Is it possible that a map downloaded from the world wide basemap becomes the internal basemap in the unit and the BlueNav map runs from the BlueNav SD card?
Yes, follow these steps:1. Use World Wide BaseMap CD and prepare a chart area of your choice. Choose to upload the chart to your local hard disk and not to the GPS.2. Using Windows Explorer rename this chart to something meaningful for you, leaving the.img suffix unchanged.3. Use the standard Magellan software (MagUp) for uploading firmware fixes. Select Expert Upload (Select "No" to the default question to upload firmware); select Meridian(R) as your GPS unit and the port the GPS is connected to. Select "Save."4. Choose Expert Upload and select Upload firmware and basemap. For basemap select the chart you have previously prepared with the WWBaseMap CD.5. First, the program uploads the firmware. When this is done the GPS will shut down. Turn it on again and you should receive a message that the unit contains no internal base map, and it will automatically switch to basemap upload mode. From the Magellan application proceed to upload the basemap6. When the Magellan application finishes uploading the map:a) Either the GPS will recognize the new map and it will immediately start loading and display the new map, orb) the GPS will not respond and continue to display the message "Uploading basemap." If this happens, then from the Magellan MagUp application select "Upload base map" (just "Base map" not "Firmware and basemap") from Expert Mode and repeat the process.7. After repeating the process the second time your GPS should work correctly. If the problem persists, repeat once more. If there is no response, access the secret menus from the files section of your GPS to erase the internal basemap and start again from step 4.
How do you perform the expert upload of a firmware?
If your Meridian is in a "locked up" state (stuck on), make sure you put fresh batteries before proceeding. Power it down by holding down MARK/GOTO and the ESC keys and press ENTER. This will power down the unit. Power it up in "Software upload mode" by holding down MARK/GOTO and the ESC keys and press POWER. Unit should power up with a "software upload mode active" message. Run magup.exe, select "No" when the dialog box appears. Click on "Expert" and checkmark "On" for the "Expert Upload" setting. Be sure to set the "Unit Type." Use Meridian GPS for the green/yellow or Meridian for the others. With the latest MagUp there is also a Meridian Marine and Meridian Color option. Click "OK." Select the firmware file by clicking on "File" then "Select Code File." The firmware file should have a name like MGPS402.HEX or MGOLD406.HEX. Click on "Upload" and click "OK." Checkmark "Program Code Only." Check "Upload File. If the problem persists, contact Magellan Customer Support.

Why is it not possible to use the U.S. cars CLAs in European cars?
The cars in the U.S. are positively grounded, while the ones in Europe are negatively grounded.
Can I get a Bluetooth adapter for my Meridian?
We do not support any such activities and the customer is at his own risk. The Magellan Meridian does not support Bluetooth.
What are the optimal com port settings for the Meridian GPS?
Bits per second: 4800,Data Bits: 8,Parity: NONE, Stop Bits: 1,Flow Control: Hardware
Is the Meridian compatible with IPAQ and xmap?
It has an NMEA 2.1 GSA output that the IPAQ would use but we do not make a cable to interface. Suggest: Technically, it is compatible, but Magellan does not make a cable to interface.
Can I load more than one chart from MapSend BlueNav to my authorized memory card?
No, the licensing for the program restricts the use of the program to a single chart loaded on a single Secure Digital memory card at any given time. If you need to load a second chart, you simply reprogram the card with the second chart once you are done using the first chart.
What accessories comes Your Meridian unit comes with preloaded background maps, PC cable, Reference Manual-CD ROM, and Quick with the Meridian GPS? Reference Guide.
What is the minimum and maximum operating temperature of the Meridian GPS?
Minimum Temperature -10*C ( 14*F ) Maximum Temperature 60*C ( 140*F ).
What is the maximum operating altimeter in the Meridian GPS?
Maximum operating altimeter 60,000 Ft/ 18,288 m.
How many routes I can create in my Meridian GPS?
You can create 20 routes in your Meridian GPS.
How many navigation screens does the Meridian GPS have?
The Meridian GPS has 8 navigation screens.
How many satellites are needed to obtain a At least three satellites are needed for a position fix. position fix ?
Can I connect the Meridian GPS to the USB port of my computer?
The Meridian unit can only be connected to the serial port of the PC and not to the USB port, to connect it to the USB, the user needs to use the serial to USB conversion cable.
Does my Meridian GPS comes with detailed street maps?

No, it has a basic highway map.
My backtrack readings are not accurate. How can I save get more accurate breadcrumb readings?
Adjust track interval to.01 and it should increase the resolution. NOTE: setting to.01 will limit the amount of track to be recorded.
How can I delete a Map in my Meridian GPS?
Press menu then select Card Utilities and there will be a delete file menu select the detailed img map file you want to delete
How can I clear memory in my Meridian GPS?
Press Menu. Select "setup," highlight "Clear Memory" and select "all." The clear all memory will clear All Track Logs, All POIs and Routes, All Multi-Leg Routes, All Track Logs, POIs and Routes.
How do I load waypoints and routes from a memory card to my Meridian GPS?
Select Menu > Select Card utilities > Select load waypoints/Route and press Enter > Highlight the desired filename and press enter.
What happens when the user exceeds 2000 track points?
Once the unit has recorded 2000 track points, it will continue to set additional track points. However, the oldest track points will be automatically deleted to make room for the new ones.
How often do I need to initialize the Meridian GPS?
Initializing the Meridian decreases the time it takes to get a position fix during cold start. What is meant by a cold start is that the Meridian has no reference to use as a guide to tell it what satellites should be overhead. Without a reference to start with, the Meridian will have to search the sky to find the satellites in view. This may take up to 10 minutes in severe conditions.
How can I overcome the error card not detected?
1) Check to ensure that the card utilities option is active. 2) If it is not, put the card in the card reader and check for any data available. 3) Check the firmware of the unit and try to update it if there is one available.
How can I check firmware update version, memory size of the base map, the total All this information is available in the "About" menu screen. memory size of detailed From any screen Press the MENU button, highlight maps and how much About" and press enter. free memory is available in my Meridian GPS?
What can be done if my battery life seems shorter than it should be?
1. Make sure that you are using two AA alkaline batteries. 2. Shorter life span of the batteries can be due to excessive use of the backlight. Turn the backlight off when not needed.
Why does my receiver turn off unexpectedly.
This is commonly is caused by excessive static electricity. Turn the receiver back on and it should operate normally. Move the receiver to a new location to avoid a similar occurrence.

