TTC Garmin InReach device
The TTC Garmin InReach device is available for use by club members only. For enquiries or to book the device please contact Lynne White -> mailto:ttc [period] inreach [period] bookings [snail] ttc [period] org [period] nz?Subject=Query from TTC website on 027 631 1160 . It is the responsibility of the user to return the device to the InReach booking officer as soon as possible after use. There is an instruction sheet with the Garmin InReach Device, and the following Quick Start guide (view or download the Quickguide), and view or downloadable Phone Instructions.
Conditions of use
- Loss or damage the InReach so that it no longer works - you replace it ($579 in 2020)
- Activation of the InReach, either intentionally or accidentally - you take full responsibility for consequences
- You are responsbile for all additional charges incurred
Quick guide
This is an abbreviated version designed for Tararua Tramping Club members using the Club’s Garmin InReach device. The full instructions provide comprehensive instructions for individuals who own and are the sole users of an inReach device. In addition to the full instructions below, you may also find it useful to watch a YouTube webinar: inReach core features
These instructions are for Club members who the Club expects will use only part of the inReach’s capability – sending and receiving messages, getting weather forecasts and the emergency functions.
- Club members are requested to restrict their usage of the inReach to these functions and to use their own devices for tracking (making a trace) and navigation.
- Limiting use of the inReach to sending and receiving messages, getting weather forecasts and the emergency functions will extend battery life and limit data usage charges incurred.
Getting Started
|
▲ ▼ Scroll through menus, pages, and settings. |
Sending and receiving data
! Unable to send and receive data Tracking enabled Bluetooth connection status ANT+ technology enabled Extended tracking mode enabled Charging battery Charging complete |
From the home page, select OK to open the main menu.
- Power menu displays the device battery life. It also allows you to adjust settings and turn off the device.
From any page, select .
- Battery: Displays the current battery level.
- Lock Screen: Locks the touchscreen to prevent inadvertent key presses.
- Turn Off: Turns off the device.
- Brightness: Adjusts the brightness of the screen.
- Mute Sounds: Mutes all device tones.
The main pages contain all the information needed to operate this device.
- use ▲ or ▼ to scroll through the pages.
- Home page: Displays the date, time, and status icons. It also displays tracking and weather information when those features are in use. You can select OK to open the main menu.
- Messages page: Enables you to send and receive text messages.
- Mail Check page: Enables you to check for new messages.
- Location page: Displays your current GPS location and elevation.
- Compass page: Displays your heading and speed when you are moving.
- Bluetooth page: Enables you to pair the inReach device with a compatible mobile device.
- Weather page: Enables you to request weather forecasts.
Bluetooth Connected Features
The inReach device has several Bluetooth connected features for a compatible smartphone using the Earthmate app. The Earthmate app allows the use of inReach features such as messaging, and SOS on your mobile device, see the Phone Instructions.
- Sync: Earthmate syncs your device with TTC’s explore.garmin.com account.
- Messages: Allows the user to read and write messages and access the contacts list on their smartphone. Messages appear on both devices.
Pairing Your Mobile Device You must pair your inReach device with your smartphone to use Bluetooth features.
- Before you leave home install and open the Earthmate app.
- Place the inReach device and smartphone within 3 m of each other.
- From the inReach main menu, select Setup > Bluetooth > Pair Device.
- Follow the instructions in the Earthmate app to complete the pairing and setup process.
After the devices are paired, they connect automatically when they are turned on and within range.
Iridium Satellite Network
The inReach device requires a clear view of the sky to transmit an receive messages and track points over the Iridium satellite network. Without a clear view of the sky, the inReach device attempts to send the information until it acquires satellite signals.
Testing the Device
You should test the inReach device outdoors before using it on a trip to ensure the satellite subscription is active. From the main menu, select Utilities > Test Service > OK. Wait while the device sends a test message. When you receive a confirmation message, the device is ready to use.
Messages
In addition to these instructions, download the Using your Phone with inReach Instructions.
The inReach Mini device sends and receives text messages using the Iridium satellite network. You can send messages to an SMS (text) phone number or an email address. Each message you send includes your location details.
Sending a text message:
- From the Messages page on the inReach device, select OK.
- Select New Message > Select Contacts.
- Choose recipients from your contacts list and select Done.
- To write a message, select Write Message.
- NOTE: To select from the autocomplete options, begin typing a word, hold OK, and use ▲ and ▼ to scroll through the options.
- When you have finished your message, select > Send.
Do not use the preset messages as there is no certainty that they will be received in a timely manner.
Replying to a Message:
- From the Messages page on the inReach device, select OK.
- Select a conversation and select Reply.
- Select Write Message.
- When you have finished your message, select > Send.
Do not post to Social Media
Checking for Messages
The inReach device listens for new messages at regular listen intervals. Satellites announce recently sent messages and the inReach device receives the message at the next listen interval. The device will listen for 10 minutes after you send a message, and then again every hour. You can manually check for messages. From the Mail Check page, select OK.
