Getting Satellite SignalsAfter you turn on the GPSMAP 496, the unit automatically beginssearching for satellites. The GPS Page appears while the unit isgathering satellite signals and acquiring a fix. This process shouldtake only a few minutes. While the GPSMAP 496 is getting satellitesignals, the GPS Page shows the status as “Acquiring Satellites.”It can take a few minutes to acquire satellites and show your currentlocation on the map. Be patient as the unit acquires satellite data.To get signals more quickly, be sure the antenna is raised to the upposition shown in the image on page 1.GPS PageNOTE: While acquiring satellites, the Map Page can show thewrong location, such as China. This does not mean your unithas the wrong data loaded. The GPS receiver needs a few moreminutes to acquire satellites and find your current location.Viewing GPS Status With the GPS TabThe GPS tab provides a visual reference of satellite acquisition,receiver status, and accuracy. The sky view and signal strength barsgive an indication of what satellites are visible to the receiver andwhether they are being tracked.As the receiver locks onto satellites, a signal strength bar appearsfor each satellite in view, with the appropriate satellite numberunderneath each bar. The numbers shown below each bar representthe particular satellite that is being received. Numbers above 33indicate WAAS satellites.The sky view shows a birds-eye view of the location of each satelliterelative to the receiver’s last known location. The outer circlerepresents the horizon (north up), the inner circle represents 45ºabove the horizon, and the center point represents a location directlyoverhead. You can also set the sky view to a Track Up configuration,causing the top of the sky view to align along your current trackheading.A power source indicator shows the unit is operating off batterypower ( ), that the unit is charging ( ), or that anexternal power source is in use ( ).4 GPSMAP 496 Owner’s ManualGETTING STARTED > GETTING SATELLITE SIGNALS
