. The Find
bearing from a specific location to a new location. Menu opens.
Select the point from which you project your new waypoint just
To create a new waypoint by projecting its location: as you would select a waypoint or point of interest. For more
1. Create a waypoint using your favorite method (discussed in information see the “Finding an Item” section beginning on page
previous sections). The new waypoint is created with the next 58.
available waypoint number and the receiver’s last known location
Automotive
7. To adjust the distance that the new waypoint is projected beyond
as the default location.
the original waypoint, highlight the Distance field and press
2. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. Enter. Enter the projection distance and press Enter.
3. Highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs using the ROCKER. To adjust the bearing that the new waypoint is projected from the
4. Press Menu to open the New Waypoint Page options menu. original waypoint, highlight the Bearing field and press Enter.
5. Highlight Project Location, and press Enter. Enter the bearing, and press Enter.
8. When you have adjusted all elements of the projected location,
highlight Save, and press Enter.
9. Make any other changes to the new waypoint data (such as the
name or symbol), highlight OK, and press Enter.
Project Location Menu

Enter the distance, bearing, and location to project from.

Organizing Waypoints into Categories

You can organize your waypoints into categories, which can help
when managing and using your waypoints. For example, you can
create a “Vacation” category that stores all of the waypoints you
use for your upcoming vacation. When the vacation is over, you can
delete all the waypoints in that category by pushing a few buttons.
You can create up to 15 categories.
Automotive
To create a waypoint category:

4. Use the ROCKER to enter a name for the category.
1. From any of the waypoint pages or the Points tab, press Menu
to open the options menu. 5. Highlight Save, and press Enter.
2. Select Edit Categories, and press Enter. Now, when you create or edit a waypoint, you can select the
category from the Category list on the Waypoint Page.
To delete a category:
1. With the Waypoint Categories window open, highlight the
category to delete. Press Menu.
2. Select Delete Category, and press Enter.
3. Use the ROCKER to highlight Add, and press Enter.

To assign a category to a waypoint: Managing Points

1. Open the Waypoint Page. (You can also change the category on The Points tab features two sub tabs, User and Proximity, that
the New Waypoint Page.) let you edit waypoints and manage a large number of waypoints
2. Select the Category field, and press Enter. quickly and efficiently. For more information about creating, editing,
and deleting waypoints, refer to the “Creating Waypoints” section
Select the beginning on page 63.
category to
Automotive
which you want To access the Points tab of the Main Menu:
to assign this 1. Press menu twice to open the Main Menu.
waypoint.
2. Highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs.
User Points Tab

The User Points tab shows a master list of all waypoints currently
Waypoint Page
stored in memory. From the User list, you can review, edit, rename,
3. Select the category you want, and press Enter. or delete individual waypoints or delete all user waypoints.
User Points Tab

The total number of stored and available waypoint information To access the Points tab:
is available at the bottom of the User sub tab, with the stored 1. Press menu twice to open the Main Menu.
waypoints arranged in alphanumerical order. 2. Highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs.
3. Press the ROCKER right or left to highlight User or Proximity to
To start a Go To from the User Points tab:
open that sub tab.
1. Press menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs, then highlight User
from the top row of tabs.
Automotive
3. Use the ROCKER to highlight a waypoint.

4. Press Direct To . Highlight Go To <Point Name>, and press
Enter.
OR
Press Enter when the waypoint is highlighted to review the
waypoint on the Waypoint Page. See the previous pages for
detailed information on reviewing and editing waypoints. To delete a waypoint from the User sub tab:
1. From the User sub tab, use the ROCKER to highlight the
Deleting Waypoints
waypoint you want to delete.
You can delete waypoints from the waypoint list in the Points tab or
2. Press Menu, highlight Delete Waypoint, and press Enter.
from the Waypoint Pages. To delete a waypoint from the Waypoint
Page, use the ROCKER to highlight the on-screen Delete button 3. Press Enter to confirm.
and press Enter.
Note: When you delete a waypoint, you cannot recover it
from the unit. Back up important waypoints to a computer using
the USB cable and software, such as MapSource, or write the
coodinates down by hand.
To delete waypoints by symbol or category: Proximity Points

1. From the User sub tab, highlight the waypoint you want to delete, The Proximity Points tab lets you define an alarm circle around a
and press Menu. stored waypoint location. The alarm circle can help you avoid reefs,
2. Highlight Delete by Symbol or Delete by Category, and press rocks, or restricted areas. Up to 100 waypoints can be listed with
Enter. a maximum alarm radius of 99.99 nautical miles, statute miles, or
3. When deleting by symbol, highlight the symbol of the waypoint kilometers.
you want to delete, and press Enter.
Automotive
When deleting by category, select the category you want to
delete from the list, and press Enter.
4. Highlight OK, and press Enter to confirm. Choose Cancel or
press Quit to exit without deleting.
To delete waypoints by distance:
1. From the User sub tab, highlight the waypoint to be deleted, and
press Menu.
2. Highlight Delete By Distance, and press Enter. Proximity Points Tab
3. Select Less Than or More Than, and Enter the distance using
the ROCKER. If a proximity alarm circle overlaps an existing alarm circle, a
“Proximity Overlaps Another Proximity Waypoint” message
4. You can select a waypoint or point of interest as the From
location. Highlight the From field, and press Enter. From the appears. Because the unit only alerts for one of the overlap points,
Find Menu, select the location, and press Enter. When OK is use caution when navigating in these areas. If you enter an alarm
highlighted, press Enter. circle overlap, you are only alerted to the closest proximity
5. Highlight Delete, and press Enter to delete all waypoints waypoint.
within the set location. Choose Cancel or press Quit to stop the
deletion.

To turn proximity alarms on or off: To clear one or all proximity waypoints from the list:
1. Press menu twice to open the Main Menu. 1. Open the Proximity sub tab.
2. Highlight Points from the vertical list of tabs. Highlight Proximity 2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the proximity waypoint to clear,
from the row of tabs along the top of the screen. and press Menu.
3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the field below Proximity Alarm,
and press Enter.
4. Select the ON or OFF setting, and press Enter.
Automotive
To add a proximity waypoint:

1. From the Proximity Points tab, use the ROCKER to highlight an
empty line on the Proximity List, and press Enter. The Find
Menu appears.
2. Select the waypoint or point of interest from the Find Menu. With
Proximity Points Tab Options Menu
OK highlighted, press Enter to select that point. (For complete
information about the Find Menu, see “Finding an Item” on page
3. To clear a single alarm, highlight Remove Point, and press
58.) The distance field is now highlighted.
Enter. To clear all proximity waypoints, select Remove All, and
3. Press Enter to begin entry of the proximity radius. press Enter.
4. Use the ROCKER to enter a distance value (up to 99.99 units), 4. Use the ROCKER to highlight OK, and press Enter.
and press Enter.

Automotive Mode Pages and Features > Managing Your Tracks
Managing Your �Tracks Setting Up and Saving Your Tracks

The GPSMAP 496 draws an electronic breadcrumb trail or “track
log” on the 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 496 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
Automotive
overwrite the oldest track points.
Active Track Tab
The percentage of memory used by the current track log appears at
the top of the Active sub tab. After the track log is cleared, it shows
Record Mode—Wrap records over the oldest tracks when the track
zero percent. When the screen reaches 100%, the most recent track
log reaches 100%. Fill records a track log until the track log is full
points start to overwrite the least recent track points (if Wrap is
(100%). When Off is selected, the unit does not record tracks.
selected for Record Mode). To avoid losing track points, save the
track log when it approaches the 99% mark. Interval—Distance records track points after a specified distance
has been traveled. Time creates track points after a specified time
You must first save the track log before you can use the Navigate
has elapsed. Resolution records track points based on the resolution.
Track feature. The Save feature allows you to store up to 15 track
The higher the resolution entered, the more points the unit creates to
logs from certain times and dates.
make the track.
To access the Track tab: Value—records a track according to the Interval and Value. Enter a
specific distance, time, or resolution.
2. Highlight Track from the vertical list of tabs.
Color—select a color for the track when it appears on the map.

To clear the track log: To save a portion of the track log:

1. Press Menu twice to show the Main Menu. 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Highlight Track, then highlight the Active sub tab to the right. 2. Highlight the Track tab, and highlight the Active sub tab.
3. Select the Clear button, and press Enter. 3. Use the ROCKER to select Save, and press Enter.
4. To save only a portion of the track, highlight No, and press
Enter when the window appears.
5. Select a beginning point, and press Enter. Select an ending
Automotive
point, and press Enter. The Track Review Page automatically

opens.
Clearing the Track Log
4. Highlight OK, and press Enter. Press Quit to exit.

To save the entire track log:
2. Highlight Track, then highlight the Active sub tab to the right. Saving a Portion of the Track Log
3. Use the ROCKER to select Save, and press Enter.
6. Highlight OK, and press Enter to save the track. Press Quit to
4. A window pops up asking if you want to save the entire track log. exit.
To save the entire track, highlight Yes, and press Enter.

Saved Sub Tab 3. Highlight the track you want to edit, and press Enter. The Track
The Saved sub tab lists all of the saved tracks in your unit. Review Page opens. Make changes you want.
Automotive
Track Review Page
Saved Sub Tab
4. Highlight the Name field, and press Enter. Use the ROCKER
Press Menu to open the Saved sub tab options menu: to change the name, and press Enter.
Review on Map—shows the highlighted track on the Map Page. 5. Select a different screen color when the track appears on the
map.
TracBack—navigates the track. You can either navigate the track as
it is saved, or you can navigate the track in reverse. 6. To show this track on the map, highlight the box next to Show on
Map, and press Enter.
Delete Track—erases highlighted track from the unit’s memory. 7. To begin a TracBack, highlight TracBack, and press Enter. For
Delete All—erases all tracks from the unit’s memory. more information about the TracBack feature, refer to the next
page.
To edit a track: 8. To view the track on the map, highlight Map, and press Enter.
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. Press Quit to return to the Track tab.
2. Highlight the Track tab. Press the ROCKER right to highlight the 9. Highlight OK, and press Enter to save the track. Press Quit to
Saved sub tab. exit.
Navigating a Saved Track TracBack Tips

The TracBack function allows you to retrace your path using the track When a TracBack has been started, the GPSMAP 496 divides the
log automatically stored in the receiver’s memory, which eliminates the track into segments called legs. Up to 300 temporary turns are
need to store waypoints along the way. TracBack routes are created by created to mark the most significant features of the track in order to
reducing your track log into a route with up to 300 turns and activating duplicate your exact path as closely as possible. To get the most out
an inverted route along those points. When activated, a TracBack route of the TracBack feature, remember these tips:
leads you back to the oldest stored track log point, so it is a good idea
• Always clear the track log at the point that you want to go back
Automotive
to clear the existing track log before you start your current trip. You
must save an active track log before you can navigate it as a TracBack. to (such as a dock or campsite).
• The Record Mode option on the Active Track tab must be set to
To start a TracBack using Direct To key:
1. Press Direct To , then highlight Navigate Track, and press Fill or Wrap.
Enter. • If the track log Interval option on the Active tab is set to the
Time option, the route may not navigate your exact path (keep
the interval set to Resolution for best performance).
• If the receiver is turned off or satellite coverage is lost during
your trip, the TracBack draws a straight line between any point
where coverage was lost and where it resumed.
• If the changes in distance and direction of your track are too
complex, 300 waypoints may not mark your path accurately. The
Selecting a Saved Track receiver then uses the most significant points of your track so
2. Highlight the saved track you want to navigate, and press there are fewer changes in direction.
Enter.
3. Use the ROCKER to select the point you want to navigate to
(TracBack to), and press Enter.

Basic Operation in Marine Mode > Marine Mode Page Sequence
Basic Operation in Marine Mode

1. Press and hold the Page/Mode button.
2. Use the ROCKER to select either Aviation, Automotive, or Marine, and press Enter.
Marine Mode Page Sequence

Marine Mode features five main pages: the Map, Compass, Highway, Active Route, and Position Data Page, as well as an optional XM Audio
Page. If you are connected to a sonar module, such as a Garmin GSD 20 or GSD 21, an additional Sonar Page is available.
Marine
Map Page Compass Page Highway Page Active Route Page Position Data Page
XM Audio Page Sonar Page

(Optional) (Optional)

Basic Operation in Marine Mode > Navigating in Marine Mode
Navigating in Marine Mode Man OverBoard (MOB)

Press Direct To on any page to begin navigating to a The Man OverBoard function (MOB) lets you simultaneously mark
destination. The Go To Point, Navigate Route, and Navigate and set a course to a location for quick response to emergency
Track options operate the same as in Automotive Mode. Refer to the situations.
previous section for detailed instructions on those options. In Marine
To start the MOB function:
Mode, you can initiate Man OverBoard (MOB) navigation, which 1. In Marine Mode, press and hold Direct To or press Direct To
places a waypoint in the location and then navigates you back to that twice.
location.
Marine
Man OverBoard confirmation screen

Navigate Options in Marine Mode
Accessed by pressing Direct To 2. Press Enter to confirm and begin navigating to the MOB
location.
When you are actively navigating, a magenta line always runs from
When an MOB has been started, an MOB waypoint with an
your current location to the destination on the Map Page. You can
international MOB symbol is created and the unit begins actively
use the Map Page, Compass Page, Highway Page, and Position Data
navigating to that point. Use any of the navigation Pages to guide
Page to help navigate to your destination.
you back to the MOB point. The MOB waypoint is stored in the
waypoint list and can be deleted like any other waypoint.

Marine Mode Pages and Features > Map Page
Marine Mode Pages and Features

Marine Mode operates in a similar fashion to Aviation Mode, while Data fields
also providing many features and operations of Automotive Mode.
Refer to the corresponding sections in the Aviation and Automotive
sections for further details. Current
location Map range
Map Page Map Page
Refer to pages 29–36 in the “Aviation Mode Pages” section for more
details about the Map Page. Press the zoom keys (In and Out) to change the map range. Some
The location marker (icon) that shows your travel on the Map Page items on the map only appear if the map is zoomed in to a specified
is a triangle symbol in Marine and Automotive modes. The level.
GPSMAP 496 always turns on in location mode, with the last known • Press Enter to quickly declutter (remove unwanted items)
location centered on the map. When you press the ROCKER, the from the Map Page.
Marine
GPSMAP 496 enters pan mode, which moves the map to keep the
• Press Menu to open the options menu for the Map Page.
white arrow (map pointer) within the screen area.
• Show and hide the heading line from the options menu.
In Marine Mode, by default, five user-selectable data fields appear
• Use the ROCKER to measure the distance between two objects
on the right side of the screen that can be configured to show any
on the map.
one of the possible data options. You can also add additional data
fields to the page or select a full screen map without data fields. • Change the page layout and data fields to customize the Map
Page.

Marine Mode Pages and Features > Compass Page
Compass Page waypoint. If the arrow points any direction other than up, turn
During active navigation, the Compass Page guides you to your toward the arrow until it points up, then continue in that direction.
destination with data fields and a graphic compass screen with a Note: You must be moving for the compass to accurately
bearing pointer. update and show your heading.
Rotating Bug indicator
compass ring
The right side of the Compass Page shows user-selectable data
fields that show additional information during active navigation. For
definitions of data field settings, refer to page 174.
Compass arrow Data fields Compass Page Options
The options menu on the Compass Page allows you to customize
the Compass Page. Like the Map Page, the Compass Page features
Compass Page in Marine Mode user-selectable data fields on the right side of the screen. When the
Compass Page is open, press Menu to open the options menu.
Marine
The middle of the page features a rotating compass ring that shows Show Course Pointer/Show Compass—toggles between showing
your course over ground (track) while you are moving. Your present the Course Pointer, which shows how far off you are from your
course over ground is indicated at the top of the compass ring. The course and how to get back on course, or showing the compass
direction of the destination (bearing) relative to the course over arrow. The Course Pointer is also referred to as a CDI or Course
ground is indicated by an arrow in the middle of the compass ring Deviation Indicator.
and a course to steer “bug” on the outside of the compass ring.
Show/Hide Bug Indicator—toggles between showing and hiding
The compass ring and bearing indicators work independently to the course to steer bug indicator (the purple tick mark on the
show the direction of your movement and the direction to your compass ring).
destination. If the arrow points up, you are going directly to the

Marine Mode Pages and Features > Compass Page
Using the Marine Timer

The Marine Timer, specifically designed for sail boat racing,
allows you to easily count up or down specified time increments.
As common in sail boat racing, there is often a 5 minute warning
countdown, followed by a 4 minute preparation countdown, and
finally a one minute final countdown. You must change the Compass
Page layout to use the Marine Timer.
To open the Marine Timer: Marine Timer on the Compass Page
1. Press page repeatedly until the Compass Page appears.
2. Press Menu.
As discussed previously, the timer is set to count down five minutes.
If you want to change the length of time and the behavior or the
3. Use the ROCKER to highlight Set up Page Layout, and press
timer, open the Timers Setup tab in the Main Menu.
Enter.
4. Highlight 2 Columns With Timer, and press enter. The Marine To set the Marine Timer:
Marine
Timer appears in the lower right corner. 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
To use the Marine Timer: 2. Press the ROCKER down to select Setup and then right to select
1. Press the ROCKER up or down to select the time you want to the Timers sub tab.
count. Five (5) minutes is the default. 3. Highlight Stop next to Marine, and press Enter to change the
2. Press Enter to start the timer. Use the ROCKER during the timer’s behavior. Highlight the behavior you want, and press
timing to quickly select a different length of time. Enter.
3. Press Enter to stop timing. 4. Highlight the time field, press enter, and then use the
ROCKER to enter a new time. The maximum time is 60:00
(minutes: seconds). Press Enter when finished.