Why is my Meridian GPS not turning on?
1. Check to see if the batteries are installed correctly.2. Replace with two new AA alkaline batteries
What can be done if my Meridian GPS is not getting a signal?
1. If there are any obstacles nearby or overhead, move to a new location. 2. Make sure that the antenna is pointing up, has a clear view of the sky and is a reasonable distance away from your body. 3. Check the Satellite Status screen to see where the satellites are and if the receiver is acquiring data. 4. If the receiver still does not get a position fix within 10 minutes, you can do clear memory and then you can initalize the GPS.
How do I know which route is active?
Press menu highlight routes and there you will see your list of routes you have created the route in bold font is the one currently active
How can I format an SD card using Meridian GPS?
You can use the card utilities to format the SD card that is in the GPS. Press MENU from any screen and highlight Card utilities. Press "Enter," select Format Card, and press "Enter" again.
Can I test an SD Memory card in Meridian GPS?
Yes. Press MENU from any screen and highlight Card utilities. Press "Enter," and select Test Card, then press enter. Please note that this scan can take a very long time. If you decide not to proceed with the scan, press ESC before beginning the scan. [what's "a very long time" -- up to 2 hours? up to 15 minutes?]
How can I delete a file from my memory card using the Meridian GPS itself?
Press MENU from any screen and highlight Card utilities. Press enter, select Delete file, and press "Enter." Here you can get the list of files, highlight the one that you want to delete and press "Enter."
I have loaded some tracks into my SD card. How can I access those tracks?
Press MENU from any screen and highlight Card utilities. Press "Enter," select Load Track, and press "Enter" again. The list of tracks will be displayed with the filename. Highlight the one you wish to select and press "Enter."
How can I change languages in my Meridian GPS?
Press MENU button from any screen, highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Languages, press "Enter," select the language and press "Enter" again.
How can I change the baud rate in my Meridian GPS?
Press MENU button from any screen, highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Baud Rate, press "Enter," select the baud rate, and press "Enter" again. Default is 4800 Baud.
Is it possible to set a backlight timer in my Meridian GPS?
Yes, you can set the backlight timer to turn off after 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 4 minutes, 10 minutes or you can shut the timer off. To set the timer, press MENU button from any screen, highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Light Timer, press "Enter," select the time duration and press "Enter" again.

How can I change the daylight savings setting in Meridian GPS?
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Daylight Savings and press "Enter." Select the region and press "Enter" again.
How can I change the navigation units on my meridian from Kilometers to Miles
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Nav units, press "Enter," select Miles/hr and press "Enter" again.
How can I change the elevation mode from 2D to 3D in my Meridian GPS?
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Elves mode , press "enter," select 3D and press "Enter" again. [does it really say "Elves mode"?)
How can I initialize the Meridian GPS?
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Initialize then follow the on screen prompt by selecting your area and enter date and time.
What is a vertical profile?
Vertical Profile displays the elevation as a graphical display for the option you select. Only Track History is available for this function if MapSend Topo for the United States map data is not uploaded.
What Map Datum is the Meridian defaulted to?
The default map datum for Meridian will be WGS84.
How can I change the coordinate system from Lat/Lon to UTM?
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Cord system and press "Enter." Select Primary or Secondary and press "Enter." Select UTM and press "Enter."
What will be the primary and the secondary coordinate system for Meridian by default?
The primary coordinate system is Lat/Lon Deg.Min.MMM. The secondary coordinate system is UTM.

What is datum?

Datum refers to the theoretical mathematical model of the earths sea level surface. Map makers may use a different model to chart their maps, so position coordinates will differ from one datum to another. The datum for the map you are using can be found in the legend of the map. If you are unsure of which datum to use, use WGS84

My tracks have the wrong time stamp?
This is actually normal, as the time stamps are all in Universal Time Clock (UTC). This is also known as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
How many map datums are in my Meridian
There are 76 Map datums in all Meridian units.
How can I change time format in my Meridian GPS?
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Setup and press "Enter." Highlight Time format and press "Enter." Select "Format," and press "Enter." If Local time is selected (24 hr. or AM/PM) you will be prompted to enter your local time.
How can I view a route on the map screen?
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Routesand press "Enter." Highlight Select Route and press "Menu." Highlight "Map View" and press "Enter."
Meridian Basic, Meridian Gold
What is the difference between the Meridian and Meridian Gold?
Meridian contains 2MB of internal memory for base maps,and the Meridian Gold contains 16MB of base maps.

Meridian Color

Which Meridian unit has a color display?

Meridian Color.

Meridian Platinum Meridian Platinum.
Which Meridian unit contains barometric pressure sensor? How can you create a projection in the Meridian Platinum?

Meridian Platinum.

On the position screen, press the "Menu" option and then "Projections."
List all the Meridian units available?
1) MERIDIAN Color (North America and Europe) 2) MERIDIAN Gold (North America and Europe) 3) MERIDIAN Platinum (Northa America and Europe) 4) MERIDIAN Marine (North America and Europe) 5) MERIDIAN Basic (North America only)
My Merdian will not show my current location, what can I do to fix this?
In some cases you may need to reset the meridian, Press Menu. Select "setup," highlight "Clear Memory" and select "all." NOTE: The clear all memory will clear All Track Logs, All POIs and Routes, All Multi-Leg Routes, All Track Logs, POIs and Routes.
Why does my Meridian GPS not make an audible beep when I have an alarm active?
Check your setup settings for the Beeper. If the selection is Off or Keys Only is selected, the Beeper will not sound for alarms.
Why do the position coordinates on Meridian GPS receiver not match the location on my map?
1. Make sure that your receiver is set up to use the same datum as your map. 2. Check your LAT/LON format. Make sure that the format selected in COORDINATE SYSTEM (DEG/MIN/SEC or DEG/MIN.MM) is in the same format as the map you are using.
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How can I delete a Route in my Meridian GPS?
Press the MENU button from any screen. Highlight Routes and press "Enter." Highlight Select Route and press "Menu." Highlight DELETE and press "Enter."

74. 75.

Question

Solution

What are the uses of the Meridian?
Meridian has the features that appeal to a sailor, fisherman, hiker, hunter, or any person involved with outdoor recreational activities. Moreover, Meridian can display your location on detailed city maps providing you with a useful navigation tool that will last for years.
How many batteries are required for turning on the Meridian?
Meridian uses two AA batteries
How long will Meridian You can expect up to 14 hours of usage on two AA batteries stay on if I am using with the backlight turned off. With the backlight on new AA batteries? continuously, youll have approximately 6 hours of usage from two AA batteries.
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How do I turn off the backlight in my Meridian?
Pressing the Power button turns the backlight on and off. The display backlight can be set to one of three levels (low, high or off).To change the level press and hold the power button for two seconds.
How do I adjust contrast in my Meridian?
From any screen Press > Menu > Use Up/Down arrows to highlight Contrast and press Enter> Then use the Left/Right arrows to adjust contrast.
How do I save my present location in my Meridian?
You can save your present location as a waypoint by using the GOTO button. Press and hold the GOTO button for two seconds and the mark screen will display all the fields. Use the save option to store the waypoint using the default name and icon. You can also change the name and icon of your waypoint.
Meridian , Meridian Gold, Meridian Color, Meridian Marine, Meridian Platinum,
How many waypoints can I store in my Meridian?
You can save up to 500 waypoints.
I am not getting the default map information. Is there a way to increase the detail?
Meridian comes with base maps which include highways and cities. However, if you are not getting this information in detail change the map setup to a higher detail setting. This may or may not show more map detail in all areas. From map screen > Press the Menu button >Select Map Setup and Press enter >Highlight Detail" Again press enter > Use the Up/Down arrows to select the desired map level.

