®
eTrex Vista Cx
hiking companion
owner’s manual
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
The Main Pages section contains an overview of
the Satellite, Trip Computer, Map, Compass, and
Altimeter Pages.
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the Garmin® eTrex® Vista Cx.
The eTrex Vista Cx uses the proven performance of
Garmin GPS and full-featured mapping to create an
unsurpassed portable GPS receiver. Take a moment
now to compare the contents of this package with
the packing list on the box. If any pieces are missing,
contact your Garmin dealer immediately.
The Main Menu section describes features found on
the Main Menu, and information about how to change
settings.
The Appendix contains information, such as
specifications, optional accessories, and maintenance
information. You can also find warranty and FCC
information in the Appendix.
About This Manual
To get the most out of your new navigation system,
take time to read this manual and learn the operating
procedures for your unit in detail. This manual is
organized into the following sections.
An Index is provided at the end of the manual for
reference.
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.
The Introduction contains manual conventions, the
Table of Contents, the software license agreement,
product registration, and product care information.
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.
The Getting Started section provides an overview of
the unit, how to turn the unit on, and acquiring satellites.
The Basic Operation section provides information
about setting up waypoints, routes, and tracks.
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Table of Contents
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
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INTRODUCTION >ABOUT THIS MANUAL
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Software License Agreement
BY USING THE eTrex Vista Cx, YOU AGREE
TO BE BOUND BY THE TERMS AND
CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE
LICENSE AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS
AGREEMENT CAREFULLY.
Product Registration
Help us better support you by completing our online
registration today! Have the serial number of your
eTrex Vista Cx handy and connect to our Web site
Registration link on our Home page.
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. Title, ownership rights, and intellectual
property rights in and to the Software remain in
Garmin.
Use this area to record the serial number in case your
eTrex Vista Cx is lost, stolen, or needs service. Be
sure to keep your original sales receipt in a safe place
or attach a photocopy inside this manual.
You acknowledge that the Software is the property of
Garmin and is protected under the United States of
America copyright laws and international copyright
treaties. You further acknowledge that the structure,
organization, and code of the Software are valuable
trade secrets of Garmin and that the Software in
source code form remains a valuable trade secret of
Garmin. You agree not to decompile, disassemble,
modify, reverse assemble, reverse engineer, or reduce
to human readable form the Software or any part
thereof or create any derivative works based on the
Software. You agree not to export or re-export the
Software to any country in violation of the export
control laws of the United States of America.
Serial Number: ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
Contact Garmin
If you should encounter any difficulty while using
your eTrex Vista Cx, or if you have any questions, in
the U.S.A. contact Garmin Product Support by phone:
913/397.8200 or 800/800.1020, Monday–Friday,
8 AM–5 PM Central Time; or go to www.garmin.com/
support/ and select Technical Support.
In Europe, contact Garmin (Europe) Ltd. at
44/0870.8501241.
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Storage
Caring for the Vista Cx
The Vista Cx case is constructed of high-quality
materials and does not require user maintenance
except cleaning.
Do not store the Vista Cx where prolonged exposure
to temperature extremes may occur (such as in the
trunk of a car) as permanent damage may result.
User information, such as waypoints and routes, are
retained in the unit’s memory without the need for
external power. It is always a good practice to back
up important user data by manually recording it or
downloading it to a PC (transferring it to MapSource
software).
Cleaning the Case
Clean the unit’s outer casing (except for the screen)
using a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution
and then wipe dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and
solvents that may damage plastic components.
Cleaning the Screen
Water Immersion
Clean the Vista Cx screen using a soft, clean, lint-
free cloth. Use water, isopropyl alcohol, or eyeglass
cleaner if needed. When using these agents, apply the
liquid to the cloth, and then gently wipe the screen
with the moistened cloth.
The Vista Cx is waterproof to IEC Standard 60529
IPX7. It can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water
for 30 minutes. Prolonged submersion can cause
damage to the unit. After submersion, be certain to
wipe and air dry the unit before reuse or charging.
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Warning
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous
situations could result in an accident or collision
resulting in death or serious injury.
Use the electronic chart in the eTrex Vista Cx only to
facilitate, not to replace, the use of authorized government
charts. Official government charts and notices to mariners
contain all information needed to navigate safely.
When navigating, carefully compare information displayed
on the eTrex Vista Cx to all available navigation sources,
including information from visual sightings, and maps. For
safety, always resolve any discrepancies or questions before
continuing navigation.
WARNING: This product, its packaging, and its components contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or reproductive harm. This Notice is being provided in accordance with California’s Proposition 65. If you have any
questions or would like additional information, please refer to our Web site at http://www.garmin.com/prop65.
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INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Caution
Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous
situations may result in injury or property damage.
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is operated by the
United States government, which is solely responsible for
its accuracy and maintenance. The government’s system
is subject to changes which could affect the accuracy and
performance of all GPS equipment, including the eTrex
Vista Cx. Although the eTrex Vista Cx is a precision
navigation device, any navigation device can be misused or
misinterpreted and, therefore, become unsafe.
Use the eTrex Vista Cx only as a navigational aid. Do not
attempt to use the eTrex Vista Cx for any purpose requiring
precise measurement of direction, distance, location, or
topography. This product should not be used to determine
ground proximity for aircraft navigation.
Map Data Information: One of the goals of Garmin is to provide customers with the most complete and accurate cartography
that is available to us at a reasonable cost. We use a combination of governmental and private data sources, which we identify in
product literature and copyright messages displayed to the consumer. Virtually all data sources contain inaccurate or incomplete
data to some extent. This is particularly true outside the United States, where complete and accurate digital data is either not
available or prohibitively expensive.
NOTICE TO DRIVERS IN CALIFORNIAAND MINNESOTA: State law prohibits drivers in California and Minnesota from
using suction mounts on their windshields while operating motor vehicles. Other Garmin dashboard or friction mounting options
should be used. Garmin does not take any responsibility for any fines, penalties, or damages that may be incurred as a result of
disregarding this notice. (See California Vehicle Code Section 26708(a); Minnesota Statutes 2005, Section 169.71.)
The California Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003 requires recycling of electronic equipment. Refer to www.erecycle.org.
viii
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GETTING STARTED > UNIT OVERVIEW
GETTING STARTED
USB connector port
(under weather cap)
Unit Overview
GPS antenna
Battery
compartment cover
• Provides quick satellite acquisition
Belt Clip/Auxiliary Mount Adapter
attachment location
N
• Accepts a Belt Clip accessory
for convenient access when
walking.
hiking or
• Accepts the Auxiliary Mount
Adapter accessory supplied
with the unit.
Vista Cx
(Refer to page 89 for acces-
sory listings.)
Color LCD display
Carry Lanyard
attachment slots
Battery compartment
locking D-Ring
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GETTING STARTED > UNIT OVERVIEW
To install the lanyard:
1. Place the loop of the lanyard through the slot
Installing the Batteries
The Vista Cx operates on two AA batteries (not
included), which are installed in the back of the unit.
You can use Alkaline or NiMH batteries. See page 67
for information on setting the battery type.
at the upper-left side on the back of the unit.
2
Route the strap through the loop, and pull tight.
To install the batteries:
1. Remove the battery
Optional Belt Clip
(attaches to belt or
waistband)
cover by turning the D-Ring
1/4 turn counter-clockwise
and pulling the cover loose.
2. Insert the batteries,
observing the proper
polarity. A polarity diagram
is molded into the battery
compartment.
3. Reinstall the battery
cover by aligning the back
cover with the unit and
turning the D-Ring 1/4 turn
clockwise.
Belt Clip Knob
(attaches to back of
unit)
Locking
pin slot
Battery
compartment
Auxiliary Mount Adapter
(Do not discard. This adapter
attaches to the unit for
Remove the batteries from your Vista Cx when you do
not expect to use the unit for several months. Stored
data is not lost when batteries are removed.
connection to mounting kits.)
Lanyard installation
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GETTING STARTED > KEY FUNCTIONS
Key Functions
“Thumb Stick” Enter/Rocker key
(Press down to Enter - move to the side or up or down to
scroll, highlight fields or pan the map)
• Rock up or down or right or left to
move through lists; highlight fields, on-
screen buttons, or icons; enter data; or
move the map panning arrow.
• Press in and release to enter highlighted
options and data or confirm on-screen
messages.
In/Out Zoom keys
• From the Map Page, press to zoom
the map in or out.
• From any other page, press to scroll
up or down a list or move a high-
lighted slider.
N
• Press in and hold at any time to mark
your current location as a waypoint.
Vista Cx
Menu/Find key
• Press and release to view the
Options Menu for a page.
• Press and hold to display the Find
Menu.
Quit/Compass key
• Press to cycle through the main pages.
• Press when using the on-screen
keyboard to close.
• Press and hold to turn the compass
on or off.
Power/Backlight key
• Press and hold to turn unit on or off.
• Press and release to adjust backlighting,
or to view time, date, and battery
capacity.
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GETTING STARTED > TURNING ON THE VISTA CX
Adjusting the Backlight
You may want to adjust the backlight to see the
display better.
Turning on the Vista Cx
When you turn on the Vista Cx, the Welcome Page
appears, followed by the Satellite Page. The unit must
collect satellite data and establish its current location.
To adjust the backlight level:
1. Press and quickly release the Power key.
To turn the Vista Cx on and off:
1. Press and hold the Power key. When the unit
turns on, a tone sounds, and the Introduction
Page appears, followed by the Satellite Page.
2. Press up on the Rocker to increase the
brightness, or press down to decrease.
3. Press Enter or the Quit key to close the
2. To turn off the Vista Cx, press and hold the
backlight adjustment window.
Power key again.
Backlight Adjustment Slider
See page 68 for information about changing the
display colors and backlight timeout and brightness
levels.
Welcome Page
Satellite Page
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GETTING STARTED > INITIALIZING THE GPS RECEIVER
3. Press and release the Quit key until the Map
Page appears. You are now ready to begin
GPS-aided navigation.
Initializing the GPS Receiver
The first time you turn on your Vista Cx, the GPS
receiver must collect satellite data and establish its
current location. To ensure proper initialization, the
Vista Cx is shipped from the factory in AutoLocate
mode, which allows the receiver to “find itself”
anywhere in the world. To receive satellite signals,
you must be outdoors and have a clear view of the
sky.
You can also observe a sky-view array of the satellites
overhead with your location centered in the array. The
outer circle represents the horizon and the inner circle
represents a position 45 degrees from the horizon. The
numbers shown indicate the number assigned to each
satellite. A bar graph at the bottom of the page shows
the strength of signals from each satellite.
To initialize your Vista Cx:
1. Press and hold the Power key to turn on the
Vista Cx.
The outer
circle
represents
the horizon.
The number of
each overhead
satellite is
2. Hold the unit in front of you with the top tilted
upward. While the GPS receiver is searching
for the satellite signals, a “Locating Satellites”
message is replaced by an “Acquiring
Satellites” message until enough signals are
acquired to fix its location.
The inner
circle is a
location 45
degrees from
the horizon.
displayed.
The strength of
each satellite
signal is shown.
When the receiver has signals from at least
three satellites, the display at the top of the
page changes to indicate position accuracy
and location coordinates.
If the unit cannot establish a satellite fix, a list of
solutions appears. Highlight the appropriate solution,
and press Enter.
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GETTING STARTED > USING THE VISTA CX
On-screen button—use the Rocker to highlight a
button, and press Enter to select the button.
Using the Vista Cx
This section explains how to enter and select
information with the Vista Cx.
Scroll bar—when viewing a list of items too long to
appear on the screen, a scroll bar appears along the
right side of the list. To scroll through a list, press up
or down on the Rocker.
Understanding Terms
As you progress through this manual, you are directed
to press a specific key or highlight a field on the
screen. When you are directed to press a key, you
should press and quickly release the key. If the key
must be held down for a period of time to start a
secondary function, the instructions will tell you to
do so. When a field is highlighted on the screen, it is
highlighted in yellow. The position of the highlight is
controlled by the Rocker.
Default—the factory setting saved in the unit’s
memory. You can change the settings, but you can
also revert to the factory (default) settings when you
select Restore Defaults.
Highlighted
field
The following terms are used throughout this manual:
Field
Highlight—move the highlighted area on the screen
up, down, left, or right with the Rocker to select
individual fields.
Field—the location on a page where data or an option
can be shown and entered. Select (highlight) a field
using the Rocker to begin entering data or selecting
options.
On-screen buttons
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GETTING STARTED > USING THE VISTA CX
Selecting Options and Entering Data
Use the Rocker to highlight, select, or choose an item
in a list or a field on the screen.
The Status Bar and Date and Time
The status bar and Date/Time Window appear below
the backlight adjustment slider when you press and
release the Power key.
To select and activate an option:
1. From any page, press the Menu key. An
Options Menu appears with a list of additional
options for that page.
2. Use the Rocker to move the highlight up,
down, right, or left on the menu to highlight the
option you want, and press Enter to select it.
Status Bar - Date/Time Window
• Power to the unit is provided by either batteries or
from an auxiliary source. Power status is shown
on the Main Menu and the Status Bar - Date
and Time Window. The Battery Power icon
) shows the remaining power as the battery
is depleted. The external power icon ( ) is
To exit a menu or return to the previous
setting:
Press the Quit key. The Quit key moves
backward through your steps. Press the Quit
key repeatedly to return to the starting page.
(
shown when the unit is powered from an external
source (PC/USB or 12 volt DC adapters).
• Satellite signal status is shown when searching for
or acquiring satellites (
is attained, and when a 3D fix (
• The Compass ( ) and Alarm (
), when a 2D fix (
)
) is attained.
) icons
appear when these features are activated.
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GETTING STARTED > USING THE VISTA CX
On-Screen Messages
Using the Mapping Databases
When a significant event in the operation of the
unit occurs, an on-screen message appears to advise
you of the occurrence. In each case, the condition is
described and often a remedy is provided. Press Enter
to acknowledge the message and close the window.
Many of the Vista Cx features require detailed
mapping data to be fully operational, so you may want
to transfer maps before using the unit. The microSD™
card (interchangeable with TransFlash™ cards)
provided with your unit can be loaded with detailed
maps from optional MapSource disks for your PC.
This can enhance the versatility of your Vista Cx.
With selected MapSource detailed mapping data,
you can view listings of nearby restaurants, lodging,
shopping centers, attractions and entertainment, and
even retrieve addresses and phone numbers for any
listed location. The amount of data transferred is
determined by the capacity printed on the microSD
card.
On-Screen Messages
In some instances, the message may indicate a
temporary condition such as the “Calculating
Route” message and close as soon as calculation is
completed.