Marine Mode Pages and Features > DSC
DSC A non-emergency DSC Position Report allows mariners to exchange

The DSC Page allows you to control and set up the Digital Selective and show the positions of one another. When a DSC position is
Calling (DSC) features on the GPSMAP 496. received, the mariner can choose to create a waypoint or to show the
received location on an electronic map.
DSC uses marine VHF radio and GPS technologies to transmit
and receive location information. The chartplotter repeats the call Anytime a vessel receives a DSC call, they can store and quickly
properties received from the VHF radio on the chartplotter. The navigate to that location using a Go To. This makes DSC a time
GPSMAP 496 requires input from a DSC enabled VHF radio to saver, especially in an emergency situation. In order to use DSC,
show position, and to sound/show alerts from a distress call or users must first register their VHF radio with the FCC and receive a
position report. Conversely, the VHF radio requires input from a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number.
GPS to transmit position coordinates for a distress call or position For more information about Digital Selective Calling and Maritime
report. For connection information, refer to “Connecting the Power Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers, refer to page 168.
and Data Cable” on page 158.
An emergency DSC distress call allows a vessel in trouble to
Marine
transmit a substantial amount of information in a single transmission

or call, without the need for voice communication. When any
nearby rescuer receives the DSC signal, an alarm sounds and they
immediately receive the location of the caller. The rescuer can then
choose to navigate to the caller’s location to assist, or forward the
call on to the Coast Guard. When the Coast Guard receives the call,
DSC Page
they can immediately access the caller’s information (such as who
they are and the type of vessel) in their database while they are in
transit to the caller’s location.

Understanding Distress Calls the coordinates of the caller. To see the callers location on a map,
When the GPSMAP 496 receives a distress call from a connected select the Show Map button. To create a waypoint at the caller's
DSC enabled VHF radio, an alert message and notification page location, select the Create Wpt button. To close the Notification
appear, and an alarm tone is sounded. Distress calls are shown in the page, press the QUIT key.
DSC Call List, and Log with a checkered symbol. When a Distress Call or Position Report is placed in the Call List
You also have the ability to input a caller’s name, if it is known. and Log, the information on the Notification page is retained.
The caller’s name replaces the MMSI number as a reference when To review a DSC call or log entry, highlight the entry and
entered. press ENTER. The DSC Entry Review page is identical to the
Notification page with one exception, the entry can be deleted.
Understanding Position Reports
A position report is similar to a distress call except no alarm is To review a call or log entry:
sounded. Position reports are not broadcast to all DSC users and are 1. Open the Call List or Log from the DSC tab
shown with a boat symbol. 2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight the call you want
to review.
Marine
Receiving DSC Calls 3. Press Enter to open the DSC Entry Review Page.
Each time you receive a distress call or position report, a
Notification page appears, and the call is placed in the DSC Call List
and Log. The Notification page contains information about the call
including: the type of call (distress or position report), the MMSI
number of the caller, a user definable name, the time and date of the
call, the bearing and distance from your current position, and
DSC Entry Review Page

DSC Call List DSC Log

The DSC Call List shows the 50 most recent calls, even if the unit When DSC calls are received, they are automatically stored in the
is left unattended. The Call List shows the most recent call from a Log, with the latest call at the top. The unit can store up to 100 logs.
vessel. If a second call is received from the same vessel, it replaces When 100 logs are received, the oldest log file is removed when a
the first call in the Call List. Press Menu to sort the list and delete new call is received. Press Menu to sort the list and delete entries.
entries.
DSC Log
Marine
DSC Call List

DSC Directory
Enter the Highlight OK
The DSC Directory acts much like a phone book and can hold up to MMSI number, and press
50 entries. Pressing Menu from this page allows you to add a Name, and a ENTER to save
New Item, Delete a highlighted entry, or Delete All entries. Comment in the directory
the fields. entry.
DSC Directory
entries. Press Blank entry. New Directory Item Page
ENTER to Press ENTER to
open the entry add a Directory
review page. When a distress call, position report or directory item is named, the
entry.
name is attached to that particular MMSI number. If a name is used,
all DSC entries of the same MMSI number show the name.
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
Marine
To add a new Directory entry:
1. Open the DSC Directory in the Main Menu. MMSI are sent to other Garmin GPS units: Only the MMSI numbers
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the first blank space in the
are sent to other non-Garmin DSC users.
directory list, and press Enter.
OR
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.

Navigating to a Position Report or Distress Call Setting up DSC

After a Position Report or a Distress Call is received, navigation can The DSC Setup tab allows you to turn DSC on and off. This Setup
be quickly set to the call location. tab also allows you to simulate distress calls and position reports
while the unit is in Simulator Mode (see page 11). Simulating calls
To navigate to a Position Report or Distress Call using the
is helpful for practice before connecting to the real system. The
Direct To key:
distress call simulator also helps to check if alarms are working
1. Press Direct To .
properly.
2. With Go To (MMSI/Name) highlighted, press ENTER.
To navigate to a Position Report or Distress Call using the
Call List or Log:
1. Highlight the call on the Call List or Log, and press
Direct To .
2. With Go To (MMSI/Name) or (DSC) highlighted, press Enter.
Marine
DSC Setup
Navigating to a DSC Call

Main Menu > GPS Tab
Main Menu GPS Tab

The GPS tab provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition,
The Main Menu features some additional pages that are useful to
receiver status, and accuracy. The sky view and signal strength bars
you as you plan trips and use your GPSMAP 496. Some of these
give an indication of what satellites are visible to the receiver and
pages have already been discussed in-depth in previous sections.
whether they are being tracked. More information on the GPS tab is
This section only contains the additional pages and features found in
located on page 4.
the Main Menu that have not been discussed yet.
The following tabs in the Main Menu can be restored their defaults:
Track, E6B, Alarms, Display, Sound, and Setup.
To restore defaults:
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight a tab.
4. Highlight Restore Default. GPS Page
5. Press Enter to restore the tab to the defaults.

To restore all of unit’s settings to the factory defaults at once, select
All Unit Defaults from the options menu of the Setup tab.

Main Menu > Weather and XM Tabs
Weather Tab XM Tab

Use the Weather tab to view individual weather features without The XM tab is where you can view and select XM Radio channels,
turning all other weather features on or off. For example, you can add or delete favorites, and obtain radio ID and XM WX Satellite
select Storm Cells to view only storm cell data on the Map window Weather service level information. The XM tab is divided into two
that appears on the Weather tab. When you close the Main Menu sub tabs: Audio and Information. Information on the XM tab is
and return to the Map Page, all of your previously selected weather located on pages 51–54.
features still appear on the Map Page. Information on the Weather
NOTE: The XM tab always appears on the Main Menu,
tab is located on pages 126–131.
regardless of whether the XM Audio Page is turned on or off.
NOTE: You must have a subscription to XM WX Weather and For more information about the XM Audio Page, see page 114.
the GXM 30A antenna must be plugged in to the USB port on
the back of the unit to use features described in this section. For Audio Sub Tab
more information about subscribing to XM WX Weather, see The Audio sub tab shows XM Radio channel categories, a list of
page 180. available channels, information about the selected channel, and the
strength of the XM signal.
Map Page with XM WX Weather

XM Tab Audio Sub Tab

Main Menu > Flights Tabs
Information Sub Tab Flights Tab

Use the Information sub tab to view the radio identification number, The Flights tab shows a list of any recorded flights, including
XM WX Satellite Weather subscription information, and a list of date, route of flight, and flight time. The GPSMAP 496 saves up
weather features available to you based on your subscription plan. to 50 recorded flights while in Aviation Mode. Entries on this list
The Information sub tab also shows the age of each weather report are automatically created for each flight. More information on the
in minutes. Flights tab is located on page 46.
XM Tab Information Sub Tab Flight Tab

Showing the flight details page
Route Tab
Use the Route tab create and store up to 50 reversible routes, with up
to 300 points each. See the “Creating Routes” section beginning on
page 61 for more information about routes.

Main Menu > Points and Track Tabs
Points Tab Track Tab

The Points tab contains two sub tabs, User and Proximity, which Use the Track tab to specify whether or not to record a track log,
allow you to manage a large number of waypoints quickly and define how it is recorded, or save the track log data for future use.
efficiently. For more information about waypoints, see the “Creating The Track tab is divided into two sub tabs: Active and Saved. For
Waypoints” section beginning on page 63. more information about tracks, see the “Managing Your Tracks”
section beginning on page 87.
User Sub Tab
The User sub tab shows a master list of all waypoints currently Active Sub Tab
stored in memory. The total number of stored and available The Active sub tab is for the active log (the log currently being
waypoints appears at the bottom of the User sub tab. recorded). It displays the amount of track memory used and current
settings.
Proximity Sub Tab
Use the Proximity sub tab to shows an alarm circle around a stored Saved Sub Tab
waypoint location. The Saved sub tab displays a list of all saved tracks in your unit.

Main Menu > Sonar, Aircraft, and E6B Tabs
Sonar Tab Aircraft Tab

The Sonar tab contains options for the Sonar Page. See the “Setting The Aircraft tab is divided into two sub tabs: Aircraft Profile and
Up the Sonar Page” section beginning on page 140 for more Weight & Balance. See page 47.
information about Sonar setup options.
To access the Sonar Tab:
1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Sonar tab.
Aircraft Profile Tab
E6B Tab
The E6B tab in the Main Menu calculates Density Altitude, True
Sonar Tab Airspeed, and Winds Aloft (Head Wind, Tail Wind, Wind From, and
Wind Speed), based on information you enter. See page 49.

Main Menu > Alarms Tab
Alarms Tab Airspace Alarms Sub Tab (Aviation Mode Only)

The Alarms tab allows you to define alarm settings. Class B, CTA; Class C, TMA; Towers, Cntrl Zones; Restricted,
ADIZ; MOAs; Mode C Veils; Other SUAs—enables and disables
To set an alarm: the alarms. Select On to enable or Off to disable.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the Alarms tab. Altitude Buffer—sets the buffer for the altitude alarm. Highlight
the Altitude Buffer field, and press Enter to select a different
3. Highlight the field below the alarm name you want activate, and
press Enter. value. Use the ROCKER to select the digits.
4. Change the mode to On, and press Enter. If necessary,
highlight the next field to the right, and press Enter, enter the
settings, and press Enter.
When an alarm goes off, the alarm message appears on the screen
and the unit emits five (5) beeps. When you select an alarm to be
persistent, the alarm message appears on the screen and the unit
beeps until you press Enter to acknowledge the alarm.
Airspace Alarms Tab
To set a persistent alarm:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. Navigation (Nav) Alarms Sub Tab
2. Use the ROCKER to select the Alarms tab. Next Turn—sets an alarm to indicate next turn in route. Select Off
3. Highlight the box next to the alarm you would like to make for no Next Turn alarm. Select Dist to enter a specific distance. For
persistent (for example, Next Turn). example, if you enter 1 nm, the Next Turn alarm sounds one nautical
4. Press Enter to place a check mark in the Persist box. mile before you reach the next turn. Select Time to enter a specific
When an alarm goes off, it sounds until you acknowledge the time before the turn for the alarm to go off. For example, if you
alarm message by pressing Enter. enter 00:02:00, the Next Turn alarm sounds two minutes before you
reach the next turn. Select Auto for the unit to provide a Next Turn
alarm at its discretion. System Alarms Sub Tab

Arrival—sets an alarm to sound when you are a specified distance
or time away from a destination waypoint. Select Off for no Arrival
alarm. Select Dist to enter a specific distance. Select Time to enter
a specific time before the destination for the alarm to go off. Select
Auto for the unit to provide an Arrival alarm at its discretion.
Off Course—sets an alarm to sound when off your course. Select
On, then enter a distance.
System Alarms Sub Tab
Anchor Drag—sets an alarm to sound when you have exceeded a
specified drift distance. Select On, and then enter a distance. Clock—sets an alarm based on the unit’s clock. Select On, and then
Custom POI—sets an alarm to sound when you have entered the enter a specific time that you want the alarm to sound. The unit must
proximity of a custom POI. be on for the clock alarm to work.
Caution: Garmin is not responsible for the consequences

Ext. (External) Voltage—sets an alarm to sound when the external
of using a custom POI database or the accuracy of the safety voltage drops below a specified amount. Select On, and then enter a
camera or other custom POI database. specific voltage.
DGPS—sets an alarm to sound when the unit loses a differential fix.
Accuracy—sets an alarm to sound when GPS accuracy falls outside
of the user-set value. Select On, and then enter a specific distance.

Weather Alarms Sub Tab Sonar Alarms Sub Tab (Marine Mode Only)
You must be receiving XM WX weather information for the weather You must be receiving sonar NMEA data for Sonar alarms to work.
alarms to work.
Sonar Alarms Sub Tab

Weather Alarms Sub Tab
Shallow Water and Deep Water—sets an alarm to sound when you
Tornado Warnings—sets an alarm to sound when you enter an area enter an area of water that is too shallow or deep.
where a tornado warning is in effect.
Water Temp—sets an alarm to indicate if the water temperature has
Thunderstorm Warnings—sets an alarm to sound when you enter exceeded or dropped below a specific temperature, or fallen outside/
an area where a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect. inside a specific temperature range. Select Above or Below and then
enter a specific temperature, or select Inside or Outside and enter a
Flood Warnings—sets an alarm to sound when you enter an area
range of temperatures.
where a flood warning is in effect.
Drift—sets an alarm to sound when you have exceeded a specified
Flash Flood Warnings—sets an alarm to sound when you enter an
drift distance. Select On, and then enter a specific distance.
area where a flash flood warning is in effect.
Fish—sets alarm to sound when unit detects a fish of the specified
Marine Warnings—sets an alarm to sound when you enter an area
symbol size.
where a marine warning is in effect.

Main Menu > Celestial Tab
Celestial Tab To view Sun & Moon information for a different date:
The Celestial tab on the Main Menu shows sun and moon 1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Date field and press Enter.
information, tide data, and hunting and fishing information. You can 2. Use the ROCKER to change the digits of the date to the date
show this data for your current location, a location from the map, or you want. You can also use the Zoom In and Out keys to view
a waypoint location. Also, you can select a different date and time, information for another date. Press and hold In or Out to scroll
quickly through dates.
or use the current data.
3. Press Enter when finished. The unit shows the sun and moon
To access the Celestial Tabs of the Main Menu: information for the date you entered or selected.
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. To use the current date again, highlight the Date field. Press Menu,
2. Highlight Celestial from the vertical list of tabs. highlight Use Current Date, and press Enter.
3. Use the ROCKER to show the tab, such as Sun & Moon.
Select the date Moon phase
Sun & Moon Sub Tab and location
The Sun & Moon sub tab provides you with sun rise/set and moon
rise/set times. A graphic screen of the moon phase is also shown.
You can view Sun & Moon information for any date or location. Location of the
Animation
You can also use the play, fast forward, and stop buttons to view an controls for the sun and moon
animation of the Sun & Moon sub tab. sky view in the sky view
Sun & Moon Sub Tab

To view Sun & Moon information for a different location: Tide Sub Tab
1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the From field and, The Tide sub tab contains a graphical chart that shows tide station
press Enter. information in a 24-hour span starting at midnight station time. You
2. Highlight Use Find Menu, and press Enter. The Find Menu can choose from different dates and more than 3,000 tide stations.
automatically opens.
3. Select a waypoint or point of interest, and press Enter. Enter the date for which you want to Select the tide station for which you
view the tide information want to view the information
4. On the waypoint information page, press Enter. The unit shows
the sun and moon information for the location you selected. Height of tide Time
To use the current location, highlight the From field. Press Enter,
highlight Current Location, and press Enter.
Smallest and Smallest and

largest tides largest tides
for the AM for the PM
hours hours
Tide Tab
The top of the page shows the tide station and date being referenced.
The chart shows a 24-hour block of time, with the time progressing
from left to right. The solid vertical lines represent 4 hour
increments; the dotted vertical lines represent 1 hour increments.
The tide curve shows as a shaded area, with higher tides being taller
and lower tides shorter. The bottom of the page indicates the times
with the largest and smallest tides.

To view a tide chart for a different tide station: To view a chart’s details for another time during the day
1. From the Tide tab, highlight the At field, and press Enter. The (other than current time):
Find Menu opens showing the tide stations. 1. From the Tide sub tab with the chart shown, press Menu, and
2. Press Menu and select Near Current Location, Near Current select Move Cursor.
Route, Near Other (select another location using the map), 2. Press the ROCKER right or left to view the chart at another time.
or Near Destination. The list is updated with your search 3. To return to the current time, press Menu, and select Stop
requirements. Moving Cursor.
3. Select a tide station from the list, and press Enter. The Tide
To automatically start pointer mode to scroll the chart:
Station Information Page opens.
1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Date field. Then press down to
4. Highlight OK, and press Enter. The Tide tab appears again start the pointer (pan) mode.
showing the tide chart for the selected tide station.
2. Scroll the chart right to view the next day or left to view the
To view the tide chart for another date: previous day.
1. From the Tide sub tab with the chart shown, highlight the On
field, and press Enter.
2. Enter the date with the ROCKER, and press Enter. You can
also use the Zoom In and Out keys to view information for
another date. Press and hold In or Out to scroll quickly through
dates.
3. Press Enter. The unit shows the chart for the date you entered
or selected.
To use the current date again, highlight the Date field. Press Menu,
highlight Use Current Date, and press Enter.

Hunt & Fish Sub Tab To view Hunt & Fish information for a different date:
The Hunt & Fish sub tab provides you with predictions of the good 1. Highlight the Date field, and press Enter.
and best times to hunt and fish in a selected location on a specific 2. Use the ROCKER to change the digits of the date to the date
date. you want. You can also use the Zoom In and Out keys to view
information for another date. Press and hold In or Out to scroll
To show the Hunt & Fish information: quickly through dates.
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. 3. Press Enter when finished. The unit shows the information for
2. Highlight Celestial from the vertical list of tabs using the the date you entered.
ROCKER.
To use the current date again, highlight the Date field. Press Menu,
3. Use the ROCKER to select the Hunt & Fish sub tab. highlight Use Current Date, and press Enter.
To view Hunt & Fish information for a different location:
1. Use the ROCKER to highlight the From field, and
press Enter.
2. Highlight Use Find Menu, and press Enter. The Find Menu
automatically opens.
3. Select a point, and press Enter.
4. On the information page, press Enter. The unit shows the Hunt
Hunt & Fish Sub Tab & Fish information for the selected location.
To use the current location, highlight the From field. Press Enter,
highlight Current Location, and press Enter.