How do I get waypoints to appear on my map screen?
To get waypoints Go to map screen > Press the "MENU" button>Select "Map Setup">Press enter highlight "Display" > Select Waypoints and press enter.
How do I turn the Track Go to map screen >Press the MENU button select>Map lines on or off? Setup" > Press enter highlight select Display press enter Select Track Lines" and press enter.
I loaded TOPO maps using Mapsend, how do I see the Topo lines?
You dont see the TOPO lines because the GPS may not be set to display TOPO info, Go to map screen>Press the MENU button select > Map Setup Press enter highlight select Display press enter Select TOPO Lines enter.
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I downloaded detail maps in the GPS using Mapsend, but how do I get points of interest?
Go to map screen> Press the MENU button select> Map Setup" >Press enter highlight select Display press enter select POI and enter.
How do I change map orientation to course up in my Meridian?
Go to map screen>Press the MENU button>Select Map Setup" Press enter > Highlight select Orientations Press enter> Select Course up and press enter
How do I change map orientation to Track up?
Go to map screen>Press the MENU button>Select Map Setup" Press enter>Highlight select Orientations press enter> Select Track up and press enter.
How many channels do Meridian receivers have?
Meridian is a 12-channel receiver.
How do I reset Trip Odometer?
From the Lat/lon position screen >Press Menu > Select Reset Trip > Press enter then >Select Yes and press enter.
I manually stored some waypoints in my Meridian, but how do I find them?

There are two ways to find the waypoints that you have stored in the GPS. 1. Alphabetical.From any screen > Press the Menu button>Highlight Database and press enter>Select User >Use the Left/Right arrow key to select Find by Alphabetical>Press enter Highlight the Waypoint and press enter. 2. Nearest to Position. From Any screen>Press the Menu button>Highlight Database press enter>Select User use the Left/Right arrow key to select Find by Nearest and press enter> Highlight the waypoint and press enter.
How do I search a preloaded point of interest in my Meridian?
There are two ways to find the point of interest in the GPS: 1. Alphabetical From Any screen>Press the Menu button>Highlight Database press enter>Select Preloaded Category >Use the Left/Right key to select Find by Alphabetical and press enter>Use arrow keys to enter first five characters Highlight OK and press enter>Select waypoint and press enter. 2. Nearest to Position From Any screen>Press the Menu button>Highlight Database press enter>Select Preloaded Category>Use the Left/Right arrow key to select Find by to Nearest to and press enter>Highlight Waypoints and press enter.
I downloaded a detail map in my unit using Mapsend, but how can I find a point of interest by Nearest to Position and Alphabetical?
1. Alphabetical From Any screen>Press the Menu button>Highlight Database press enter>Select The Name of detail map >Use the left/Arrow key to select Category >Press enter Highlight Find by alphabetical and press enter>Select Subcategory and press enter> Use arrow keys to enter first five characters press enter> Highlight OK and press enter select waypoint and press enter.2. Nearest to Position From any screen>Press the Menu button>Highlight Database and press enter>Select Category >Use the Left/Right arrow key to select Find by to nearest to press enter>Use arrow keys to select Subcategory and press enter>Select waypoint and press enter.

Meridian

How do I manually enter co-ordinates in my Meridian?
Press and hold the GOTO button for two seconds. Highlight the Location Field" and press enter Edit Line 1 of the Location Field press enter Edit Line 2 of the Location Field press enter Edit Elevation field" and press enter highlight the Save button and press enter.
How do I delete a waypoint that I created?
From any screen>Press the Menu button>Highlight Database press enter>Select User use the Left/Right arrow key to select Find by press enter>Highlight the Waypoints which you wants to delete>Press Menu and highlight Delete and press enter>Select Yes and press enter

Meridian Gold, Meridian Color, Meridian Marine, Meridian Platinum,
Can I use my DirectRoute compatible GPS receiver for street routing and for marine use with the BlueNavcharts?
Yes, but you have a GPS firmware decision to make. For most who want to use their GPS with DirectRoute and BlueNav, the right choice is the Standard receiver firmware. It will do street routing if a DirectRoute map is active, and it will do all functions except marine tides and currents when a BlueNav chart is active. Conversely, if you choose the Marine firmware load because you really need tides and currents, you can use DirectRoute maps, search points of interest, and so forth. However, you cant street route with that firmware. The one exception is SporTrak Color it has only one firmware load, and it can do both routing and tides/currents. Firmware Update CD 1.00e contains all the current firmware, Standard and Marine, and detailed instructions on their uses. Firmware for handhelds can also be downloaded from the Magellan website.
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What can be done if I am getting a Time Out error while copying the maps on to my Meridian from map send TOPO 3D or map send direct route?
Try formatting the SD card by pressing "menu", then select "card utilities", and then select format card
Yes. Go to: www.navicache.com Besides www.geocaching.com is there another Website that I can visit to download geocaches?
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Do Meridian products use Navteq information for the basemap?
No. Meridianbasemap does not use Navteq data.
Why do detail maps show me wrong road positioning information?
When you compare where you are with where the GPS thinks the road is, remember an actual road is often 100 feet wide. Typical GPS accuracy is at best 12 feet, and is often 30 feet or more. This means that an error of 50 feet is not only common, but to be expected.
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Can I use a multimedia card along with my Meridian?
You can use a multimedia card inside the Meridian. If you already have a multimedia card, try itt.If you purchase a new card, however, it is recommended that you purchase a SD card. We recommend SanDisk and Toshiba SD cards.
Meridian Gold, Meridian Color, Meridian Marine, Meridian Platinum, Meridian Gold, Meridian Color, Meridian Marine, Meridian Platinum,
The Meridian Marine is identical to the Meridian Gold. Why does the Meridian Marine cost more?

The Meridian Marine is very similar, though not identical to the Meridian Gold. The difference in price is that the slightly costlier Meridian Marine has a a pre-loaded marine buoy lighthouse database.
When should the magnetic compass be re-calibrated?
The compass should be re-calibrated whenever the batteries are changed to ensure best accuracy.
How can I deactivate the magnetic compass in the Meridian Platinum? (It shortens the battery life by approximately 25%).
Change the GPS heading in the compass setup screen from heading to COG. This will deactivates the compass on the compass display.Make certain that the Magnetic HDG up is NOT selected in the map screen
What does each IPX rating indicate?
IPX-0 No special protection IPX-1 Protected against falling water, equivalent to 35mm rainfall per minute for 10 minutes. Meridian is placed in its normal operating position. IPX-2 Protected against falling water when tilted up to 15 degrees. This is the same as IPX-1 but Meridian is tested in four fixed positions, tilted 15 degrees in each direction from normal operating position. IPX-3 Protected against spraying water, Water spraying up to 60 degrees from vertical at 10 liters/min at a pressure of 80-100kN/m2 for five minutes. IPX-4 Protected against splashing water. This is the same as IPX-3, but water is sprayed at all angles. IPX-5 Protected against water jets. Water projected at all angles through a 6.3mm nozzle at a flow rate of 12.5 liters/min at a pressure of 30kN/m2 for 3 minutes from a distance of 3 meters. IPX-6 Protected against heavy seas. Water projected at all angles through a 12.5mm nozzle at a flow rate of 100 liters/min at a pressure of 100kN/m2 for three minutes from a distance of three meters. IPX-7 Protected against water immersion. Immersion for 30 minutes at a depth of one meter. IPX-8 Protected against water submersion. The equipment is suitable for continual submersion in water under conditions, which are identified by the manufacturer
On which Websites can I do -- address to GPS co-ordinate conversion?
Check out www.geocoder.us or www.maporama.com Also http://www.melissadata.com/Lookups/addressverify.asp
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How many routes can be loaded in to my Meridian unit?
Up to 20 routes may be loaded, each with a max of 30 points. In version 5.x firmware, this limit has been raised to 50 points.
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What is a route?

