Q&A: Are there any tricks to connecting my Garmin nuvi 200w to the satellites?
Question by Alex N: Are there any tricks to connecting my Garmin nuvi 200w to the satellites?
I recently bought a Garmin nuvi 200w off ebay and didn’t read until afterwards that it takes FOREVER to connect to satellites. I got it and this is the case. Since a lot of people have experienced this and expressed it, I was wondering if there were any ways or tricks to get it connected. I thought maybe turn it on like ten minutes before leaving or something like that. Please help, it’s a christmas present and I don’t want to disappoint someone.
Best answer:
Answer by mark
It honestly shouldn;t take that long. It should just take 30 seconds to a minute at most. Just make sure you are not in a parking garage, or anything else that will block the reception.
Give your answer to this question below!
You can also subscribe here to get this site update in your email.
My Nuvi connects within seconds of powering up. If this is a used unit you purchased from a seller on eBay, then maybe all it needs is a software update. Just plug it in to your computer and go to Garmin.com to check for updates.
The speed of connection to the satellites will depend on the location of the unit, and the availability of clear access to the sky. If you are in a house or parking garage, it will take longer to locate than if you are in an open field. It also will take longer if the unit is a long distance from the last found location, because it will need to reset itself.
Try the unit in an open area, with a clear view of the sky. Buildings, trees, mountains, and other obstructions can cause problems. After it finds the location, it should be able to re-locate itself after being turned off.