Use the USB Interface Cable provided with the unit
to transfer MapSource data from a PC to the microSD
card when installed in the Vista Cx. You can purchase
additional microSD cards at your local electronics
supplier. See the Garmin Web site
MapSource products and pre-loaded microSD cards.
Calculating Route
Message
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GETTING STARTED > USING THE VISTA CX
Transferring Data to a microSD™ Card
The eTrex Vista Cx is equipped with a pre-installed
microSD card.
Battery
compartment
with cover
removed
microSD card
location
To install or remove the microSD card:
1. Remove the battery compartment cover from
the back of the unit.
P
T
O
USB port
weather cover
2. Locate the card slot at the upper-left edge of
the battery tray, and check to be certain the
card is installed in the slot.
USB port
3. Press down on the card and release quickly to
eject it from the slot if you plan to replace it with
a card with more memory or pre-loaded maps.
Accessing the microSD
card slot
Contacts on card
must face away
4. Replace the battery cover when finished.
a i w a n from the batteries.
T
To transfer map data to the microSD card:
1. Lift the weather cover from the USB port on
the upper back of the unit.
PUS
T
O ECT
2. Connect the USB cable provided with the unit
to the USB port on your PC and to the mini-
USB port on the back of the unit.
microSD card
inserted in
card slot
3. Follow instructions for selecting and
downloading maps provided with the
MapSource map data disk.
Installing and removing
the microSD card
Accessing the USB port
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
To mark your current location:
1. Press and hold the MARK key until the Mark
Waypoint Page appears. A default three-digit
name and symbol are assigned to the new
waypoint.
BASIC OPERATION
This section explains some of the more common
operations you can perform with your Vista Cx,
including creating and using waypoints, using the
Find Menu, and how to create and use tracks and
routes.
Waypoint
Waypoint
symbol
name
Creating and Using Waypoints
Waypoints are locations or landmarks you record and
store in your GPS. They are locations you might want
to return to later. You can add waypoints to routes and
even create a Go To directly to the selected waypoint.
Mark Waypoint Page
You can create waypoints using three methods. You
can press the MARK key while at a location, create a
waypoint on the Map Page, or enter coordinates for a
waypoint manually.
2. To accept the waypoint with the default
information, highlight OK, and press Enter.
OR
To change any information on the Mark
Waypoint Page, highlight the appropriate
field, and press Enter to open the on-screen
keypad. After entering and confirming your
changes, highlight OK, and press Enter.
Marking Your Current Location
Use the MARK key to quickly capture your current
location to create a new waypoint. You must have a
valid position (2D or 3D) fix to mark your current
location.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
Creating Waypoints Using the Map
You can quickly create a waypoint using the Map
Page. When you pan the map and move the arrow
over a map item, you can see a highlighted description
of the item.
Creating a Waypoint Using Coordinates
You can manually enter location coordinates to create a
waypoint. This method is useful for creating a waypoint
at a specific latitude/longitude position from a chart.
To create a waypoint using the Map Page:
1. On the Map Page, use the Rocker to move
the pointer to the map item you want to mark
as a waypoint.
2. Press and quickly release Enter to capture the
pointer location and open the information page
for the map item.
Information page for a Information page for a
map point with data map point without data
3. Highlight Save, and press Enter.
If the map item selected contains no
information, a “No map information at this
point. Do you want to create a user waypoint
here?” message appears. Highlight Yes, and
press Enter.
To create a new waypoint by entering
location coordinates:
1. Create a new waypoint.
2. On the Waypoint Page, highlight the Location
field, and press Enter to open the on-screen
keypad.
4. To change any information on the Waypoint
Page, highlight the appropriate field, and
press Enter to open the on-screen keypad.
After entering and confirming your changes,
highlight OK, and press Enter.
3. Use the Rocker to enter location coordinates.
Highlight OK, and press Enter when finished.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
4. Make changes by highlighting each field,
and use the waypoint symbol chart and
alphanumeric keypad to enter new data.
5. Press Quit when finished.
Manually
enter waypoint
coordinates.
Deleting Waypoints
You can delete waypoints from the Waypoint Page.
NOTE: When you delete a waypoint, you cannot
recover it from the unit.
4. Press Quit to exit.
Editing Waypoints
You can edit waypoints to change the symbol, name,
To delete a waypoint:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
note, location, elevation, and depth.
2. Highlight the Waypoints icon, and press Enter
To edit a waypoint:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
to open the Waypoints Page.
3. Select the waypoint you want to delete, and
Menu.
press Enter. The Waypoint Page opens.
2. Highlight the Waypoints icon, and press Enter
4. Highlight the Delete button, and press Enter. A
to open the Waypoints Page.
confirmation message appears.
3. Select the waypoint you want to edit, and
5. Highlight Yes, and press Enter to delete the
press Enter. The Waypoint Page opens.
waypoint.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
To move a waypoint on the Map Page:
1. On the Find Menu, highlight the Waypoints
icon, and press Enter to open the Waypoints
Page.
Averaging the Waypoint’s Location
You can average a new waypoint location over time to
produce a more accurate location.
NOTE: You must have a GPS satellite fix
before you can average a waypoint’s location.
You cannot average a waypoint after it has
been saved to the waypoints list and the Mark
Waypoint page is closed as there is no longer
satellite fix for that specific location.
2. Select the waypoint you want to move, and
press Enter. The Waypoint Page opens.
3. Highlight the Map button, and press Enter to
show the waypoint on the map.
4. Press Enter again to place a MOVE marker
next to the waypoint.
5. Use the Rocker to move the waypoint to a
new location on the map, and press Enter.
To calculate the average location:
1. Press the Find key to open the Find Menu.
2. Highlight the Waypoints icon, and press Enter
to open the Mark Waypoints Page.
3. Select the waypoint for which you want to
calculate the average location, and press
Enter.
Original
location
4. Press the Menu key to open the Options Menu.
5. Highlight Average Location, and press Enter
to open the Average Location Page. The unit
begins calculating the average location of the
waypoint.
New location
Moving a waypoint
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
4. Press the Menu key to open the Options
Menu.
5. Select Project Waypoint, and press Enter to
open the Project Waypoint Page.
6. Enter the distance and bearing to the projected
waypoint in the appropriate fields at the bottom
of the page, and press the Quit key when
finished.
Average Location
Page
Mark Waypoint
Page
6. Press Enter to save the location.
Projecting a Waypoint
You can create a new waypoint by projecting the
distance and bearing from one location to a new
location.
Projected Waypoint on
the Map
Project Waypoint
Page
To project a waypoint:
1. Press the Find key to open the Find Menu.
2. Highlight the Waypoints icon, and press Enter
to open the Waypoints Page.
3. Select the waypoint you want to project, and
press Enter. The Waypoint Information Page
opens.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING WAYPOINTS
5. With the Use button highlighted, press Enter
to add the point to the list on the Proximity
Waypoints Page.
Proximity Waypoints
Use the Proximity Waypoints Page to define an alarm
circle around a stored waypoint location.
6. Use the Rocker to highlight the Radius field
if you want to enter a value different than the
default of 1 mile.
Radius
field
Proximity
New Entry
icon
To turn proximity alarms on or off:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
line
2. Highlight the Proximity icon, and press Enter
Proximity
Alarms
to open the Proximity Waypoints Page.
check box
3. Highlight the Proximity Alarms check box,
and press Enter to initiate the alarm feature.
When you trigger an alarm, a tone sounds and
a “Near Proximity Point” message appears.
When you move outside the set radius, a
“Leaving Proximity Point” message is shown.
To add a proximity waypoint:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
2. Highlight the Proximity icon, and press Enter
to open the Proximity Waypoints Page.
3. Highlight an empty line, and press Enter to
open the Find Menu.
4. Select a waypoint from the Waypoints List or
from any other group of map points, and press
Enter to open the information page for the
item.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
To clear one or all proximity waypoints
from the list:
Using the Find Menu
Use the Find Menu to search for waypoints, cities,
and exits included in the Vista Cx basemap. You
can also find saved waypoint and geocache points.
Additional icons appear depending on the optional
MapSource data loaded to the unit. Press and hold the
Find key to open the Find Menu.
To remove or review a single entry, press
Enter.
OR
To remove all waypoints from the list, press the
Menu key, highlight Remove All, and press
Enter.
Waypoint Options Menu
Find Menu with optional
Cities Options Menu
MapSource data
When you access a Find group list, it contains only
those items near your current location or the pointer
(if active).
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
4. Use the Rocker and Enter key to operate
the on-screen keypad and enter the name of
the location you want to find. When the Find
list contains a match, highlight OK, and press
Enter.
The options menu for each category contains a
submenu of search options, such as Find By Name,
Find Nearest, Select Symbol (for waypoints), Change
Reference (by moving the pointer to a new location),
Nearest Containing (a keyword you enter), Select
Category (for those groups, such as Food & Drink and
Lodging). Use these options to shorten your search.
Find By Name
If you know the name of the location you want to find,
use the Find By Name option.
Find By
Name
On-screen
keypad
To find a location using Find By Name:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
5. Highlight the location in the Find list, and press
Enter. The item’s information page opens,
allowing you to save the item as a waypoint,
show the item on the map, or automatically
create a route to the item (Go To).
2. Use the Rocker to highlight the icon for the
type of item for which you want to search, and
press Enter.
OR
To search the entire database, select the All
Points of Interest icon, and press Enter.
3. Press the Menu key, highlight Find By Name,
and press Enter.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
Using the Find Item Information Page
When you select an item from the Find item list and
press Enter, an information page shows detailed
information about the item. Each information page
contains three on-screen buttons. Different buttons
appear depending on whether you are selecting a Find
item to navigate to or adding a Find item to a route list
as a waypoint.
Recent Finds
The Recent Finds Page shows a list of the last 50
items you have searched for or gone to recently.
To go to a recently found item:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
2. Highlight the Recent Finds icon, and press
Enter to open the Recent Finds Page.
Find Information Page Options Menu
The Options Menu for each information page contains
options for using a Find item as a tool for navigation.
Recent
Finds
To use the Options Menu:
1. With an information page open for a Find
item, press the Menu key to open the Options
Menu.
icon
List of
recently
found items
2. Use the Rocker to select an option, and press
Enter:
3. Use the Rocker to select the item you want
to go to, and press Enter to open the item’s
information page.
•
Average Location—sample a waypoint
location over time and average the result for a
more accurate location reference. See page 13
for more information.
4. Highlight Go To, and press Enter to begin
navigation.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
•
•
Project Waypoint—create a new waypoint
referencing another location by entering
bearing and distance from the referenced
location. See page 14 for more information.
•
Map Information—show the map from which
the map item originated. See page 92 for
information about downloading detailed maps.
To find an item near another item:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
Find Near Here—return to the Find Menu
where you can search for map items near the
item defined on the information page.
2. Select an icon on the Find Menu, and press
Enter.
•
•
Change Reference—point to a new location on
the Map Page using the pointer.
3. Highlight an item in the Find list, and press
Enter to open the information page.
Set Proximity—program an alarm to sound
when you are within a specified radius of an
item defined by the information page. See page
15 for more information.
4. Press the Menu key to open the Options
Menu, highlight Find Near Here, and press
Enter. The Find Menu opens again with
each category containing items near the item
selected on the information page.
•
•
•
Add To Route—include this item on a new
route or add it to an existing route. See “Using
Routes” on page 32 for more information.
5. Select a category icon, and press Enter to
open a Find list of items near the item.
View Sun and Moon—view Sun and Moon
tables for this item location. See page 82 for
more information.
To find an item from another location on
the map:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
View Hunt and Fish—view Hunt and Fish
tables for this item location. See page 83 for
more information.
Menu.
2. Select an icon on the Find Menu, and press
Enter.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
3. Press the Menu key to open the Options
Menu, highlight Change Reference, and press
Enter. The Map Page appears.
To find a waypoint:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
4. Use the Rocker to pan the arrow (pointer) to
the map location you want, and press Enter.
The Find list shows a list of items near the new
map location.
2. Highlight the Waypoints icon, and press Enter
to open the Waypoints Page.
3. Use the Rocker to select a waypoint, and
press Enter. The Waypoint Page opens.
Waypoints
icon
Finding a Geocache
Use the Geocache icon to view the list of geocache
locations created using your Vista Cx or downloaded
from your computer. A geocache location is a
waypoint with a special geocache symbol assigned
to give special significance and to allow it to be
separated from others on the waypoints list. For more
information about creating a geocache point, see
Finding a Waypoint
The Waypoints Page contains a list of all saved
waypoints. Waypoints are stored in alphanumeric
order and are also identified by a symbol assigned
from a list of symbol types.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
Geocache Setup instructions on page 72 and
www.garmin.com/products/etrexvistacx/.
To find a geocache:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Geocache
icon
Menu.
2. Highlight the Geocache icon, and press Enter
to open the Geocache Page. You can view
either found geocaches or those that have not
been found.
Find Geocache
List
3. Use the Rocker to highlight a geocache on the
list, and press Enter to open the information
page.
4. Highlight the Go To button, and press Enter
to navigate to the geocache location. When
you navigate to a geocache, the Compass
Page changes to Geocache Navigation mode
and any additional information about the
downloaded cache location is shown in the
comment field.
Use the Found
button when
you reach a
geocache.
When a geocache is found, the unit marks the cache
as found, log an entry into the calendar, and provide
an option that, when activated, shows the nearest
cache.
Use the Data
button for
information about
a geocache.
Find Next Option
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
3. Select a city from the list and press Enter to
open the information page for the selected city.
OR
Finding a City
Use the Cities icon on the Find Menu to find any city
listed in the mapping database (either in the basemap
or from downloaded detailed mapping data).
If the city you want is not listed, press the
Menu key, select a search method, and press
Enter.
To find a city:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Finding an Interstate Exit
Use the Exits icon on the Find Menu to find an
interstate exit.
Menu.
2. Highlight the Cities icon, and press Enter. The
Cities Page shows a list of cities near your
current location.
To find an interstate exit:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
2. Highlight the Exits icon, and press Enter.The
Exits Page shows a list of interstate exits near
your location.
Cities
icon
3. Use the Rocker to select an exit, and press
Enter to open the information page. This page
contains the exit description, a list of available
services near the exit, and the distance and
bearing from the exit to the highlighted service.
Cities nearest to City information
your location
page
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
4. Select a service from the list, and press Enter
to open the information page for the selected
service.
To find an address:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
Exits list
Available services
Addresses
icon
Exits
icon
Addresses Page
2. Highlight the Addresses icon, and press Enter
to open the Addresses Page.
If your unit has a GPS fix, the <Enter Region>
field is populated with your current region.