A route is a series of waypoints. When navigating a route, the GPS will automatically change the destination waypoint to the next waypoint on the list as it reaches each waypoint. The GPS receiver or autopilot normally sounds an alarm, and requires an acknowledgment, before making any course change.
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Is the antenna same between the Meridian and eXplorist units?
No. Meridian uses a Quad Helix antenna. Explorist uses a patch antenna
What are the different types of antennas available among GPS devices and which would be the best?
There is NO best type of antenna for all GPS applications. The most popular type for consumer model receivers is the Quad Helix style. The most popular alternative for Quad Helix is the PATCH antenna.

What is UTC?

Universal Time Clock (UTC)is also known as Greenwich Mean Tme) (GMT)
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Why am I having problems with creating projections?
If you are using firmware older than v4.02, then this section outlines a problem that you may encounter. Meridian has the ability to project a waypoint from within the location screen. There are two major problems with this, though. The first is that projections can only be done if your big unit is in (miles or kilometers). The second is that the projection will be inaccurate if your primary map datum is not set to WGS-84.
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Magellan Meridian FAQ

Version 2.0 10/31/2003
Version 1 by Kevin Harrelson kevin@harrelson.com Version 2 by Dan Surratt skramblr@hotmail.com Updated info provided by the Meridian group members http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Magellan_Meridian
Table of Contents: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10) 11) 12) 13) 14) 15) 16) 17) 18) 19) 20) 21) 22) 23) 24) 25) 26) 27) 28) 29) 30) 31) 32) 33) 34) 35) 36) 37) 38) 39) 40) 41) 42) 43) 44) 45) 46) 47) 48) 49) 50) 51) 52) 53) 54) Introduction Which model for me? Various Models -- What's the Difference? Difference between Magellan SporTrak and Meridian GPS receivers? What does the compass and barometer on the Platinum do? Memory and Maps The Overview Base Maps -- What's the deal? Where do I find basemaps? Memory Expansion (SD Card) -- How do I do it, and what's it for? Memory Usage How much memory is left? Detailed Maps -- How do I do it? Detailed Maps -- What if I dont have a base map? Detailed Maps -- What software is available? Detailed Maps -- Why are they so bad? Detailed Maps -- How do I use more than 1 map file? Detailed Maps -- Can I use non-Magellan software or make my own maps? MapSend Topo -- How detailed is it? MapSend Topo -- Where do I find the 4.20 patch for my v3.xx Topo? Combining Mapsend Products (Method 1 Australia Mapsend Streets) Combining Mapsend Products (Method 2 Mapsend Europe and USA) What other software is available. Serial Communications with other software How do I actually use my Magellan GPS? Fun things to do with your GPS What if I dont use Windows? WAAS - What it is, do I need it, and can I turn it off? What are all of these secret menus? Secret Key Combinations Upgrading the "Lawyer" screen Upgrading the "Copyright" screen Emergency Firmware Restoration Base Map Replacement (Gold/Marine/Platinum/Color) Basemap Replacement (Green & Yellow) Base Map Backup Build your own Trail Maps Change the Meridian icons. How do I measure the distance between two points? Can I use rechargeable batteries? What is the Simulate function for? Setting up a User Grid Use Mapsend WW Basemap with BlueNav Charts Troubleshooting -- My GPS is shutting down every few minutes Troubleshooting -- MyMeridian reports Bad Data Troubleshooting -- Cant calibrate the thermometer or barometer Troubleshooting -- The goto line doesnt move with my position Troubleshooting -- Why am I having problems with projections? Troubleshooting My tracks have the wrong time stamp? Troubleshooting -- Topo, Streets and SD Cards Troubleshooting SD Cards and Windows XP Troubleshooting Map Size Limits Troubleshooting Meridian Green or Yellow Loss of Waypoints and Routes Troubleshooting Screen Spots Troubleshooting -- My Platinums Compass Doesnt Calibrate Troubleshooting - Low Battery Warning 27 27
Magellan Meridian FAQ Version 2.0 Page 2 of 30
55) 56) 57) 58) 59) 60) 61) 62) 63) 64)
Troubleshooting My Battery Compartment Door does not fit right. Troubleshooting The contact area on my unit is missing its cover. Troubleshooting -- Mapsend wont read tracks/waypoints from SD card Troubleshooting SanDisk SD Card Incompatibility Troubleshooting -- COM Port is Busy Troubleshooting -- Mapsend is taking forever to generate a map Troubleshooting -- Topo Map Size Troubleshooting -- 128MB and larger SD Cards Where to go for more information Credits & Thanks

Difference between Magellan SporTrak and Meridian GPS receivers?
The SporTrak and Meridian series are very similar in function. The SporTrak units replaced the M300/M320/M330 series, providing a non-mapping base unit and the others are mapping units like the Meridian. The SporTrak are smaller in overall size, with a smaller screen that is slightly brighter. The main difference between the two units,
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however, is that the SporTrak has no SD card support, which means they are limited to internal memory for storing detailed maps. With a SporTrak, only one detailed map can be uploaded at a time, and it is not possible to save waypoint or track files to an SD card. With a Meridian, you can upload multiple map files to the SD card and change between the files on the unit (handy if youre going on a long driving vacation and you dont have a laptop along to reload your GPS. With the Meridian, you can also save waypoint and track files to an SD card. Note - An SD card is usually purchased separately, although some units may include the card as part of a software/hardware bundle.
What does the compass and barometer on the Platinum do?
There are other units with integrated compass/barometer options. These units, like the Garmin eTrex Vista, eTrex Summit, and Map 76S, will simply be referred to as the "other" units. The operation of the Platinum will be compared against those other units. The barometric pressure sensor is currently used as a weather forecasting tool. While the unit is powered on, it will use the GPS altitude to correct the current pressure to obtain a "sea level pressure." The unit can display a plot of the pressure over the past 24 hours, which can be used to predict good or bad weather. Other GPS units can use the barometer to estimate the altitude in the event of insufficient GPS reception. This is NOT currently an option with the Platinum, although it is reasonable to expect this may be added with a future firmware. The thermometer, other than being used for internal temperature compensation of some components, is simply used as a weather-watching feature. It is not possible to get a plot of previous temperatures. The unit can only read the ambient temperature inside of the GPS case itself. This temperature may be quite inaccurate if the GPS is left on the dash of a car on a sunny day. It is possible to calibrate both the thermometer and the barometer. The other units use a "2-D" compass, where the GPS needs to be held level to the ground (display facing up). If the unit it tipped upright, such that the display faces the horizon, then the compass in the other units will simply fail to work. Furthermore, the other GPS units have a threshold speed. Anything below this speed and the heading is obtained from the compass. If you are traveling above this speed, then the heading is obtained from the GPS motion. The compass in the Platinum is far more advanced than in other GPS units, and is completely integrated into the GPS operation. The inclinometers in the Platinum tell it which direction is "down." Thus, the unit knows exactly how to read its 3-D compass in order to work reliably whether the unit is horizontal OR vertical. Furthermore, the Platinum GPS can tell the difference between the motion direction and the compass direction. You can hold the unit facing one direction, move a different direction, and the unit can tell the difference. The direction that the unit is facing is known as the "Heading," and the direction that the unit is moving is known as "COG" for "Course Over Ground." While in the compass display, North will be shown correctly in the proper orientation, and a separate arrow will be added for the direction of travel. This is a handy feature for boaters so they can know where north is, and in which direction they are drifting. The disadvantage of this system is that the compass is active whenever its data is needed, which can somewhat shorten battery life (approx. 25%). The compass is only powered if a particular screen needs the compass direction. In order to deactivate the compass: You will need to tell the compass to use the GPS heading in the compass setup screen (this deactivates the compass on the compass display) Be certain the "Magnetic HDG up" is NOT selected in the map screen Be certain that "Heading" is not selected on any data screens (use COG instead). Note that the compass should be re-calibrated whenever the batteries are changed to ensure best accuracy. In most cases changing batteries only affects the compass heading reading by a couple of degrees.