Main Menu > Message Tab
Message Tab To show or hide messages using the Log Filter:

The Message tab shows a list of messages generated by your 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
GPSMAP 496. Use the ROCKER to scroll through the list of 2. Highlight Message from the vertical list of tabs.
messages on the Log tab. Use the Log Filter tab to show only the 3. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Log Filter tab. By default all
types of messages you want to view. messages are shown.
To view the messages:

2. Highlight Message from the vertical list of tabs.
Message Log Filter Tab
4. Use the ROCKER to highlight the message you want to hide,

and press Enter.
Message Log Tab 5. The message name then appears in the Hide window. Highlight
the message, and press Enter to show it again.
3. Use the ROCKER to highlight a message. Press Enter to view
detailed information about that message.

Main Menu > Display Tab
Display Tab Twilight Adjustment—allows the unit to adjust the backlight for
The Display tab allows you to set several features the screen, such optimum viewing during twilight times.
as what pages to show in the main page sequence and how long the Backlight Timeout—sets the backlight to stay on when it is turned
backlight stays on. on, or to time out after a selected period of time has elapsed when
To view the Display tab: using the battery. The backlight stays on regardless of this setting
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. when external power is used.
2. Highlight Display from the vertical list of tabs. XM Audio Page—enables the page and places it in the main page
sequence.
Highway Page—enables the page and places it in the main page
sequence. Available in Marine and Automotive Modes only.
Compass Page—enables the page and places it in the main page
sequence. Available in Marine and Automotive Modes only.
Backlight Intensity—turns the backlight up or down. Press the
Display Tab
ROCKER right to increase the intensity or left to decrease.
To restore the display to default settings:
Main Menu—enables the main menu tabs to contain text and icons 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
(default) or text tabs only. 2. Highlight Display from the vertical list of tabs.
Color Mode—sets the screen to a Day, Night, or Auto display. 3. Press Menu.
Auto switches from day to night at sunset and changes back at 4. Highlight Restore Defaults, and press Enter.
sunrise.

Main Menu > Sound Tab
Sound Tab Voice Prompt—sets the vocal prompt to operate for Guidance and
The Sound tab allows you to customize the sounds your Status, Route Guidance Only, or No Voice Prompts.
GPSMAP 496 makes to suit your needs. Terrain Audio (Aviation Mode)—turns audible terrain alerts on
To view the Sound tab: and off. Also enables or disables the audible “Five hundred” altitude
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. reminder that occurs when you descend through 500 feet above the
2. Highlight Sound from the vertical list of tabs. destination airport.
TIS Audio (Aviation Mode)—turns audible TIS traffic alerts on
and off.
Audio Volume—sets the external speaker volume (when used).
Press the ROCKER right to increase the volume or left to decrease.
Audio Jack—sets the type of audio signal generated from the unit's
external audio jack. Use Line Out (default) to connect to your
headsets or audio panel. Use Headphones for connecting directly to
Sound Tab a pair of personal stereo headphones.
Beeper—sets the beeper to chime during key presses and alarms To restore the sound to defaults:
(Key and Alarm or Alarms Only). 1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Highlight Sound from the vertical list of tabs.
Attention Tone—turns the attention tone that sounds before the
3. Press Menu.
vocal prompts on and off.
4. Highlight Restore Defaults, and press Enter.

Main Menu > Setup Tab
Setup Tab Text Language—allows you to select from various languages for
To customize how your GPSMAP 496 operates, adjust certain the unit’s pages and menus.
system settings in the Main Menu. WAAS—allows you to Disable and Enable WAAS from this field.
System Sub Tab External Power Off—allows you to select whether the
To open the System tab, press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. GPSMAP 496 remains on (Stay On) or the unit turns off (Turn Off)
Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then select System from the when external power is removed from the unit.
row of tabs along the top of the page. External Power On—allows you to turn the GPSMAP 496 on
(Turn On) or charge the battery (Charge Battery) when external
power is applied to the unit.
VNAV Sub Tab

The VNAV sub tab on the Main Menu provides settings for the
vertical navigation feature. These settings create a three-dimensional
profile that guides you from your present location and altitude to a
System Setup Tab final (target) altitude at a specified location. See page 42.
System Mode—sets the unit to operate in Normal Mode, Battery

Saver Mode, or Simulator Mode (for practice ONLY).
Usage Mode—sets the unit to the mode you want.
Speed Filter—allows the unit to average speed readings. Choose
from Off, Auto (automatically controls filtering), or On (allows you
to enter a value in seconds). VNAV Sub Tab

Road Routing Sub Tab detailed map coverage areas or where no roads exist.
Use the Road Routing sub tab to select road routing settings. Ask My Preference—determines whether you are asked to select a
route preference before route calculations.
To access the Road Routing sub tab
1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu. Calculation Method—sets how the unit searches for the route.
2. Use the ROCKER to select the Setup tab.
• • Quickest Calculation—calculates the route the quickest,
3. Press right on the ROCKER to select the Road Routing sub tab. but it might not produce the best route.
• Quick Calculation—takes more time to calculate, but generates
a better quality route.
• Better Route—generates an even better quality route, but uses a
longer calculation time.
• Best Route—generates the most optimal route, but takes the
longest time to calculate.
Calculate Routes for—sets route calculation for the particular
Road Routing Sub Tab
vehicle you are operating to optimize the route for your vehicle type,
some roads have vehicle-based restrictions.
Route Preference—allows the unit to calculate a route for:
• Faster Time—routes calculated are faster to drive, but can be Avoid—allows you to avoid certain road types and maneuvers on
longer in distance. your route. The unit uses these road types only if alternative routes
• Shorter Distance—routes calculated are shorter in distance but take you too far out of your way or if no other road is available.
can take more time to drive. Custom Avoids—allows you to enter specific areas and roads that
• Off Road—creates a direct line from your current location to you would like to avoid in your navigation. Refer to page 67 for
your destination. This is useful when you are travelling outside of information on creating custom avoids.

Custom Road Prefs—allows you to avoid or use Major, Medium, Next Turn—turns the Next Turn window Off, or opens the window
and Minor roads using a slider scale. This is especially nice if you when you hold Direct To , opens automatically (Automatically
want to avoid major highways, for example. Only), or Both.
Guidance Sub Tab Timers Sub Tab

To open the Guidance sub tab, press Menu twice to open the Main To open the Timers sub tab, press Menu twice, select Setup from
Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then select Guidance the vertical tab list, and Timers from the row of tabs along the top.
from the row of tabs along the top of the page.
Timers Sub Tab

Guidance Sub Tab
User—allows you to set the timer to Count Up or Count Down.
Off-Route Recalculation—allows you to set whether the unit You can also Reset the timer and turn it Off.
prompts you when it is recalculating your route (Prompted), or
Marine—shows on the Compass Page in Marine Mode. See page
whether the unit recalculates automatically. You can also set whether
94.
the unit announces the recalculation (Automatic - Announced) or
recalculates silently (Automatic - Silent). You can also turn route Fuel Tank—allows you to set a reminder for switching fuel tanks.
recalculation Off. The reminder message repeats at the specified interval after the
beginning of each trip.
Since Midnight—allows you to view the time the unit has been If the incorrect date is shown, press Menu, highlight Set Date, and
turned on since midnight. This resets if you restore All Unit press Enter. Enter the current year. The GPSMAP 496 uses this
Defaults from the System tab. information when gathering satellite data to show the correct date.
Time Sub Tab Units Sub Tab

The Time sub tab allows you to set the time format and time zone. The Units sub tab allows you to customize measurement units for
You can also set the unit to conform to Daylight Saving Time. The the entire system. To open the Units sub tab, press Menu twice to
current time and date is shown at the bottom of the page. open the Main Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then
select Units from the row of tabs along the top of the page.
To open the Time sub tab, press Menu twice to open the Main
Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then select Time from Distance and Speed—select the unit to show your speed and
the row of tabs along the top of the page. distance traveled.
Direction Display—select the unit to show your direction. Mils is a
unit of angle measurement used in military settings, in which 17.78
mils equal one degree.
Temperature—select the unit to show the temperature.
Altitude—select the unit to show your altitude.
Depth—select the unit to show the depth.
Time Sub Tab Vertical Speed—select the unit to show your vertical speed.
Time Zone—allows you to choose your correct time zone so the Pressure—select the unit to show the pressure.
GPSMAP 496 shows the correct local time. Select Other to enter a
UTC Offset.

Location Sub Tab Selecting a Different Heading Reference

Refer to the “Appendix” of this guide for more information about You can select from Auto Mag Var, True, Grid, and User Mag
location formats and map datums. Also visit the National Imagery Var. Auto Mag Var provides magnetic north heading references
and Mapping Agency at www.nima.mil for more information on that are automatically determined from your current location. True
grids and datums. provides headings based on a true north reference. Grid provides
headings based on a grid north reference (and is used in conjunction
Location Format Sub Tab with the grid position formats).
Changing the Location Format coordinates the system in which
User Mag Var allows you to specify the magnetic variation at your
a given location reading is shown. The default format is latitude
current location and provides magnetic north heading references
and longitude in degrees, minutes, and thousandths of a minute
based on the variation you enter. Enter the magnetic variation of
(hddd°mm.mmm).
your current location in the Magnetic Variation field if you have
Map Datum Sub Tab selected User Mag Var for the heading.
Datums are used to describe geographic locations for surveying, WARNING: If you select User Mag Var, the unit does not
mapping, and navigation and are not actual maps built in the unit. automatically calculate and update the magnetic variation at
The default setting is WGS 84. The unit automatically chooses the your present location. You must update the magnetic variation as
best datum based on your chosen position format. your location changes. Failure to update this setting can result in
substantial differences between the information shown on your
WARNING: Selecting the wrong map datum can result in unit and external references, such as a magnetic compass.
substantial location errors. You should only change the position
format if you are using a map or chart that specifies a different
position format or map datum or want to use a format you are
familiar with.When in doubt, use the default WGS 84 datum for
best overall performance.

Welcome Sub Tab Interface Sub Tab

The Welcome sub tab allows you to enter information, such as your The Interface sub tab controls the input/output format used when
name and address, that the unit can show when it is turned on. This connecting your unit to external devices. To open the Interface sub
feature can be helpful if your unit is ever misplaced. tab, press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. Select Setup from
the vertical tab list. Highlight and select the Serial Data Format you
To open the Welcome sub tab, press Menu twice to open the Main
want.
Menu. Select Setup from the vertical tab list. Then select Welcome
from the row of tabs along the top of the page.
Interface Sub Tab

Welcome Sub Tab
Serial Data Format—sets the data format to one of the following:
Enter the information in the fields. You do not need to enter
• Garmin Data Transfer—the proprietary format used to
information in every field.
exchange data with a PC or another Garmin GPSMAP 496.
To show this information at start up, highlight the box next to Show Garmin Data Transfer is disabled when the USB is connected and
at Power-up. Press Enter to place a check mark in the box. To the unit automatically switches to USB format. When the USB is
hide the welcome information at start up, remove the check mark disconnected, the USB field changes to Transfer Mode.
from the box.

• GARMIN DGPS—used to connect the GPSMAP 496 with a • RTCM In/NMEA Out—allows Differential GPS (DGPS) input
Garmin DGPS beacon receiver. using a standard RTCM format and also provides NMEA 0183
• Garmin Remote Sonar—supports the input/output of a Garmin version 3.01 output.
remote sonar device. • RTCM In/Text Out—allows Differential GPS (DGPS) input
• NMEA In/NMEA Out—supports the input/output of standard using a standard RTCM format and also outputs simple text data
NMEA 0183 version 3.01 data and sonar NMEA input support that includes, data, time, location, and velocity.
for the DPT, MTW, and VHW sentences. • Text Out—allows the unit to output simple text data that
• Aviation In—the proprietary format used for connection to a includes, data, time, location, and velocity. The Baud can be set
Garmin panel-mounted GPS receiver. Allows the GPSMAP 496 to 1200, 2400, 4800, or 9600.
to show a Go To or route selected on the panel-mounted GPS • None—provides no interfacing capabilities.
receiver. This eliminates the need to enter the destination on both If you select GARMIN DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out format,
units. you can control a differential beacon receiver directly from your
• Aviation In/NMEA & VHF Out—receives aviation data GPSMAP 496 using the Interface sub tab. You can have the unit
and transmits out both NMEA data, at 9600 baud, and VHF automatically scan for the DGPS beacon signal, or you can enter
frequency tuning information to a Garmin Nav/Comm radio. See the beacon frequency and bit rate on the unit, and the information is
page 147. used to tune the beacon receiver. If you use a DGPS receiver, WAAS
• TIS In—receives TIS data from a Garmin Mode S transponder. capability is automatically turned off.
See page 147.
• TIS In/NMEA & VHF Out—receives TIS data and transmits
out both NMEA data, at 9600 baud, and VHF frequency tuning
information to a Garmin Nav/Comm radio. See page 147.
• RTCM In—allows Differential GPS (DGPS) input using a
standard RTCM format.
To have the unit automatically scan for a frequency: The Status field shows one of the following:
1. With the unit set to GARMIN DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out, use
the ROCKER to highlight the Beacon field and press Enter. • Tuning—the unit is attempting to tune to the specified frequency
and bit rate.
2. Highlight Scan, and press Enter. The numbers in the
Frequency field change as the unit scans from 284 kHz to 325 • Scanning—the unit is automatically scanning through the
kHz, 200 bit rate, then 100, at 6 second intervals. frequencies and bit rates.
Highlight Scan Shows the • Receiving—the unit is receiving DGPS signal and ready for
and press status of the operation.
Enter scan
• Check Wiring—the unit is not making connection with DGPS
receiver.
To restart the scan:
1. Press Menu.
2. Highlight Restart Scan, and press Enter.
Interface tab of the Setup tab with GARMIN DGPS selected

To manually enter a frequency and bit rate: sentences at 1-second intervals.

1. With the unit set to GARMIN DGPS or RTCM In/NMEA Out, use
the ROCKER to highlight the Beacon field, and press Enter. To access the Advanced NMEA Output Setup:
2. Highlight User, and press Enter.
2. Use the ROCKER to select Setup from the vertical tab list.
3. Highlight the Frequency or Bit Rate field, press Enter, and
enter a frequency or bit rate. Press Enter when done. 3. Select Interface from the row of tabs along the top.
When the unit is receiving a DGPS signal, the SNR (Signal to Noise 4. Highlight the field below Serial Data Format. Press Enter.
Ratio) and Distance fields show data. The SNR range is 0 dB to 30 5. Select NMEA In/NMEA Out. Press Enter.
dB, with 30 being the best. The Distance may or may not show data, 6. Press Menu to open the options menu. Select Advanced NMEA
based on the signal being broadcast from the DGPS site. Setup, and press Enter.
The DGPS beacon transmitters are operated by the United States

Coast Guard (or similar government agency in other countries),
which is responsible for their accuracy and maintenance. For DGPS
transmitter problems or to find the most updated list of frequencies
and coverage areas, contact your local USCG or see their Web site
(www.navcen.uscg.mil).
Advanced NMEA Output Setup

Advanced NMEA Output Setup
If you are going to interface the GPSMAP 496 with another piece of
equipment (such as a radar or autopilot), the unit needs to be set to The Advanced NMEA Output Setup Page allows you to set the
output NMEA data. The NMEA data transmission can be customized output rate, change the precision of the Lat/Lon minutes, set
to keep the output rate at two seconds. If too many NMEA sentences Waypoint IDs to names or numbers, as well as turn on and off the
are selected the unit can take longer than two seconds to update. You GPS status, the GARMIN Proprietary sentences, and Waypoint/
can also set the rate to Fast to output a minimum number of NMEA Route (WPL, RTE).
GPSMAP 496 NMEA Sentence Output (NMEA version 3.01

compliant):
• Always transmitted: GPRMC, GPGGA, GPGLL, GPBWC,
GPVTG, GPXTE, GPRMB
• Switchable sentences: GPGSA, GPGSV, GPWPL, GPRTE
• GARMIN proprietary: PGRME, PGRMZ, PGRMM, PGRMH

Using XM Weather > Viewing and Finding XM WX Weather
Using XM WX Weather CAUTION: NEXRAD weather data is to be used for long-range

planning purposes only. Due to inherent delays and relative age
This section describes how to use XM WX Weather with your of the data that can be experienced, NEXRAD weather data
GPSMAP 496. You must have a GXM 30A antenna plugged into the cannot be used for short-range avoidance of weather.
USB port on the back of the unit to receive the XM signal. If you do
not have a subscription to XM WX Weather, the features described
in this section work only when the GPSMAP 496 is in Simulator
Viewing XM WX Weather
From the Map Page, you can turn weather information on or off.
Mode (see page 11).
To turn XM Weather on or off on the Map Page:
Note: You must have a subscription to XM WX Weather to use
Press and hold MENU/Wx to toggle XM Weather on or off.
features described in this section. For more information about
OR
subscribing to XM WX Weather, see page 180.
Press MENU, select Hide (Show) Weather, and then press
You can view XM WX Weather on your GPSMAP 496 in one of ENTER.
three ways:
• To view all weather information on the map, Use the Map Page.
• To view a specific weather feature such as NEXRAD Radar or
Storm Cells, for example, you can use the Weather tab on the
Main Menu. For more information, see page 102.
• To view current weather conditions and forecast information for Map Page with XM WX Weather turned on
your current location or a specific location, use the Weather Data
option on the Find menu. For more information, see page 133. Note: XM Weather data is not saved between power cycles in
the unit . If the GPSMAP 496 is turned off, the unit must reload
the data.

