20 Most Recent Garmin GPSMAP 172C GPS Receiver Questions & Answers

Hi Donnie,Degaussing is not something that ever needs to be done on this device.Degaussing is a term that I learned many years ago - it was a process performed periodically on early CRT (cathode ray tube) displays (such as a TV). Over time, CRT displays would build up magnetic charges that would cause the image to become distorted. A degaussing wand would be connected to an AC outlet and then brought very close to the display and gradually withdrawn. This would neutralize the magnetic charges on the display - and the resulting distortion. Years later, manufacturers incorporated a degaussing coil inside the display's cabinet that did the same job as the degaussing wand - thereby making the wand obsolete.The GPSMap 172 has an LCD display that requires an electrical charge to create an image on the display. Unlike a traditional CRT type displays, an LCD (or LED for that matter) display is unaffected by magnets / magentism. Hold a magnet near a non-CRT type display to see for yourself. A magnet held near a CRT display however will distort the image more as it gets closer to the display. Caution: Doing this may cause PERMANENT damage to the CRT display. This is why many home theater speaker systems touted that fact that they were "magnetically shielded" so that they would not distort the images on the CRT display.I hope this helps!

Hello!

If your unit is still having trouble acquiring satellites, please ensure that it has the latest version of operating software by using our WebUpdater program. Once your unit is updated please allow the unit to acquire satellites outdoors in a stationary position with a clear view of the sky.

Step 1: Download and Install WebUpdater Click the link above to download WebUpdater. Next follow the screen prompts to install the application on your pc. If you have already installed WebUpdater on your computer, skip to step 2.
WebUpdater updates most Garmin products, excluding Palm and Pocket PC devices, fixed-mount marine units, chartplotters, fishfinders and certain discontinued units we no longer support. It does not perform Beta updates. WebUpdater only updates unit software. See our All Updates & Downloads web page for related utilities, drivers, add-ons and the unit software for the excluded units mentioned above.

Step 2: Connect GPS to PC and Run WebUpdater After installing WebUpdater once from the Garmin website, perform all future software updates from your computer. Simply connect your compatible Garmin device to your computer, then run WebUpdater from your computer's "Start Menu" by selecting "Start", "Programs", "Garmin", and finally "WebUpdater".

Please check helpful tips below for your garmin device
1. Why won't my garmin device acquire satellites?
2. WebUpdater
3. Updates and Downloads