Geko 201 GPS

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[edit] Using a Garmin Geko 201 GPS

Garmin Geko 201
Garmin Geko 201
The Geko series of GPS receivers are a very easy to learn and use device for students. It's small size and simple buttons allows users to quickly start using the device. To turn on the the Garmin Geko 201 GPS receiver, press the red power button. Once on the device will track data from the GPS satellites and you will see the Normal Skyview or Advanced Skyview. Once the GPS receiver has received data from 3 or more satellites it is Ready to Navigate.

[edit] Page Views

Map view
Map view
Using the Page button (resembles two pages) will allow you to view the different screens that are available with the Geko device.

Map Page - Displays a basic birdseye view map of your movements and includes any nearby waypoints.

Satellite Page - Displays information about the satellites being tracked.

Navigation or Compass Page - Displays information about your destination and travel.

Trip Computer Page - Displays detailed information about your trip.

Menu Page - Provides access to specific functions and settings on the Garmin Geko device.

[edit] Finding Waypoints

Navigation view
Navigation view

To find a waypoint that is programmed onto the device navigate to the Menu page using the Page button. Use the down arrow to select WAYPOINTS and press OK. You will see a small menu appear on the screen. Select NEAREST using the arrow buttons and press OK . The nearest waypoints are listed with their approximate distance from your current location. Use the arrow buttons to highlight and select the waypoint of your choice and press OK. You will then see a new page with Goto highlighted in the center. Press OK to start navigating to that waypoint. The device will automatically switch to the Navigation page to help you navigate to the selected waypoint.

The Garmin Geko series of GPS receivers are not digital compasses, so it is important to be sure you are aware of where your directionals are (north, south, east & west). It is always a good idea to carry a compass with you when you are using a GPS unit as batteries lose power. When you are trying to locate a waypoint using a GPS like the Garmin a compass is handy to keep you oriented with north. HINT: If you lose your bearings and are not sure which way north is, walk in a straight line with the GPS unit. As you move the satellite system will track you movement and will orient your onscreen compass.

[edit] Marking Waypoints

Mark Waypoint
Mark Waypoint

It is always important to mark the waypoint of the spot where you left a trail or where you parked your car so you can navigate back. To mark your current location, press and hold the OK button for two seconds on any screen. The screen will then change to the mark waypoint screen. To save the waypoint without naming it press OK (OK will already be highlighted by default). Be sure to notice the name of the waypoint that was created.

Naming Waypoints
To name the waypoint, before you press the OK button, use the up arrow button to select the name of the waypoint (i.e. 001). Press OK to edit the name of the waypoint. Press OK to bring up the alphanumeric naming screen and use the up/down arrow buttons to select the letters for the name you desire. When finished use the down arrow to select OK and press the OK button. To set the newly named waypoint press OK again.



[edit] Downloading GPS Data

Using an easy, and free, software program aptly called EasyGPS you can download GPS data collected using the Geko 201 among other GPS units. Please visit the EasyGPS page for information about how to use this easy application.

NOTE
You will need a compatible serial interface cable to upload/download waypoints using the Garmin Geko 201 & 301 units. The Geko 101 does not have interface capability.


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