Using XM Weather > Setting XM WX Weather Options
Setting XM WX Weather Options To set up weather options on the Map Page:

Use the options menu on the Map Page to adjust the way weather 1. From the Map Page, press Menu to open the options menu.
items appear on the Map Page. Four tabs—Weather, Avtn Wx, Srfc 2. Highlight Set Up Map, and press Enter.
Wx, and Mrn Wx—allow you to adjust what weather items appear
on the Map Page, and the zoom range at which they appear. For
detailed information about specific weather features, see the
GXM 30/30A Owner’s Manual.
You can view a specific weather feature, such as NEXRAD Radar
or Storm cells, through the Weather Explorer tab on the Main Menu.
For more information, see page 102.
Map Page Options Menu
3. Press left or right on the ROCKER to highlight the Weather, Avtn

Wx, Srfc Wx, or Mrn Wx tab.
4. Press up or down on the ROCKER to highlight the field you want
to change, and press Enter.
5. Press page or Quit to exit.

Weather Explorer Tab Avtn Wx Tab

Use the Weather Explorer tab on the Map Setup tab on the Map Page Use the Avtn Wx tab to set the zoom range at which aviation
to turn XM WX Weather data on or off, and to set the zoom range at weather information first appears on the Map Page.
which the information first appears on the Map Page.
Avtn Wx Tab
Weather Explorer tab
METAR, AIRMET, SIGMET—sets the zoom range at which each
Weather Data—toggles XM WX Weather data on or off on the Map feature first appears on-screen. Select Auto, Off, or 20 ft to 800 nm.
Page.
NEXRAD Radar, Satellite Mosaic, Lightning, Storm Cells,
Hurricanes—sets the zoom range at which the feature first appears
on-screen. Select Auto, Off, or 20 ft to 800 nm.

Srfc Wx Tab Mrn Wx Tab

Use the Srfc Wx tab to set the zoom range at which surface weather Use the Mrn Wx tab on the Map Page Options to set up marine
information first appears on the Map Page. weather options.
Srfc Wx Tab Mrn Wx Tab
Surface Winds, Surface Pressure, Fronts, Visibility, County Water Temperature, Wave Period, Wave Direction, Wave
Warnings—sets the zoom range at which each feature first appears Height, Marine Warnings—sets the zoom range at which each
on-screen. Select Auto, Off, or 20 ft to 800 nm. feature first appears on-screen. Select Auto, Off, or 20 ft to 800 nm.

Using XM Weather > Using the Weather Tab
Using the Weather Tab 3. Press right on the ROCKER to highlight the Weather
Use the Weather tab to view individual weather items without Information Type field.
turning all other weather features on or off. For example, you can 4. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select (scroll through) the
select Storm Cells to view only storm cells on the Map window weather information type you want to view. The map refreshes to
that appears on the Weather tab. When you close the Main Menu show only the selected information type.
and return to the Map Page, all of your previously selected weather From the Weather tab, you can view the current conditions or
features still appear on the Map Page. forecast on the map for the next 12, 24, 36, or 48 hours.
Based on which mode you are in, different options might appear. To view the forecast map:
Use the In and Out keys to zoom in or out on the map. 1. In the Weather Information Type field, press up or down on the
ROCKER to highlight Forecast. The Map window shows the
Weather information type forecast on in the Map window.
Map
window
Weather Explorer tab with Forecast Map

Age of the
Storm Cells
weather report
To view a specific XM WX Weather Information Type:
1. Press MENU twice to show the Main Menu. 2. Press right on the ROCKER to highlight the field to the right of
Forecast, and press ENTER to display a list of forecast options.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight the Weather Explorer tab.

3. Highlight the forecast you want to view—Current, 12 Hour, 24 Animate Weather (Stop Animation)—animates NEXRAD Radar
Hour, 36 Hour, or 48 Hour, and press ENTER. The Map window and Satellite Mosaic weather. When selected, a series of frames
on the Weather Explorer tab is updated with forecast information appears, each displaying a different time in the lower left-corner of
for the time you selected. the map. Up to six frames appear, beginning with the oldest to the
The age of the weather report appears in the bottom-left corner of most current weather data.
the Map window on the Weather Explorer tab.
Show Map Pointer—allows you to switch from pan mode to
To pan the map: pointer mode and display the map pointer in the map area so you can
Press and hold the MENU/Wx key, or press MENU, highlight pan the map.
Show Map Pointer, and press ENTER. The panning arrow
appears so you can pan the map to view other map areas. Weather Legend—shows the color legend for Radar, Fronts,
METARs, County Warnings, and Other features. Press right or left
Weather Options on the ROCKER to view each weather legend.
Use the options menu on the Weather Explorer tab to select weather
options for the Map window on the Weather Explorer tab.
To select weather options:
1. Press MENU twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Highlight the Weather Explorer tab, and press MENU.
Declutter On (Off)—allows you to toggle unwanted weather items
on or off on the Map window.
Weather Legend

Viewing Additional XM WX Weather Information Accessing GXM 30A Antenna Information

The XM Tab contains the Information sub tab. Use the Information To view information about your GXM 30A antenna:
sub tab to view the radio ID, service level information, and weather 1. From any page, press MENU twice to show the Main Menu.
products available on your XM subscription. 2. Press up or down on the ROCKER to select the XM tab.
3. Press right on the ROCKER to select the Information sub tab.
4. Press MENU.
5. With Antenna Information highlighted, press ENTER. A window
appears displaying the software version loaded to your GXM
antenna.
Information Sub Tab
The Information sub tab contains the following information:

Radio ID—contains the eight-digit ID number of the radio built into
the GXM 30A. This is the number to provide to XM to activate your
XM subscription.
Service Level—shows the XM WX Weather subscription plan you 6. Press ENTER to close the window.
purchased.
Weather Products—shows a list of all weather features you can
access based on your subscription plan. Shows age of weather data
in minutes.

Using XM Weather > Finding Weather Information
Finding Weather Information 3. Highlight the Forecast tab to view the weather forecast for your
You can use the Find menu to access weather information for your current location.
current location or from another location on the map. By selecting Forecast high
the Weather Data option on the Find menu, you can view the current temperature
conditions, forecast information, sea surface conditions, and weather
bulletins. For more information about the Find menu, see “Finding Chance of
an Item” beginning on page 58. precipitation
To find weather information for your current location: Forecast low

temperature
1. From any page, press FIND.
2. Select Weather Data, and press ENTER. The Weather From Weather Forecast
Current Location Page appears. 4. Highlight the Sea Surface tab to view sea surface information.
Weather From Current Location Sea Surface Information

Using XM Weather > Finding Weather Information
5. Highlight the Bulletin tab to view marine weather bulletins. You can find weather forecast information for a different location.
To find weather data for a different location:
1. Press MENU on the Weather From Current Location Page.
2. With Near Other highlighted, press ENTER.
Marine Weather Bulletins
6. Highlight a weather bulletin and press ENTER to view the full text
of the marine weather bulletin.
3. Move the map pointer to a different location, and press ENTER.

The Weather From (New Location) Page appears with weather
information for the selected location.
4. Press MENU, highlight Near Current Location, and then press
ENTER to return to the forecast for your current location.
Full Text Marine Weather Bulletin

Setting up and Using Sonar > Showing Sonar on the Map Page
Setting up and Using Sonar 3. Press Menu. Use the ROCKER to highlight Set up Page
Layout, and press Enter.
This section covers the additional sonar options for the 4. Highlight Map with Sonar, and press Enter.
GPSMAP 496 when used in conjunction with a GSD 20 or GSD 21
Sounder Module. Read the GSD 20/GSD 21 Installation Instructions
to properly install the sounder module. When you turn on your
GPSMAP 496, the GSD 20/GSD 21 automatically turns on.
Note: You MUST have a GSD 20 or GSD 21 installed and
connected to your GPSMAP 496 to use the sonar features.
The Sonar Page is added to the end of the page sequence when you
are in Marine Mode. To view the Sonar Page, press Page or Quit Map Page with Split Screen
repeatedly until it is shown.
To resize the Map Page sonar split screen:
Showing Sonar on the Map Page 1. After displaying the Sonar and Map Page together in the split
screen, as described in the previous steps, press Menu.
You can change the layout of the Map Page to show a split screen to
show the sonar and Map Page. You must be in Marine Mode to use 2. Highlight Size Split, and press Enter.
the sonar feature. 3. Use the ROCKER to move the vertical double-arrow right or left
until the screen is divided how you want it.
To show the Sonar Page on the Map Page: 4. Press Enter to complete the size split.
1. Press and hold Page. Highlight Marine, and press Enter.
5. To stop resizing the screen, simply press Quit. You can also
2. Press Page or Quit to show the Map Page. press Menu, highlight Stop Resizing, and press Enter to stop
resizing the screen and retain the previous split setting.

Setting up and Using Sonar > Using the Sonar Page
Using the Sonar Page The sonar returns show as red (strongest), then orange (strong),
When combined with a GSD 20 or GSD 21 Sounder Module, your yellow (medium), green (weaker), and blue (weakest). The Fish
GPSMAP 496 becomes a powerful fishfinder/flasher with the Sonar Symbols option allows you to view the actual sonar data, a fish
Page. If a GSD 20 or GSD 21 is attached, but the unit does not symbol or a combination of both. When the unit is set to Dual, the
detect a transducer, a “Sonar Turned Off” message appears across appearance of the fish symbols changes. Fish symbols from the
the Sonar Page. If a GSD 20 or GSD 21 is not attached, the Sonar center of the beam (200 kHz) are solid (or narrow arches), but the
Page only appears when the unit is in Simulator Mode. returns from the edges of the beam (50 kHz) are hollow (or wide
arches).
The middle of the page contains a right-to-left moving sonar image
of the water beneath your boat. Items appear as they pass under your The Sonar Page can also be set to show a split screen view of a
transducer. Those items on the right side of the screen are closer to zoomed portion of the sonar, bottom lock (screen scaled from the
you than those on the left. Along the right side of the screen is an bottom up), or a combination of these options. For example, you
adjustable scale that reflects the depth of the area being shown. The can choose to show dual frequency at a 2X zoom (Dual 2X) on one
top-left corner shows the Adjustment Option, the depth, and the half and normal range dual frequency (Dual) on the other half. The
water temperature. current display mode is shown at the bottom of each sonar screen.
Sonar Page

Adjusting the Sonar Page Adjustment Options

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, Gain, Target
Level, Whiteline, Frequency, Depth Line, Noise Reject and Scroll.
Use the ROCKER and Enter keys to make all adjustments. The
currently selected option appears in the upper left corner.
To select an adjustment option:
Use one of the following methods to select an adjustment option: Sonar Adjustments
• Press the ROCKER right or left to scroll through the
adjustment options. When the adjustment option is shown, Scroll—adjusts the rate that the sonar screen scrolls from right to
press Enter. left. If you are sitting still or the sonar screen is moving too fast,
• Press Menu, highlight Adjustments, and press Enter. Use slow the scroll rate or pause the scrolling.
the ROCKER to highlight the adjustment, and press Enter.
Range—sets the depth range used for viewing. The unit can be set
When you have selected an adjustment option, press the ROCKER to automatically track the bottom or set to a user-specified depth
up or down to change the setting. range.
You can also press Menu, and highlight the shortcut setting to
quickly change to commonly used settings/values.
Press Enter to accept the new setting (or press Quit to cancel)
and return to the Sonar Page.

Zoom—used to quickly select a zoom scale or to split the screen. View/Span—available when a Zoom scale other than No Zoom is
When a scale other than No Zoom is selected, the Adjustment Menu selected. The View or Span setting is used to change the viewing range
shows a new selection labeled View or Span. The Zoom function is of a zoomed screen. If the screen is 2X or 4X split, only the zoomed
divided into six levels: portion on the left side of the screen is affected by the change. If the
screen is Bottom Split or Bottom Lock, Span adjusts how far off the
• 2X Split—shows two reduced-size sonar pictures at the same bottom the unit shows data.
time. The right half of the screen shows the complete sonar
picture at its original scale. The left half shows a portion of the Gain—allows you to control the sensitivity of the unit’s receiver,
original picture at 1/2 depth scale. which provides flexibility in what is shown. To see more detail,
increase the receiver sensitivity by selecting a higher gain. If there is
• 2X Zoom—shows the 2X zoomed picture on the full screen.
too much detail or if the screen is cluttered, select a lower gain.
• 4X Split—shows two reduced pictures, the right at the original
depth scale and the left at 1/4 the original depth scale. Target Level—adjusts which colors are used to show sonar
information. A Color Bar appears on the right side of the screen as
• 4X Zoom—shows the 4X zoomed picture on the full screen.
you adjust this setting. A higher percentage results in more strong-
• Btm (Bottom) Split—shows two reduced pictures, the right at signaled colors shown on the sonar screen. A lower percentage
the original depth scale and the left showing sonar returns from results in more weaker-signaled colors shown on the sonar screen.
the bottom up. All target depths read as a distance from the This setting does not increase or decrease the unit Gain.
bottom.
Whiteline—controls how the unit shows information about the
• Btm (Bottom) Lock—shows returns from the bottom up on the
bottom type (hard or soft). With the Whiteline Off, the bottom return
full screen.
shows as red. Set Whiteline at Normal or 1–100% to determine
Note: Quickly zoom in and out of the Sonar Page by pressing bottom hardness. See page 145 for more information.
the In and Out keys. Stop the zoom function by pressing the
Out key until the No Zoom setting appears. Frequency—allows you to choose a transducer frequency.
Frequency refers to the “pitch” of the sound that the transducer
sends and receives.
Depth Line—adds a horizontal depth line across the screen that is Using the Pointer on the Sonar Page
used to measure the depth of underwater objects. The depth of the You can show the pointer (arrow) to reference sonar items and
line appears in a box on the right side of the line. Press up or down mark underwater waypoints. This makes it easier to find and use an
on the ROCKER to move the line on the Sonar Page. object such as a stump for a future fishing location. When using this
Noise Reject—helps filter unwanted noise from the Sonar Page. feature, the Sonar Page pauses. The depth continues to update while
The Noise Reject can be turned Off, set to Normal (automatically the screen pauses, but the unit does not show any new sonar data
adjusts for optimum viewing) or to a fixed 1–100% setting. When until the Sonar Page resumes scrolling.
setting the Noise Reject, remember that a higher noise rejection To mark an underwater waypoint:
setting is less likely to show fish or structures. 1. From the Sonar Page, press Menu, highlight Show Pointer, and
press Enter.
Resizing the Split Screen 2. Use the ROCKER to move the pointer to the location you want to
You can adjust the way the split screen is shown. This option is only mark. Press Enter. The New Map Waypoint Page appears.
available when a zoom scale other than No Zoom is selected.
3. To change the name, symbol, or depth, highlight the appropriate
To resize the Sonar Page split screen: field and press Enter. Make your changes, and press Enter
1. From the Sonar Page split screen, press Menu. when done.
2. Using the ROCKER , highlight Size Split, and press Enter. 4. When finished, highlight OK, and press Enter.
3. Move the horizontal double-arrow left or right using the ROCKER 5. To return to the standard Sonar Page, press Quit; or press
until the vertical width line shows, then press Enter. Menu, highlight Hide Pointer, and press Enter.
4. If you want to cancel this operation, press Quit or press Menu,
highlight Stop Resizing, and press Enter.

Setting up and Using Sonar > Setting up the Sonar Page
Setting Up the Sonar Page Depth Number—select how efficient the digital depth update rate
Use the Sonar tab in the Main Menu to set up the Sonar Page. Press is. Fast Sonar update updates quicker and is recommended for low-
Menu two times to open the Main Menu. Select Sonar from the noise water deeper than 50 feet. Auto is best for shallow water or
vertical row of tabs on the left, then select Setup from the row of high-noise areas, has a slower screen update, and is best used if you
tabs along the top of the screen. travel a wide variety of depths.
If the unit is unable to track the bottom for any reason, the digits in
the depth window flash on and off to alert you that the unit is not
tracking the bottom.
Map Split Sonar Detail—select how much detail is shown on the
Map Page with the sonar shown. Full Range shows data using the
Range setting of the Sonar Page, regardless of Zoom or Bottom
Lock. Maximum Detail shows any Zoom or Bottom Lock data
Sonar Tab of the Main Menu
from the Sonar Page.
Keel Offset—enter the surface reading for the depth of a keel. This
Fish Symbols—select how the Sonar Page shows underwater targets makes it possible to measure depth from the bottom of your keel
and background information. If you select Off, the unit shows all instead of from the transducer’s location. Enter a positive number
of the available information about the underwater environment. If to offset for a keel. It is also possible to enter a negative number to
you select a fish symbol, the Sonar Page shows only the information compensate for a large vessel that draws several feet of water. The
related to that symbol. Keel Offset is reflected in the depth reading.
Water Type—select the water type in which you are boating. Since Transducer—select the type of transducer that you are using. If you
sound waves travel through Fresh and Salt water at different rates, it are using a speed-capable transducer/sensor, select Temp, Spd.
is necessary to select the Water Type to ensure accurate readings on
the unit.
Calibrating the Water Speed

If you select Temp, Spd is for the Transducer option on the Sonar
Setup tab, you also need to calibrate the water speed to ensure that
the Water Speed shown on your unit is accurate. The calibration
should take place in water having little or no current.
The unit automatically uses the GPS ground speed, if it is available,
for comparison on the calibration. If a GPS ground speed is not Calibrating the Water Speed
available, use either your boat’s speedometer reading (not always
accurate) or a stopwatch to determine your speed over a certain 3. By default, the top ground speed is automatically shown. If a
distance. To find out your speed, divide the distance by the time. ground speed is not available, the top uncalibrated water speed
is used instead. If the new speed is correct, highlight OK, and
To calibrate the water speed: press Enter.
1. From the Sonar tab, Setup sub tab, use the ROCKER to highlight
If you want to manually enter a calibration, press Enter while
Calibrate Water Speed, and press Enter.
the speed is highlighted, enter a new speed, and press Enter.
2. Bring the boat to a cruising speed. Both the top ground and
uncalibrated water speeds are shown at the bottom of the If the boat is not moving fast enough or the speed sensor is not
calibration window. Note your top speed, then stop the boat, and outputting a speed, “Boat Is Not Moving Fast Enough To Calibrate”
press Enter. shows at the bottom of the screen. Check that the speed sensor
wheel is moving or safely increase boat speed. If there is a problem
with the speed sensor or if a speed sensor is not installed, “Water
Speed Sensor Is Not Working” appears at the bottom of the screen.
Check connections of speed sensor cables.

