Instructions for the Garmin GPS 12
By Isobel Phillips
The Garmin GPS 12 is a small handheld GPS system for outdoor use. It has a waterproof case and comes with a wrist strap. You can also buy a PC kit, external antennae and data/power cables. The GPS 12 will hold 500 waypoints or destinations and Garmin's "TracBack" function shows your track log in reverse to allow you to navigate home quickly. This is a discontinued model, but is still available from retailers.
Step 1
Install four AA batteries into the base of the unit. Turn the thumb loop a quarter turn counterclockwise to open the battery compartment, insert the batteries and replace the cover by turning the thumb loop a quarter turn clockwise.
Step 2
Turn the unit on by pressing and holding the "Beacon" key. Wait for the unit to self-test, to acquire satellite signals and for the Position Page to appear. Use the "Left" and "Right" arrow keys to move between data entry fields and menu options. Press the "Up" or "Down" arrow keys to highlight menu choices and scroll through letters and numbers.
Step 3
Press the "Mark" key to mark your present position as a waypoint. Name the waypoint by highlighting the "Name" field and pressing "Enter." Use the "Up" and "Down" arrow keys to enter the word "Home," and press "Enter."
Step 4
Walk for three or four minutes in any direction. Press "Page" to display the Map Page. Change the map scale by highlighting the "Zoom" field and pressing "Enter." Use the "Up" or "Down" arrow keys to select "1.2 mi" and press "Enter." The diamond icon in the center of the screen indicates your present position and the line between the diamond and the Home waypoint is your track log.
Step 5
Turn to your right approximately 90 degrees and walk for two or three minutes. Press the "GoTo" key, highlight the "Home" icon and press "Enter." The unit displays a straight line from your current position to the Home waypoint.
Step 6
Press "Page" to display the Compass Page. The screen shows your destination waypoint at the top of the screen, with the bearing and distance to it immediately below. The arrow in the center of the compass shows the direction to your destination. Turn so that the arrow points up and continue walking in that direction until you see the message "Arrival at Home."
Step 7
Clear the display by pressing "Page" or "Quit" until the Map Page appears. Highlight "Opt" and press "Enter," then select "Track Setup" and press "Enter." Highlight "Clearlog?", press "Enter" and then select "Yes" and "Enter" to confirm.
Step 8
Press and hold the "Beacon" key for three seconds to turn the unit off.
References
Tips
- In colder conditions, lithium batteries last longer than other types.
Warnings
- Confirm information from a GPS unit with other navigational aids such as maps or visual sightings.
Writer Bio
Isobel Phillips has been writing technical documentation, marketing and educational resources since 1980. She also writes on personal development for the website UnleashYourGrowth. Phillips is a qualified accountant, has lectured in accounting, math, English and information technology and holds a Bachelor of Arts honors degree in English from the University of Leeds.