You do not have to specify a city in the <Enter
City>, because the database has information
for the entire region. However, you can select
a city if you want to reduce the possible
number of address matches.
Finding an Address
If you downloaded detailed mapping data, use the
Addresses icon on the Find Menu to find an address.
When you enter the street number, street name, and
city, the find feature matches that data with addresses
in the map database.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
3. Highlight the <Enter Number> field, and press
Enter.
Finding an Intersection
If you downloaded detailed mapping data, use the
Intersections icon on the Find Menu to search for
an intersection. When you enter two street names
and a city, the Find feature locates the intersection by
matching that data with the map database.
4. Type the street number using the on-screen
keypad. When finished, highlight OK, and
press Enter again.
5
Highlight the <Enter Street Name> field, and
press Enter. The street list opens.
To find an intersection:
1. Press and hold the Find key to open the Find
Menu.
6. Use the on-screen keypad to enter enough
of the street name to show a match. When
finished, highlight OK, and press Enter. A list
of matches appears.
2. Highlight the Intersections icon, and press
Enter to open the Intersections Page.
7. Select the address you want, and press Enter
to open the Address information page.
3. If your unit has a GPS fix, the <Enter Region>
field is populated with your current region.
You do not have to specify a city in the <Enter
City>, because the database has information
for the entire region. However, you can select
a city if you want to reduce the possible
number of intersection matches.
4. Highlight the <Enter Street 1> field, and press
Enter.
5. Type the street name using the on-screen
keypad. When finished, highlight OK, and
press Enter again.
Matching addresses
Information page
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BASIC OPERATION > USING THE FIND MENU
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to enter a street name
in the <Enter Street 2> field. When finished, a
list of matches appears below.
To find a point of interest:
1. Press Find to open the Find Menu.
2. Highlight the All Points of Interest icon, and
press Enter to show a list of all points near
your current location.
7. Select an intersection, and press Enter to
open the information page.
3. Highlight an item in the list, and press Enter to
open the information page for the item.
OR
Press Menu to open the Options Menu where
you can select options to help you narrow your
search.
List of matching
intersections
Intersection
information page
Narrow your
search criteria
using the
Searching for a Point of Interest
If you downloaded MapSource detailed mapping,
you can use the All Points of Interest icon on the
Find Menu to locate a nearby restaurant, lodging,
landmark, public building, and so on.
Options Menu.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING TRACKS
4. Highlight the item you want from the list, and
press Enter to open the information page for
the selected item.
Using Tracks
The Tracks feature creates an electronic bread crumb
trail or “track log” on the Map Page as you travel. The
track log contains information about points along its
path.
The track log starts recording as soon as the unit gets
a location fix. The percentage of memory used by the
current track log appears at the top of the Tracks Page.
After you clear the track log, it shows 0%.
Percentage
of memory
used
If you are searching for a restaurant that is part of a
national chain, only the restaurants nearest to your
location is shown when you search using the Find
Nearest option. If you search using the By Name
option, all of the locations for that chain in the
mapping database are shown with the closest to your
current location listed first.
List of
saved
tracks
Tracks Page
Custom Points of Interest
You can create your own category for points of interest
by using the Garmin POI Loader utility available
from the Garmin web site: www.garmin.com/products/
poiloader/. Follow the instructions for use on the web.
To clear the track log:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING TRACKS
2. Select the Tracks icon, and press Enter to
Time creates track points after a specified time
has elapsed. Auto allows you choose from five
intervals.
open the Tracks Page
3. Highlight the Clear button, and press Enter. A
confirmation message appears.
•
Interval—records a track according to the
Record Method and Interval. Enter a specific
distance, time, or frequency.
To set up a track log:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Select the Tracks icon, and press Enter to
•
•
Color—select the color of the active track on the
map.
open the Tracks Page.
3. Highlight the Setup button, and press Enter to
Log Track to Data Card—records the current
track log to the microSD card in addition to
the unit’s internal memory. Using this option
allows you to record a large number of track
points (depending on the capacity of the
microSD card.) This feature is a tool for use by
advanced GPS users with special applications
for the track log data. Track logs on the data
card are .gpx GPS position data files, and are
not used by your unit. To learn more about .gpx
files, search the Web for subjects titled GPX or
GPS Exchange Format.
open the Track Log Setup Page.
Data Card
Option
•
•
Wrap When Full—the track log records over
the oldest data with new data.
Record Method—Distance records track
points after a specified distance is traveled.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING TRACKS
To save the entire track log:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
To save a portion of the track log:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Select the Tracks icon, and press Enter to
2. Select the Tracks icon, and press Enter to
open the Tracks Page.
open the Tracks Page.
3
Highlight the Save button and press Enter. A
message appears asking you if you want to
save the entire track.
3. Highlight the Save button, and press Enter.
A message appears asking you if you want to
save the entire track.
4. Select Yes, and press Enter to save the track.
A “Saving Track” message appears followed
by the Saved Track Page.
4. Select No, and press Enter to save only a
portion of the track log. A map showing the
entire track appears.
5. Use the Rocker to move the pointer to the
point on the track line that you want to be the
beginning point, and press Enter.
Use the Saved Track page to rename the track, view
the track distance and calculated area, and specify a
color for the track on the Map Page.
6. Use the Rocker to move the arrow to the point
on the track line that you want to be the ending
point, and press Enter. A “Saving Track”
message appears followed by the Saved Track
Page.
Track
name
Track
distance
Calculated
area
Track
color
7. With OK highlighted, press Enter.
To log tracks to the microSD card:
1. With the Track Log setup page displayed,
highlight the Data Card Setup button, and press
ENTER to display the Data Card setup page.
Saved Track Page
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BASIC OPERATION > USING TRACKS
NOTE: Do not remove the microSd card
from the unit while logging a track, because
corruption of the data can result.
2. Highlight the Log Track
to Data Card option,
and then press ENTER
to activate the feature.
Observe that a current
date .gpx file appears in
the Data Card Tracks list.
To view a track on
the map:
On the Saved
Track Page, select
the Map button,
and press Enter
to open the Map
Page. A map
This file is a continuous
compilation of all track data for the indicated
date. As long as this feature is enabled, a new
file is recorded for each day you use the unit.
Recording continues until the card is filled.
showing the entire
track appears.
Begin and End markers and user waypoints
are added to the track.
Because these track logs share card space
with MapSource mapping data, space for
additional map storage is reduced.
Saved track on the Map Page
3. Use the USB cable to connect the unit to your
computer then access the USB Mass Storage
feature explained on page 68. You can open
the track logs using Garmin MapSource or
another .gpx file-compatible application.
Use the Area Calculation option on the Options Menu
to calculate the area of a track.
To calculate the area of a track:
1. With the Track Log Page open and the Track
Log on, press Menu to open the Options
Menu.
4. To delete these track logs from the microSD
card, highlight individual logs, and then press
ENTER. Use the Delete All button to clear the
entire list.
2. Highlight Area Calculation, and press Enter
to open the Area Calculation Page.
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BASIC OPERATION > USING TRACKS
2. Highlight Profile, and press Enter to view the
Track Profile.
Elevation
Begin
marker
End
marker
Distance
from Begin
and End
Start calculation
Save calculated track
points
3. Press Enter to start the area calculation.
As you begin to move and define the area’s
boundaries, a Stop button appears at the
bottom of the page.
Track Profile Page
The beginning of the track is marked by a
flag. You can scroll across the track profile by
pressing the Rocker.
4. When finished defining the area, press Enter
to open the page with a Save button.
As you scroll across the profile, the elevation
for each point on the profile is shown at the
top of the page, and the distance from the
Begin point and the End point are shown at the
bottom.
5. Press Enter to save the new track to the
Saved Tracks list on the Tracks Page.
Track Profiles
After you save a track, you have a record of the path
you traveled and an altitude profile.
3. At any point along the profile, you can press
Enter to show that point on the map.
4. Press Menu to use Zoom Ranges and Hide
Symbols options.
To view a track profile:
1. Open the Saved Track Page, and press Menu.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING ROUTES
A Track Elevation Profile is created from Digital
Elevation Models (DEM) maps (MapSource U.S.
Topo 24K), which include elevation data contained
in the map. When these types of maps are available, a
Use Map Data - Use Track Data option menu appears
when you select Profile. Refer to the Garmin web site
for more information about MapSource U.S. Topo 24K
maps.
Directions
to the first
turn
3. Select either Follow Road to route back to
the selected point using available roadways,
or select Follow Track to retrace your original
path of travel. Highlight the Don’t Ask Again
option, and press Enter if you want to use the
same option each time you use TracBack.
Navigating a Saved Track
You can save your track log to use later as a
TracBack. When initiated, a TracBack route takes you
back to the oldest stored track log point.
To use the TracBack feature:
The Map Page opens with directions to the
first turn on the track at the top of the page.
1. With the Saved Tracks Page for the track or
the Track Log open, highlight the TracBack
button, and press Enter to open the TracBack
Page showing the track. You can select the
point you want to TracBack to.
4. Move in the direction of the first turn. When
you reach the first turn, directions to each turn
is shown, until you reach your destination.
2. Use the Rocker to move the pointer to the
point on the map, and press Enter to start
navigating the TracBack.
5. To exit, press Menu, and select Stop Navigation.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING ROUTES
Saved routes with more than 50 waypoints cannot be
navigated using the Follow Roads option.
To create a user waypoint on a saved track:
1.
With a saved track shown on the map, use the
Rocker to move the pointer on the track point
that you want to mark as a user waypoint.
To create a route:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
2. Press and hold the Enter key to open the Mark
Menu.
Waypoint Page.
2. Highlight the Routes icon, and press Enter to
3. Customize the user waypoint, highlight OK,
and press Enter to save it.
open the Routes Page.
3. Use the Rocker to highlight the New button,
and press Enter to open the Route Page.
Creating and Using Routes
Route navigation allows you to create a sequence of
intermediate waypoints that lead you to your final
destination. The Vista Cx lets you store 50 routes with
up to 250 points each.
4. With the <Select Next Point> field highlighted,
press Enter to open the Find Menu.
Routes
icon
Creating a Route
You can create or modify a route using the Routes
Page, and you can add waypoints to a route from
the Find Menu. You can create more complex routes
using a PC and MapSource mapping programs and
then transfer them to the unit memory. Auto-Routes,
which are generated when you select Go To for a
Find item, map item, or waypoint, cannot be saved.
Setting up a
route
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING ROUTES
5. Use the Find Menu to select a route waypoint
from one of the Find Menu groups, and open
the information page for the selected waypoint,
city, exit, point of interest, and so on.
view the turns at any time by pressing up or
down on the Rocker while the route is active.
•
Both navigation methods change when you
select the Follow Roads option on the Routing
Setup Page. Both Go To navigation and point-
to-point routing become routes that allow you
to navigate using roads.
6. Highlight the Use button, and press Enter to
add it to the route.
7. To add more points to the route, repeat steps 4
to 6. You can rename the route if you want.
The routes use existing roadways (either those
in the basemap or from downloaded detail
mapping) to automatically calculate a route to
your destination. Turns on roadways are added
to the Active Route Page and are preceded by a
guidance message with a graphic of the turn. If
there are not enough roads at your location to
calculate a route, a message appears.
8. Highlight the Navigate button, and press Enter
to begin navigating.
Methods of navigating to a destination
•
If you select the Go To button on the Waypoint
Page or other Find Menu items, the Vista Cx
creates a straight path (point-to-point) from
your current location to that location.
•
If you select the Navigate button on a Route
Page, the Vista Cx creates a route composed
of several user waypoints or Find Menu items,
with the last being your destination. It navigates
directly from point to point. Before each turn
in the route, a turn page shows a guidance
message and a graphic of the turn. You can
Navigating a Route
After you create a route, you can begin navigation
immediately or save it to the Saved Routes list.
To navigate a saved route:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING ROUTES
2. Highlight the Routes icon, and press Enter to
2. Highlight the Navigate button, and press Enter
to begin navigation and show the route on the
Map Page.
open the Routes Page.
3. Highlight a saved route, and press Enter to
open the Route Page.
4. Highlight the Navigate button, and press
Enter.
5. To stop navigating, press the Menu key, select
Stop Navigation, and press Enter.
When navigating a route, a guidance message and
a graphic view of turns in the route appear as you
approach each one. Using the Follow Roads option
on the Routing Setup Page increases the number of
turns and shows an Active Route Page with a list of
turns. If you selected the Off Road option, you can
view only the list of points for a route from the Active
Route Page. See Routing Setup on page 69.
Route on the Map Page
Route Page
3. To view the list of turns on the route, press
the Quit key to open the Active Route Page.
To view an individual turn on the list, use the
Rocker to highlight it, and press Enter.
The Turn Preview Page shows the turn and
guidance text and a small field at the bottom
shows the turn number in sequence and total
turns in the route.
To preview the turns for an active route:
1. On the Routes Page, highlight a saved route,
and press Enter to open the Route Page for
the selected route.
4. To scroll through all turn previews, press up
or down on the Rocker. Press the Quit key to
close the Turn Preview Page and return to the
Active Route Page.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING ROUTES
5. Use the
Rocker to
Enter a
new route
name.
operate the on-
screen keypad
and edit the
route name.
Route Page
Active Route Page
when following
roads
Turn Preview Page
To review individual route points:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
Editing a Route
After you create a route, use the Route Page to edit,
change the route name, and review route points.
2. Highlight the Routes icon, and press Enter to
open the Routes Page.
3. Select a saved route, and press Enter.
To change the name of the route:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
4. Highlight a point on the Route Page, and press
Enter to open an options menu.
5. Highlight Review, and press Enter to open the
2. Highlight the Routes icon, and press Enter to
information page for the route point.
open the Routes Page.
6. Select Save (save the point as a waypoint),
Map (show the point on the Map Page), or Go
To (navigate to the point), and press Enter.
3. Select a saved route, and press Enter.
4. Highlight the route name field at the top of the
Route Page, and press Enter.
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BASIC OPERATION > CREATING AND USING ROUTES
Select Distance to enter a radius so that when you are
within the entered distance, the Vista Cx leads you to
the next point on your route.
To delete a route:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
2. Highlight the Routes icon, and press Enter to
Select Manual to transition to the next waypoint
anytime while navigating a route.
open the Routes Page.
3. Press the Menu key to open the Options Menu.
Using the Route Page Options
4. Highlight Delete All Routes, and press Enter
to clear the list of saved routes. A confirmation
message appears, asking “Do you really want to
delete all routes?” Select Yes, and press Enter.
The Route Page shows all points stored in memory for
the route selected on the Routes Page. Press the Menu
key to open the Route Page Options Menu.
•
•
Remove All—removes all waypoints.
Reverse Route—reverses the order of the route
points in the saved route.