MapSend Topo -- Where do I find the 4.20 patch for my v3.xx Topo?
The patch file for Topo was removed from the websites at the request of Magellan. Although the patch file works fine and there have been no reported issues, Magellan claims it was a beta release and not meant for public distribution. Although they currently do not offer any patch file for v3.xx customers on their website, Magellan has indicated that customers who purchase an old version of Topo can contact Magellan for replacement software. In an email reply to Skramblr about customers who purchase new software and find they got the old version Let them know that they can contact our Consumer Sales Dept. by calling 1-800-669-4477 ext. 5502, we can have the software upgraded to 4.20. For new purchases, the upgrade is free. For others, there may be a nominal charge for the upgrade.
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Combining Mapsend Products (Method 1 Australia Mapsend Streets)
The Australia MapSend Streets has separate versions for each state. Users may want to combine data from multiple states into a single directory, so they can create maps that span state lines. This procedure is from a mail posted by hedorr, Modifying MapSend to accept maps from other installations. When installing Mapsend from a CD the program is installed in its own folder. Subsequent installations are installed in separate folders. There is no option to add subsequent installations to the original. This means that each installation must be run as a separate program. This can be very inconvenient, particularly if the areas covered by the separate installations share common boundaries. Note that this only works with Mapsend reading maps from the hard drive, not CD To overcome this, follow the following procedure: 1. Copy the map information from the new map by copying the folder called "street_xxx" from its \Map folder to the prime MapSend progra m folder \Map. 2. Open the "map.ini" file found in the \Map folder of the prime MapSend folder, find the "[ADD_MAPS_REF]" section and add a line along the lines of 0=\Street_ABC\ map.ini 1=\Street_DEF\ map.ini 2=\Street_GHI\ map.ini 3.Save the file. 4. Open the \Data\fips.txt file of the prime installation and enter lines in the form as follows, depending upon which maps are being imported (copy from the fips.txt file for each of the imported Mapsend states) 87; ABC; Firstland; 85; DEF; Secondland; 99; GHI; Otherplace 5. It is then safe to delete the original Mapsend installations. All areas are now covered when running the first installation, including search functionality.
Combining Mapsend Products (Method 2 Mapsend Europe and USA)
Some users may wish to combine data from multiple MapSend products, in order to create a single detailed map file with data from both programs. This procedure is from a mail posted by mgmatt2001. The following has worked for me on a 330: 1. Start MapSend US 2. Create a region. 3. Save the region. This creates 2 files (with the name you gave the region) -- one in the DOC directory (xxx.rgn), and one in the EXPORT\ IMAGES directory (xxx.img). 4. Exit MapSend US. 5. Copy both of the files to the similar directories under MapSend Europe. 6. Start MapSend Europe. 7. Load the region you created above. 8. Create a second region (up to 4 total), and upload them to the GPS. 9. You should have detail maps of both regions resident in the GPS. Note that the "foreign" region (the US region if you have the European base map in your GPS or the European region if you have the US basemap) will ONLY show when you zoom in quite close (0.4 mi?). You will be able to see the region rectangle on the display when zoomed out too far to see the detail map.

A route is limited to 30 waypoints. So if you have a long route, you must break it down into 30-waypoint sections, or space your waypoints far apart. (Editors note: the Meridians firmware has been limited to 30 waypoints until firmware 4.51 or later. Even with the updated firmware, some programs recognized the 30 waypoint limitation and may not yet be updated to allow more than 30 waypoints) Tracks A track is created or added to by the Meridian every time you turn it on. It tracks where you go by recording trackpoints at intervals. You can change the intervals at which trackpoints are recorded by Menu>Map Setup (Display Tab)>Track Mode. If you first turn on your unit in Houston then fly to Hawaii for a bunch of hiking, your track for your trip will be several thousand miles long. You can save a track to the SD card (Menu>Card Utilities>Save Track), clear the track from internal memory (from the Map Screen: Menu>Clear Track), and then record a new track. When you get home, you can download tracks from the Magellan to MapSend or to one of the other programs. Once again, there are two ways to download your tracks: Connect your Magellan to the PC and download via the serial cable. First load the track youre interested in back into the Magellan internal memory (Menu>Card Utilities>Load Track) and then control the download from the PC software. Download from the SD card. Here you have to use gpsbabel to convert from the Magellan format to the format required by the PC software.
If you save tracks on your PC, you can upload them back to the GPS next time you want to hike or paddle or drive the same route. Tracks have a 2000 waypoint limitation before it will start writing over the oldest track points. One users trip recipe First, I check out the area using the aerial and topo maps from QuakeMap. I tried using MapSend, but the maps arent all that accurate, and the process is incredibly cumbersome. The only real use for MapSend IMHO is to load detail maps to the Meridian GPS, which no other software can do. Then I create a route that I think might be interesting by clicking on the map. I upload the route using the serial connection and specifying a baud rate of 57600.
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When I arrive at the starting point, I clear all the tracks out of the internal memory of the Meridian (Map Screen: Menu>Clear Tracks, or from other screens, Menu>Setup>Clear Memory>Tracks), so that my route will start fresh. I also reset the trip odometer (Position screen>Menu>Reset Trip), so Ill know how far Ive traveled. Then I hike or paddle or drive keeping an eye out for the next waypoint. The MeriPlat beeps when I get close to a waypoint (tap Enter to make it stop) and then its on to the next. If I miss a waypoint, the unit moves on to the next. The whole time, of course, Im recording a track. When I get home, I download the track into QuakeMap, which immediately zooms me in to see my trip on an aerial photo or topo map. I can annotate waypoints and print it. I can even annotate waypoints with urls to photos that Ive uploaded to the web, and then send the file to someone else who can see exactly where Ive gone (the map) and what it looked like (the photos). If I want to keep the track for later uploading and future trips, I can also download it to MapSend and save it. Editors Note on Mapsend DirectRoute: This new software package will create turn-by-turn, shortest distance street routing. The process detailed above will still be useful for off-road adventures and custom street routes.