Viewing Message Details
- From the Messages page on the inReach device, select OK.
- Select a conversation.
- Select a message, and select OK.
Do not use Navigating to a Message Location
Delete Messages after your trip
Delete Messages at the end of your trip:
- From the Messages page, select OK.
- Select a message.
- Select Delete Thread.
Use the contacts in your smartphone. Before you start your trip ensure that you have all the contacts you will need on your phone. see the Phone Instructions.
SOS
During an emergency, you can use the inReach Mini device to contact the Garmin International Emergency Response Coordination Center (IERCC) to request help. Pressing the SOS button sends a message to the Garmin IERCC, and they notify the appropriate emergency responders of your situation. When you activate SOS on the inReach, there is a person on the other end who will communicate with you and coordinate with the proper responders in New Zealand. They will stay in communication with you until your situation is resolved. These people will also be contacted:
- Emergency Contact 1; role disestablished -> mailto:ttc [period] sar [snail] ttc [period] org [period] nz?Subject=Query from TTC website
- Emergency Contact 2; Paul McCredie -> mailto:ttc [period] chief [period] guide [snail] ttc [period] org [period] nz?Subject=Query from TTC website on 021 477 617
You should only use the SOS function in a real emergency situation.
Initiating an SOS Rescue:
- Lift the protective cap from the SOS button .
- Hold the SOS button down.
- Wait for the SOS countdown.
The device sends a default message to the emergency response service with details about your location.
- Reply to the confirmation message from the emergency response service.
Your reply lets the emergency response service know that you are capable of interacting with them during the rescue. If you do not reply, the emergency response service will still initiate a rescue. For the first 10 minutes after you press the SOS button an updated location is sent to the emergency response service every minute. To conserve battery power, after the first 10 minutes an updated location is sent every 10 minutes when moving, and every 30 minutes when stationary.
Sending a Custom SOS Message
After pressing the SOS button to initiate an SOS rescue, you can reply to the confirmation message from the IERCC with a custom message using the SOS page.
- Select Reply to compose a custom SOS message.
- When you have finished your message, select > Send.
Your reply lets the emergency response service know that you are capable of interacting with them during the rescue.
Canceling an SOS Rescue
If you no longer need assistance, you can cancel an SOS rescue after it is sent to the emergency response service.
- Lift the protective cap and hold the SOS button.
- Select Cancel SOS.
- When prompted to confirm your cancellation request, select Cancel SOS.
The inReach device transmits the cancellation request. When you receive a confirmation message from the emergency response service, the device returns to normal operation.
Do not use Navigation. TTC expects members to use their own GPS devices for navigation.
Weather:
The inReach device can send a message to request forecasts. Although it is possible to get weather forecasts for locations other than your current location, this functionality is unlikely to be of much benefit for trampers because they are unlikely to travel from one forecasting area to another in a short period. Weather forecasts incur data usage charges for which you are responsible.
Requesting a Weather Forecast
- From the Weather page, select OK.
- Select Update.
The inReach sends a request for the forecast. It may take several minutes to receive the weather forecast data. After the device finishes downloading the data, you can view the forecast at any time until all the information in the forecast has expired. You can also update the forecast at any time.
Locking and Unlocking the Keys
You can lock the keys to prevent inadvertent key presses.
- Select > Lock Screen.
- Select > Unlock to unlock the keys.
Device care:
- Avoid chemical cleaners, solvents, and insect repellents that can damage plastic components and finishes.
- Do not store the device where prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can occur, because it can cause permanent damage.
- To prevent corrosion, thoroughly dry the USB port, the weather cap, and the surrounding area before charging or connecting to a computer.
Charging
The device does not charge when it is outside the approved temperature range.
- Lift the weather cap (1)
- Plug the small end of the power cable into the USB port (2) on the device.
- Plug the other end of the power cable into an appropriate power source.
- Charge the device completely.
You can turn off device features while charging.
- Connect your device to an external power source.
- Hold the power button until the screen turns off. The device goes into a low power, battery charging mode, and the battery gauge appears.
- Charge the device completely.
Operation
- Operating temperature range From -20° to 60°C (from -4° to 140°F)
- Charging temperature range From 0° to 45°C (from 32° to 113°F)
The actual battery life depends on your device settings, such as the tracking and message checking intervals.
Battery Life | Mode |
---|---|
Up to 35 hr | 10-minute tracking send interval and 1-second log interval |
Up to 90 hr | Default mode with 10-minute tracking send interval |
Up to 24 days | Extended tracking mode with 30-minute tracking send interval |
The device withstands incidental exposure to water of up to 1 m for up to 30 min. For more information, go to garmin.com/waterrating.
See also
- Avalanche Transceiver Loaning Avalanche Transceivers from TTC
- Club Gear Party gear supplied by the club. One of the trip information pages
- Tramping information Information for trip participants and leaders
- Personal Locator Beacon Renting Personal Locator Beacons from TTC