Garmin Spanner Mode on an Outdoor Product

When connected to a computer, most Garmin outdoor devices automatically enter either USB mass storage mode or MTP mode to allow data and updates to be transferred between the computer and device. However, the device is not operational while in these modes as the screen will simply display a USB icon . Some examples of this look like:

If you would like to use your device while it is connected to the computer, it needs to be placed into Garmin Spanner mode or Garmin mode.

NOTE: Some devices may require a software update before the Garmin Spanner mode appears as an option. For steps on updating, see - Help with Product Updates.

Placing the Device into Garmin Spanner Mode (or Garmin Mode)

For most outdoor devices this can be done from the main menu by selecting Setup > System > Interface > Garmin Spanner.

Most Outdoor Devices

• • From the main menu, select Setup > System > Interface > Garmin Spanner.

eTrex® SE and eTrex Solar Devices

• • From the main menu, select Settings > System > USB Mode > Garmin.

Foretrex® Devices

• • From the main menu, select Setup > System > Spanner.

GPSMAP® 67 and 67i Devices

• • From the main menu, select Setup > System > USB Mode > Garmin.

Montana® 700, 700i, 750i, and 750i Devices

• • From the main menu, select Setup > System > Advanced Setup > Interface > Garmin Spanner.

Rino® 700 Device

• • From the main menu, select Setup > System > USB Mode > Garmin.

Whenever the device is plugged in to the computer, it will now prompt you to choose whether or not it enters either USB mass storage mode or MTP mode, depending on the device model.

• If Yes is selected, the device enters either USB mass storage mode or MTP mode, which allows data and updates to be transferred between the computer and device

• If No is selected, the device does not enter USB mass storage mode or MTP mode and remains operational while connected to the computer. However, no data or updates can be transferred between the computer and device in this state. To transfer data or updates, unplug the device and plug it back in, then Yes select to enter USB mass storage mode or MTP mode when prompted.

  NOTE: If the device still enters USB mass storage mode or MTP mode despite selecting No on the device, close any open Garmin programs on the computer, unplug the device and plug it back in, then select No again when prompted.