Setting Up the Sonar Display Flasher—select On to show a graphic Flasher representation on

You can set up how the sonar information is shown on the screen. the far right side of the sonar screen. This graphic Flasher shows
Press Menu two times to open the Main Menu. Select Sonar from structure and bottom returns much the same as a true Flasher.
the vertical row of tabs on the left, then select Display from the row Temperature Graph—select On to show a temperature graph along
of tabs along the top of the screen. the bottom of the Sonar Page.
Background Color—select the color for the Sonar Page and the
sonar on the Map split.
Graphic Flasher
White Color Bar

Sonar Display Setup Tab Background
Scale—select how and where you want the depth scale shown.
Temperature
Color Bar—select On to show a gradient scale of the current Graph Depth in
Target Level setting on the Sonar Setup tab. corners
Sonar Page with the Sonar Page Settings Changed

Setting up and Using Sonar > Understanding Sonar
Understanding Sonar Understanding the Sonar Display

The transducer mounted on your vessel transmits sound waves One of the first things to understand about sonar is that the
toward the bottom of a lake, stream, or seabed in a cone-shaped transducer sends a beam down to the bottom of the water, much like
pattern. When a transmitted sound wave strikes an underwater the beam of a flashlight. The beam starts small near your vessel and
object—such as the bottom, a piece of structure, or a fish—sound is expands as it gets to the bottom. Refer to “Transducer Coverage” for
reflected back to the transducer. The transducer collects the reflected more detailed information.
sound waves and sends the data to the GPSMAP 496 to be processed The Sonar Page does not show a three-dimensional representation of
and shown. The underwater data is shown on the Sonar screen in the the underwater environment; the screen is in two-dimensions, much
order that it is returned: first returned is the first on the screen. like if you took a picture of an aquarium. Only the depth of the item
in the water is shown. The Sonar Page does not show you where an
item is located horizontally in the water, as shown in the drawings
below. The fish is not directly above the tree in reality, but it can
look like it is on the Sonar Page.
Fish
Sonar Page
1'
Generally speaking, if the only thing between the transducer and

the bottom is water, the first strong return comes from the bottom 10'
Tree
directly below the transducer and sets the bottom level. Weaker, Tree
secondary returns provide the detailed data. Stronger returns appear 20'
on the screen in darker colors, with red being the strongest return. Aerial View of the Water Sonar Page

Transducer Coverage
The area covered by the transmitted sound waves is determined by
the cone angle of the transducer and the water depth. The wide cone
angles (40°), associated with low frequencies (50 kHz) provide a Coverage Depth
large coverage area for finding fish within a coverage width that Diameter
is approximately 2/3 of the water depth. However, this also means Depth
that wide cone angles produce less bottom detail and resolution. As Coverage
Diameter
shown in the drawing on the near right, the 40° cone angle produces
a coverage area of approximately a 20-foot diameter circle at a
30-foot depth.
The narrow cone angles (10°) associated with the high frequencies
(200 kHz) provide better bottom resolution and crisper detail, but
cannot show a large coverage area for finding fish. The 10° cone
angle provides a coverage width that is approximately 1/5 of the
water depth. As shown in the drawing on the far right, the 10° cone
angle produces a coverage area of approximately a 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.

Whiteline Thermoclines
The GSD 20 or GSD 21 Sounder Module can help you determine A rough definition of a thermocline is a break in water where
whether the bottom is hard or soft. When the sonar sound waves are the water temperature changes faster than the water above it.
reflected back by the bottom, a hard bottom returns a stronger signal Thermoclines are shown as the weakest colors.
than a soft bottom. A thin whiteline indicates a softer bottom, while
One of the unique features offered by Garmin is See-Thru®
a thick whiteline indicates a harder bottom. Normally, a red line
technology, which allows the GPSMAP 496 to hear both weak and
is used to show the point where water meets the bottom. This line
strong signals simultaneously so as to identify fish returns under
follows the bottom contour, along with any significant objects lying
the toughest conditions, such as suspended in thermoclines or even
on the bottom. The unit uses the whiteline function to make the
hiding near structures. See-Thru technology allows the GSD 20 or
bottom layer information easier to distinguish.
GSD 21 Sounder Module to see through thermoclines and helps
locate fish where they live.
Thick Whiteline:
Hard bottom
Thermocline
Whiteline On Whiteline Off

Setting up and Using Sonar > Viewing the Sonar Temperature Tab
Viewing the Sonar Temperature Tab Changing the Temperature Screen

Note: You must be receiving proper sonar data from another The graph adjusts and shown the temperatures changes according to
device, such as a Garmin GSD 20 or GSD 21 Sounder Module, the Temperature Scale and Time Duration settings.
to view temperature information.
Temperature Scale—select the degree span from the list. Select
The Temperature sub tab provides a visual graph of water Auto to have the unit automatically determine the best range, or
temperature changes over a period of time. The graph reads from select a span of 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 degrees.
right to left, so that the most recent temperature measured is shown Time Duration—set how fast or slow the temperature log scrolls:
on the far right side of the graph. The dotted lines within the graph a shorter the time duration means a faster temperature log scroll.
indicate intervals in the temperature scale and the duration of time. Select a duration from 1 minute to 2.5 hours.
Note: Select Temp for the Transducer type in the Sonar Reset the Temperature Graph
Setup. See “Setting Up the Sonar Page” on page 140 for more
To reset the scale range for the temperature graph, press Menu,
information.
highlight Reset Auto Scale, and press Enter. This is useful
Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu. Select Sonar from the when the scale spans a large range due to extreme temperature
vertical row of tabs on the left, then select Temperature from the changes. You can only reset the scale when you select Auto for the
row of tabs along the top of the screen. Temperature Scale.
To restore the temperature graph to defaults, press Menu, highlight
Restore Default, and press Enter.
Temperature Tab
TIS > Traffic Information Service
TIS 7.0 nm
3,500 ft
(Traffic Information Service)

TIS provides a graphic representation of traffic advisory information
in the cockpit for non-TCAS equipped aircraft. TIS is a ground-
based service providing relative location of all ATCRBS (Air Traffic 3,000 ft
Control Radar Beacon System) Mode A and Mode C transponder-

equipped aircraft within a specified service volume. The TIS ground TIS Coverage Volume (not to scale)
sensor uses real-time track reports to generate traffic notification.
TIS Traffic is available to aircraft equipped with a Mode S Data Warning: TIS is NOT intended to be used as a collision
Link such as the Garmin GTX 330 Transponder. TIS Traffic from avoidance system and does not relieve the pilot responsibility
a GTX 330 Transponder can then be shown on the GPSMAP 496. to “see and avoid” other aircraft. TIS should not be used for
Surveillance data includes all transponder-equipped aircraft within avoidance maneuvers. TIS is intended only to assist in visual
the coverage volume. Aircraft without an operating transponder acquisition of other aircraft in VMC. Avoidance maneuvers are
not recommended, nor authorized, as a direct result of a TIS
are invisible to TIS. TIS shows up to eight traffic targets within
alert.
7 nautical miles horizontally from 3,000 feet below to 3,500 feet While TIS is a useful aid to visual traffic avoidance, it has some
above the requesting aircraft. Refer to page 159 for information on system limitations that must be fully understood to ensure proper
connecting your GPSMAP 496 to a GTX 330 Mode S transponder. use. Many of these limitations are inherent in secondary radar
surveillance. In other words, the information provided by TIS
Note: How TCAS differs from TIS—the main difference
will be no better than that provided to ATC.
between TIS and TCAS is the source of surveillance data. TCAS
uses an airborne interrogator with a half-second update rate,
while TIS uses the terminal Mode S ground interrogator and its
Data Link to provide about a five-second update rate. The range
accuracy of TIS and TCAS is similar.

TIS > TIS Limitations
TIS Limitations Whenever the structure of the client aircraft comes between the
TIS is NOT intended to be used as a collision avoidance system transponder antenna (usually located on the underside of the aircraft)
and does not relieve the pilot responsibility to “see and avoid” and the ground-based radar antenna, the signal may be temporarily
other aircraft. TIS should not be used for avoidance maneuvers interrupted. Other limitations and anomalies associated with TIS are
during IMC or other times when there is no visual contact with the described in the AIM, Section 1-3-5. Refer to page 159 for wiring
intruder aircraft. TIS is intended only to assist in visual acquisition information.
of other aircraft in VMC. No recommended avoidance maneuvers
are provided for, nor authorized, as a direct result of a TIS display or
TIS advisory.
While TIS is a useful aid to visual traffic avoidance, it has some
system limitations that must be fully understood to ensure proper
use. Many of these limitations are inherent in secondary radar
surveillance. In other words, the information provided by TIS will
be no better than that provided to ATC. TIS only shows aircraft with Note: Garmin is not responsible for Mode S geographical
operating transponders installed. coverage. Operation of the ground stations is the responsibility
of the FAA. Refer to the Aeronautical Information Manual for a
TIS relies on surveillance of the Mode S radar, which is a Terminal Mode S Radar Site Map covering the U.S.
“secondary surveillance” radar similar to the ATCRBS. TIS
operation may be intermittent during turns or other maneuvering. NOTE: TIS is unavailable at low altitudes in many areas of the
TIS is dependent on two-way, “line-of-sight” communications U.S., particularly in mountainous regions. Also, when flying near
between the aircraft and the Mode S radar. the “floor” of radar coverage in a particular area, intruders below
the client aircraft may not be detected by TIS.

TIS > TIS Limitations
TIS information is collected one radar scan prior to the scan during These are relatively rare occurrences and are corrected in a few
which the uplink occurs. Therefore, the surveillance information radar scans once the course has stabilized.
is approximately 5 seconds old. In order to present the intruders
Users of TIS can render valuable assistance in the correction
in a “real time” position, the TIS ground station uses a “predictive
of malfunctions by reporting their observations of undesirable
algorithm” in its tracking software. This algorithm uses track
performance. Reporters should identify the time of observation,
history data to extrapolate intruders to their expected positions
location, type and identity of aircraft, and describe the condition
consistent with the time of display in the cockpit. Occasionally,
observed; the type of transponder processor and software in use can
aircraft maneuvering causes this algorithm to induce errors in the
also be useful information. Since TIS performance is monitored
GPSMAP 496 screen. These errors primarily affect relative bearing
by maintenance personnel rather than ATC, it is suggested that
information and traffic target track vector (it will lag); intruder
malfunctions be reported in the following ways:
distance and altitude remains relatively accurate and may be used to
assist in “see and avoid.” Some of the more common examples of • By telephone to the nearest Flight Service Station (FSS) facility.
these errors include: • By FAA Form 8000-7, Safety Improvement Report, a postage-
• When client or intruder aircraft maneuvers excessively or paid card designed for this purpose. These cards can be obtained
abruptly, the tracking algorithm can report incorrect horizontal at FAA FSSs, General Aviation District Offices, Flight Standards
position until the maneuvering aircraft stabilizes. District Offices, and General Aviation Fixed Based Operations.
• When a rapidly closing intruder is on a course that crosses the
client aircraft course at a shallow angle (either overtaking or head
on) and either aircraft abruptly changes course within ¼ nm, TIS
may show the intruder on the opposite side of the client than it
actually is.
•

TIS > TIS Symbology
The GPSMAP 496 supports TIS input from a Garmin Mode S TIS Symbology
transponder, such as the GTX 330. TIS traffic is shown on the GPSMAP 496 according to TCAS
To configure TIS input:
symbology, graphically shown on an alert window, and on the
1. Press MENU twice. The Main Menu appears. moving Map Page. A Traffic Advisory (TA) symbol appears as a
2. Highlight the Setup tab. solid yellow circle. All other traffic is shown as a hollow white
3. Use the ROCKER to select the Interface sub tab. diamond. Altitude deviation from own aircraft altitude is shown
4. Highlight the Serial Data Format field, and use the ROCKER to
above the target symbol if traffic is above own aircraft altitude, and
select TIS In. below the symbol if they are below own aircraft altitude. Altitude
trend is shown as an up arrow (>+500 ft/min), down arrow (<-500
ft/min), or no symbol if less than 500 ft/min rate in either direction.
A TIS audio alert is generated whenever the number of Traffic

Advisories on the GPSMAP 496 screen increases from one scan to
The status field indicates one of the following messages: the next. Limiting Traffic Advisories only reduces the “nuisance”
alerting due to proximate aircraft. For example, when the first Traffic
• Waiting For Data—searching for a valid TIS data stream. Advisories appear on the TIS display, the user is alerted audibly.
• Data Available—receiving TIS data from the transponder. So long as a single aircraft remains on the TIS display, no further
• Data Unavailable—connection to transponder established, but audio alert is generated. If a second (or more) aircraft appears on the
TIS service is unavailable. screen, a new audio alert is sounded.
• Lost Connection—an error occurred or the connection to the
transponder was lost.
TIS > Traffic Ground Track and Warning Window
If the number of Traffic Advisories on the TIS display decreases and NOTE: The Traffic Warning Window is disabled when the
then increases, a new audio alert is sounded. The TIS audio alert is aircraft ground speed is less than 30 knots or when on the
also generated whenever TIS service becomes unavailable. approach leg of a route.
The following TIS audio alerts are available:

• Traffic—TIS traffic alert received.
• Traffic Not Available—TIS service is not available or out of
range.
Note: TIS audio alerts can be turned off in the Main Menu
Sound tab.
Traffic Ground Track Traffic Target Track Vector

Traffic ground track is indicated on the GPSMAP 496 screen by a
“target track vector”, a short line shown in 45-degree increments,
extending in the direction of target movement.
Traffic Warning Window

When a traffic threat is imminent, the Traffic Warning Window is
shown. The Traffic Warning Window shows a small thumbnail map.
Traffic Warning Window
Press QUIT to go back to the previous page.

TIS > Map Page
Map Page Highlighting TIS Traffic Using Map Page Panning

TIS traffic can be shown on the Map Page. Another Map Page feature is panning. Refer to page 31 for more
information.
To configure TIS Traffic on the Map Page:
1. Press PAGE until the Map Page appears. When the target pointer is placed on traffic, the traffic range and
2. Press MENU. The Map Page options menu appears. altitude separation are shown.
3. Highlight Set Up Map, and press ENTER.
4. Highlight the Map sub tab.
5. Select TIS Traffic, and use the ROCKER to change the Zoom
range.
Displaying traffic range and altitude separation

using the Map Panning feature.

TIS > Operation Procedures
TIS Operational Procedures Intruder Aircraft
TIS warns the user with voice and visual traffic advisories whenever
it predicts an intruder to be a threat. The user should not start 0.5 nm
evasive maneuvers using information from the GPSMAP 496 screen + 500 ft
or on a traffic advisory only. The display and advisories are intended

only for assistance in visually locating the traffic, due to the lack in
resolution and coordination ability. The flight crew should attempt to
visually acquire the intruder aircraft and maintain a safe separation
in accordance with the regulatory requirements and good operating
practice. If the flight crew cannot visually acquire the aircraft,
This area within 34 seconds - 500 ft
they should contact ATC to obtain any information that may assist
concerning the intruder aircraft. Based on the above procedures,
Conditions for Traffic Advisories
minor adjustment to the vertical flight path consistent with air traffic
requirements are not considered evasive maneuvers. TIS shows a Traffic Advisory (TA) on the GPSMAP 496 when an
intruder aircraft approaches your aircraft on a course that intercepts
The TIS Traffic Advisory (TA) should alert the crew to use (defined by a 0.5 nm horizontal radius and a relative altitude of ±
additional vigilance to identify the intruding aircraft. Any time 500 ft) your course within 34 seconds.
the traffic symbol becomes a yellow circle or a voice warning is
announced, conduct a visual search for the intruder. If successful,
maintain visual contact to ensure safe operation.

VHF Comm > Overview
VHF Comm The following features are now available on the radio:
• Remote frequency lists for departure, enroute, and arrival airports
The GPSMAP 496 can also output frequency data to a Garmin aviation
• Nearest VOR frequencies (SL30 only)
radio. Currently the two models supported are the SL30 nav/comm and
the SL40 comm. Refer to page 159 for wiring information. Note: See your SL30/40 User’s Guide regarding information
Caution: This interface does not have an FAA installation on accessing remote frequency lists.
airworthiness approval. If any abnormalities with SL 30/40
You can also use the GPSMAP 496 to directly tune a standby
tuning or operation are encountered, disconnect the GPSMAP
496 from the SL 30/40 tuning interface. frequency in the radio by using the Comm tab when reviewing an
airport.
To configure the VHF comm output: To select a standby comm frequency:
1. Press MENU twice. The Main Menu appears. 1. Use the map pointer or the NRST key to select an airport.
2. Highlight the Setup tab.
2. Highlight the Comm sub tab.
3. Use the ROCKER to select the Interface sub tab.
3. Select a comm frequency, and press ENTER. The frequency is now
4. Highlight the Serial Data Format field and use the ROCKER tuned in the standby slot on the radio.
to select TIS In/NMEA & VHF Out or Aviation In/NMEA &
VHF out. These comm modes send both NMEA data and VHF If the comm frequency has a restriction, the restriction page has a
frequency information. Tune button, which performs the same function.