To select the off-road transition for a route:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
•
Profile—creates a vertical profile of the route.
2. Highlight the Routes icon, and press Enter to
NOTE: This option is available only if you are
open the Routes Page.
using Garmin MapSource U.S. Topo 24K map data.
3. Press the Menu key to open the Options Menu.
•
Copy Route—makes a copy of the saved route
with the same name, but followed by a number.
Delete Route—deletes the saved route.
Change Data Fields—select different values
for the two data fields at the bottom of the page.
4. Select Off Road Transition, and press Enter
to open the Off Route Transition Page.
•
•
5. Highlight the Route Leg Transition field, and
press Enter to view the list of options.
6. Select the method to use (Manual or
Distance) when advancing the route to the
next point.
•
Restore Defaults—restores route settings to
the factory default settings.
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MAIN PAGES > OVERVIEW
MAIN PAGES
The Vista Cx has four main pages: Map Page, Compass Page, Altimeter Page, and the Main Menu. You can
cycle through these pages by pressing the Quit key. You can add additional pages by using the Page Sequence
option on the Main Menu. The Active Route Page appears in the sequence when you are actively navigating. The
Satellite Page appears only at Start Up.
Each page has an Options Menu, which contains the setup options and functions that apply to the page. To view
the Options Menu for a page, press the Menu key.
Map Page
Altimeter Page
Main Menu
No Options
Compass Page
Altimeter Page
Options Menu
Compass Page
Options Menu
Map Page
Options Menu
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MAIN PAGES > SATELLITE PAGE
Using the Satellite Page Options Menu
Press the Menu key to open the Options Menu.
Satellite Page
The Satellite Page shows the receiver status, satellite
locations, satellite signal strength, and the receiver’s
current location when the unit receives signals from at
least three satellites. The Satellite Page appears when
you turn the unit on and is accessed from the Main
Menu thereafter.
•
•
Use With GPS Off/On—enables you to turn
the GPS receiver on or off.
Location
Track Up/North Up—indicates whether
satellites are shown with the rings oriented with
North toward the top of the display or your
current track toward the top of the screen.
Satellite
location
Satellite
signal
strength
•
•
•
Multicolor/Single Color—indicates whether
each satellite appears as a different color or the
same color.
Satellite Page
New Location—use if you have moved the unit
more than 600 miles and you are having trouble
locking onto satellite signals.
GPS Elevation—shows your current elevation.
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MAIN PAGES > MAP PAGE
To show data fields on the Map Page:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Map Page
Map Page
The Vista Cx comes with a built-in basemap that
includes a database of cities, interstates, state and
county highways, exit information, and lake and river
outlines. The standard basemap can be enhanced
using MapSource data.
Options Menu.
2. Highlight Data Field, and press Enter. The
Show sub-menu appears.
3. Select the number of data fields you want to
show on the Map Page, and press Enter.
Two map operating modes, position mode and pan
mode, determine what is shown on the map display.
Data fields
Position mode pans the map to keep your present
location in the display area. The position marker
shows your travel on the Map Page.
When you press the Rocker, the Vista Cx enters pan
mode, which moves the map to keep the white arrow
(map pointer) within the display area. When you
are in pan mode, you can move the map pointer about
the page to highlight and identify map items. If there
is more than one map item under the pointer, a list of
all the items appears at that point.
Show sub-
menu
Map Page with
data fields
You can add and configure up to four optional data
fields to the top of the page to provide a variety of
travel and navigational information.
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MAIN PAGES > MAP PAGE
To change a data field display:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Map Page
Options Menu.
Using Additional Map Data
Optional MapSource data disks enhance the versatility
of your Vista Cx. With MapSource data disks, you can
view listings of nearby restaurants, lodging, shopping
centers, attractions, and entertainment, and you can
retrieve addresses and phone numbers for any listed
location. With additional BlueChart data, you can
access information, such as marine navaids, wrecks,
obstructions, and anchorage locations.
2. Highlight Change Data Fields, and press
Enter. The first data field is highlighted.
3. Press Enter to open the list of data field
options.
Data field
options
You can view the map data currently loaded on your
microSD data card.
To review map information:
1. On the Map Page, press the Menu key.
2. Highlight Setup Map, and press Enter.
3. Use the Rocker to select the Map Setup-
information page. The list of maps stored in the
unit appears. A check mark indicates the map
is shown on the Map Page.
4. Use the Rocker to select an option, and press
Enter.
5. Use the Rocker to move to the next field, and
repeat steps 3 and 4.
For an explanation of each data field option, see page
90 in the Appendix.
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MAIN PAGES >MAP PAGE
Changing the Zoom Range
Map Orientation
You can change the zoom range on the Map Page to
view a smaller area in greater detail or view a larger
area with less detail. Press the In key to decrease the
zoom range and show an area with greater detail;
press the Out key to increase the zoom range and
show a larger area with less detail.
There are two map orientation options: North Up
orients the map like a paper map. Track Up orients the
map in the direction of travel. When using Track Up,
the North arrow indicates the orientation. Set the map
orientation using the Setup Map option.
Map Page Options
Use the Map Page Options Menu to customize the
Map Page. With the Map Page open, press Menu. To
select an option, highlight it, and press Enter.
Zoom in
Zoom out
The current zoom range setting is shown in the
lower-left corner of the Map Page. If no further map
information is available, “overzoom” appears under
the zoom range. When using MapSource maps,
“mapsource” appears below the scale.
The following options are available:
•
Stop (Resume) Navigation—stops navigation
and is disabled when there is no active navigation.
Map ranges
•
Recalculate—recalculates a route and is
disabled when there is no active navigation.
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MAIN PAGES > MAP PAGE
•
Data Fields—opens the Show sub-menu so you
can select the number of data fields to show at the
top of the Map Page: Map Only, 2, 3, or 4 fields.
Guidance Text
When navigating, guidance text appears at the top
of the map. Guidance Text shows useful information
when navigating to a destination.
•
Change Data Fields—allows you to select
the type of data you want to show in the data
fields. This option is available only if 2, 3, or 4
data fields is selected. Displays only when data
fields are used.
Guidance text
To show guidance text:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Map Page
Options Menu.
•
•
•
•
•
Guidance Text—shows messages on the screen
advising you of your next navigation move
when navigating to a destination.
2. Highlight Guidance Text, and press Enter.
S
etup Map—accesses six pages of display
The Guidance Text sub-menu opens.
options so you can customize the way the map
appears.
3. Select an option (Always Show, Never Show,
or Show When Navigating), and press Enter.
Measure Distance (Stop Measuring)—
measures the distance from your current
location to the map pointer.
If you select Always Show, a guidance message
always appears whether or not you are navigating.
If you select Show When Navigating, a guidance
message appears until you select Stop Navigation
from the Options Menu.
Turn Declutter On (Off)—eliminates the
display of items on the map that can block road
details when the map is zoomed out.
Restore Defaults—returns the map display to
the factory set defaults.
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MAIN PAGES > MAP PAGE
Map Setup – General Page
Setting up the Map Page
Use the Setup Map option to adjust how items are
shown on the Map Page.
The Map Setup – General Page contains the settings
for Orientation, Below, Auto Zoom, Detail, and Lock
On Road.
To customize the Map Page display:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Map Page
Options Menu.
2. Highlight Setup Map, and press Enter to open
the Map Setup Page. The top of the page
contains icons for each setup page.
3. Use the Rocker to move from icon to icon
when selecting a page and to move up and
down the feature fields on each page.
Map Setup – General Page
•
•
Orientation—selects how the map is shown.
North Up always shows north at the top of
the page. Track Up shows your current track
toward the top of the page.
General
Points
Information
Tracks
Text
Marine
Below—sets the map scale at which the Track
Up feature displays. All scales above that
revert to the North Up map orientation.
4. With a Map Setup feature highlighted, press
Enter to show the list of options for that
feature. Each page has a sub-menu of general
options. To access this menu, press the Menu
key with the preferred setup page displayed.
•
•
Auto Zoom—zooms the map scale to include
the beginning and ending points of a route.
Detail—selects the degree of map detail shown.
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MAIN PAGES > MAP PAGE
•
Lock On Road—locks the map pointer to
Map Setup – Points Page
display on the nearest road, compensating for
variances in map position accuracy.
Us the Map Setup – Points Page to set the map scale
at which Map Points, User Waypoints, Street Label,
and Land Cover appear on the Map Page. Select
Auto, Off, or from 20 ft to 800 mi.
Map Setup – Tracks Page
The Map Setup – Tracks Page contains settings for Saved
Tracks, Track Log, Track Points, and the Go To Line.
Map Setup – Points Page
Map Setup – Tracks Page
•
•
•
•
Saved Tracks—sets the maximum zoom range
at which saved tracks are shown on the map.
Track Log—sets the maximum zoom range at
which active track logs are shown.
Track Points—sets the maximum number of
track points used to record a track.
Go To Line—selects either a bearing or course
line for navigating a track.
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MAIN PAGES >MAP PAGE
Press the Menu key to view the list of options for
Map Setup – Text Page
displaying maps.
Use the Map Setup – Text Page to select the text size
for descriptions of map items on the Map Page. You
can select from Small, Medium, or Large.
Map Setup – Marine Page
Use the Map Setup – Marine Page to customize settings
for marine colors, spot soundings, light sectors, and
symbol sets when using downloaded marine charts
(MapSource BlueChart marine mapping data).
Map Setup – Text Page
Map Setup – Information Page
The Map Setup – Text Page shows a list of
downloaded detailed maps such as topographic,
marine charts, and MapSource maps with auto-routing
capability. Use the Rocker to highlight a map, and
press Enter to show it on the map display or turn it
off.
Map Setup – Marine Page
•
•
Marine Colors—toggles marine colors on or
off on the Map Page.
Spot Soundings—toggles spot soundings on or
off on the Map Page
•
•
Light Sectors—select from On, Off, and Auto
Symbol Set—select the symbol set to use
(Auto, GARMIN, NOAA, International).
Map Setup – Information Page
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MAIN PAGES > MAP PAGE
Measuring Distance
You can measure the distance between two map items.
Measured
distance
Push pin
indicating the
beginning
point of the
measurement
To measure distance between two points:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Map Page
Options Menu.
End point of
measurement
labeled REF
2. Highlight Measure Distance, and press Enter.
An on-screen arrow appears on the map display
at your current location with REF below it.
3. Move the arrow to the reference point (the
starting point you want to measure from), and
press Enter. A push pin icon marks the starting
point on the map.
4. Move the arrow to the point you want to
measure to. The distance between the two
points is shown in the upper-right corner of the
Map Page.
5. Press Quit to cancel.
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MAIN PAGES > MAP PAGE
Turning Declutter On or Off
Restoring Defaults
Use the Restore Defaults option to return the map
settings to factory settings.
You can remove unwanted items from the Map Page
display (declutter the display), such as map item titles
and icons. This is useful when the map is zoomed to a
scale that is partially obscured by titles and icons that
remain the same size regardless of the map scale.
Map with declutter Map with declutter
off
on
To turn declutter on or off:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Map Page
Options menu.
2. Highlight Turn Declutter On, and press Enter.
OR
To turn Declutter off, press Menu, select Turn
Declutter Off, and press Enter.
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MAIN PAGES > COMPASS PAGE
indicates the direction (bearing to or course of travel)
to your destination, relative to your current heading
direction. The compass ring, bearing pointer or course
pointer work independently to show your direction of
movement and the direction to your destination. You
can choose a Bearing Pointer or Course Pointer for
guidance. See page 53 for more information.
Compass Page
During active navigation, the Compass Page guides
you to your destination with a graphic compass
display and a bearing or course pointer.
Bearing
pointer
Scale
The compass
ring moves to
indicate North
orientation.
The course pointer
indicates your
course of travel and
the distance you
drift off course.
Compass Page
Course Pointer
When navigating, the Compass Page provides
navigation data and directions. It uses a graphic
compass ring, a bearing or course pointer, and digital
data fields to show information, such as current speed,
distance to the next point on the route, and estimated
arrival time.
The bearing
pointer always
indicates the
direction of your
destination.
Bearing Pointer
The rotating compass ring indicates the direction
you are heading. The Bearing and Course Pointers
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MAIN PAGES > COMPASS PAGE
The compass ring is an electronic compass that
functions like a magnetic compass when you are
stationary. When you are moving and reach a pre-set
speed, it uses data from the GPS receiver to maintain
your heading. When you stop (after a pre-set time), it
again operates like a magnetic compass. The compass
ring is especially helpful when using a paper map or
chart with your Vista Cx for navigation. When the
To turn the electronic compass on or off:
1. Press and hold the Quit key to turn the
electronic compass on or off. The Compass
Icon
appears in the status bar when the
electronic compass is on. When you are not
using the electronic compass, turn it off to
conserve batteries. When it is turned off, the
unit uses the GPS receiver for navigation.
2. Hold the Vista Cx level to get an accurate
electronic compass reading. (See the following
page for calibration instructions.)
electronic compass is on, a compass icon
in the status bar.
appears
Using the Electronic Compass
Setting the speed and time for Compass
Auto On and Off:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
When you press and hold the Quit key the electronic
compass turns off, it stays off until you press and hold
the Quit key to turn it on again. However, sometimes
when you turn the electronic compass on, the Vista
Cx overrides the compass and uses the GPS receiver
to track your heading. It also uses the GPS receiver
when you are moving, but only when you are moving.
When stationary or moving slowly you must use the
electronic compass for headings. You can customize
the criteria for switching between the electronic
compass and the GPS.
Menu.
2. Highlight Setup, and press Enter to open the
Setup Menu.
3. Highlight the Heading icon, and press Enter to
open the Heading Setup Page.
4. Highlight the Switch to compass heading
when below field, and press Enter.
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MAIN PAGES > COMPASS PAGE
To calibrate the electronic compass:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Compass
Page Options menu.
Speed
setting
2. Highlight Calibrate
Compass, and press
Enter to open the
Time delay
options
Calibration Page.
3. With the Start button
highlighted, press Enter,
and follow on-screen
Heading Setup Page
Calibration
Compass Page
directions for holding and
turning the unit.
5. Use the numeric keypad to enter a speed.
6. Highlight the for more than field, and press
Enter to set the time delay from the time
options list.
A “Just Right,” “Too Fast,”
or “Too Slow” message
appears notifying you to
adjust your turning speed,
as needed. Hold the unit
level while turning.
Calibrating the Electronic Compass
When you first use the Vista Cx or after you install
new batteries, you have to calibrate the electronic
compass outdoors. The accuracy of the electronic
compass is adversely affected if the unit is not held
level or you are near objects that generate magnetic
fields, such as cars or buildings.