Fun things to do with your GPS
Try geocaching! Find hidden treasure with your GPS. Using the coordinates and clues provided, find the hidden container. Once found, sign the book, leave a prize, and take a prize. It is that simple. There are t wo main geocaching sites. http://www.geocaching.com is the first, and the largest. It will likely have a cache in your area. http://www.navicache.com is newer and smaller, but has a friendly laid -back atmosphere. Being the smaller one, it needs your support (monopolies are bad things). For something different try GeoDashing! No boxes, no prizes. Just seeing who gets there first for points. Each game, which lasts a month, consists of a computer randomly generating coordinates. The sooner that you get to a Dash point, the more points you get. Team play is also offered. Check it out at http://geodashing.org/ MinuteWar is a strategic game where the earth is the playing field. There are four teams, and teams attempt to go to random locations similar to GeoDashing. However, going to locations allows your team to control those squares. You may find more information at http://minutewar.org/ The degree confluence projects goal is to get a picture at every point on Earth where the location is described by integer degrees. More information is at http://www.confluence.org/ A good link to many GPS games can be found at http://gpsgames.org/ Note: the GeoDashing and Minute War websites are now hosted at the GPS games site - http://gpsgames.org/
What if I dont use Windows?
If you dont use Microsoft Windows, you are to be congratulated for making a wise decision. MapSend has been reported to work well on a Macintosh with Virtual PC and a USB-serial converter. Linux users can reportedly use VMWare to run MapSend. And of coarse there are also non-Magellan GPS applications that can communicate with the Meridian (although they cannot upload maps).
WAAS - What it is, do I need it, and can I turn it off?
WAAS stands for Wide Area Augmentation System. This system is still experimental. The Meridian can pick up special WAAS satellites (shown by a W on the satellite screen) which transmit various correction factors. There are several ground stations in the US which pick up the GP S signals and calculate these correction factors. If you can pick up a WAAS signal, are relatively close to a ground station, and are in the open (no overhead obstructions), then WAAS may improve accuracy. Sometimes WAAS has been known to decrease accuracy To turn off WAAS, with the Meridian turned off, hold down GOTO and NAV and tap the PWR button. In a couple of seconds you should see a box pop up with "00" inside of it. At this point, release GOTO and NAV. Use the direction pad to change the "00" to a "03" and then press ENTER. A few boxes should pop up. Press ENTER to turn a "YES" to a "NO" (all boxes will change simultaneously). You may need to use the three-finger salute (simultaneously GOTO, ESC, and ENTER) to get the unit to turn off. Then, when you turn it back on the WAAS satellites should not be visible in the satellite screen. Note that the boot screen will still say "WAAS."

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What are all of these secret menus?
Magellan built a bunch of secret menus into the GPS. These are supposedly for testing and to try out new functionality. There are two ways to access the hidden menus: If your Meridian is turned off, hold down GOTO and NAV and tap the PWR button. In a couple of seconds you should see a box pop up with "00" inside of it. At this point, release GOTO and NAV. Use the direction pad to change the "00" to the number of the menu that you want, and then press ENTER. If your Meridian is already powered on, press the MENU button. Then press and release LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT, RIGHT, and LEFT again. The secret menu box will pop up. In some cases your Meridian may become "stuck" and need the "three finger salute." Hold down GOTO, ESC, and ENTER. This will immediately shut the Meridian down. NOTE: Do NOT use any of these secret menus unless told to do so elsewhere in this document. Some of these may erase the memory of your unit or do other nasty things, which will cause your unit to not work. They are included simply to make this FAQ a complete reference. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do NOT use the following table unless you know exactly what you are doing. Thanks to ClayJar, luis_scsc, Daniel de Wildt & Ed Maurer for information in the following table.

Secret Menus

## 99 Description Firmware Version Display SAT List (?) WAAS Status
(-Turn WAAS on/off : press enter ->3 data fields display on/off (toggle)
Exit Keys ESC MENU ESC ESC ESC ESC ESC MENU ESC ESC WARNING ESC WARNING ESC ESC ESC WARNING ESC ESC WARNING ESC ESC ESC ESC ESC ESC ESC WARNING ESC ESC WARNING ESC WARNING ESC OFF
Sensor Degauss (for factory use!) Unit Off? Temperature Sensor Calibration? Delete User Sensor Calibration (for factory use!) SAT Data? Sensor Degauss
(Starts additional compass calibration! see Plat. Suppl. Manual p 7-10!)
Clear Sensor Calibration Clear Barometer History Clear Memory (select) Clear XO Parameters Clear All Memory Language Select Set Custom Language? Create Waypoints for Testing Compensation Offset ESC Basemap Upload (via SD Card)** SD Card test (Same as Test Card menu item) Firmware Upload (via SD Card)** XO OFFSET/A-D READING (?) Map Select (change Map Menu) Convert Basemap Name (?) Reset Serial Flash (erase all map data) Map Upload (Base or Detail, via serial cable) Software Upload Mode (via serial cable) FORCE
(1. - copy basemap file to SD Card, 2. - rename basemap file to BASEMAP.IMG!)
(1. copy firmware file to SD Card, 2. - rename firmware file to FIRMWARE.HEX!)
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Secret Key Combinations

Below is a list of secret key combinations. NOTE: Do NOT use any of these key combinations unless told to do so elsewhere in this document. Some of these may erase the memory of your unit or do other nasty things which will cause your unit to not work. They are included simply to make this FAQ a complete reference. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do NOT use the following table unless you know exactly what you are doing.

KEYS TO PRESS GOTO ESC ENTER GOTO ESC PWR NAV GOTO ESC PWR NAV ESC PWR NAV GOTO PWR NAV IN PWR NAV OUT PWR ENTER MENU PWR EFFECT FORCE OFF SOFT UPLOAD MODE ACTIVE ??LCD OFF - KEYBOARD OFF ??? BURN IN TEST HIDDEN MENU DISPLAY TEST SERIAL PORT TEST CLEAR ALL MEMORY EXIT KEYS FORCE OFF FORCE OFF ESC PWR / FORCE OFF FORCE OFF FORCE OFF ESC WARNING
Upgrading the "Lawyer" screen
The Meridian contains a screen that basically states that it is not the fault of Magellan if using this GPS causes you to get killed. There is a way to modify the firmware of the Meridian so that, instead of the Lawyer screen, it will display your name, phone number, e-mail, and whatever else you want it to say. The program is called MyMeridian and available from the files section and http://www.navicache.com/freeware/ ERROR FIX: Current version 05b does not work with v4.xx firmware. A fix has been identified. Open the file MyMeridian.ini. Find the entry English=All data and add the word is to the end. The updated line should read: English=All data is To use this software, you must have a copy of the firmware for your unit (can be download from Magellans Website). The tool modifies the text message in the firmware and then you must upload the modified firmware to your unit. If you are squeamish about modifying the firmware, then this modification may not be for you.
Upgrading the "Copyright" screen
Some versions of Mapsend have a Woodalls copyright screen that appears during power on. To change the copyright screen, go to the Mapsend program directory, navigate to the MAP subdirectory and look for the Export.cfg file. Open it in Notepad and look for the lines:
[COPYRIGHT] 1=Woodall's 2=All rights 3=reserved.
To keep these old lines but not show them place a semicolon before the number, and add the new lines. For example:
[COPYRIGHT] ;1=Woodall's ;2=All rights ;3=reserved. 1=My Name 2=My Address. 3=Nowhere, NY 12345 4=1-123-555-1212
Remember, the lines with the semi -colon don't count and don't show up anywhere. Bonus: the lines will print in numerical order (for whatever that's worth).

