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What is an ABC Garmin Watch?
Garmin Outdoor watches utilize three sensors to determine elevation, environmental pressure, and your current heading. These sensors are the altimeter, barometer, and compass. Watches with these three sensors are also known as an ABC watch.
Altimeter - Provides elevation data to accurately monitor ascent and descent.
Barometer - Used to predict weather changes by showing short-term trends in air pressure
Compass - An electronic compass provides your heading (direction of travel). The compass can be used when idle or moving at low speeds1.
It is important to make sure the sensors are calibrated and understand how calibration works prior to using the watch for an adventure. More information for the altimeter and barometer can be found in the related FAQs below and calibration instructions are found in the owner's manual. To find the Owner's Manual for your specific product, see FAQ: Finding the Owner's Manual for a Garmin Device
1 At higher speeds, the heading will be determined by the direction the device is moving in.