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Resolving Inaccurate or Incorrect Distances on a Golf Capable Device

As with any GPS product distance to a certain geographical location is important. This is especially true when using a Garmin golf device to determine yardage. If you are experiencing inaccuracies it is important to understand what can affect yardage readings.

Inaccuracies should be compared against course markers. Course markers generally measure to the center of the green, not the hole. This is important to remember because it can mean the difference of 20 to 30 yards on some shots. The golf device will measure to the center of green by default.

Issues that can cause or appear to cause inaccuracies include:

• Device does not have a clear view of the sky for a strong satellite lock
• CourseView version, software and chipset need to be updated. For assistance updating your software and maps with Garmin Express, please see related content
• Units set incorrectly to either Metric or Yards (Please refer to the User Manual)
• Pin placement was manually moved away from the center of green

Some inaccuracies can be the result of golf course remodeling and other situations where our Garmin course database will be in need of an update. To help notify us about an upcoming or needed update please fill out a Golf Course Report Form or if yardage inaccuracies exist with a specific hole or course under the following conditions:

• Present on one or more holes but not the entire course
• Occur with one course but not others

As with any consumer grade product GPS inaccuracies will exist. Therefore, a yardage discrepancy of 5 yards or less is more than acceptable and would not be considered an issue. If accuracy is over 5 yards, follow related content below to insure device and courses are up to date. 

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