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Save the file and start up Topo or S&D, mark your regions, save to disk and move to the memory card and start up your Magellan Meridian and you should see the new screen just before the "Lawyer" screen. Unlike the Lawyer screen modification, this one is simple and does not involve manipulating the firmware. It is 100% safe. Note: You cannot have blank lines or lines filled with spaces. I've had as many as 8 lines. More than that just won't show up on the Magellan's Screen. With 8 lines you should be able to place some advertising for Pepsi or CocaCola, except for the darn "Database Copyright Notices" heading. Thanks to Fred Merchant for that information. Notes offered by Greg Davis: - maximum 17 characters (including spaces) on each line - maximum 8 lines total - will show in numerical order - cannot have blank lines or lines filled with spaces (be careful that the editor does not add any additional trailing blank characters). - can save original file, or just comment out using semi-colons and they will not be read: - after modifying the cfg file EACH TIME, you MUST completely restart MapSend before compilation, or it will use the default text. - be sure the cfg file is NOT still open in the text editor so it is saved and can be read.
Emergency Firmware Restoration
Thanks to "Randy Tippetts" Below are the recovery instructions for a dead MAP330 or Meridian. They are written for the MAP330 but they work just as well for the Meridians. 1. 2. 3. If your MAP330/Meridian is in a "locked up" state (stuck on), power it down by holding down MARK/GOTO and the ESC keys and press ENTER. This will power down the unit. Power it up in "Software upload mode" by holding down MARK/GOTO and the ESC keys and press POWER. Unit should power up with a "software upload mode active" message. Run magup.exe, select NO at the dialog box. Click on "Expert" and checkmark "On" for the "Expert Upload" setting (Be sure set the "Unit Type". Use Meridian GPS for the green/yellow or Meridian for the others. With the latest MagUp there is also a Meridian Marine and Meridian Color option) and click "OK" Select the firmware file by clicking on "File" then "Select Code File". The firmware file should have a name like MGPS402.HEX or MGOLD406.HEX. Click on "Upload" and click "OK". Checkmark "Program Code Only". Check "Upload File".

That's it! When the upload is finished you will again have your basemap in the Magellan. Your unit may need initialization.
Basemap Replacement (Green & Yellow)
This is the procedure that works for uploading a different basemap in a Meridian GPS (Green or Yellow) as provided by toine_stokbroekx. I've tried several ways and combinations without success until I did it this way. Thanks to Jon for providing a crucial hint. What I used: - firmware 4.03 - MAGUP 1.20 - eu_b100.img (basemap) - serial data cable step 1: clear memory Very important. Turn on the unit and clear memory by pressing MENU from any screen, select `Setup', `Clear Memory', then select `All' and `Yes'. The unit will turn off automatically. step 2: Get to upload menu 98. When your Meridian is turned off, hold down GOTO and NAV and tap the PWR button. In a couple of seconds you should see a box pop up with "00" inside of it. At this point, release GOTO and NAV. Use the direction pad to change the "00" to the number 98. Press enter. step 3: Select basemap upload. step 4: start MAGUP
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Select no when asked for software upload. In Expert menu: - Select expert mode on - Select Meridian GPS In the file menu: - Select Database file option and then the base map file to upload Select Upload Select "basemap only" Select "upload basemap" Step 5: Reinitialize

Base Map Backup

Here are the instructions on how to back up the base map in your Gold/Marine/Platinum/Color. This has been tested with v3.08 and v4.02 firmware. Note that it is not possible to backup the base map in a Green or Yellow. Also, all commands must be in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS. Setup of the Meridian 1. 2. 3. 4. It might be easier to find the right file if you remove the SD card. Connect the Meridian to the PC. Switch the Meridian on, make sure that the battery life indicator is over 50%, and turn off the NMEA output (Menu > Setup > NMEA > Off). Set the baud rate to the desired value (any value will do, but remember that the PC should be set at the same baud rate, see below). If too many errors occur, the baud rate can be reduced, but then it takes much more time to download (with 115200 bps it takes about 15 minutes).
Setup of the PC 1. 2. 3. 4. Start Hyperterminal: Start > Programs > Accessories > Communications > Hyperterminal. Make a new connection (or open the saved connection from a previous session and go to step 8). Connect Using: Direct to Com1 (or Com2, whatever Com port your MAP330 is connected to). Click OK. Port settings: Bits per second: equal to Meridian setting Data bits: 8 Parity: None Stop bits: 1 Flow control: None On the advanced button you can adjust the receive and transmit buffer (putting both buffers on Low should be fine). Click OK. Now click the Disconnect icon to stop the communication between Hyperterminal and the meridian at this point, as we first need to check some other communication settings. Some of these settings may not be relevant at all, others are very relevant. Anyway, the settings below have proven to work and so are listed here. In Hyperterminal, click the Properties icon and choose the Setting Tab. Keys act as: Windows-keys backspace key sends: CTRL+H Emulation: Autodetect Telnet terminal: ANSII Backscroll buffer lines: 500 Next, Click ASCII: Check 'Send line ends with line feeds' (this one is very relevant!)

Use Mapsend WW Basemap with BlueNav Charts
Sportfishingshop offers this solution: Many international users, especially those that want to use the BlueNav marine charts, are facing the problem of the internal basemap not having any, or very little, information for their country of use. This is the case for Greece, and as far as I know some European northern countries. One possible walk around is to purchase the WWBaseMap CD and upload a detailed chart to an extra SD memory card. If you put aside the cost of purchasing the SD chart, this solution is satisfactory only if you dont plan to use any marine charts. The BlueNav charts require a dedicated SD card that comes along with the BlueNav CD kit. So in order to use the marine charts, you have to remove the SD card with the detailed WWBaseMap chart of your country. If you remove the SD card with the detailed WWBaseMap chart, using the marine charts is a nightmare. For example at zoom levels over 3-5 miles whole islands are missing from the screen, only to appear suddenly when the zoom level is less than 2-3 miles! What a great way to navigate, thinking that nothing lies ahead only to discover that a whole island was actually in the way! I have found a solution that allows me to use the WWBaseMap detailed chart as my unit's internal base map. In this way when using the marine charts information is displayed correctly, with islands appearing at higher zoom levels where they should be. The required steps (not necessarily carved in stone since this was my first attempt and it seemed to work) 1. Use WWBaseMap CD and prepare a chart area of your choice. Choose to upload the chart to your local hard disk and not to the GPS. 2. Using windows explorer rename this chart to something meaningful for you, leaving the.img ending unchanged of course.
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3. Use the standard Magellan software (MagUp) for uploading firmware fixes. Select Expert Upload (press no to the default question to upload firmware), select Meridian as your GPS unit and the port the GPS is connected to. Press save. 4. Choose Expert Upload and select Upload firmware and basemap. For basemap select the chart you have previously prepared with the WWBaseMap CD. 5. First, the program uploads the firmware. When this is done the GPS shuts down. Turn it on again and you should receive a message that the unit contains no internal base map, and it will automatically switch to basemap upload mode. From the Magellan application proceed to upload the basemap 6. When the Magellan application finishes uploading the map two things could happen: a) Either the GPS will recognize the new map and it will immediately start loading and display the new map, or b) or it would stay dead and continue to display the message Uploading basemap. If this happens, then from the Magellan MagUp application choose upload base map (just base map not firmware and basemap) from expert mode and repeat the process. 7. The second time around should be sufficient and the GPS should work correctly. If the problem persists then repeat once more. If nothing then use the secret menus (found on the files section) to erase the internal basemap and start all over again from step 4. The result of all this is that the WWBaseMap becomes the internal basemap in the unit, and the BlueNav map runs from the BlueNav SD card.

