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Resolving Inaccurate or Incorrect Distances on an Approach Series Handheld
As with any GPS product, distance to a certain geographical location is important. This is especially true when using a Garmin Approach 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 Approach will measure to the center of green by default.
Common Cause of Inaccuracy
The most common cause of inaccurate distance readings is that unit settings are set incorrectly to either Metric or Yards. If your local course measures distance in Metric, but your golf device is set to Yards, the distance will consistently be off.
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.Select Units of Distance.
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.Select Units of Distance.
Select unit type.
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.Select Settings.
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Other Possible Causes of Inaccuracy
Approach 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 GarminExpress, please see Related Content at the bottom of the page.
Pin placement was manually moved away from the center of green.
PlaysLike Distance (adjusts distances accounting for elevation) is enabled. For tips on how to use or disable PlaysLike Distance on your device, see the owner's manual.
Golf Course Remodels
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.
Occurs 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.