GlobalSat BT-368i Bluetooth GPS Receiver User Manual

Introduction

The GlobalSat BT-368i is a compact and high-performance Bluetooth GPS receiver designed to provide reliable satellite positioning data to a variety of host devices. Utilizing SiRF's StarIII GPS chipset, it offers impressive accuracy even in challenging environments like urban areas or under dense foliage. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your BT-368i receiver.

Package Contents

Before you begin, please ensure all items are present in your package:

• GlobalSat BT-368i Bluetooth GPS Receiver
• 12VDC Car Charger
• 110VAC Home Charger
• USB Charger Cable
• Dashboard Mount

Product Overview

The BT-368i features a thin profile housing with a powerful built-in antenna. It communicates wirelessly via Bluetooth 2.0 Serial Port Profile (SPP) and includes three status LEDs for easy monitoring.

Setup

1. Charging the Battery

The BT-368i is powered by a built-in rechargeable Li-Ion battery. Before first use, fully charge the device using the provided 12VDC car charger, 110VAC home charger, or the USB charger cable connected to a computer or USB power adapter.

• Connect the USB charger cable to the BT-368i's mini USB port.
• Connect the other end of the USB cable to either the car charger, home charger, or a powered USB port.
• The charging indicator LED (typically yellow) will illuminate during charging and turn off or change color when fully charged.
• A full charge provides up to 10 hours of continuous use.

2. Powering On/Off

• To power on: Locate the power button/switch on the device and press/slide it to the 'ON' position. The power indicator LED will light up.
• To power off: Press/slide the power button/switch to the 'OFF' position. All LEDs will turn off.

3. Bluetooth Pairing

The BT-368i communicates with a host device (e.g., PDA, laptop, smartphone) using Bluetooth 2.0 Serial Port Profile (SPP) technology.

1. Ensure the BT-368i is powered on and within range of your host device.
2. On your host device, enable Bluetooth and search for new devices.
3. Select "BT-368i" (or similar name) from the list of found devices.
4. If prompted for a passcode, enter 0000 (four zeros).
5. Once paired, the Bluetooth indicator LED on the BT-368i will typically change its state (e.g., solid blue or slow blinking) to indicate a successful connection.

4. Software Configuration

The BT-368i is compatible with most NMEA compliant software available on the market. It supports operating systems such as Windows WM5/6, Mac, Blackberry, and Palm.

• Install your preferred GPS navigation software on your host device.
• In the software settings, select the Bluetooth serial port (COM port) assigned to the BT-368i.
• Set the baud rate, typically 9600, if required by your software.
• Ensure the software is configured to receive NMEA 0183 data.

Operating Instructions

LED Indicators

The BT-368i features three status LEDs to provide visual feedback:

• Power LED: Indicates the device is powered on.
• Bluetooth LED: Indicates Bluetooth connection status (e.g., blinking when discoverable, solid when connected).
• GPS Signal LED: Indicates GPS satellite acquisition status (e.g., blinking when searching for satellites, solid when a 3D fix is achieved).

GPS Signal Acquisition

For optimal performance, place the BT-368i in an open area with a clear view of the sky. Initial satellite acquisition (cold start) may take a few minutes. Subsequent acquisitions (warm start) will be faster.

• Ensure the GPS Signal LED is active.
• Wait for the GPS Signal LED to indicate a stable fix (refer to your device's specific LED behavior for a solid fix).
• Your navigation software on the host device should then display your current position.

Using with Host Devices

Once paired and configured, the BT-368i will continuously transmit GPS data to your host device. Ensure your navigation application is running and configured to use the external GPS receiver.

• PDAs/Smartphones: Use with mapping and navigation applications.
• Laptops: Compatible with various desktop mapping software. For Windows 8.1 and newer, a driver like GPSDirect may be required to bridge the serial port data to location-aware applications.

Maintenance

Battery Care

• To maximize battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
• Recharge the device when the battery low indicator is active.
• The BT-368i features an auto-shut off function to conserve battery power if no Bluetooth connection is established for a period (typically 10 minutes).
• Store the device in a cool, dry place if not used for extended periods.

Cleaning and Storage

• Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or moisture.
• Protect the mini USB port cover from damage.

Troubleshooting

No GPS Signal / "Current Position Unavailable"

• Ensure the device has a clear, unobstructed view of the sky. Avoid indoor use or areas with tall buildings/dense foliage.
• Check the GPS Signal LED on the BT-368i to confirm it is actively searching for or has acquired satellites.
• Verify that your navigation software is correctly configured to use the external Bluetooth GPS receiver and the correct COM port/baud rate.
• Allow sufficient time for initial satellite acquisition (cold start).

Bluetooth Pairing Issues

• Ensure the BT-368i is powered on and its Bluetooth LED indicates it is discoverable.
• Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your host device and it is searching for devices.
• Confirm the pairing passcode (0000) is entered correctly.
• Try unpairing and re-pairing the device on your host device.
• Ensure the BT-368i is within the 30-foot Bluetooth range of your host device.

Device Not Recognized by Windows (especially Windows 7/8.1)

• While the device pairs, Windows may not automatically link the Bluetooth serial port to the GPS sensor API.
• Consider using a third-party driver/utility like GPSDirect to create a virtual COM port that bridges the GPS data to Windows' location services.
• Check the Windows Event Log for errors related to device registration if you encounter persistent issues.

Short Battery Life

• Ensure the device is fully charged before use.
• Verify that the auto-shut off feature is functioning if the device is left idle without a connection.
• Battery performance can degrade over time with repeated charge cycles.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your retailer. Technical support may be available from the manufacturer, USGlobalSat, Inc.

Manufacturer: USGlobalSat, Inc.