bushnell backtrack gps user guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on using your Bushnell BackTrack GPS device. From setting up your device to navigating back to marked locations, this guide covers everything you need to know about utilizing the features and functionality of your BackTrack GPS.

Introduction

The Bushnell BackTrack GPS is a compact and user-friendly navigation device designed to help you find your way back to a set location. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, hunting, or simply exploring the great outdoors, the BackTrack GPS provides peace of mind by allowing you to mark your starting point and easily navigate back to it. This guide will walk you through the essential features and functions of the BackTrack GPS, empowering you to confidently explore and return safely.

Key Features

The Bushnell BackTrack GPS boasts a range of features designed to enhance your outdoor adventures. These include⁚

• Simple and Intuitive Interface⁚ The BackTrack GPS features a user-friendly interface with clear icons and straightforward button controls, making it easy to navigate even for first-time users.
• Mark and Return Functionality⁚ With the BackTrack GPS, you can mark your starting point or any other desired location, allowing you to easily navigate back to it using the device’s compass and distance readings.
• Compact and Lightweight Design⁚ The BackTrack GPS is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your pocket or attach to your keychain.
• Long Battery Life⁚ The BackTrack GPS uses standard AAA batteries, providing extended battery life for your outdoor excursions.

These key features make the BackTrack GPS a reliable and convenient tool for anyone who enjoys exploring the outdoors.

Setting Up Your BackTrack

Before embarking on your outdoor adventures, it’s essential to properly set up your Bushnell BackTrack GPS. Follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience⁚

1. Inserting Batteries⁚ Locate the battery compartment on the back of the BackTrack and twist the cover clockwise to open it. Insert two AAA alkaline or lithium batteries, paying attention to the polarity markings inside the compartment. Replace the cover by rotating it counterclockwise.
2. Turning On and Connecting to GPS Satellites⁚ To turn on your BackTrack, hold down the MODE/POWER button. Ensure you are outdoors with a clear view of the sky for optimal GPS reception. The BackTrack will take a few moments to lock onto GPS satellites, indicated by the Satellite icon ceasing to flash.
3. Understanding the Display⁚ The BackTrack display provides essential information, such as the direction to your marked location, the distance to that location, and the current time. Familiarise yourself with the different icons and symbols on the display to interpret the information accurately.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be ready to start using your BackTrack GPS for navigation and exploration.

Inserting Batteries

Powering up your Bushnell BackTrack GPS is a straightforward process. Here’s how to insert the batteries⁚

1. Locate the Battery Compartment⁚ On the back of the BackTrack, you’ll find a round battery cover.
2. Unlock and Open⁚ Slide the switch on the battery cover to the unlock position, and then twist the cover clockwise to open it.
3. Insert Batteries⁚ Inside the compartment, you’ll see markings indicating the correct orientation for the batteries. Insert two AAA alkaline or lithium batteries, ensuring they are aligned with the polarity markings.
4. Secure the Cover⁚ Replace the battery cover and rotate it counterclockwise until it’s securely fastened.

With the batteries installed, your BackTrack is ready to be turned on and connected to GPS satellites.

Turning On and Connecting to GPS Satellites

To activate your Bushnell BackTrack and begin your navigation journey, follow these simple steps⁚

1. Power On⁚ Press and hold the MODE/Power button on your BackTrack. The device will power up, and the display will illuminate.
2. Outdoor Location⁚ Ensure you are outdoors with a clear view of the sky. This will allow the BackTrack to receive optimal GPS signals.
3. Satellite Connection⁚ The BackTrack will automatically begin searching for GPS satellites. The Satellite icon on the display will blink while the device establishes a connection.
4. Connection Confirmation⁚ Once the BackTrack has successfully connected to enough GPS satellites, the Satellite icon will stop blinking, indicating a solid connection.

Now that your BackTrack is connected to GPS satellites, you’re ready to start marking locations, navigating, and exploring the great outdoors.

