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Compass Calibration for Outdoor Handhelds

In order to keep the electronic compass in a Garmin® outdoor handheld accurate, it needs to be calibrated regularly.

At a minimum, it is recommended to calibrate the compass at first use, when the batteries are replaced, and after moving more than 100 miles (160 km), or experiencing a temperature change greater than 68° F (20° C) from the last calibration. However, to ensure the compass is always working properly, you may want to calibrate right before using the device.

Tips

  • Calibrate the compass outside.

  • Ensure you hold the device parallel to the ground when calibrating.

  • Magnetic fields (such as cars, buildings, etc.) can cause poor compass readings, and also interfere with calibrating.


Calibrating the Compass

NOTE: Compass calibration is only available for handhelds that use an electronic compass. For more details, see - Compass Options for Garmin Outdoor Handhelds.

Select a type of handheld below for instructions.


Non-Touchscreen Handhelds

NOTE: For steps on the eTrex® SE or eTrex® Solar outdoor handhelds, see - Compass Calibration for the eTrex SE or eTrex Solar.

  1. Press Page until you reach the Compass or Navigation page, or select Compass from the main menu.

  2. Press Menu or select Menu Option Icon.

  3. Select Calibration or Calibrate Compass.

    • You may have to select Start to begin the calibration. This is highlighted by default, press Enter or the thumb-stick to select it.

  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate the compass.

A message will appear to indicate when the calibration has been completely successfully. If the calibration fails at any point, select Retry or repeat the above steps to perform the calibration again.

Example of Calibrating an eTrex® 30x Outdoor Handheld


Touchscreen Handhelds

  1. Select Setup from the main menu.

  2. Select Heading.

  3. Select Calibrate Compass or Compass Calibration.

  4. Follow the onscreen instructions to calibrate the compass.

A message will appear to indicate when the calibration has been completely successfully. If the calibration fails at any point, select Retry or repeat the above steps to perform the calibration again.

Example of Calibrating an Oregon® Outdoor Handheld