A “Calibration Successful”
message appears when
finished.
Calibration
Progress Page
If a “Calibration Failed”
message appears, repeat the process.
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MAIN PAGES > COMPASS PAGE
4. Press Enter to return to the Compass Page.
The following options are available:
Hold the unit
level and turn
slowly.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Sight ‘N Go—allows you to navigate to an
object within your sight.
Stop/Resume Navigation—turns active
navigation for a route or Go To on and off.
Recalculate—recalculates the path to a
destination.
Compass Page Options
Course or Bearing Pointer—toggles between
the course pointer and the bearing pointer.
Use the options menu to customize the Compass
Page. With the Compass Page open, press the Menu
key. To select an option, highlight it, and press Enter.
Data Fields—allows you to select the number
of data fields that appear on the Compass Page.
Change Data Fields—allows you to select the
type of data you want to show in the data fields.
Calibrate Compass—accesses the compass
Calibration Page.
Restore Defaults—returns to factory settings.
Compass Page
Options Menu
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MAIN PAGES > COMPASS PAGE
Sight ‘N Go Navigation
To use Sight ‘N Go to navigate:
1. Press the Menu key to
open the Compass Page
Options Menu.
2. Highlight Sight ‘N Go,
and press Enter to start
the Sight ‘N Go feature.
The compass ring with
pointer is in-line with the
Project Waypoint Page
two white sighting marks,
one at the base of the
screen and one at the top of the screen.
Sighting Page
6. Enter an estimated distance from your current
location to establish a projected waypoint
location.
3. Hold the unit at eye level and line up the two
sighting marks with the distant object. Press
Enter to lock the direction. The Sighting Page
opens.
7. Highlight the Go To button, and press Enter
to open the Map Page and begin navigation to
the projected waypoint. The Compass Page
shows a bearing pointer for guidance.
4. Highlight Set Course, and press Enter to open
To stop navigation:
1. Press Menu to open the Map Page Options
the Compass Page.
5. Begin traveling to your destination on a course
line using the Course Pointer as a guide.
OR
Menu.
2. Highlight Stop Navigation, and press Enter to
stop navigating
Highlight Project Waypoint, and press Enter
to open the Project Waypoint Page.
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MAIN PAGES > COMPASS PAGE
Using the Course Pointer or Bearing
Pointer
The bearing pointer and course pointer work
independently of each other. The bearing pointer
indicates the direction to your destination, and the
course pointer indicates your relationship to a course
line leading to the destination.
If the bearing pointer arrow is pointing straight up, for
example, you are going directly to your destination.
If it points any direction other than up, turn toward
that direction until the arrow is pointing up and then
continue in that direction. The bearing pointer always
points to the destination, regardless of the direction you
are moving. Most efficient if you must move around
obstacles (lakes, private property, etc.) in your path.
The bearing pointer always indicates the direction to
your destination from your current location.
Move to the right or left to get back on course. This is
most efficient if you are navigating on water or where
there are no major obstacles in your path. It also helps
you avoid hazards to either side of the course, such as
shoals or submerged rocks.
If you are using the course pointer option, and you
drift away from the line of travel from your original
location to your destination, the course deviation
indicator (an arrow with horizontal dotted line)
provides graphic indication of drift (right or left)
according to the scale shown at the edge of the
compass ring.
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MAIN PAGES > COMPASS PAGE
Data Fields
You can show three or four data fields on the Compass
Page.
0.25mi
Scale
The course pointer indicates your course of travel from
your original location and the distance off course.
To select the course pointer or the bearing
pointer:
3 Data Fields
4 Data Fields
1. Press the Menu key to open the Compass
Page Options Menu. The bearing pointer is the
factory set default option. When the bearing
pointer option is shown, the course pointer is
active and vice versa.
To show data fields on the Compass Page:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Compass
Page Options Menu.
2. Highlight Data Field, and press Enter. The
Show sub-menu appears.
2. Highlight this option, and press Enter.
3. Select the number of data fields you want to
show on the Compass Page (three or four),
and press Enter.
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
To change data fields:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Compass
Altimeter Page
The Altimeter Page shows you the current elevation,
rate of ascent and descent, a profile of elevation
changes over distance or time, or a profile of pressure
changes over time.
Page Options Menu.
2. Highlight Change Data Fields, and press
Enter. The first data field is highlighted.
3. Press Enter to select from a list of types of
Selectable
data fields
navigation data to display in that field.
4. Use the Rocker to highlight the option you
want, and press Enter to place it in the data
field.
Range Grid
Measurement
Elevation
profile
Scale
5. After making your selection and entry, use the
Rocker to move to the next field and repeat
the process.
Current
elevation
6. Repeat Step 3 to change remaining data fields.
Rate of ascent
and descent
To restore data fields to default settings:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Compass
Page Options Menu.
Altimeter Page
The Status field at the bottom of the page shows the
current elevation and your current rate of ascent or
descent when moving. It can also show the ambient
pressure and time of measurement.
2. Highlight Restore Defaults, and press Enter
to return the page to factory settings.
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
•
•
View Elevation Plot or View Pressure
Plot—view a plot of elevation changes that
occur over a set distance or view changes in the
barometric pressure for set period of time.
You can configure the Profile field in the center of the
page to show either elevation or ambient pressure plots
as selected from the Altimeter Page Options Menu.
Data fields at the top of the page are user selectable
and show a variety of recorded or current data.
Zoom Ranges—allows you to set the Zoom
Ranges for elevation, distance, or time when
you show the View Elevation Plot.
Altimeter Page Options
Use the Altimeter Page Options Menu to customize
the Altimeter Page. With the Altimeter Page open,
press the Menu key to open the Options Menu.
•
•
•
Change Data Fields—allows you to select the
type of data you want to show in the data fields.
Reset—allows you to reset the elevation data
and the maximum elevation data.
Calibrate Altimeter—if you know the correct
elevation for your location, you can increase the
accuracy of the altimeter using the “Calibrate
Altimeter” option.
•
Restore Defaults—clears recorded data from
the page and begin recording new data.
Altimeter Page
Options Menu
You can customize the View option displays using
the Zoom Ranges option to determine time, distance,
pressure, and elevation parameters.
The following options are available:
•
Plot Over Time or Plot Over Distance—view
changes over a set period of time or over a set
distance.
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
Plot Over Time or Distance
View Pressure or Elevation Plots
These two measurement options (changes over a set
period of time or changes over a set distance) apply
only to the View Elevation Plot option. The View
Pressure Plot option is measured by time and pressure
only. When one option is active, the other is shown on
the Altimeter Page Options Menu.
Select the View Elevation Plot option to plot a profile
of elevation changes that occur as you navigate over
a set distance or period of time. Select View Pressure
Plot to view a record of changes in barometric
pressure for a set period of time. When one option
is active, the other option is shown on the Options
Menu.
To view elevation or pressure plots:
1. Use the Rocker to select the option you want
from the Altimeter Options menu, and press
Enter to show the plot.
2. Adjust the time and distance measurement
using the Elevation Plot Zoom Ranges
explained on the pages that follow.
Elevation over
Distance plot
Pressure over
Time plot
3. To clear the plot and start again, you must
clear the Track Log.
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
Ranges for View Pressure Plot pressure values are
shown when you press up or down on the Rocker.
Values for time and distance are shown in the same
manner as for elevation plots.
Zoom Ranges
You can set the zoom ranges for elevation, distance,
or time when you show the View Elevation Plot.
•
•
•
Ranges for vertical distance are shown as you
press up or down on the Rocker.
To adjust zoom ranges:
1. Select the type of plot you want to view, and
use the Rocker to highlight Zoom Ranges on
the Options Menu.
Ranges for linear distance are shown as you
press left or right on the Rocker.
Ranges for time are shown for a time plot when
2. Press Enter to open the Zoom Ranges Page.
Press up or down on the Rocker to adjust the
vertical distance or pressure, and press left or
right to adjust either the time or distance.
OR
you press left or right on the Rocker.
Pressing up or down on the Rocker while a
plot is displayed also switches to the Zoom
Range feature.
3. Press Enter to return to the Plot Page.
Zoom ranges for
Elevation over
Distance plot
Zoom ranges for
Pressure over
Time plot
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
To use the View Points option:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Altimeter
View Points
You can scroll through a recorded elevation or
pressure profile to view data for any point along the
profile. When the red vertical and horizontal cross
hairs are stopped at a location along the profile, the
screen shows the elevation or pressure, time of day,
and date the point was created.
Page Options Menu.
2. Select View Pressure Plot or View Elevation
Plot, and press Enter to open the Plot Page.
3. Press left or right on the Rocker to scroll the
cross hairs across the profile.
As the cross hairs move across the profile,
the status window at the bottom of the page
changes to show the date, time, and altitude or
pressure for the point at the intersection.
Red crosshairs
View Points on Map
You can view the location of points on the Map Page.
To view altitude points on the Map Page:
1. With the Altimeter Page open, use the Rocker
to move the red crosshairs to the point you
want to view.
View point for an
altitude plot
View point for a
pressure plot
2. Press Enter to show the altitude point on the
map. The point is marked by the Map Pointer
with location coordinates, the compass bearing
and distance from your current location.
3. Press the Quit key to close.
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
3. Use the Rocker to highlight the reset options,
and then press Enter to place a check mark in
the box next to a selected item. You can reset
elevation data such as Minimum Elevation,
all Ascent and Descent data, or only the
Maximum Elevation.
Elevation over Distance
plot point on the Map Page
Resetting Data
You can reset the elevation data and the maximum
elevation data by selecting these options from the
Reset Page.
Reset Page
4. Highlight the Apply button, and press Enter to
reset the data fields. A confirmation message
appears.
To reset the elevation data and max
elevation fields:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Altimeter
You can reset or delete data for any of the
other features represented on the list by
placing a check mark in the box next to the
item.
Page Options Menu.
2. Highlight Reset, and press Enter to open the
Reset Page.
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
5. Highlight OK, and press Enter to reset the
3. At the message “Do You Know The Correct
Elevation?” highlight the Yes button, and press
Enter.
selected options.
6. To reset all categories shown on the page,
OR
highlight Select All, and press Enter.
If you do not know the elevation, select No to
use the pressure option. If you do not know
the pressure, select No to use the default GPS
elevation.
Calibrating the Altimeter
Because the Vista Cx relies on the barometric pressure
to determine the elevation and the pressure at any
given elevation can fluctuate, you can calibrate the
altimeter to increase its accuracy. You must know the
elevation above sea level or pressure at your current
location.
To manually calibrate the altimeter:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Altimeter
Page Options Menu.
2. Highlight Calibrate Altimeter, and press Enter
4. Use the Rocker to enter the new elevation or
pressure, then highlight OK and press Enter to
return to the Altimeter Page.
to open the Calibration Page.
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MAIN PAGES > ALTIMETER PAGE
4. Press up or down on the Rocker to highlight
an option, and press Enter to place it in the
data field.
Change Data Fields
The Altimeter Page has two data fields that you can
customize. (For definitions, see Appendix page 90.)
To change a data field:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Altimeter
Page Options Menu.
2. Highlight Change Data Fields, and press
Enter.
3. Use the Rocker to highlight a data field, and
press Enter to view a list of available data field
options.
Data
fields
Data field
options
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MAIN PAGES > TRIP COMPUTER PAGE
Trip Computer Page Options Menu
The following options are available:
Trip Computer Page
The Trip Computer Page provides you with a
wide variety of travel data that can be useful when
navigating a long distance. It indicates your current
speed, average speed, trip odometer, and many other
helpful statistics useful for navigation.
Reset—because you want to record new data
for each trip, a “Reset” option is available.
You can reset the trip information by highlighting
“Reset” from the menu and pressing Enter.
The Reset Page offers options for resetting trip
computer data, clearing the track log and deleting saved
tracks, waypoints, and routes. From this page you can
select individual items, select all, and unselect all.
When you make your selections, highlight the Apply
button and press Enter. Answer OK to the “The Data
You Have Selected Will Be Permanently Deleted”
prompt and press Enter to complete the reset.
Trip Computer Page
•
Big Numbers—allows you to view a
significant trip at a glance, which shows fewer
fields with larger displays.
You can customize the trip computer screen by
choosing from a list of data options to meet your
personal requirements. Selecting the type of data to
display is done in the same manner as for the similar
data fields on the Map Page. (See page 40 for details.)
•
•
Change Data Fields—allows you to select the
type of data you want to show in the data fields.
Restore Defaults—allows you to return the
data fields to factory settings.
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MAIN MENU > TRACKS
Tracks
MAIN MENU
The Tracks Page shows the percentage of track
memory used and a list of saved tracks. Use the
Tracks Page to set up, clear, or save a track log, or
enable the TracBack feature for the current track log.
For more information, see page 26.
The Main Menu contains settings and features not
found on the main pages and sub-menus. The time
and date are shown at the bottom of this page. The
Main Menu is accessible from any page by pressing
Menu twice. To select an item on the Main Menu,
highlight the menu item, and press Enter.
To access the Tracks Page:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
2. Select the Tracks icon, and press Enter.
3. Highlight the Setup button, and press Enter to
open the Track Log Setup Page.
Main Menu
NOTE: If a page is added to the sequence, the
icon for that page does not appear on the Main
Menu.
Tracks Page
Track Log Setup
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MAIN MENU > HIGHWAY PAGE
Track Page Options
The Track Log Setup Page contains the following
options:
Routes Page
Use the Routes Page to create a route to a destination.
For more information, see Routes on page 32
•
Wrap When Full—enables this option when
you want to record over the oldest data with
new data when the track log is full.
•
Record Method—sets the method used to
record track points. Distance records track
points after a specific distance is traveled. Time
creates track points after the specified time has
elapsed. Auto allows you to choose from five
different intervals.
Routes Page
Route Setup Page
•
•
Interval—records a track according to the
value and interval. Enter a specific distance or
time. The interval field appears only when the
Record Method is set to Distance or Time.
Highway Page
When you are navigating a route, the Highway Page
provides guidance to your destination by using data
fields and a graphic highway. Up to four changeable
data fields show information such, as speed, and
distance, time to next point on the route. The list of
data options for display and the method of selection is
the same as for the Compass Page.
Color—sets the color for the track when it
appears on the map.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
The Highway graphic
Setup Menu
provides visual guidance,
taking you point by point to
your final destination. Your
course is represented by a
center line down the middle
of the graphic. As you move
toward each point on your
route, the graphic shows the
Use the Setup Menu to customize your Vista Cx to
your personal preferences.
Highway Page
direction you should move to stay on course to the
next point. Use the In or Out keys to change the five
scale settings for zooming in or out on the highway.