Appendix > Specifications
Appendix Performance
Receiver: Differential-ready 12 parallel channel receiver
Specifications Acquisition Times: Approx. 15 seconds (warm start)
Approx. 45 seconds (cold start)
Physical Specifications
Approx. 5 minutes (First Time/AutoLocate®)
Size: 5.7'' W x 3.2'' H x 1.9'' D
(14.5 x 8.1 x 4.8 cm) Update Rate: 5/second, continuous
Weight: 14.2 oz (.40 kg) Accuracy
Display: 3.75'' diagonal (9.5 cm) Transflective, 256-color GPS: 15 meters (49 feet) RMS 95% typical
display with backlighting (480 x 320 pixels) DGPS (USCG): 3–5 meters (10–16 ft), 95% typical
Case: Fully gasketed, high-impact plastic alloy, DGPS (WAAS): < 3 meters (10 ft) 95% typical with DGPS
waterproof to IEC 60529 IPX7 corrections
Temp. Range: 5°F to 140°F (-15°C to 60°C) Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS steady state
Power Dynamics: 6 g's
Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion
Battery Life: 4 to 15 hours based on the XM antenna and
backlight usage
Source: 11–35 VDC
Fuse: 3AG-1.5 Amp

Appendix > Care Information
Care Information Storing the GPSMAP 496

Contact Garmin if you have any questions caring for your GPSMAP Do not store the GPSMAP 496 where prolonged exposure to
496. In the USA contact Garmin Product Support by phone: (913) temperature extremes can occur (such as in the trunk of a car) as
397-8200 or (800) 800-1020, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM Central permanent damage may result. User information, such as waypoints
Time; or go to www.garmin.com/support. and routes, is retained in the unit’s memory without the need for
external power. It is always a good practice to back up important
In Europe, contact Garmin (Europe) Ltd. at +44 (0) 870.8501241
user data by manually recording it or downloading it to a PC
(outside the UK) or 0808 2380000 (within the UK).
(transferring it to MapSource).
Cleaning the Unit Immersing the Unit in Water
The GPSMAP 496 is constructed of high quality materials and does
The GPSMAP 496 is waterproof to IEC Standard 60529 IPX7. It can
not require user maintenance other than cleaning. Clean the unit
withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Prolonged
using a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution and then wipe
submersion can cause damage to the unit. After submersion, be
dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that may damage plastic
certain to wipe and air dry the unit before reuse or charging.
components.

Appendix > Optional Accessories
Optional Accessories Programmable Data Cards—Blank data cards available in a

In addition to the standard accessories included with your variety of sizes. Download detailed map data from MapSource
GPSMAP 496, the optional accessories are designed to enhance CD-ROMs to a data card, either directly through your GPSMAP
the operation of the GPSMAP 496. 496 using the included USB-PC Interface Cable, the optional PC
Interface Cable (with a Serial connector), or with the optional USB
To obtain replacement parts and optional accessories, contact Data Card Programmer.
your Garmin dealer, Garmin Product Support in the USA at
800/800.1020, or Garmin Europe at 44/0870.8501241. USB Data Card Programmer—Programs blank data cards at high
speed through a PC.
WARNING: Garmin accessories have been designed and
specifically tested for use with Garmin products. Accessories Carrying Case—Protects the GPSMAP 496 when not in use; with
offered for sale by other manufacturers have not been tested or storage for data cards.
approved for use with Garmin products. Use of such accessories
Protective Cover—Snaps on the front of the unit to protect the
could cause damage to the GPSMAP 496 and void the warranty.
screen from damage.
PC Interface Cable—Connects the unit to a serial port on your PC. MapSource Software CD-ROMs—Offers several detailed mapping
Power/Data Cable—Allows you to connect the unit to the electrical options that are compatible with the GPSMAP 496, including
system using the bare wires. BlueChart, Fishing Hot Spots, and Topo.
Pre-Programmed Data Cards—Data cards pre-programmed with
either Garmin BlueChart or Fishing Hot Spots map data.

Appendix > Installation Information
Installation Information Voice (-) Ground

Data Out Orange Black
Connecting the Power/Data Cable Blue Alarm
The power/data cable connects the GPSMAP 496 to an 11–35 VDC White
system and provides interface capabilities for connecting external Voice (+)
devices. The color code in the diagram below and to the right Power Brown
Red Data In
indicates the appropriate harness connections. Replacement fuse is a Yellow
3AG - 1.5 Amp fuse.
Ground Voice (-)

Black Orange Data Out
Blue
Alarm Power/Data Connector on the Cable
White
Power
Voice (+) Red Red: Power
Brown
Data In Black: (-) (+)
Ground
Yellow 11–35 VDC
Power/Data Connector on the GPSMAP 496 Unit
RXD +
Autopilot/
Note: The Alarm pin is used in Marine installations only. NMEA Device
Blue: RXD -
Data Out
Note: The Voice (+) and Voice (-) pins are intended for a Switch (+)
White/Blue
speaker in automotive installations. Do not connect the Voice Orange GSD 20
(+) and Voice (-) pins to an intercom or audio panel without first Closed - On,
Open - Off
Sounder
Yellow:
consulting the manufacturer. Data In
(-)
White/Brown

Connecting to a GTX 330 Mode S Transponder Connecting Your GPSMAP 496 to a Computer
To receive Mode S TIS traffic data from a GTX 330 transponder on Your GPSMAP 496 can be connected to your computer using the
your GPSMAP 496, connect an available RS-232 OUT pin on the included USB-PC Interface Cable to connect to a USB data port
transponder to the Data In pin on the GPSMAP 496. (You do not or the optional PC Interface Cable to connect to a DB-9 serial
need to connect the transponder to the GPSMAP 496’s Data Out communications port.
pin.) Then, set the corresponding RS-232 output configuration on
Note: Fully install the supplied MapSource program, Trip &
the transponder to REMOTE + TIS and set the GPSMAP 496’s Waypoint Manager, on your computer before connecting the
Serial Data Format to TIS In or TIS In/NMEA & VHF Out. For USB cable to the computer.
more information, see the TIS section on page 147 and the GTX 330
Transponder Installation Manual.
Connecting to a Garmin VHF Comm Radio

To output frequency data to an SL40 comm or SL30 nav/comm
radio, connect the Data Out pin on the GPSMAP 496 to the RxD USB
pin on the comm radio. (You do not need to connect the comm radio USB Data Port on your PC
connector
to the GPSMAP 496’s Data In pin.) Set the GPSMAP 496’s Serial under
Data Format to TIS In/NMEA & VHF Out or Aviation In/NMEA weather cap
& VHF Out. For more information, see the VHF comm section on
page 154 and your nav/comm radio’s installation manual. Serial Communications Port

To connect your GPS to your computer: You can download xImage from the Garmin Web site at
1. Connect the small end of your cable to the lower connector on www.garmin.com/ximage. Refer to the help file for complete
the back of the GPSMAP 496. instructions about using xImage.
2. When using the supplied USB Data Cable, connect the larger
end of the cable to an available USB data port. Installing and Removing Data Cards
When using a PC Interface Cable, connect the larger end of the The GPSMAP 496 uses an optional Garmin data card to show
cable to a serial communications port on your computer. digital charts and maps. Install the data card in the slot located on
the bottom of the unit. Install or remove the data card at any time,
Information about USB Drivers
whether the unit is on or off.
The USB drivers should have been automatically installed when you
installed the MapSource program that came with your GPSMAP You can load a variety of information on your data card, such as
496. When you initially connect the GPSMAP 496 to a USB port, BlueChart and MapSource detailed maps in a MapSource program.
your computer prompts you to locate the destination of the drivers You can buy pre-programmed cards to use with your GPSMAP 496.
for the device. You only need to install the drivers once. After the Data cards are not waterproof, should not be exposed to moisture or
drivers are installed, your computer always detects your GPSMAP excessive static charges, and should be stored in the case supplied
496 when it is connected. USB drivers are updated periodically. You with the card.
can find these updates at www.garmin.com.
To install a data card:
Using xImage for Customized Waypoint Symbols 1. Insert the card into the slot on the bottom of the unit. Be sure the
xImage allows you to exchange images between your PC and your label is facing the front of the unit.
GPSMAP 496. You can download and save screen shots of any 2. Firmly push the card into the unit. It is not necessary to force the
screen shown on your unit. xImage also allows you to download card. The handle is still exposed when it is properly inserted.
customizable splash screens and waypoint symbols from compatible
GPS units, customize them (if you have an image editing program
on your PC), and send them back to your GPS unit.

3. If the unit is on, a confirmation tone sounds. The first time you To connect the GXM 30A antenna:
insert a programmed data card, the unit takes a few seconds to 1. Position the antenna where it has a clear view of the sky. This
read the card. When the data card has been properly installed can be on the outside of the vehicle or behind the windscreen.
and accepted, a summary screen noting the card details 2. Plug the GXM 30A cable into the USB port on the back of the
appears. Press Enter to acknowledge. unit, as shown in the following illustrations.
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 Garmin Product Support or your Garmin
dealer.
To remove a data card:
1. Grasp the card handle. The handle expands for easy removal.
2. Pull the card out of the card slot on the bottom of the unit.
3. If the unit is on, a confirmation tone sounds when the data card is GXM 30A Antenna Plugged In
removed.
Connecting the GXM 30A Antenna Interfacing

Connect the GXM 30A antenna to the GPSMAP 496 to access XM The following formats are supported for connection of external
WX satellite weather and XM Radio. For more information about devices: GARMIN proprietary Differential GPS (DGPS), NMEA
the GXM 30A antenna, see the GXM 30A Owner’s Manual. 0180, 0182, 0183 (versions 1.5, 2.0, 2.3, 3.01), ASCII Text Output,
RTCM SC-104 input (version 2.0), and Garmin proprietary formats
note: You must subscribe to XM Radio and/or XM WX for connecting to a Mode S transponder for TIS data, and to a
Satellite Weather to use the XM Radio and/or XM Weather Garmin aviation NAV/COM radio.
features on your GPSMAP 496.
The following are the Approved Sentences for NMEA 0183,
version 3.01 output: GPRMC, GPGGA, GPGSA, GPGSV, GPGLL,
GPBOD, GPRTE, and GPWPL. The following are the Proprietary

Sentences for NMEA 0183, version 3.01 output: PGRME, PGRMZ,
PGRMM, and PGRMH.
The GPSMAP 496 also includes NMEA input with support for the
BWC, DBT, DPT, MTW, VHW, VTG, and XTE sentences.
Garmin’s proprietary communication protocol is available from the
Web site (www.garmin.com).
Removing the GPS Antenna

You can remove the antenna to use an external antenna. After the
antenna is removed, the BNC connector is exposed and ready for use
with an external antenna. For information on connecting an external
antenna to the GPSMAP 496, refer to the installation instructions Removing the GPS Antenna
that came with the antenna.
To remove the GPS antenna:
1. Remove the external power cable from the connector on the back
of the GPSMAP 496.
2. Rotate the antenna to approximately a seven o’clock position.
The alignment notches in the casing must line up with the
notches on the antenna.
3. Pull the antenna away from the GPSMAP 496 unit.

Appendix > Learning about GPS
Learning About GPS What is Differential GPS (DGPS)?

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation The United States and Canadian governments (among others) have
system made up of a network of 24 satellites placed into orbit by the set up Differential GPS (DGPS) stations to transmit correction
United States Department of Defense. signals. They are operational in coastal areas and on many navigable
river systems.
GPS was originally intended for military applications, but in the
1980s, the government made the system available for civilian use. The DGPS system is available for use without a fee, but you do need
GPS works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 additional equipment to receive DGPS signals: A beacon receiver
hours a day. There are no subscription fees or setup charges to use compatible with the RTCM format sentences supported by your
GPS. For more information refer to the Garmin Web site at Garmin GPS is needed to use DGPS.
www.garmin.com and also read the GPS Guide for Beginners at Refer to the United States Coast Guard’s Web site (www.navcen
www.garmin.com/aboutGPS/manual.html. .uscg.gov) for locations and status of the differential stations.
Common GPS Terms Differential Field
Initialize—the first time a GPS receiver orients itself to its current Differential receiver status is indicated in the bottom-left field of the
location and collects data. After the receiver is initialized, it GPS Page and shows one of the following conditions:
remembers its location and acquires a location more quickly.
• None—no optional beacon receiver is attached or enabled
Location—an exact, unique location based on geographic on the Interface sub tab on the Main Menu or WAAS is
coordinates (Latitude and Longitude). turned off.
Route—A group of waypoints entered into the GPS receiver in the • Searching for WAAS—WAAS is enabled and the receiver is
sequence you want to navigate them. searching for WAAS signal.
Waypoint—a location you store in your GPS. • Using WAAS—WAAS capability is enabled and the unit is
receiving WAAS corrections.

Appendix > Learning about GPS
• Check Beacon Wiring—the DGPS setting is enabled in the According to the FAA’s Web site, testing in September 2002, WAAS
Interface sub tab on the Main Menu but no DGPS device is confirmed an accuracy performance of 1–2 meters horizontal and
detected. 2–3 meters vertical throughout the majority of the continental
• No Beacon Signal—DGPS receiver is attached, but not United States and portions of Alaska.
transmitting RTCM data to GPS. WAAS is just one service provider that adheres to the Minimum
• Tuning Beacon—the receiver is tuning manually to a DGPS Operational Performance Standard (MOPS) for global Satellite
frequency. Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS). Eventually, there will
• Using Differential—the unit is receiving DGPS corrections. be several services of worldwide geostationary communication
satellites and ground reference stations.
• Scanning for Beacon—the DGPS receiver is scanning for an
available frequency. All SBAS systems use the same receiver frequency; therefore any
operational SBAS system should be capable of providing your GPS
What is WAAS/EGNOS? unit with increased accuracy at any location in the world.
The Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) is an FAA-funded
service to improve the overall integrity of the GPS signal and Currently, enabling WAAS on your Garmin GPSMAP 496 in regions
increase position accuracy for users in North America. In Europe, that are not supported by ground stations may not improve accuracy,
WAAS is referred to as EGNOS. even when receiving signals from an SBAS satellite. In fact, it can
degrade the accuracy to less than that provided by GPS satellites
The system is made up of satellites and approximately 25 ground
alone. For this reason, when you enable WAAS on your Garmin
reference stations positioned across the United States that monitor
GPS receiver, the receiver automatically uses the method that
GPS satellite data. Two master stations, located on either coast,
achieves the best accuracy. To enable WAAS, refer to page 4.
collect data from the reference stations and create a GPS data
correction message. For more information, go to http://gps.faa.gov/Programs/WAAS/
waas.htm.

Appendix > Loran TD Setup
LORAN TD Setup Using the LORAN TD Format

LORAN is a radio navigation aid operated and maintained in the When creating new waypoints using LORAN TD coordinates,
United States by the United States Coast Guard. The name LORAN you must set the correct LORAN chain number and secondary
is an acronym for “LOng RAnge Navigation”. The LORAN stations in the Setup TD field before storing the waypoint. After the
system covers the entire United States and the United States waypoint is stored in unit memory, it always reference the LORAN
Coastal Confluence Zone. From the perspective of a mariner, the chain number and secondary stations currently selected in the
system is used for ocean and coastal navigation. It can be used as a Setup TD field. If you enter a different LORAN chain number, or
supplemental system for harbor and harbor approach navigation, and change the secondary stations or offsets in the Setup TD field, the
it is used for inland navigation by recreational vehicles. active waypoint information does reflect those changes. Since the
GPSMAP 496 does not rely on the LORAN signal for navigation,
LORAN TD Feature it can reference a different GRI chain and/or secondary stations and
The LORAN TD (Time Delay) feature eases the transition from still navigate to the location stored in memory.
using LORAN to using GPS. The GPSMAP 496 unit automatically
The LORAN Location Format field is located under the Units sub
converts GPS coordinates to LORAN TDs for those who have a
tab in the Main Menu. The LORAN TD Setup window contains
collection of LORAN fixes for favorite fishing spots and other
the fields to select the Loran GRI-Chain Number, Primary and
waypoints recorded as TDs. You can show your location as a TD
Secondary Stations, and TD Offsets.
or enter waypoints as TDs. The accuracy to be expected from this
conversion is approximately thirty (30) meters. When the unit is
placed in the LORAN TD format mode, it simulates the operation
of a LORAN receiver. Location coordinates can be showed as TDs,
and all navigation functions can be used as if the unit was actually
receiving LORAN signals.

Appendix > Loran TD Setup
To set up LORAN TD from the Main Menu:

1. Press Menu twice to show the Main Menu.
2. Use the ROCKER to highlight Setup on the vertical tab list. Then
select Location from the row of horizontal tabs.
3. Using the ROCKER, highlight the Location Format field and
press Enter.
LORAN TD Setup
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 and adjust the TD
coordinates accordingly. Remember that the GPS is not relying
on the LORAN signal for navigation and actually converts the
Location Sub Tab TD coordinate to a useful latitude and longitude coordinate before
storing the waypoint to memory or using it for navigation. Because
4. Highlight Loran TD, and press Enter.
of this, the unit can navigate to a TD coordinate anywhere in the
5. Highlight the Setup button located on the right side of the world.
Location Format field, and press Enter. The Loran TD Setup
window appears. You must know your GRI chain number and/or secondary stations
6. To change the settings of any of the five fields, highlight the field, to create a LORAN TD location. For more information read our
press Enter, enter the setting using the ROCKER, and press LORAN TD Position Format Handbook, available at the Garmin
Enter. Web site, at www.garmin.com/support/userManual.jsp.
7. When finished, highlight the Save button, and press Enter.

Appendix > Map Datums and Location Formats
Map Datums and Location Formats If you are navigating and comparing the GPS coordinates to a map,
chart, or other reference, the map datum in the GPS unit should
be set to the same datum as the map to ensure the most accurate
navigation.
What is a Location Format?

Your current location can be viewed on the GPS in the form of
coordinates. Since different maps and charts use different location
formats, Garmin GPS units allow you to choose the correct
coordinate system for the type of map you are using. The most
Map Datums are based on a mathematical model of the Earth.
common format is latitude and longitude, which is used by all
Garmin units. You can change the location format to use with other
coordinate systems in Location Preferences. UTM/UPS (Universal
What are Map Datums? Transverse Mercator/Universal Polar Stereographic) are easy-to-use
A datum is a mathematical model of the Earth that approximates
metric grids that are found on most USGS topographic quadrangle
the shape of the Earth and enables calculations to be carried out in a
maps. Several other grids, including a user-definable grid (for the
consistent and accurate manner. The datum is physically represented
advanced user), are available.
by a framework of ground monuments (such as trig. stations) whose
locations have been accurately measured and calculated on this For more information about using paper maps with your
reference surface. Lines of latitude and longitude on a map or chart Garmin unit, refer to Using a Garmin GPS with Paper Land
are referenced to a specific map datum. Every chart has a map datum Maps, available for download at www.garmin.com/manuals/
reference and the GPSMAP 496 can be set to match most of those UsingaGarminGPSwithPaperLandMaps_Manual.pdf.
commonly used.