Understanding the Display

The BackTrack GPS display provides essential information to guide your navigation. Here’s a breakdown of its key elements⁚

• Direction Arrow⁚ This arrow indicates the direction you need to travel to reach your marked location. It will point in the direction of the arrow on the display.
• Distance⁚ The display shows the distance you are from your marked location. The distance will decrease as you approach your destination.
• Location Icons⁚ The BackTrack allows you to mark up to three locations. Each location is represented by a unique icon on the display. These icons help you easily identify and navigate to your pre-selected destinations.
• Satellite Icon⁚ This icon indicates the status of the GPS satellite connection. A blinking icon signifies that the device is searching for satellites. A solid icon indicates a successful connection.
• Battery Icon⁚ The battery icon displays the remaining battery power. It will show different levels of charge, indicating when you need to replace the batteries.

By understanding these key components, you can effectively interpret the information displayed on your BackTrack and navigate with confidence.

Using the BackTrack GPS

Once your BackTrack is set up and connected to GPS satellites, you can start using it for navigation. Here’s a simple guide to using the BackTrack effectively⁚

• Marking Locations⁚ To mark a location, select a location icon on the display using the MODE/POWER button. Once selected, hold the MARK button until the distance indication changes to 0. This will store the location in the BackTrack’s memory.
• Navigating Back to a Marked Location⁚ To navigate back to a marked location, power on the BackTrack and the display will indicate the direction and distance to the most recent location you marked. To navigate to a different location, press the MODE/POWER button to select the desired icon.
• Additional Tips for Accurate Navigation⁚ For optimal GPS reception, ensure you are outdoors with a clear view of the sky. Avoid using the BackTrack in areas with heavy foliage or tall buildings. Additionally, understand that the inherent nature of the GPS system limits the accuracy of the distance indicated on the display to within about 35 meters of the actual marked location.

By following these simple steps, you can use your BackTrack GPS to navigate confidently and reliably.

Marking Locations

Marking locations with your BackTrack GPS is a simple process that allows you to easily navigate back to specific points. Here’s how to do it⁚

1. Select a Location Icon⁚ Use the MODE/POWER button to cycle through the available location icons on the BackTrack’s display. Choose the icon that best suits your needs, such as “Car,” “Camp,” or “Trailhead.”
2. Stand at the Location⁚ Position yourself at the exact spot you want to mark; Ensure you have a clear view of the sky for optimal GPS reception.
3. Hold the MARK Button⁚ Press and hold the MARK button until the distance indication on the display changes to 0. This indicates that the location has been successfully stored in the BackTrack’s memory.

Once you have marked a location, the BackTrack will remember its coordinates even when turned off. You can mark up to three locations simultaneously, allowing you to navigate to multiple destinations.

Navigating Back to a Marked Location

Returning to one of your previously marked locations is straightforward! Simply follow these steps⁚

1. Turn On the BackTrack⁚ Press and hold the MODE/POWER button to power on your BackTrack GPS. The display will show the direction and distance back to the most recent location you marked.
2. Select the Desired Location⁚ If you wish to return to a different marked location, press the MODE/POWER button repeatedly to cycle through the icons representing your stored locations. Choose the icon corresponding to the location you want to return to.
3. Follow the Arrow⁚ The BackTrack’s display will show an arrow indicating the direction to your selected location. Walk in the direction of the arrow, and the distance displayed will decrease as you approach your destination.
4. Reach the Marked Location⁚ Continue following the arrow until the display changes to a full circle of arrows, indicating you have arrived at the marked location.

The BackTrack provides a simple and reliable way to navigate back to your marked locations, making it an ideal tool for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or camping.