Setup Menu Page
To navigate using the Highway Page:
1. While navigating, use the Main Menu to
access the Highway Page icon, and press
Enter to observe your path of travel displayed
on the highway graphic.
To access the Setup Menu:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Use the Rocker to highlight the Setup icon,
and press Enter.
The Setup Menu contains pages for modifying the
setup of System, Display, Tones, Page Sequence,
Map Display, Routing Methods, Geocaching,
Marine Features, Time, Units of Measure, Heading,
Calibration, Altimeter, Welcome Page, and Jumpmaster.
2. Press Menu to display the Options Menu. You
can do the following: stop navigation, configure
data fields from four to three with a destination
guidance message, change the data fields, or
restore defaults to factory settings.
Each feature is explained on the pages that follow.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
•
•
External Power Lost—indicates whether the
unit remains on (Stay On) or turns off (Turn
Off) when external power is removed from the
unit.
System Setup
Use the System Setup Page to control settings for
GPS, WAAS, battery type, language, external power,
and proximity alarms.
Proximity Alarms—indicates whether custom
POI (Points of Interest) proximity alarms are on
or off.
To access the System Setup Page:
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
System icon, and press Enter.
System Setup Options
The System Setup Options Menu contains Restore
Defaults and Software Version. Use Restore
Defaults to return the System Setup Fields to their
original values. Software Version shows the software
version and unit identification number.
System
icon
•
GPS—sets the unit to operate in Normal mode,
Battery Saver mode, GPS Off, or Demo Mode.
•
•
WAAS— enables or disables WAAS (page 93).
Battery Type— selects the battery type you are
using (Alkaline or NiMH).
•
Text Language—sets the unit’s on-screen
language.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
•
Backlight Level—turns the backlight up or
down. Press up on the Rocker to increase the
intensity or down to decrease.
Display Setup
Use the Display Setup Page to
select a screen color scheme for
day and night viewing. You can
set the backlight timeout and the
level of brightness to save on
battery power.
Interface Setup
Use the Interface Setup Page
to transfer data to or from the
microSD card contained in your
unit.
To access the Display Setup Page:
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
Display icon, and press Enter.
To access the Interface
Setup Page:
•
Display Mode—sets the display to Day, Night,
or Auto mode. Select Auto to automatically
switch from day to night at sunset and change
back at sunrise.
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
Interface icon, and press ENTER to display
the page. If the USB cable is connected to
a PC and the unit, a “Connected” message
appears on the page.
•
•
Daytime Color Scheme and Nightime Color
Scheme—sets the color scheme to use when
operating in Day or Night mode.
USB Mass Storage—allows
the microSD card to be used as
a USB Mass Storage device. It
also allows transfer of Track Log
Data to Garmin MapSource and
detailed map data transfer.
Backlight Timeout—sets the backlight to stay
on when it is turned on, or to time out after a
selected period of time has elapsed when using
the battery. The backlight stays on regardless of
this setting when external power is used.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
NOTE: If you have several network drives
mapped to your computer, Windows® may
experience difficulty assigning a drive letter for
your unit microSD card. Either log on without
connecting to the network or click Start >
Settings > Control Panel > Administrative
Tools > Computer Management > Storage >
Disk Management and remap a drive letter for
To activate USB Mass Storage:
1. Connect to a computer using the USB cable.
2. Highlight the on-screen USB Mass Storage
button and press ENTER.
3. Observe an illustration of the Vista Cx
connected to a computer and an Unplug or
Eject icon shown on a PC’s system tray or a
storage device icon for the microSD card on a
Macintosh®.
the Vista Cx removable storage device.
4. Select Edit > Paste. The file appears in the list
of files on the Vista Cx microSD card.
4. Double-click on a PC’s My Computer to
observe a new Removable Disk Drive listed. If
drives are networked, see the note below.
5. For a Macintosh, click and drag the desired file
into the microSD card directory.
6. After data transfer end the USB cable connection
by double-clicking on the Unplug or Eject icon in
your PC system tray and select Stop or unmount
the connection if using a Macintosh.
If using a Macintosh, double-click on the icon to
view the directory of files on the microSD card.
To transfer files to the microSD card:
1. Double-click the My Computer icon on a PC’s
desktop.
7. Pressing and releasing the unit POWER button
exits the USB Mass Storage Page at any time, but
can corrupt files if done while transferring data.
2. Browse the PC or Macintosh for the file you want
to copy.
Tones Setup
Use the Tones Setup Page to customize sound tones
made by the unit for a variety of unit features.
3. For a PC, highlight the file and select Edit >
Copy and open the drive identified with the
Vista Cx.
(Continued on the following page)
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
To access the Tones Setup Page:
1. On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the Tones
icon, and press Enter.
Map Page Setup
Map Page Setup information is located on page 44.
Routing Setup
Use the Routing Setup Page to customize the manner
in which routing functions behave.
2. Use the Rocker to highlight the feature for
which you want to set a tone and press Enter
to display the options.
3. Highlight the desired option and press Enter.
To access the Routing Setup Page:
1. On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
Routing icon, and press Enter.
As you move down the list each tone sounds.
Page Sequence Setup
Use the Page Sequence Setup Page to change the order of
the main pages, or to add pages.
To access the Page Sequence Setup Page:
2. Highlight the Follow Road Options button to
open the Follow Road Options Page where
you can select additional route options.
•
Guidance Method—allows the unit to calculate
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the Page
Sequence icon, and press Enter.
routes using criteria selected from three options:
Prompted—prompts you to select a preference
before the route is calculated.
To move a page:
Highlight the page, and press Enter. Select
Move, and press up or down on the Rocker to
move the page up or down. Press Enter.
To insert new a page or remove a page:
Follow Road—creates a route that overlays the
roads shown on the map.
Off Road—creates a direct line from your
current location to your destination. This is
useful when traveling outside of the detailed
map coverage area or where no roads exist.
Highlight the page that is to follow the one you want to
insert, and press Enter. Select Insert, then select the
page you want to insert from the list, and press Enter.
To remove a page, select Remove, and press Enter.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
Follow Road Options
•
Off Route Recalculation— sets whether
the unit prompts you when it is recalculating
your route (Prompted) or whether recalculates
automatically. You can turn Recalculation off.
•
Calculation Method—sets how the unit
searches for the route. There are four options.
Quickest Calculation—calculates the route the
Routing Setup Page Follow Road Options
quickest, but it might not produce the best route.
•
Follow Road Method—sets how the unit
calculates follow road routes based on a choice
of four options.:
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.
Prompted—prompts you to select a preference
before the route is calculated.
Best Route—generates the optimal route but
takes the longest time to calculate.
Faster Time—calculates routes that are faster
to drive but might be longer in distance.
•
•
Calculate Routes For—sets route calculation
for the vehicle you are operating to optimize the
route for your vehicle type, because some roads
have vehicle restrictions.
Shorter Distance—calculates routes that are
shorter in distance but take more time to drive.
•
Next Turn Pop-up—turns the Next Turn pop-
up window on or off.
Avoid—allows you to avoid certain road types
and maneuvers on your route such as, those
under construction.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
•
•
•
Anchor Drag Alarm—
sets an alarm to sound
when you exceed a
Geocache Setup
Use the Geocache Setup Page to find and record
items hidden at geographic locations. See the Garmin
Web site (www.garmin.com) for details and how to
download geocache locations from the Internet.
specified drift distance.
Off Course Alarm—sets
an alarm to sound when
you are off your chosen
course.
NOTE: Before setting up and placing physical
geocache stations on public or private land, be
certain you are not in violation of ordinances or
laws governing use of these properties.
Speed Filter—sets an alarm to sound when you
enter waters that are too shallow or too deep.
To access the Geocache
Setup Page:
Time Setup
Use the Time Setup Page to set
the time format and zone, and set
the unit to conform to Daylight
Saving Time. The current time
and date appear at the bottom of
the page.
On the Setup Menu
Page, highlight the
Geocache icon, and
press Enter.
Marine Setup
Use the Marine Setup Page to
define marine alarm settings.
To access the Time Setup
Page:
To access the Marine Setup Page:
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the Marine
icon, and press Enter.
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the Time
icon, and press Enter.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
Time Zone—choose the time zone for your city so
the Vista Cx will show the correct local time. Select
Other to enter a UTC Offset.
•
Elevation (Vert. Speed)—sets the unit of
measurement (Feet (ft/min), Meters (m/min),
or Meters (m/sec)) for indicating your altitude.
•
•
Depth—sets the unit of measurement (Feet,
Fathoms, or Meters) to show the depth.
Units Setup
Use the Units Setup Page to
customize measurement.
Pressure—sets the unit of pressure measurement
(Inches, Millibars, or Hectopascals).
To access the Units
Setup Page:
Heading Setup
Use the Heading Setup Page
to specify the type of heading
display and the type of North
reference used to calculate your
heading.
On the Setup Menu Page,
highlight the Units icon,
and press Enter.
•
•
Position Format— sets a coordinate system to
match the type of paper map you may be using.
Map Datum—sets the map datum reference
appropriate for the type of paper map you may
be using.
NOTE: Unless you have a working knowledge
of headings and North referencing, it is
For more information about selecting position
formats and map datums, see page 94 in the
Appendix.
recommended that you use the default values.
To access the Heading Setup Page:
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
Heading icon, and press Enter.
•
Distance and Speed—sets the unit of
measurement for speed and distance traveled.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
•
•
•
Display—sets the value (Cardinal Letters,
Degrees, or Mils) to indicate your heading.
To calibrate the Altimeter:
Select Altimeter and press Enter to display
the Altimeter Calibration Page. Follow the
instructions on page 61.
North Reference—provides headings based on
True, Magnetic, Grid, or User north reference.
Switch to compass heading when below (for
more than)—sets the speed and time delay for
electronic compass switching. (See page 49.)
Altimeter Setup
The Altimeter Setup Page allows
you to setup the altimeter to
self-calibrate each time you
turn on the unit, to function as
a barometer, or to manually
calibrate when you have accurate
elevation or pressure data.
Calibration Setup
The Calibration Setup Page
allows you to calibrate the
compass and altimeter for
increased accuracy in navigation.
To set up the altimeter:
1. On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
To calibrate the compass:
1. On the Setup Menu Page,
Altimeter icon, and press Enter.
highlight the Calibration
icon, and press Enter. The “Which sensor
would you like to calibrate?” message appears.
2. Highlight the Auto Calibration field, and press
Enter to select from On or Off. When on,
elevation is corrected by the GPS.
2. Highlight the Compass button, and press
Enter to open the Compass Calibration Page.
Follow the instructions on page 50.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
3. Highlight the Barometer Mode field, and press
Enter to select Variable Elevation (used
when moving) or Fixed Elevation (used when
stationary, allowing the altimeter to function
as a standard barometer). Trip data is not
recorded when in Fixed Elevation mode.
To add a welcome
message:
1. Use the on-screen
keypad and the Rocker
to enter your welcome
message, and press
Enter.
4. Select a method of saving data from the
Pressure Trend Recording field, and press
Enter. When you select Save Always, the
pressure is recorded every 15 minutes, even
when the unit is turned off. For this reason
be certain to return this setting back to Save
When Power On when removing batteries or
storing the unit with batteries for prolonged
periods. Install fresh batteries when the
“Battery Low” message appears.
2. When finished, highlight
Welcome message
OK, and press Enter.
3. Turn your unit off and
then on again to view your Welcome message.
Jumpmaster Setup
Jumpmaster is an accessory designed for experienced
skydivers. A jumpmaster is the individual in charge
of a group of skydivers coordinating a group or
cargo drop. A list of abbreviations and acronyms for
jumpmaster settings can be found on page 79.
Welcome Page Setup
Use the Welcome Page Setup to insert a message,
such as ownership information, that appears when you
turn on your Vista Cx.
The Jumpmaster follows military guidelines for
calculating a Jumpmaster’s high altitude release point
(HARP). This accessory can auto-detect when you
have jumped to begin navigating toward the desired
impact point (DIP) using the barometer and electronic
compass.
To access the Welcome Setup Page:
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
Welcome Message icon, and press Enter.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
To access Jumpmaster:
To select an impact point:
1. Highlight the Desired Impact Point field and
On the Setup Menu Page, highlight the
Jumpmaster icon, and press Enter.
press Enter to view the Find Menu.
2. Select the desired point from a list of waypoints,
or from one of the other Find Menu options.
You can set the Jumpmaster to
one of three types of jumps:
HAHO, HALO, or Static. The
jump type selected determines
what additional setup
information is required. For all
jump types, altitudes (drop or
opening) are measured in feet
A drop altitude of at least 1,000 feet must be specified
next. Jumpmaster uses the drop altitude as the
opening altitude for HAHO jumps while HALO and
Static jumps contain a separate field for this feature.
Common values for a drop altitude range from
12,000-24,000 feet AGL.
Jumpmaster setup
above ground level (AGL).
For HALO jumps, the required information is the
same as the HAHO jump type, plus an opening
altitude. This altitude may not be a larger value than
the drop altitude. Common values for an opening
altitude range from 2,000 to 6,000 feet AGL.
To set the type of jump:
1. Highlight the Jump Type field, and press
Enter to view the list of jump options.
2. Select the jump type, and press Enter. The
page changes to display options for the
selected jump type setup.
Static jumps require a drop altitude of at least 1,000
feet to be specified. A constant wind speed and
direction for the duration of the jump is assumed.
A desired impact point (DIP) must be set for all
jumps. This is a waypoint that you have previously
marked or another location from the Find Menu where
you want to land.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
Balloon (PiBal) released from the ground at the DIP
and wind streamers dropped from aircraft once the
HARP is calculated.
To set the drop and open altitude values:
1. Highlight each field, and press Enter to open
the numeric keypad.
2. Enter the desired values, and select OK to
Jumpmaster is capable of handling doglegs in wind
direction.
enter each value.
For HAHO and HALO jumps, wind speeds and
directions can be entered for every 1,000 feet of
canopy drift (CD) and every 2,000 feet of free fall
drift (FFD). The wind setup must be completed before
entering values for forward throw and course to
HARP.
To use the Wind Setup Page:
1. Select Clear All from the Option Menu of
this page to clear the list of wind speeds and
directions.
2. Enter wind speeds and directions as a pair to
be valid. Those pairs left blank will be ignored
in calculations.
Wind Setup
Wind speeds and directions are
added on the Wind Setup page.
3. Press the Quit key to return to the
Jumpmaster Setup Page.
Forward Throw and Course to HARP allow a user
to determine the direction and magnitude the aircraft
will carry him after jumping and before free fall or
canopy drift begins.