Appendix > Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Any time a vessel receives a DSC call, they can store that location
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) uses marine VHF radio and Global and quickly navigate to that location using a Go To. This makes
Positioning System (GPS) technologies to transmit and receive DSC a time-saver, especially in an emergency situation. In order to
location information. DSC is used by mariners to assist them in two use DSC, users must first register their VHF radio with the FCC and
major areas: Distress Calls and Position Reporting. receive a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number.
A non-emergency DSC Position Report allows mariners to exchange What is a Maritime Mobile Service Identity
and show the locations of one another. When you receive a DSC (MMSI)?
location, you can create a waypoint or to show the received location Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) basically allows a VHF
on an electronic map. radio to act like a phone. The 9-digit MMSI number acts like a
An emergency DSC Distress Call allows a vessel in trouble to phone number when used in a Position Report and as a unique
transmit a substantial amount of information in a single transmission identifier to the Coast Guard when used in an emergency Distress
or “call,” without the need for voice communication. When any Call. To obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number,
nearby rescuer receives the DSC signal, an alarm sounds and they users must register their VHF radio with the FCC (Form 605).
immediately receive the location of the caller. Garmin does not supply this number!
The rescuer can choose to navigate (Go To) the caller’s location to For more information regarding MMSI’s visit
assist or forward the call on to the Coast Guard. When the Coast www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/gmdss/mmsi.htm.
Guard receives the call, they can immediately access the caller’s
information (such as who they are and the type of vessel) in their
database while they are in transit to the caller’s location.

Appendix > Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
How Are MMSI Assignments Obtained? User Outside the United States
Non-commercial users, such as recreational users, who remain Users can obtain an MMSI assignment from their
in United States waters and only carry VHF, EPIRB (Emergency telecommunications authority or ship registry, often by obtaining or
Position Indicating Radio Beacons), and Radar are not required to amending their ship station license.
have a FCC ship station license. The FCC and Coast Guard have
authorized some second and third party vendors to assign MMSI User In Canada
numbers. This service is limited to registering recreational vessels Industry Canada is responsible for assigning MMSI numbers to
only. To receive information on how to obtain a recreational MMSI commercial and recreational vessels. Information is available at
number go to www.uscg.mil. http://sd.ic.gc.ca/engdoc/mmsi.jsp.
United States Non-Federal User How Can Garmin Help You with DSC?
Commercial users, or those who travel outside the United States or To receive Distress Calls or Position Reports, you must have a DSC-
Canada, must apply for a ship station license or an amendment to a equipped chartplotter as well as a VHF radio with DSC support.
ship station license. To find out if you require a Ship Station license During normal, non-emergency Position Report communication,
contact http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/fctsht14.html. If your vessel Channel 70 (156.525 MHz) has been set aside as the VHF/DSC
requires licensing by the FCC, a MMSI is assigned to you during digital call channel.
the application/licensing process when you file FCC Forms 159 and For a Distress Call, press the MayDay button on the VHF radio.
605. The call transmits on an emergency channel with the MMSI number
attached to the call, if the receiver has DSC support. Any DSC-
United States Federal User
equipped mariner (on sea or land) within range can receive the call.
Federal users can obtain MMSI assignments from their agency
radio spectrum management office. These procedures are currently When the Garmin GPSMAP 496 is connected to a VHF with DSC
under review by the National Telecommunications and Information support, the GPS unit shows a Call List, Log, and a Directory. Basic
Administration (NTIA). wiring is required for the Garmin unit and VHF radio to send and
receive NMEA data from each other.
Appendix > Jeppesen Database Information
Jeppesen Database Information ARTCC—Air Route Traffic Control Centers.

The GPSMAP 496 includes an internal Jeppesen database that
®
Airspace—boundaries (Class B, Class C, Control Zones, SUAs, and
provides location and facility information for thousands of airports, MOAs), controlling agency, and vertical boundaries.
VORs, NDBs, and more. Updates to the Jeppesen database are
available every 28 days online (www.garmin.com). The update FSS—Flight Service Stations.
program is designed to operate on Windows®-compatible PCs and * Symbology used for NDBs, VORs, and airports is consistent with
requires the included USB cable to connect your GPSMAP 496 to those used on a sectional chart.
the PC’s USB port. The following information is provided from the
internal Jeppesen database: Database Updates
Updates to the Jeppesen database are available every 28 days online
Airport—* identifier, facility name, city/state/country, latitude/
(http://shop.garmin.com/aviation/databases). The update programs
longitude, field elevation, available fuel types, runway designations
are designed to operate on Windows®-compatible PCs and requires
and layout, runway surface, runway length, runway width, runway
the included USB Interface Cable to be connected to the unit and an
lighting, communication frequencies, and published approaches.
available USB port on your computer.
Weather—frequencies associated with an airport (ASOS, ATIS, and
AWOS). Note: After you perform an update to your Jeppesen database,
verify that all of your flight plans (routes) in your unit are
VORs—* identifier, facility name, city/state/country, location current. If there is an obsolete Jeppesen aviation point in a saved
(latitude/longitude), frequency, service volume (high, low, terminal), route, the route is locked and unusable. You need to create a new
and type (such as VOR-DME, TACAN, and VORTAC). route with current Jeppesen database points.
NDBs—* identifier, facility name, city/state/country, location An optional FlightBook software package is available to assist with
(latitude/longitude), and frequency. your flight record keeping. Visit the Garmin Web site at
www.garmin.com/aviation.
Intersections—identifier, nearest VOR, radial and distance from
nearest VOR, location (latitude/longitude), and region/country.
Appendix > Messages
Messages Check XM Antenna—internal problem with your GXM 30A

Accuracy Alarm—the GPS accuracy has fallen outside of user-set antenna. Contact Garmin Product Support.
value. Database Error—internal problem with the unit. Contact your
Alarm Clock—the alarm clock has sounded. dealer or Garmin Product Support to have the unit repaired.
Antenna Shorted to Ground—the external GPS antenna has an Deep Water—the water is deeper than the amount set in the Deep
electrical connection problem. Contact Garmin Product Support. Water Alarm.
Approaching Target Altitude—within 1,000 feet of final VNAV Detail Maps Don’t Support Routing—maps that are loaded on the
target altitude. data card do not support automatic route calculation.
Approaching Turn—you are nearing a turn in a route. Distress Call—a DSC distress call was received. Take appropriate
action.
Approaching VNAV Profile—you are within one minute of
reaching the initial VNAV decent point. Dragging Anchor—the distance set in the Anchor Drag Alarm is
exceeded.
Arriving at Destination—you are nearing your destination.
Drift Alarm—the water depth has changed by the amount entered in
Batteries Low—the battery needs to be recharged. the Drift Alarm setup.
Basemap Failed Unit Needs Repair—there is an internal problem Fish Alarm—a fish was detected. The unit shows an icon and beeps
with your unit. Contact Garmin Product Support to have the unit (if enabled). This alarm does not show a message banner.
serviced.
Flash Flood Warning—a flash flood warning was issued for the
Boat Is Not Moving Fast Enough to Calibrate—the boat is not area by the National Weather Service.
moving fast enough for the speed wheel to provide a valid speed.
Flood Warning—a flood warning was issued for the area by the
Can’t Unlock Maps—no applicable unlock code for one or more National Weather Service.
maps was found. All MapSource maps are not accessible.
Appendix > Messages
Lost Satellite Reception—the unit is unable to receive satellite not enough data is available to calculate a DGPS position.
signals.
No Tide Stations for that Area—no tide stations within 100 miles
Marine Warning—a marine warning was issued by the National of the area.
Weather Service.
No XM Signal—the GXM 30A antenna is not receiving an XM
Memory Full—unit memory is full, no further data can be saved. signal.
Memory (RAM) Failed Unit Needs Repair—there is an internal None Found—no data matched the search criteria.
problem with your unit. Contact Garmin Product Support to have the
Off Course—you are off course by the distance set in the Off
unit serviced.
Course Alarm.
Near Proximity Point—you have reached the distance set for a
Proximity Memory Full—no additional proximity waypoints can
proximity waypoint.
be saved.
NMEA Depth is Below Transducer—no keel offset value has been
Proximity Radius Overlaps—the radius of two proximity
received from the external sonar device.
waypoints overlap.
No Diff GPS Location—RTCM is selected but the unit is not
Route Already Exists—you have entered a route name that already
receiving DGPS data.
exists.
No Roads Near Destination—the destination for the road route you
Route Calculation Error—no route can be calculated.
tried to calculate is not near any roads. Select a different destination.
Route Memory Full—no additional routes can be saved.
No Roads Near Starting Point—the start location for the road
route you tried to calculate is not near any roads. Select a different Route Truncated—uploaded route from another device has more
start location. than 300 waypoints.
No DGPS Position—no differential connection data is available, or Route Waypoint Memory Full—no additional route waypoints can

Appendix > Messages
be saved. Track Log Full—the track log is full and track recording was turned
off. To record more track points, you need to clear the track log and
Saving XM Program Information—an XM Radio channel lineup
turn track recording on.
change has occurred and the unit is saving the channel lineup to
memory. Track Memory Full—no more track data can be stored. Delete the
old track data to store the new data.
Shallow Water—the water is shallower than the amount set in the
Shallow Water Alarm. Track Truncated—a complete uploaded track will not fit in
memory. The oldest track log points have been deleted.
Sonar Failed Unit Needs Repair—there is an internal problem with
the unit. Contact Garmin Product Support to have the unit serviced. Transducer Disconnected, Sonar Turned Off—the unit has
no transducer attached, has a bad cable/transducer, or has a
Steep Turn—approaching a turn that requires a bank angle in excess
disconnected transducer cable.
of 25 degrees to stay on course.
Transfer Complete—data transfer was completed.
Sunrise, Switching to Day Mode—the unit is switching to Day
Mode. USB Connected—the USB cable was recently plugged in.
Sunset, Switching to Night Mode—the unit is switching to Night User Timer Expired—the Timer Alarm value has counted down to
Mode zero.
Thunderstorm Warning—a severe thunderstorm warning was VNAV Cancelled—VNAV function has been cancelled due to a
issued for the area by the National Weather Service. change in the active route.
Tornado Warning—a tornado warning was issued for the area by Water Speed Sensor is Not Working—the speed sensor is not
the National Weather Service. detected. Check the connections.
Track Already Exists—a saved track with the same name already Water Temperature Alarm—sonar has reported a temperature
exists. above, below, inside, or outside the specified values(s).

Appendix > Data Field Options
Waypoint Already Exists—a waypoint with the same name already Steer.
exists.
Cross Track—the distance you are off your course in either
Waypoint Memory Full—the unit has stored the maximum number direction, left or right.
of waypoints.
Depth (Marine Only)—the depth of water from sonar NMEA input.
XM Antenna Not Responding—the unit is unable to communicate
Dest Wpt—see Waypoint (Destination).
with the GXM 30A.
Distance (Destination)—the entire distance, from beginning to end,
XM Connected—the GXM 30A antenna was recently plugged in.
of a route.
Data Field Options Distance (Next)—the distance to the next point on a route.
The following list provides a brief description of each data field ETA (Destination)—Estimated Time of Arrival. The estimated time
option. Some of these options are supported only by devices you will reach your destination.
interfaced to your GPSMAP 496.
ETA (Next)—Estimated Time of Arrival. The estimated time you
Accuracy—the current accuracy of your GPS determined location. will reach the next point on your route.
Battery Timer—the time remaining on the battery before it is fully ETE (Destination)—Estimated Time Enroute. The estimated time
discharged. required to reach your destination.
Bearing—the compass direction from your current location to a ETE (Next)—Estimated Time Enroute. The estimated time required
destination. to reach the next point on your route.
Course—the your path of travel from your starting location to a Elevation—the altitude (height) above or below mean sea level
destination. (MSL).
Course to Steer—the recommended direction to steer in order to GPS Status—the current status of the GPS receiver, such as “3D
reduce cross-track error and return to the course line. Showed as
GPS.” Speed—your current vehicle speed can be measured in miles per

hour, kilometers per hour, or knots.
Location (Lat/Lon)—your current location as latitude/longitude
coordinates. Steer—see Course to Steer.
Location (Selected)—your current location described in the Sunrise—the time at which the sun rises on this day.
selected units of measure (other than lat/lon).
Sunset—the time at which the sun sets on this day.
Max Speed—the maximum speed the unit has moved since last
Time—the current time and date. It can be shown in 12-hour or 24-
reset.
hour format in local time or universal (UTC) time.
Mov Avg Spd—see Trip Avg. Speed (Moving).
Track—the direction of movement relative to a ground position.
Move Timer—see Trip Timer (Moving). Also referred to as ground track.
Next Course—the course your route will take you on after you Trip Avg. Speed (Moving)—the average speed while moving since
reach the next waypoint. the last reset of the Trip Computer. Appears as Mov Avg Spd.
Next Turn—the direction of the next turn on an active route. Trip Avg. Speed (Total)—the total average speed traveled since the
last reset of the Trip Computer. Shown as Ttl Avg Spd.
Next Wpt—see Waypoint (Next).
Trip Odometer—the total distance traveled since the Trip
Odometer—the total distance traveled since the Odometer was
Computer was reset.
reset.
Trip Timer (Moving)—the length of time your vehicle has been in
Pointer—the arrow indicating the direction to travel to the next
motion, since the Trip Computer was reset. Appears as Move Timer.
point on a route.
Trip Timer (Total)—the total time the unit has been tracking since
Power—the power indicator icon: Battery, External Power, or
the Trip Computer was reset.
Charging.

Ttl Avg Spd—see Trip Avg. Speed (Total). Weather–Altimeter—the altimeter setting at the nearest METAR
reporting station.
Turn—the distance between Bearing (BRG) and Track (TRG). L
indicates you should turn left. R indicates you should turn right. The Weather–Dew Point—the dew point at the nearest weather
degrees indicates the difference angle and the number of degrees reporting station.
you should turn.
Weather–Pressure—the surface pressure at the nearest weather
User Timer—the timer you set in the Main Menu. reporting station.
Velocity Made Good—the rate of closure on a destination based on Weather–Relative Humidity—the relative humidity at the nearest
your current speed and course of travel. Shown as VMG. weather reporting station.
Vertical Speed—the rate of climb or descent. Weather–Temperature—the temperature at the nearest weather
reporting station.
Voltage—the direct current voltage level of an external power
source. Weather–Wind—the wind speed and direction at the nearest
weather reporting station.
Water Speed (Marine Only)—the data acquired from measurement
devices interfaced to the unit is used to calculate your current speed XM Audio—the artist and song title of the XM audio channel
over water. currently playing.
Water Temperature (Marine Only)—the temperature of water at a XM Signal—the strength of the XM signal.
measured depth using measurement devices interfaced to the unit.
Waypoint (Destination)—the last point on a route, your destination.
Appears as Dest Wpt.
Waypoint (Next)—the next waypoint in your route. Shown as Next
Wpt.

Appendix > License Agreement and Warranty
License Agreement and Warranty Contact Garmin

This section contains information about your license agreement and Contact Garmin if you have any questions while using your
warranty for the GPSMAP 496. GPSMAP 496. In the USA contact Garmin Product Support by
phone: (913) 397-8200 or (800) 800-1020, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5
Software License Agreement PM Central Time; or go to www.garmin.com/support.
BY USING THE GPSMAP 496, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE LICENSE In Europe, contact Garmin (Europe) Ltd. at +44 (0) 870.8501241
AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY. (outside the UK) or 0808 2380000 (within the UK).
Garmin grants you a limited license to use the software embedded in this device
(the “Software”) in binary executable form in the normal operation of the product. Limited Warranty
Title, ownership rights, and intellectual property rights in and to the Software This Garmin product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or
remain with Garmin. workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. Within this period, Garmin
You acknowledge that the Software is the property of Garmin and is protected will, at its sole option, repair or replace any components that fail in normal use.
under the United States of America copyright laws and international copyright Such repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer for parts
treaties. You further acknowledge that the structure, organization, and code of or labor, provided that the customer shall be responsible for any transportation
the Software are valuable trade secrets of Garmin and that the Software in source cost. This warranty does not cover failures due to abuse, misuse, accident, or
code form remains a valuable trade secret of Garmin. You agree not to decompile, unauthorized alteration or repairs.
disassemble, modify, reverse assemble, reverse engineer, or reduce to human This product is intended to be used only as a travel aid and must not be used for
readable form the Software or any part thereof or create any derivative works based any purpose requiring precise measurement of direction, distance, location, or
on the Software. You agree not to export or re-export the Software to any country in topography. Garmin makes no warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of map
violation of the export control laws of the United States of America. data in this product.
THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE
Product Registration EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESS,
Help us better support you by completing our online registration IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY LIABILITY ARISING
today! Connect to our Web site at http://my.garmin.com. Keep the UNDER ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
original sales receipt, or a photocopy, in a safe place. PARTICULAR PURPOSE, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE. THIS WARRANTY
GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY VARY FROM STATE
TO STATE.

