Garmin eTrex Vista Cx won't turn on

f a device is locking up and has a long noise or beep when powering down, this is due to hidden data being transferred to the microSD data card. These hidden files and folders are being created by the computer and sent to the data card in addition to the maps, waypoints, routes, tracks and pictures that were selected. The following GPS units could experience this issue.

• eTrex Legend Cx
• eTrex Legend HCx
• eTrex Venture Cx
• eTrex Vista Cx
• eTrex Vista HCx
• GPSMAP 60Cx
• GPSMAP 60CSx
• GPSMAP 76Cx
• GPSMAP 76CSx
• Rino 520HCx
• Rino 530HCx

To prevent this issue when the device is shutting down delete these extra unused or hidden files and folders from the data card. Examples of these folders are: .Trashes and .Spotlight-V100 folders. Since the Mac OS adds hidden files and folders to mounted removable drive volumes this process cannot be done on a Mac and will need to be done after every time the data card is mounted as a volume on a Mac.
To delete these folders the device will have to be placed into USB Mass Storage mode. To do this:

1. Connect the device to the computer using the USB cable
2. Go to the Main Menu
3. Select Setup
4. Select Interface
5. Select USB Mass Storage Mode

The device is now in USB Mass Storage Mode. At this time a window should open on the computer desktop displaying Removable Disk at the top. The Garmin folder will be displayed. Open the Garmin folder.
Do NOT delete the the following files:

• gmapsupp.img
• gmapsupp.unl
• gmapsupp.gma

These files contain supplemental mapping. If delete will cause the mapping to be erased or unviewable.
If there are other folders or files on the data card, delete these. Some of these files or folders may be hidden and therefore will need to be unhidden*. Once you have done so, please disconnect the device from the computer and power it up.
*Note: To Display a file folder that is hidden:

1. Select the Tools option on the window that appears on the computer when the device is in USB Mass Storage Mode
2. Select Folder Options
3. Select View
4. Open the Files and Folders folder
5. Open the Hidden Files and Folders folder
6. Select Show hidden files and folder
7. Select Apply
8. Select OK

Once all of the hidden files and folders have been removed from the microSD Card the unit will not

as its new, it would be unwise to fiddle around with it. Return it for exchange,
Before you do though make sure that the batteries are good and have been inserted in the correct polarity.

Etrex Vista is a very robust unit and most reliable generally, so this is unusual.

Please rate my help++++Thanks fo using FIXYA

My Etrex Legend would not aquire satellites and after several call to tech support, I finally reset the whole unit. First I saved the waypoints on Mapsource. Then with the unit off press and hold the page button (upper right) then push the rocker button in and then push the power button. Once it starts you can then release all the buttons and set the unit outside for about 20 minutes.

Have you tried fresh batteries? Weak batteries, I've noticed, can cause this problem. Also, try to acquire your signal in a clear area (no trees or power-lines nearby)

Is the unit being bumped during use? If not, sounds like a call to Garmin tech support is in the works. My thought is that it's something defective inside your unit.

I can solve this by not solving it. First I tried reset the unit to default settings: hold down the power, page, and enter buttons at the same time, a message, "do you really wan to reset..." will appear. Select "yes." If the unit reboots, hurrah. If not, call tech support (1.800.800.1020). Get an RMA, send it back to them for repair. I had purchased mine over 30 days ago but less than 60: Amazon wouldn't replace it, Garmin will either replace or repair. If you want them to send a new unit while the old is in transit, just ask; they will charge and then credit a card once they have the old unit is in hand. Good luck.

The unit needs to have the screen facing up. The unit will not read if it is vertical. Garmin cust serv finally helped me with that one. Once you turn on the unit, it could take up to 20 minutes (usually about 3) to grab satelites.

I have the same problem. The unit works until I connect it to whatever computer via USB (Mac or PC). The screen blanks out as soon as I plug in the USB cable. I have to disconnect the device and only then I am able to turn it on again. That started after Firmware update from V 2.90 to 3.00 . I am not sure this is causing problem. What about the firmware versions of your devices ? Are they all on the latest ?
However, does anybody know if there is a way to go back to firmware version 2.9 if it is not possible anymore to connect the device to any computer (evtl. through putting data on the microSD card ?).
Thanks,
Martin

Have you updated your Garmin unit software recently?

11-08-07
I had the same problem with an etrex Vista. I spoke with Garmin, they said that a recently launched WAAS satellite is interferring with some models (he mentioned it is the models with a black and white screen). Garmin tech support said that they're working on a software patch but for the meantime switch WAAS off.

Call Garmin tech support with any questions or to find out about the software patch, 1-800-800-1020