Wind speeds are measured in
knots and directions are based
on origination of wind. This
information is usually based on
To set Forward Throw and Course to HARP:
1. Highlight the field, and press Enter to open the
numerical keypad.
data collected from National
Oceanographic & Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) or by a drop zone support
team leader (DZSTL) monitoring the course of a Pilot
Wind Setup
2. Enter the values and select OK to close.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
Each parachute should be labeled with a K value.
Common values may range from 3.0 for K-freefall to
48.0+ for HAHO K-open.
Constant Setup
The Constant Setup Page allows
you to fine-tune certain aspects
of the planned jump.
To use the Constant Setup Page:
1. Highlight each field, in order, and press Enter
to open the numerical keypad.
All jump types also can use a
“Percent Max” to increase or
decrease the range or their jump.
Entries less than 100% decrease
drift distance to the DIP while
2. Enter the appropriate value in each field, select
OK, and then press the Quit key to return to
the Jumpmaster Setup Page.
Constant Setup
Clicking the Goto HARP button begins the
navigation process and will take you to the Wind
Setup page if that information is missing or
automatically setting up the route with the calculated
HARP and then the selected DIP before taking you to
the Navigation page.
those greater than 100% increase drift distance. More
experienced jumpmasters may choose to use smaller
numbers while those less experienced may use larger
numbers.
Safety Factor is used in HAHO jump types to allow
a margin or error for a jump. Safety factors are
usually integer values, no smaller than two, and are
determined by the jumpmaster based on specifications
for the jump.
A check box at the bottom allows for auto-navigation
to the DIP. If you want your unit to determine when
you have jumped, this box should be checked. A
message appears describing how to manually navigate
the route.
A number of K values can be specified for different
jumps. HAHO jumps use K-open while HALO jumps
use K-open and K-freefall. Static jumps use K-static.
K-values are based on the parachute canopy rating.
Select Restore Defaults from the Option Menu of this
page to reset the values.
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MAIN MENU > SETUP MENU
The following is a list of abbreviations and acronyms
commonly used and relate specifically to this feature:
K values—defines the wind drag values for
parachutes.
AGL—(Above Ground Level) indicates the altitude
HAHO—(High Altitude High Opening) describes a
measurement.
type of jump.
CD—(Canopy Drift) measured while the parachute is
HALO—(High Altitude Low Opening) describes a
open.
type of jump.
DIP—(Desired Impact Point) describes the location
HARP—(High Altitude Release Point) describes the
where landing should occur.
location at which the jumper exits from aircraft.
Drop Altitude—measures the altitude when the
MSL—(Mean Sea Level) defines the basis for altitude
jumpmaster exits the aircraft, measured in AGL.
measure.
DZ—(Drop Zone) describes the area where the
Opening Altitude—describes the altitude when the
landing should occur.
jumpmaster opens their chute, measured in AGL.
DZSTL—(Drop Zone Support Team Leader) defines
the individual in charge at the drop zone.
PRP—(Primary Release Point) defines the
combination of HARP plus the forward throw of
aircraft.
FFD—(Free Fall Drift) defines the distance traveled
before the parachute is open.
Static Jump—describes a type of jump where wind
speed and direction are assumed constant for the
duration of the jump.
Forward Throw Horizontal—describes the distance
traveled forward due to aircraft speed.
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MAIN MENU > PROXIMITY WAYPOINTS AND CALENDAR
4. Press the Menu key to open the Options
Menu. Highlight Add Point, and press Enter
to open the Find Menu.
Proximity Waypoints
Use the Proximity Waypoints Page to define an alarm
circle around a stored waypoint location. The alarm
circle can help you avoid restricted locations.
5. Select the type of point you want to place on
the Day Page. (See page 16 for details on
using the Find Feature.) With the information
page for that point displayed, highlight the
Use button, and press Enter to place the point
reference on the Day Page.
For more information on proximity waypoints, see the
“Proximity Waypoints” section on page 15.
Calendar
6. To remove points from a Day Page, press the
Menu key to open the Options Menu. Select
Remove Points, and press Enter to display
the Remove Points Options List.
Use the Calendar to view sunrise and sunset times,
moon phases, hunt and fish probabilities, and archived
waypoints for activities you want to navigate to for
any given day and location.
7. To view other calendar formats, Sun and
Moon, or Hunt and Fish extended data for a
specific date and location, press the Menu key,
and use the Rocker to make your choice.
To use the calendar:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
2. Select the Calendar icon, and press Enter.
The Calendar Page opens with the current
week shown.
3. Use the Rocker to highlight the day you want
to add waypoints to, and press Enter to show
the Page for that day.
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MAIN MENU > CALCULATOR AND STOPWATCH
Stopwatch
Select the Stopwatch icon to use the Vista Cx as a
stopwatch, which includes a lap timer. You can also
have the unit record the lap time based on distance.
Calculator
Select the Calculator icon to use your Vista Cx
as a calculator. You can select either a standard or
scientific calculator and degrees or radians from the
Options Menu.
To use the calculator:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
2. Select the Calculator icon, and press Enter.
3. Use the Rocker and the Enter key to operate
the calculator.
To access the stopwatch:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
2. Select the Stopwatch icon, and press Enter.
To start the stopwatch:
Highlight the Start button, and press Enter to
Options Menus
Calculator Page
start the stopwatch.
To stop the stopwatch:
Highlight the Stop button, and press Enter to
stop the stopwatch.
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MAIN MENU > SUN AND MOON
To use the lap feature:
Sun and Moon
With the stopwatch running, highlight the Lap
button, and press Enter.
The Sun and Moon Page provides you with a graphic
depiction of the sun and moon relative to the Earth.
Sun and moon positions can be shown for any time,
date, and location on Earth.
To reset the stopwatch:
With the stopwatch stopped, highlight the
Reset button, and press Enter.
Press to
animate moon
phases.
To time a lap by distance:
Press the Menu key to open the Options
Menu. Choose Lap by Distance, and press
Enter. To return to Lap by Button Press,
repeat these same steps.
Press
to stop
animation.
Press to
animate the
display of the
sun and moon.
To set a lap distance value:
1. Press the Menu key to open the Options
Menu. Choose Set Lap Distance, and press
Enter.
Sun and Moon Page
The Sun and Moon Page also shows sunrise, sunset,
moonrise, and moonset times for a selected time, date,
and location. Use the on-screen buttons to animate
the movement of the sun and moon and to stop at a
given time or date. The button to the left animates
the display of the sun and moon. The center button
animates more rapidly, showing the phases of the
moon. The right button stops animation.
2. Use the Rocker to highlight the field you want
to change, and press Enter. Enter the new
value, and press Enter. When done, highlight
OK, and press Enter.
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MAIN MENU > HUNT AND FISH
2. Select the Hunt & Fish icon, and press Enter.
The current date and location appear in the
date and location fields at the top of the page.
To view sun and moon locations for a
specified time, date, and location:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
3. To view the predictions for a different date,
highlight the Date field, and press Enter to
open the on-screen keypad.
2. Select the Sun & Moon icon, and press Enter.
3. To view the predictions for a different date
and time, highlight either the Date or Time
field, and press Enter to open the on-screen
keypad.
4. To view the predictions for a different location,
highlight the Location field, and press Enter
to open the New Location Options Menu.
Choose Use Map to select a point on the map
using the pointer arrow. Press Enter to show
the table for that location. The Location field
now states “Map Location.”
OR
To view the predictions for a different location,
highlight the Location field, and press Enter to
open the New Location Options Menu. Choose
from the options shown.
Choose Use Find Menu to select a point from
the Find Feature database. Follow instructions
for using the Find Feature beginning on page
16. When a find item is selected, highlight the
Use button at the bottom of the item information
page, and press Enter. The Location field now
shows the name of the find item.
Hunt and Fish
The Hunt and Fish Tables provide you with a listing
of predicted best times for hunting and fishing for a
chosen date and location.
5. To return to the current date, press the Menu
key, and then press Enter.
To show hunting and fishing predictions
for a specified date and location:
1. Press the Menu key twice to open the Main
Menu.
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MAIN MENU > GAMES MENU
WARNING: When playing any of the virtual
games (where you are moving on a real
playing field), use caution in selecting an area
free of hazards, such as holes, obstructions,
or proximity to vehicular traffic. Playing
these games may distract your attention from
observing objects in your path.
Games Menu
The Games Menu contains six games (Memory Race,
Virtua Maze, GekoSmak, Nibbons, Gekoids, and
Beast Hunt) for entertainment. Some games use GPS
as a virtual component during play.
To select and play a game:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
4. Press the Quit key, and highlight Yes, when
2. Select the Games icon, and press Enter.
prompted, to stop playing.
3. Use the Rocker to highlight a game, and
press Enter. A brief description of each game
appears.
Memory Race
This is a GPS virtual game
where the playing piece moves
where you move. To win the
Memory Race, remember which
square has which symbol,
and then clear the board by
matching all of the two symbol
sets together. Travel to each square, highlight Open at
the bottom of the screen, and press Enter to view the
symbol.
Games Menu
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MAIN MENU > GAMES MENU
To adjust the grid or square size in custom
mode:
1. Highlight the Grid Size or Square Size field,
and press Enter to select from the options
lists. Press Enter to make your selection.
TIP: Press Menu, and select Cheat to start
cheat mode. Enabling this mode penalizes you by
five minutes and counts seconds by 10 instead of
2. Press Enter to turn off the cheat mode.
GekoSmak
2. Highlight Start, and press Enter to begin the
game.
GekoSmak is a GPS-based game
that features you as the player
piece. In measured rhythm,
3. Highlight Re-Center and press Enter to place
yourself back in the middle of the game board.
gekos appear on the screen.
Before the geko disappears,
Virtua Maze
This GPS game creates a
virtual maze on the screen.
You are placed at a central
position in the maze and must
explore the maze collecting
flags. The lower-right corner
move toward the geko, and press
Enter to smack the geko with
a hammer. If you get the geko, an “!” mark appears
above the hammer; if not, only a hammer appears
momentarily.
Field size choices are Small, Medium and Large.
Small fields are approximately 20 yards by 30 yards
and large fields are 60 yards by 90 yards (about the
size of an American football field).
of the screen tells you how
many flags remain. The lower-left corner contains a
timer showing the elapsed time. The difficulty level
determines how much of the maze you can see at one
time. Viewing less of the maze makes the game more
difficult.
The difficulty levels are: Easy, Normal and Hard.
These levels determine how often gekos appear. The
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MAIN MENU > GAMES MENU
pace quickens and values vary as difficulty levels
increase.
Gekoids
This GPS game, which can be
played without GPS on, is all
about blasting gekoids. The
catch is, you are the ship and
Nibbons
In this GPS game, you
must walk around the board
collecting the flags as they
appear. As you walk, your
“tail” grows. You may travel
anywhere on the screen, but
you cannot walk on your tail,
or you lose a life. As an added
challenge, you must also avoid the skulls that chase
after you.
you can survive only when
you avoid getting hit. Before
you begin to play, be sure to
make your game settings. The “Northwards” setting
rotates your ship in the center of the map. The map
is stationary and north is always up. The “Ship Up”
setting rotates the virtual world around your ship.
Your ship always points up. Press Enter to start, and
blast away.
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MAIN MENU > GAMES MENU
3. Select a visibility option (Extended or
Beast Hunt
Although not a true GPS game,
Limited), and press Enter to begin play.
4. Use the Rocker to jump from platform to
Beast Hunt requires some
navigation skills, in which you
platform.
When you land on a shaded platform, you are
one or two steps from the dragon. A platform
with a circle is next to a pit. If you fall into a
pit, jump into the dragon or shoot an arrow at
where you think the dragon is located. If you
miss the dragon, you lose.
must find and defeat the dragon
with an arrow before it breathes
fire at you or you fall into one of
the pits while navigating a maze
of platforms. Occasionally you are transported by
slides that curve or move you diagonally. The game
consists of several difficulty levels and an extended
or limited visibility option. When you lose a game,
the screen shows the locations of the dragon, hazards,
slides, and warning platforms. A scoreboard keeps
track of your wins and losses.
5. To defeat the dragon, press Enter to place an
arrow in a shaded platform. Use the Rocker to
point, and press Enter to shoot.
To play Beast Hunt:
1. Select Beast Hunt from the Games Menu,
and press Enter. The Game Overview Page
appears.
2. Press Enter to open the Difficulty Level Menu.
Select a difficulty level (Trainee, Beginner,
Expert, or Master), and press Enter to open
the Visibility Menu.
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APPENDIX > SPECIFICATIONS
Altimeter:
Accuracy; +/- 10 feet*, resolution; 1 ft.
APPENDIX
*Subject to proper user calibration.
Specifications
Power
Source:
Two 1.5 volt AA batteries, 12 V DC Adapter
Cable, or PC/USB Adapter
Physical
Size:
4.2" H x 2.2" W x 1.2" D
Battery Life: Up to 32 hours (typical use)*
Weight: 5.6 ounces (159 g) with batteries installed.
*Alkaline batteries lose a significant amount of their capacity as the
temperature decreases. Use Lithium batteries when operating the Vista Cx in
below-freezing conditions. Extensive use of screen backlighting, electronic
compass, and audible tones significantly reduce battery life.
Display:1.3" W x 1.7" H, 256-color, high resolution,
transreflective TFT(176 x 220 pixels) Backlit.
Case: Rugged, fully gasketed, water resistant, IEC-529,
IPX7
Accuracy
Temp Range: 5 to 158oF (-15 to 70oC)*
GPS:
<15 meters (33 feet) 95% typical*
*Subject to accuracy degradation to 100m 2DRMS under the U.S. DoD
imposed Selective Availability (SA) Program when activated.
*The temperature rating of the Vista Cx may exceed the usable range of some
batteries. Some batteries can rupture at high temperatures.
DGPS: 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) 95% typical*
*WAAS accuracy in North America.
Performance
Receiver:
WAAS enabled
Velocity: 0.05 meter/sec steady state
Acquisition Times:
Approx. 15 seconds (warm start)
Interfaces: Garmin Proprietary (USB)
Data Storage Life: Indefinite; no memory battery required
Approx. 45 seconds (cold start)
Approx. 2 minutes (AutoLocate™)
Map Storage:
Dependant on the formatted capacity of
the microSD Card.
Update Rate: 1/second, continuous
Antenna:
Built-in patch
Compass:
Accuracy; +/- 5 degrees*, resolution; 1 degree
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APPENDIX > OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
Visit the Garmin web site at
http://garmin.com/products/etrexVistacx/ for a list of
compatible MapSource products.
Optional Accessories
Several optional accessories are available to enhance
the operation of your Vista Cx.
Carrying Case—protects the Vista Cx when not in
use.