IN NO EVENT SHALL GARMIN BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, AOPA Airport Directory Notice
SPECIAL, INDIRECT, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER AOPA MEMBERSHIP PUBLICATIONS, INC. AND ITS RELATED
RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE, OR INABILITY TO USE THIS ORGANIZATIONS (HEREINAFTER COLLECTIVELY “AOPA”) EXPRESSLY
PRODUCT OR FROM DEFECTS IN THE PRODUCT. Some states do DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, WITH RESPECT TO THE AOPA
not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential INFORMATION INCLUDED IN THIS DATA, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
Garmin retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit or software or MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE
offer a full refund of the purchase price at its sole discretion. SUCH REMEDY INFORMATION IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND AOPA DOES NOT WARRANT
SHALL BE YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING ITS ACCURACY,
WARRANTY. RELIABILITY, OR OTHERWISE. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES
To obtain warranty service, contact your local Garmin authorized dealer or call INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE, SHALL AOPA BE LIABLE FOR ANY
Garmin Product Support for shipping instructions and an RMA tracking number. INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES THAT
Securely pack the unit and a copy of the original sales receipt, which is required RESULT FROM THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE SOFTWARE OR
as the proof of purchase for warranty repairs. Write the tracking number clearly on RELATED DOCUMENTATION, EVEN IF AOPA OR AN AOPA AUTHORIZED
the outside of the package. Send the unit, freight charges prepaid, to any Garmin REPRESENTATIVE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
warranty service station. DAMAGES. USER AGREES NOT TO SUE AOPA AND, TO THE MAXIMUM
EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW, TO RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS
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for rebates or other special offers from Garmin. Online auction confirmations are TO ANY ACTUAL OR ALLEGED INACCURACIES IN THE INFORMATION
not accepted for warranty verification. To obtain warranty service, an original ARISING OUT OF GARMIN’S USE OF THE INFORMATION IN THE
or copy of the sales receipt from the original retailer is required. Garmin will DATASETS. SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE LIMITATION OR
not replace missing components from any package purchased through an online EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL
auction. OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR
International Purchases: A separate warranty is provided by international EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
distributors for units purchased outside the United States. This warranty is provided
by the local in-country distributor and this distributor provides local service for Weather Data Warranty
your unit. Distributor warranties are only valid in the area of intended distribution. THE WEATHER DATA SOFTWARE PRODUCT IS PROVIDED “AS IS.” ALL
Units purchased in the United States or Canada must be returned to the Garmin OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY
service center in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, or Taiwan for WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
service. PURPOSE OR OF NON-INFRINGEMENT ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED.
USER SAFETY b) LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY.
If you use XM Services it is your responsibility to exercise prudent discretion and WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
observe all safety measures required by law and your own common sense. You CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES RELATING TO THE USE
assume the entire risk related to your use of the Services. XM and Garmin assume OF THE RADIO SERVICE, WHETHER BASED ON NEGLIGENCE OR
no responsibility for accidents resulting from or associated with use of the Services. OTHERWISE. OUR TOTAL LIABILITY TO YOU AND ANY OTHER PERSONS
Your Radio Service includes traffic and weather information, and you acknowledge RECEIVING OUR SERVICES, REGARDLESS OF THE CAUSE, WILL IN NO
that such information is not for “safety for life”, but is merely supplemental EVENT EXCEED THE AMOUNTS THAT YOU HAVE PAID TO US FOR THE
and advisory in nature, and therefore cannot be relied upon as safety-critical in SERVICE THAT YOU RECEIVED DURING THE SIX (6) MONTH PERIOD
connection with any aircraft, sea craft or automobile usage. This information is IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TO THE SPECIFIC EVENT THAT GAVE RISE TO
provided “as is” and XM and Garmin disclaim any and all warranties, express and THE APPLICABLE DAMAGE OR LOSS. THIS ALLOCATION OF RISK IS
implied, with respect thereto or the transmission or reception thereof. XM and REFLECTED IN OUR PRICES. YOU MAY HAVE GREATER RIGHTS THAN
Garmin further do not warrant the accuracy, reliability, completeness or timeliness DESCRIBED ABOVE UNDER YOUR STATE’S LAWS
of the traffic and weather information disclosed on the Radio Service. In no event This product was developed using DAFIF™, a product of the National Geospatial-
will XM and Garmin, their data suppliers, service providers, marketing/distribution, Intelligence Agency.
software or Internet partners or hardware manufacturers be liable to you or to any This product has not been endorsed or otherwise approved by the National
third party for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, exemplary Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, or the United States Department of Defense (10
or punitive damages or lost profits resulting from use of or interruptions in the U.S.C. 425)
transmission or reception of the Services.
a. Under 10 U.S.C. 456, no civil action may be brought against the United States on
LIMITS ON OUR RESPONSIBILITY the basis of the content of a navigational aid prepared or disseminated by either the
a) DISCLAIMERS. former Defense Mapping Agency (DMA), National Imagery and Mapping Agency
EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, WE MAKE NO WARRANTY (NIMA), or the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).
OR REPRESENTATION, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, REGARDING b. The DAFIF™ product is provided “as is,” and no warranty, express or implied,
THE RADIO SERVICE. YOUR USE OF THE SERVICE IS AT YOUR including, but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness
SOLE RISK. THE CONTENT AND FUNCTIONALITY OF THE SERVICE for particular purpose or arising by statute or otherwise in law or from a course of
IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, dealing or usage in trade, is made by NGA as to the accuracy and functioning of the
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. ALL SUCH WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS product.
(INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
c. Neither NGA nor its personnel will be liable for any claims, losses, or damages
MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE AND
arising from or connected with the use of this product. The user agrees to hold
NON-INFRINGEMENT) ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED.
harmless the United States National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. The user’s sole
and exclusive remedy is to stop using the DAFIF product. interference by one of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
XM Satellite Radio Service Agreement
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
XM Satellite Radio Inc.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet that is on a different circuit from the GPS
Hardware and required monthly subscription sold separately. Subscription fee is
unit.
consumer only. Other fees and taxes, including a one-time activation fee may apply.
All programming fees and weather data subject to change. XM WX weather data • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
displays and individual product availability vary by hardware equipment. Reception This product does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only
of the XM signal may vary depending on location. Subscriptions subject to be made by an authorized Garmin service center. Unauthorized repairs or
Customer Agreement included with the XM Welcome Kit and available at xmradio. modifications could result in permanent damage to the equipment, and void your
com. Available only in the 48 contiguous United States. XM WX is a trademark of warranty and your authority to operate this device under Part 15 regulations.
XM Satellite Radio Inc.
Contact XM Satellite Radio by phone at 800.985.9200 to subscribe to XM WX
Industry Canada Compliance
Category I radiocommunication devices comply with Industry Canada Standard
Weather and/or XM Radio.
RSS-210. Category II radiocommunication devices comply with Industry Canada
Standard RSS-310.
FCC Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class
B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and may cause harmful interference to radio communications if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the

Index
Index depth 108

descent rate 37, 38
B
backlight 3, 114
charging 2, 4
check beacon wiring 164
DSC 100 baro pressure 50 cigarette lighter adapter 2
Symbols fish 108 battery cleaning 156
2D 5, 63, 143 next turn 106 level 4 clear track log 88
3D 5, 63 obstacle 37, 38 pack 1, 2 clock alarm 107
off course 107 saver mode 116 coast guard 168, 169
A persistent 106 color mode 114
beeper 115
accessories 157 proximity 86 communication frequencies 20
BlueChart 160
acquiring satellites 5 sonar 108 comm usage restrictions 16
bug indicator 41, 94
Active Route page system 107 compass page 55, 95, 114
setting 34
aviation mode 44 terrain 37, 38 marine mode 94–95
Active Track tab 87, 90 terrain page setup 39 C options menu 94
add to route 61, 68, 76, 80 VNAV 42 cable 158 connecting the power cable 2, 158
advanced NMEA output setup 124 Alarms tab calculate routes for 117 course deviation indicator 24, 40,
aircraft information 47–48 airspace alarms 106 calculation method 117 41, 94
airport 18, 170 navigation 106 calendar 109–112 course deviation scale 40, 41
criteria 22 system alarms 107 calibrated airspeed 50 course pointer 94
identifier 6, 12, 14 alerts. See alarms calibrate water speed 141 course to steer 34
information 15, 16, 19 altitude 40, 119 cards, data 160 create
airspace 32 antenna 1, 3, 162 care information 157 category 82
alarms 106 append to route 80 categories flight plan 27
alert 21, 28 approach 16, 23, 24, 44 find menu 58 route 61, 62
boundary 29, 32 ARTCC 18 waypoint 82 waypoint. See marking a waypoint
information 20, 21, 32 assign category 83 CDI. See course deviation indicator creating a direct to 14–16
nearest 18 asterisk (*) 16 celestial information 109–112 criteria 22
alarms 28, 115 audio connector 1 Celestial tab cruising speed 47
airspace 106 AutoLocate 3, 5 Hunt & Fish tab 112 Current Route page 66
anchor drag 107 average location 80 Sun & Moon tab 109 automotive mode 72
arrival 107 avoids 67, 117 Tide tab 110 custom avoids 67, 117
Index
D digital selective calling. See DSC your current location 3 learning about 163
dashboard 73 direction display 119 finding an Item in automotive or Off/On 5
data card 160 Direct To 14, 19 marine mode 58–60 page 6, 74
slot 1 display tab 114 finding a nearby aviation point 18–22 GRI chain 166
data fields 35 distance and speed 119 fishing information 112 GSD 20A 135
date 119 distress calls 97–100, 168–169 fish symbols 140 GTX 330 159
daylight saving time 119 drift alarm 108 flasher 142 guidance tab 118
DB-9 159 DSC 96–100, 168–169 FlightBook 46, 170 GXM 30 antenna 132
declutter 33 flight log 46 connecting 161
defaults 8, 35 E flight plan 27
delete E6B 49–50 create 27 H
aircraft profile 48 edit follow 28 heading 120
category 82 route 75, 76, 77 locked 27 headphones 1
DSC directory item 99 waypoints 78, 79 following an automotive route 66 highways
flight records 46 elevation 119 following your flight plan 28 avoid 117
route 74 emergency follow roads 62 Highway Page 114
track log 88 aviation 19 FSS 18 automotive mode 70–71
waypoint 85 marine 168 fuel flow 44, 47, 77 data fields 71
waypoint category 82 entering data 9, 10 page layout 71
density altitude 50 erase. See delete G setup 71
depth 119 external power source 4 GARMIN DGPS 122 HSI 40
descent rate alert 28 getting satellite signals 4–6 bug indicator 34
F going to a destination 56 Hunt & Fish tab 112
detailed maps 10, 36, 160 faster time 117
details 15, 16, 19 go to 14, 15, 84
FCC 168, 169, 180 distress call 100 I
detour 68 field 8 icons 114
DGPS 124, 163 history 59
find page 15, 23 identifier 6, 12, 14, 18, 168, 170
alarm 107 from 58 information page 32, 60
differential 164 point 92
from a different location 58, 59 position report 100 initialize 3, 163
differential field 163 menu 57, 60 installation information 158–162
differential GPS 163 GPS 163–164

Index
intersection 170 Sound Tab 115 MOB 92 no beacon signal 164
managing routes 74 modes 55, 116
J managing tracks 87 moon information 109 O
Jeppesen database 27, 170 managing waypoints 78 OBS 41
updates 10 Man OverBoard 92 N obstacle alert 28
map navigate odometer 73
K information 36, 60 route 75 off-route recalculation 118
keypad 7 to point 92 off course 107
MapSource 10, 160
map data 36 track 90 off road 117
L navigating on-screen button 8
land at closest point 19 map datum 167
map orientation 30 distress call 100 options menu 9
language 116
Map Page position report 100 overzoom 30
legs, track 90
automotive mode 69 navigating in automotive mode 56–57
limited warranty 177 P
aviation mode 29–36 navigating in marine mode 92
line out 1 page layout 35
declutter 33 navigation alarms 106
lithium-ion 2 page sequence 91
marine mode 93 NDB 18, 170
lithium-ion battery 1 panel page
setup 34 near
local time 119 aviation mode 40–43
marine timer 95 current route 59, 60
location 6, 65 panning the map 29, 31
maritime mobile service identity. destination 59, 60
location format 120, 167 pan mode 29, 31
See MMSI next 59, 60
locked route 27 PC interface cable 160
marking a waypoint 26, 63, 64, 65, 81 other 59, 60
log filter 113 persistent alarm 106
underwater 139 NEAREST/FIND key 18
longitude 175 plan flight 44, 77
mark my location 26 nearest type 45, 73
LORAN TD setup 165–166 plan route 44, 77
maximum speed 47 new
lost satellite reception 5 points of interest 58
MayDay 169 altitude 6
location 6, 12 Points tab 83
M measuring distance 33
pop-up alerts 28
magnetic variation 120 messages 113, 177–180 waypoint 65, 81
next turn 106, 118 position 163
main menu military time 119
NMEA 122, 124, 161 position data page
Display Tab 114 Mils 119
north up 6, 30 aviation mode 45
GPS tab 4 MMSI 96, 168, 169
Index
position mode 29 route 76, 90 selecting an approach 23–24 setting up 140, 142
position report 168–169 add points 76 selecting options 9 understanding 143
power 2, 3, 158 add waypoint to 80 sentences 125, 161 sonar alarms 108
connector 1, 4 edit 76, 77 serial communications port 159 Sound tab 115
practice mode. See simulator mode editing 67–68 serial data format 121 specifications 155
preferences leg transition 74 serial number 1 speed 40, 47
location 167 options menu 74 setting up XM WX 127 speed filter 116
pressure 119 preference 117 Setup tab split screen, sonar 139
projecting a waypoint 81–86 routes 61–62, 163 Guidance tab 118 storage 156
project location 81 automotive mode 74–77 Road Routing tab 117 Sun & Moon tab 109
proximity 86 editing 74–77 System tab 116 switch modes 13, 55, 91
alarms 86 navigating a saved route 75–77 Timers tab 118 system alarms 107
points tab 85 route tab 74 Time tab 119 System tab 116
waypoint 86 RTCM 122, 124 Units tab 119
runway criteria 22 Welcome tab 121 T
R set an alarm 106 temperature 119, 146
receiver not usable 5 S set CDI scale 41 terrain
receiver status 5 safety and product information 177– set date 119 alert 28
receive satellite signals 3 180 set OBS and Hold 41 Terrain Page
record mode 87, 90 sail boat racing timer 95 set speed and fuel 44, 77 aviation mode 37–39
reference position 59 satellite acquisition 5 show details 15 declutter 33
release hold 41 saved route 27, 74 show map 79 terrain warning 38
reset timer 118 saved track 90 signal strength 5 text language 116
reset trip 45, 73 save present location 63 simulated navigation 11–12 thermoclines 145
retrace your path 90 save track log 88 simulator tide
review saving the current route 72 11 chart 111
route 75 scanning for beacon 164 smart airspace 32 information 110
waypoint 78 scan for a frequency 123 sonar 135, 136–139 station 111
road 70 searching the sky 5 adjusting 137–139 tab 110
road routing tab 117 search history 59 on the map page 135 time

Index
delay 165 U waterproof 156 options 52
format 119 underwater waypoints 139 water speed 141 turning on 51
offsets 167 Units tab 119 water temp 108 XM WX
tab 119 unpaved roads 117 waypoint 15, 26, 63–65, 163 additional information 132
zone 119 updates to jeppesen database categories 82, 83 options 127
timer 95 170 create 26, 64, 81 radio ID 132
Timers tab 118 usage mode 13, 116 edit 78, 79 viewing 126
TIS 147, 152 usage restrictions 16 Information Page 60 XM WX Weather
limitations 148 USB 121 manage 78 finding weather information 133
operational procedures 153 data cable 160 mark 26 X symbol on terrain 37
symbology 150 User Points tab 83 name 79
TIS traffic data 159 UTC 119 proximity 86 Z
track UTM/UPS 167 symbol 79 zoom 30
legs 90 transition 74
log 87, 88, 90 V weather information
review page 88, 89 vectors 24 finding 133
tab 87 vertical navigation. See VNAV Weather tab 130
TracBack 89, 90 vertical speed 119 options menu 131
track up 6, 30 VHF 168 weight & balance 48
traffic ground track 151 VHF Comm 154 whiteline 138, 145
traffic warning window 151 view details 31 wide area augmentation system.
transducer 140, 144 VNAV 42, 43 See WAAS
trip computer 73 indicator 42 winds aloft 50
trip planning 77 profile 42 Wx 18
true airspeed 50 volume 3, 115
tuning beacon 164 VOR 18, 170 X
turn-by-turn route 56, 66, 75 xImage 160
turn on and off 3 W XM Audio Page 51
WAAS 6, 116, 158, 163, 164 favorites 53
Warning Page 3 mute 54

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 2006–2007 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc.

1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, USA
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.

Liberty House, Hounsdown Business Park, Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 9RB UK
Garmin Corporation
No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
www.garmin.com
Part Number 190-00693-00 Rev. E

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Owner’s Manual

portable aviation receiver

Garmin International, Inc. Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Garmin Corporation

November 2007 Part Number 190-00693-00 Rev. E Printed in Taiwan

About This Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 

Table of Contents Aviation Mode Pages.........................................................29

Basic Operation in Marine Mode.......................................91 Using XM WX Weather.....................................................126

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual iii

iv GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 

vi GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Battery time remaining

2. Read and be sure you understand the warning. Press ENTER to

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 

Signal Receiver • Searching the Sky—the receiver is looking for satellites.

GPS Tab Options GPS Tips

Learning About the Keypad

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 

Selecting an option from an options menu.

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 

To enter data in a data field: GPSMAP 496 Databases

10 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 11

12 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Basic Operation In Aviation Mode

To switch usage modes:

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 13

Creating a Direct To To go to an airport or navaid:

to show the Aviation tab.

Go To Page: Aviation Tab

14 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

To go to a recently-used or user-created waypoint: Viewing Details for the Destination

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 15

Viewing Frequency Restrictions

communication frequencies for that airport. Some frequencies are

Usage Restrictions Page

2. To return to the Comm Information Page, press ENTER.

16 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Viewing AOPA Airport Directory Information Viewing SafeTaxiTM Diagrams

SafeTaxi Airport Diagram

AOPA Airport Directory Tab

AOPA Service Icon Legend

Finding a Nearby Point Aviation Nearest Categories

These pages provide detailed information on the nearest airports, information:

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 19

20 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Nearest Pages: Airspace Tab

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 21

22 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

Selecting an Approach To select an approach for the destination airport:

You can select an approach several ways: Selecting an Approach

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 23

If air traffic control clears your approach to an airport, loading the

Finding Points on Land

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual 25

Marking a Waypoint To mark a selected location as a waypoint:

4. To save the waypoint, use the ROCKER to highlight Save, and

26 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual

GPSMAP 496 Owner’s Manual