Troubleshooting SD Cards and Windows XP
The root of this problem is that any SD card formatted using Windows XP will NOT work in a Meridian GPS receiver. The solution is to use your Meridian to format the card. The card can be formatted from the Card Utilities menu. Note that formatting will completely erase the card. This is not something that you want to do in the middle of the woods! Note that the Meridian completely ignores the Lock switch on the SD card itself! Update This problem is reported to be fixed in the latest firmware updates, version 4.51 or later.
Troubleshooting Map Size Limits
Thanks to "jvavrus2000" With the 3.08 version of the Meridian firmware, size restrictions on the size of map files have been removed. However, the existing MapSend software does not know this, and will try to restrict the size of maps unless told otherwise. First, using Windows Explorer, navigate to the MapSend installation directory. This should be under C:\ Program Files\Magellan. Open the MAPSEND.INI file using your favorite text editor. Inside this file, there is a parameter called "Conv_Memory_Size" which is the maximum region size in bytes. Multiply this number by four, and you should be able to have much larger regions. If this line does not exist, then add the following line (case sensitive) under the [Device Defaults] section:

Conv_Memory_Size=65536

Note that the larger the region is, the longer your computer will take to process this region. Processing a 64MB region is likely to take a very long time. You are much better off making smaller maps, and loading multiple map files on your SD card, as described in question 13. Large maps do have some side effect. The larger the map, the more likely the map is to suffer from corruption. Maps larger than 30MB are prone to corruption and very large maps can result in slow screen updates (Topo seems to be more sensitive to this than S&D). To minimize the chance of corruption during map generation, run the Mapsend software to create the maps and do not run any other programs, surf the net, check your email nothing, nada, nil. Dont even think about touching your computer.
Troubleshooting Meridian Green or Yellow Loss of Waypoints and Routes
There is a Troubleshooting that affects only the base 2MB Meridian (Green or Yellow) model. If any waypoint, route, or track data is added or edited, this data will be lost if the Meridian does not have a proper power down (for example, having the batteries die). This means that if you add a waypoint, and then your batteries die before turning the unit off, then your waypoint will be lost. The fix is to turn your unit off and then back on after adding any waypoints or routes. This is due to the type of memory used in the 2MB model, and does not affect the Gold, Platinum, or Marine models. The latest firmware updates are supposed to have reduced this effect somewhat, but the best security for your data is to save your data to the SD card. That way, if you should lose this information you can still restore the data from the SD card.

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Troubleshooting Screen Spots
Some users have reported that the backlight on their Meridian began to develop dark discolored spots. These spots are only visible when the backlight is turned on. Magellan has apparently fixed the problem that caused this to happen with new units, and has promised to fix the problem under warranty for existing units (even if the unit is no longer under warranty). Contact Magellan if this happens, and arrange for the problem to be fixed.
Troubleshooting -- My Platinums Compass Doesnt Calibrate
Sometimes you can calibrate your compass on the Meridian Platinum and it still point the wrong direction often 180 degrees the wrong direction. Also, when you try to calibrate the compass it may be very difficult to get the bubble in the right location at the beginning of the calibration process. A quick fix when direction is off by 180 degrees is to toggle the Compass Orient in the setup menu to GPS Course and then back to Magnetic North. These issues can also be resolved by performing the additional calibration procedure as detailed in the supplemental manual for the Platinum (pages 7 10). You can force the GPS to initiate this process by using hidden menu 21. To execute the steps it is important to have the printout of these pages at sight, because while doing the 9 steps of the procedure you cannot see the commands on the screen in all the necessary positions. - edmaurer2002
Troubleshooting - Low Battery Warning
Some users have notice an erroneous Low Battery warning message during rough handling, even when the batteries are new. One cause of this problem has been reported to be the pressure sensitive contacts used for the batteries. These battery contacts are not actually soldered down to the Meridians circuit board. Slightly bending these contacts for better pressure or soldering the contacts (for those skilled with the soldering iron). Note that a modification such as soldering will probably void any warranty. There is a file called MeriPlatBatComMod.jpg in the groups files section that details the procedure, as performed by gmcaddon.

Troubleshooting -- COM Port is Busy
There are two problems in this category. First, the COM port is always reported busy and never works at all. This most often occurs when other programs loaded on the GPS are using the com port. PDA software is one such culprit, like Palms Hotsync. To get Mapsend to operate, youll have to disable the application that is tying up the COM port. Second, when using Mapsend the COM port stops working after accessing the GPS. If you upload/download data or even test the port, Mapsend says the port is busy. This sometimes occurs on systems with Windows XP, even though Magellan claims they are 100% compatible with XP and have been unable to duplicate this problem. Rebooting the system clears the problem, but for only one upload/download operation (then its Busy again). The fix for this problem is to change the baud rate from the default 4800 to something higher. Both the GPS and Mapsend have to be changed to the new baud rate, then the port will operate properly.
Troubleshooting -- Mapsend is taking forever to generate a map
One issue was identified that on WinXP systems, even a simple map would take hours to generate. Users discovered that a lot of hard drive space also appeared to be consumed. The cause was isolated to WinXPs system restore feature. By turning off System Restore (found in System Properties) it was found the maps generated normally.
Troubleshooting -- Topo Map Size
The Meridian had a problem with files larger than 16MB created by MapSend Topo. This problem has been fixed in the 3.08 firmware.
Magellan Meridian FAQ Version 2.0 Page 28 of 30
Troubleshooting -- 128MB and larger SD Cards
Due to a bug in the 3.08 firmware, serial downloads cannot be done to a 128MB SD card. It is unknown is this problem still exists in the 3.12 firmware and above. If you have version 3.08 and a card this size, then you must use a SD card writer. The MapSend Streets & Destinations product has a bug when using a 128MB card in a SD card writer. The current workaround is to follow the same instructions as for using older MapSend products with a SD card writer. Copying Files to an SD Card Reader Manually from MapSend 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Without connecting your Meridian to a PC create your regions and begin the map download process (to the serial port). When the map compilation part of the download process is done, MapSend will display a message that it cannot find your GPS receiver to perform the download. Stop the process here by selecting "Cancel". Using Windows Explorer, go to Program Files/Magellan/MapSend/Export and locate the file called "maps.img". Copy this file to the SD card using USB card reader. Do not create any folders within the SD card where you place this file. Your Meridian will always looks at the top, or "Root", level within the card. Rename the file to "DETAIL00.img" Remove the card and place it in your Meridian. You can use your Meridian as you would normally from here.