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Comp Tips for Garmin GPS Users

These are some tips that I quickly jotted down for the WA comps in 2002. They are mainly intended for people who have not used a GPS in a competition before. Hope you find them useful - Phil.

Before the comp starts

Miscellaneous:

• Write your name on your GPS.
• Record your GPS serial number on your pilot registration form.

System setup:

• Set the "position format" to UTM/UPS.

• Set the "map datum" to Aust Geo ’66 (if you're in Australia).

• Set the "time offset" to +08:00 hours (if you're in Western Australia).

Track setup:

• Set the "record method" to “fill” (some people prefer “wrap”, but be aware you can over-write your track).
• Set the "time interval" to 30 seconds.

Waypoints:

• Clear your waypoint list (suggestion only to avoid confusion).

• Get official waypoints uploaded to your GPS.

• Create a waypoint called “PILOT” and enter your name as the description (use any old coordinates).

Every day

Before each race starts:

• Check your battery level (even better -  put in a freshly charged set of NiMh rechargeable's.)

• If you use a glide computer check your “interface” setting is correct for your instruments (eg Brauniger uses NMEA/NMEA).

• Synchronise your watch to GPS time.

• Clear your track log (very important if you are using “fill” record method)

• Create a route for the task, and set it to ACTIVE (remember to put the start centre waypoint as the starting waypoint).

• Check your route with another pilot to make sure the waypoints and distances correspond.

• Check that your GPS is turned on before you launch.

In the start circle (only if your race time is important to you):

•  Switch to “Nearest Waypoints” whilst in the start circle. Use the distance column next to the start centre waypoint to judge when you are near the edge of the start circle.

• Check your watch (or use GPS time on “compass" screen) to judge when to leave the start circle (i.e. at the beginning of a start interval, not before the first start time). Duck-back in if necessary.

Out on course:

• Switch to "track" screen (I find 12km zoom about right) to keep an eye on the course line, drift direction and distance to next waypoint. If you prefer you can use the “compass” screen.

• When nearing a turn-point or goal (say 5-10kms away), zoom in your "track" screen to make it easier to check your approach (I find 5km zoom about right), or if you prefer use the “compass” screen and follow the arrow.

• When arriving at the turn-point or goal watch the distance tick down to LESS than 0.40kms then press the “mark” and “enter” keys.

If you out-land:

• Press the “mark” and “enter” keys as soon as you land (very important). DO NOT walk your glider to the fence/road first.

When you get back:

• Check that the “interface” setting is GARMIN/GARMIN.

• Remove your batteries if you are using re-chargeable's so you can charge them overnight (only if your internal battery is OK!).

• Attach your completed landing form to your GPS with an elastic band and put it into the landing form box.

• Collect your GPS once it has been checked, or at the briefing the following morning.