Delta XC System Not Working: Troubleshooting and Correct Test Methods

If you are having trouble with your Garmin Delta® XC system (if the system does not seem to be working for some reason) it is likely that a setting has been changed by accident. This guide will show you step by step what settings to check to make sure they are correct.

Tutorial Video

This video demonstrates how to properly use all the features and settings of the system.

Delta XC and Delta XC Sport Tutorial Video

Checking for Correct System Settings

1. Make sure the collar and handheld are charged and powered On.
   • There is a small rectangular button on the underside of the collar device to Press to turn the collar On.
   • The upper-left key on the handheld Powers the handheld On.
2. On the Delta handheld, along the top of the screen, there are three color marks: Blue, BLACK, and Red.
   • These colors represent three possible dogs paired to the system for multi-dog use.
   • Make sure you are set to BLACK for one dog use.
     • Click the lower-right key, select Black 
3. Next, make sure the three-lettered training combination:  T, C, M, or V is set to   T  C  M
   • Click the lower-left key to cycle through the different training schemes; land on T C M
   • IMPORTANT: The other T V M scheme has significantly reduced correction intensity, and is intended for use on the most sensitive dogs only. If your dog does not respond to the correction on this TVM setup, try T C M instead for a better response. 
4. On the Delta Sport™ XC models check if "BarkLimiter Only" mode is enabled.
   • If you only see the icon of a dog's barking head on the left of the screen, but do not see other training commands, you are in BarkLimiter™ Mode (the training buttons do not work in BarkLimiter only mode). 
   • Click the upper-left key to cycle through the three different profiles. BarkLimiter Only, Remote Trainer only, and Dual mode (both bark and training mode).
   • When set to the correct Remote Training mode, you should see a three-lettered training combination such as:  T  C  M

Testing the System

With the correct setup from the previous section, you can test the system with either use of: the Tone feature, or you can test Continuous "C" correction on your two finger tips.

Testing with the Tone Feature

1. Testing with Tone feature ensures that radio communication is happening.
2. Press the upper-middle training key set as "T" for the warning tone.
3. You should hear a sound coming from the collar.
   • NOTE: It is the same sound as when turning the collar on/off.

Testing the Correction on Your Fingertips

1. Place your index finger and middle finger tips on the two contact points of the dog collar.
   • Do not use just one finger; two fingers are required.
   • Do not use any other method of alternate fingers or placement as it may not work.
   • Although other places on the body like the leg, arm, or hand can conduct the stimulation, it is advised, when testing to ONLY use this method of the two finger tips. 
   • If you do not feel the correction on your two finger tips due to dry, thick, or callous skin, you can use the top part of your forearm on the thinnest part of the skin. 
2. Set the correction to level 2.
   • Some individuals cannot feel the lowest level 1 or 2 and may need to adjust to 3 or higher to feel the correction.
3. Send a Continuous "C" correction.
   • When testing it is best to use Continuous correction. This would be the Middle round training button. Momentary correction can be used, but for lower level testing, using Continuous is advised.

Range Testing

1. Enlist the help of a friend or family member if possible.
2. One person holds the handheld, above their head, away from their body with antenna pointing toward the sky.
3. The other person holds the collar by their side as though it were in the position and height of an actual dog.
4. Get to an open area, line of sight, free from obstructions or other interference.
5. Do no use cellphones or other radio equipment and do not be near vehicles.
6. Stay away from power lines and other sources of interference.
7. Before you start, test with the Tone or Vibration feature to ensure it works at close range.
8. The two people should start close together, then walk away from each other.
9. Have the handheld user send a signal periodically. The holder of the dog device can hear the tone or vibration and will see a solid green light on the collar as they walk away.
10. If the dog device holder stops hearing the signal, that range should be the mark for the capability of the system. 

If any of the tests fail, the collar may not be paired to the handheld. Please see these instructions for proper pairing:   Delta/Delta XC Communication Issues

For any other issues, please contact Garmin Product Support for further assistance Replacing or Repairing a Broken Dog Collar: Creating a Service Order