Additional Tips for Accurate Navigation

While the Bushnell BackTrack GPS device offers reliable navigation, following these tips can enhance its accuracy and performance⁚

• Clear Sky View⁚ Ensure the BackTrack has a clear view of the sky for optimal GPS reception. Avoid using the device indoors or in areas with dense foliage, as this can hinder satellite signal reception.
• Calibrate the Compass⁚ To ensure accurate compass readings, periodically calibrate the BackTrack by following the instructions in the user manual. This helps align the device’s internal compass with the Earth’s magnetic field.
• Understand Limitations⁚ Remember that the BackTrack’s distance accuracy is limited to approximately 3-5 meters. It is a supplemental navigation tool and not a precision measuring device; Always exercise caution and use common sense when navigating.
• Mark Waypoints Strategically⁚ Mark important locations along your route to aid in navigation. This provides reference points and allows you to easily return to specific points of interest.
• Utilize Additional Navigation Tools⁚ Consider using a map or compass in conjunction with the BackTrack for added accuracy and redundancy. This provides a backup navigation system in case of device failure.

By incorporating these tips into your navigation practices, you can maximize the accuracy and reliability of your Bushnell BackTrack GPS device.

Troubleshooting

While the Bushnell BackTrack GPS is designed for reliable operation, you may encounter occasional issues. This section provides guidance on resolving common problems⁚

• No GPS Signal⁚ If the BackTrack fails to acquire a GPS signal, ensure you are outdoors with a clear view of the sky. Avoid areas with dense foliage or buildings that could obstruct satellite reception. Try restarting the device or moving to a more open location.
• Incorrect Compass Readings⁚ If the compass displays inaccurate readings, calibrate it by following the instructions in the user manual. This involves aligning the device with the Earth’s magnetic field, ensuring accurate direction readings.
• Battery Issues⁚ If the BackTrack displays low battery warnings, replace the batteries with fresh ones. Ensure that the batteries are installed correctly, with the positive and negative terminals facing the appropriate directions.
• Device Not Responding⁚ If the BackTrack becomes unresponsive, try restarting the device by holding down the power button for a few seconds. If the issue persists, consult the user manual for further troubleshooting steps or contact Bushnell customer support.
• Connection Problems⁚ If you are experiencing issues connecting the BackTrack to your smartphone, ensure that both devices are powered on and within Bluetooth range. Verify that the BackTrack is in pairing mode and that the Bushnell Connect app is properly installed and configured.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can address most common issues and ensure your BackTrack GPS operates smoothly.

Warranty Information

Bushnell stands behind the quality and craftsmanship of their products. Your Bushnell BackTrack GPS unit is covered by a comprehensive warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period.

To ensure your warranty coverage, carefully review the terms and conditions outlined in the user manual. The warranty period typically commences from the date of purchase. In the event of a defect covered by the warranty, Bushnell will, at their discretion, repair or replace the defective product.

To initiate a warranty claim, you will need to provide proof of purchase, such as a receipt or invoice. Contact Bushnell customer support for instructions on how to return the product for repair or replacement.

Please note that the warranty may not cover damages resulting from misuse, accidents, or unauthorized modifications. For a detailed understanding of the warranty terms, refer to the user manual or visit the Bushnell website.

Specifications

The Bushnell BackTrack GPS units are designed to be compact, lightweight, and user-friendly, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Here are some key specifications that highlight the features and capabilities of these devices⁚

• Dimensions⁚ The Bushnell BackTrack GPS units are designed to be compact and portable, with dimensions that vary depending on the specific model.
• Weight⁚ Weighing approximately 73 grams, the Bushnell BackTrack GPS units are lightweight and easy to carry in your pocket or attach to a keychain.
• Battery Life⁚ The BackTrack GPS units are powered by two AAA batteries, providing ample battery life for extended outdoor adventures.
• GPS Accuracy⁚ The GPS technology employed in the BackTrack GPS units provides a level of accuracy within a specified range, allowing you to navigate with confidence.
• Memory Capacity⁚ The BackTrack GPS units feature a memory capacity that allows you to store multiple marked locations for later retrieval.

For detailed specifications specific to your BackTrack GPS model, refer to the user manual or visit the Bushnell website.