To obtain replacement parts and optional accessories,
contact your Garmin Dealer, or Garmin Product
Support in the U.S.A. at 800/800.1020, or Garmin
Europe at 44/0870.8501241.
Marine Mount Kit—allows installation on a boat.
Automotive Mount Kit—allows installation on an
WARNING: Garmin accessories are designed
and tested specifically for use with Garmin
products. Accessories offered by other
manufacturers have not been tested or approved
for use with Garmin products. Use of such
accessories could cause damage to the Vista Cx
and void the terms of the warranty.
automotive dash (does not include mapping data).
Automotive Windshield Suction Mount Kit—
allows installation on the inside of an automobile
windshield.
Bicycle Handlebar Mount Kit—allows installation
on a bicycle handlebar.
Auto Navigation Kit—provides the parts and map
data to use the Vista Cx in an automobile.
Battery Pack—rechargeable, NiMH, AA-battery kit,
with US-type receptacle plug.
12 Volt DC Cigarette Lighter Adapter—provides
auxiliary power from an automobile cigarette lighter.
Belt Clip with Button—Attaches to back of unit.
For a complete list of available accessories for use
with the Vista Cx, refer to the Garmin Web site:
http://garmin.com/products/etrexVistacx/.
MapSource Software Data Disks and Pre-Loaded
microSD Cards—offers several detailed mapping
options that are compatible with the Vista Cx.
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APPENDIX > DATA FIELD DEFINITIONS
Distance - To Next—the distance to the next point on a route.
Data Field Definitions
Distance - To Destination—the entire distance, from
beginning to end, of a route.
The following list provides a brief definition of each
data field option.
ETA - At Next—the estimated time that you will arrive at
the next point on your route, if you maintain your current
speed and course.
Accuracy Of GPS—the current accuracy of your GPS-
determined location.
Ambient Pressure—the uncalibrated current pressure.
Ascent - Average—the average vertical distance of ascents.
ETA - At Destination—the estimated time that you will
arrive at your destination, if you maintain your current
speed and course.
Ascent - Maximum—the maximum ascent rate in feet per
Elevation—the distance above or below mean sea level.
Elevation - Maximum—The highest elevation reached.
Elevation - Minimum—the lowest elevation reached.
minute.
Ascent - Total—the total distance ascended.
Barometer—the calibrated current pressure.
Glide Ratio—the ratio of horizontal distance traveled to
vertical distance.
Bearing—the compass direction from your current position
to a destination point.
Glide Ratio To Dest—the glide ratio required to descend
from your position and elevation to the destination’s elevation.
Course—the desired path of travel from your starting point to
your destination point.
Heading—your direction of travel as indicated by a
compass, in degrees or cardinal letters (N, S, E, W).
Descent - Average—the average vertical distance of descent.
Descent - Maximum—the maximum descent rate in feet
per minute.
Location (lat/lon)—your current location as latitude and
longitude coordinates.
Descent - Total—the total distance descended.
Location (selected)—your current location described in the
selected units of measure (other than latitude and longitude).
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APPENDIX > DATA FIELD DEFINTIONS
Odometer
—
the total distance you have traveled for all trips.
To Course—your direction of travel to get back on course.
Off Course—the distance off your direct course line.
Trip Odometer—the running total of distance traveled
since the Trip Computer was reset.
Pointer—the arrow that indicates the direction to travel to
the next point on a route.
Trip Time - Moving—the length of time your vehicle has
been in motion, since the trip computer was reset.
Speed—your current vehicle speed measured in miles per
Trip Time - Stopped—the length of time that the vehicle
has been stopped (stationary) while the unit was powered
on and tracking your location (since the trip computer was
reset).
hour, kilometers per hour, or knots.
Speed - Maximum—the maximum speed you have
attained since the trip computer was reset.
Speed - Moving Avg.—the average speed while your
vehicle was moving.
Trip Time - Total—the total time the unit has been track-
ing since the trip computer was reset.
Speed—Overall Avg.—the average speed determined by
both the moving and stopped time and speed.
Turn—the direction of, and distance to, the next turn on an
active route.
Sunrise
—the time of sunrise for the current date and location.
Velocity Made Good—the rate of closure on a destination,
based upon your current speed and course of travel.
Sunset—the time of sunset for the current date and
location.
Vertical Speed—the rate of altitude gain or loss over time.
Time To Destination
destination, if you maintain your current speed and course.
—the estimated time enroute to your final
Vertical Speed Dest—the measurement of your rate of
ascent or descent to a predetermined altitude.
Time To Next
—the estimated time enroute to the next point
on your route, if you maintain your current speed and course.
Waypoint - At Destination—the last point on a route;
Time of Day—the current time and date. It can be
displayed in 12- or 24-hour format in local time or
universal (UTC) time.
your destination.
Waypoint - At Next—the next point on your route.
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APPENDIX > CONNECTING YOUR VISTA CX TO A COMPUTER
Information about USB Drivers
Connecting Your Vista Cx to a
The USB drivers are automatically installed when
you install the MapSource Trip and Waypoint
Manager software that came with your Vista Cx.
When you initially connect the Vista Cx to a USB
port, your computer might prompt you to locate the
destination of the drivers for the device. You only
need to install the drivers once. After the drivers are
installed, your computer always detects your Vista Cx
when it is connected. USB drivers might be updated
periodically. You can find updates at
Computer
You can connect your Vista Cx to your computer
using the PC/USB connector cable.
NOTE: Fully install the supplied MapSource
Trip & Waypoint Manager software on your
computer before connecting the USB cable to the
computer. Follow the instructions for installation
and operation provided with the software.
To connect your Vista Cx to your
computer:
1. Lift the USB port protective cover from the
back of the Vista Cx, and insert the smaller
connector on the USB cable into the matching
port.
2. Connect the remaining cable end to your
computer's USB port.
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APPENDIX > WHAT IS WAAS/EGNOS?
augmentation systems (SBAS.) Eventually there
are to be several more services of worldwide
geostationary communication satellites that broadcast
integrity information and differential correction data
as transmitted by ground reference stations.
What Is WAAS/EGNOS?
The Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) is an
FAA funded service to improve the overall integrity
of the GPS signal for users in North America. The
European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service
(EGNOS) is the European version of WAAS and
operates in the same manner.
All SBAS systems use the same receiver frequency;
therefore, any operational SBAS system should be
capable of providing your GPS unit with increased
accuracy at any location in the world.
WAAS is made up of satellites and ground reference
stations positioned across the United States that
monitor GPS satellite data. Master stations, located on
either coast, collect data from the reference stations
and create a GPS data correction message. Master
station uplinks the correction message to the WAAS
GEO satellites using a ground uplink station. Then
WAAS GEO satellites broadcast the WAAS corrected
signal to user in the service area.
Currently, enabling WAAS on your Vista Cx in
regions that are not supported by ground stations, may
not improve accuracy, even when receiving signals
from an SBAS satellite. In fact, it can degrade the
accuracy to less than that provided by GPS satellites
alone. For this reason, when you enable WAAS on
your Garmin GPS receiver, the receiver automatically
uses the method that achieves the best accuracy. For
more information, go to
According to the FAA’s Web site, testing of WAAS in
September 2002 confirmed an accuracy performance
of 1-2 meters horizontal and 2-3 meters vertical
throughout the majority of the continental United
States and portions of Alaska.
http://gps.faa.gov/Programs/WAAS/waas.htm.
WAAS and EGNOS are just two service providers
that adhere to the MOPS (Minimum Operational
Performance Standard) for global satellite based
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APPENDIX > MAP DATUMS AND LOCATION FORMATS
reference and the Vista Cx can be set to match most of
those commonly used.
Map Datums and Location
Formats
If you are navigating and comparing the GPS
coordinates to a map, chart, or other reference, set the
map datum in the GPS unit to the same datum as the
map to ensure the most accurate navigation.
What Is a Location Format?
Your current location is viewed on the GPS in the
form of coordinates. Because 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
common format is latitude and longitude, which is
used by all Garmin units.
Map Datums are based on a
mathematical model of the Earth.
What Are Map Datums?
A datum is a mathematical model of the Earth that
approximates the shape of the Earth, and enables
calculations to be carried out in a consistent and
accurate manner. The datum is physically represented
by a framework of ground monuments whose
positions have been accurately measured and
calculated on this reference surface. Lines of latitude
and longitude on a map or chart are referenced to a
specific map datum. Every chart has a map datum
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You can choose to change the location format for other
coordinate systems. UTM/UPS (Universal Transverse
Mercator/Universal Polar Stereographic) projection
formats are easy-to-use metric grids that are found on
most USGS topographic quadrangle maps. You can
also select one of several other grids, including a user-
definable grid (for the advanced user).
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APPENDIX > LORAN TD SETUP
actually converts the TD coordinate to a useful
Loran TD Setup
latitude and longitude coordinate before storing
the waypoint to memory or using it for navigation.
Because of this, the unit can navigate to a TD
coordinate anywhere in the world.
To set up Loran TD from the Setup Menu:
1. Press Menu twice to open the Main Menu.
2. Use the Rocker to highlight the Setup icon,
and press Enter to open the Setup Menu.
You must know your GRI chain number and
secondary stations to create a LORAN TD
position. For more information, read our LORAN
TD Position Format Handbook, available on the
Garmin Web site, at www.garmin.com/manuals/
LoranTDPositionHandbook_Manual.pdf.
3. Use the Rocker to highlight the Units icon, and
press Enter to open the Units Setup Page.
4. Highlight the Position Format field, and press
Enter to open the format list.
5. Highlight Loran TD, and press Enter to open
the Loran Setup Page.
6. To change the settings of any of the five fields,
highlight the field, press Enter to select from
options or enter the setting data.
7. When finished, highlight the Save button, and
press Enter.
If the active GRI Chain, secondary stations, or offsets
have been changed since the waypoint was created,
the waypoint references the active GRI-chain and
secondary stations and adjusts the TD coordinates
accordingly. Remember that the Vista Cx is not
relying on the LORAN signal for navigation and
Loran TD Setup
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APPENDIX > FCC COMPLIANCE
•
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
FCC Compliance
The eTrex Vista Cx complies with Part 15 of the FCC
interference limits for Class B digital devices FOR
HOME OR OFFICE USE. These limits are designed
to provide more reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation, and are more
stringent than “outdoor” requirements.
Increase the separation between the equipment
and the receiver.
•
•
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help
Operation of this device is subject to the following
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.
Declaration of Conformity
Hereby, Garmin declares that this eTrex Vista Cx product is in
compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant
provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.
To view the full Declaration of Conformity, see the Garmin Web
site for your Garmin product:
http://www.garmin.com/products/etrexVistacx/. Click Manuals
and then select the Declaration of Conformity.
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
interference by one of the following measures:
Industry Canada Compliance
This Category II radiocommunication device complies with
Industry Canada Standard RSS-310.
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APPENDIX > LIMITED WARRANTY
IN NO EVENT SHALL GARMIN BE LIABLE
FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER
RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE, OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR FROM
DEFECTS IN THE PRODUCT. Some states do not
allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
Limited Warranty
This Garmin product is warranted to be free from
defects in materials or workmanship for one year from
the date of purchase. Within this period, Garmin will
at its sole option repair or replace any components
that fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement
will be made at no charge to the customer for parts or
labor, provided that the customer shall be responsible
for any transportation cost. This warranty does not
cover failures due to abuse, misuse, accident or
unauthorized alteration or repairs.
Garmin retains the exclusive right to repair or replace
the unit or software or offer a full refund of the
purchase price at its sole discretion. SUCH REMEDY
SHALL BE YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE
REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.
THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES
CONTAINED HEREIN ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN
LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY
LIABILITY ARISING UNDER ANY WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, STATUTORY OR
OTHERWISE. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU
SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY VARY
FROM STATE TO STATE.
To obtain warranty service, contact your local Garmin
authorized dealer or call Garmin Product Support for
shipping instructions and an RMA tracking number.
The unit should be securely packed with the tracking
number clearly written on the outside of the package.
The unit should then be sent, freight charges prepaid,
to any Garmin warranty service station. A copy of
the original sales receipt is required as the proof of
purchase for warranty repairs.
eTrex Vista Cx Owner’s Manual
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APPENDIX > LIMITED WARRANTY
Garmin International, Inc.
1200 E 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062 U.S.A.
Tel. 913/397.8200
this distributor provides local service for your unit.
Distributor warranties are only valid in the area of
intended distribution. Units purchased in the United
States or Canada must be returned to the Garmin
service center in the United Kingdom, the United
States, Canada, or Taiwan for service.
Fax. 913/397.8282
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate,
Romsey, SO51 9DL U.K.
Tel. 44/0870.8501241
Fax 44/0870.8501251
The Garmin eTrex Vista Cx has no user-serviceable
parts. Should you ever encounter a problem with your
unit, please take it to an authorized Garmin dealer for
repairs.
Online Auction Purchases: Products sold through
online auctions are not eligible for rebates or
other special offers from Garmin. Online auction
confirmations are not accepted for warranty
verification. To obtain warranty service, an original or
copy of the sales receipt from the original retailer is
required. Garmin will not replace missing components
from any package purchased through an online
auction.
The eTrex Vista Cx is fastened shut with screws. Any
attempt to open the case to change or modify the unit
in any way will void your warranty and may result in
permanent damage to the equipment.
International Purchases: A separate warranty
is provided by international distributors for units
purchased outside the United States. This warranty
is provided by the local in-country distributor and
98
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INDEX
view elevation or pressure
plots 57
INDEX
options 51
Course Deviation Indicator
(CDI) 53
creating waypoints
A
waypoints 20
I
accessories 89
calibrate 61
G
initializing 5
games 84
installing and removing the
H
options 56
pressure/elevation plots
navigation 66
how to
manually calibrate the
altimeter 61
reset the max elevation
fields 60
J
D
K
E
C
calculator 81
calendar 80
L
F
find 16
calibrate
cautions viii
cleaning vi
compass 50
calibrating 50
use Sight N Go to navi-
gate 52
use the View Points op-
tion 5
M
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INDEX
MapSource 92
specifications 88
stopwatch 81
storage vi
R
U
creating 32
deleting 36
W
declutter 47
navigating 33
options 36
warnings vii
warranty 97
waypoints
orientation 41
setup 43
S
averaging 13
deleting 12
editing 12
moving 13
projecting 14
proximity 15
T
options 38
creating user waypoints
navigating 31
options 65
profiles 30
selecting options and entering
data 7
marking your current location
O
transferring data to a microSD
card 9
options 63
P
Q
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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.
© 2006 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc.
1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A.
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9DL, U.K.
Garmin Corporation
No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan
www.garmin.com
Part Number 190-00514-00 Rev. B
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