Introduction
This manual provides information for the Garmin Approach S44 GPS golf watch. For product warnings and other important information, refer to the Important Safety and Product Information guide included in the product box.
Device Overview
The watch features a touchscreen display, a top button, and a bottom button.
- Touchscreen: Tap to choose options, swipe up or down to scroll through glances and menus.
- Top button: Press to start a round of golf, start an activity or app, or hold to turn the watch on and access the controls menu.
- Bottom button: Press to return to the previous screen or record a lap/rest during an activity.
Getting Started
To set up your watch:
- Turn on the watch by holding the top button.
- Follow the on-screen prompts for language, units of measure, and driver distance.
- Pair your phone by following the instructions for Pairing Your Phone.
- Charge the watch completely.
Using the Watch Features
- Swipe up or down from the watch face to scroll through glances for quick information.
- Press the top button and select an activity or app.
- Hold the top button and select Settings to customize the watch face and settings.
Pairing Your Phone
Pair your watch with your phone using the Garmin Golf™ app. Scan the QR code provided on the watch during initial setup or access Settings > Phone > Pair Phone.
Charging the Watch
Plug the charging cable into the watch and a USB charging port. The watch displays the current battery charge level.
WARNING: The device contains a lithium-ion battery. Refer to the Important Safety and Product Information guide for warnings.
Product Updates
Install Garmin Express™ on your computer (www.garmin.com/express) and the Garmin Golf app on your smartphone for software updates, course updates, data uploads, and product registration.
Setting Up Garmin Express
- Connect your watch to your computer using a USB cable.
- Go to garmin.com/express.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Playing Golf
Before playing golf, ensure the watch is charged. Some features require a Garmin Golf subscription.
Starting a Round
- Press the top button.
- Select Play Golf.
- The device locates satellites and selects a course.
- Select a course from the list if applicable.
- Select the appropriate tee box.
- Select an option to keep score.
Hole Information Screen
The hole information screen displays:
- 1: Current hole number
- 2: Par for the hole
- 3: Map of the hole
- 4: Distances to the front, middle, and back of the green.
NOTE: Pin locations change, so distances are to the front, middle, and back of the green, not the actual pin location.
Navigating Hole Information
- Tap front, middle, or back distances to view PlaysLike distance.
- Swipe up or down to view additional data, including handicap rating and PlaysLike factors.
- Tap the map to view details or measure distance with touch targeting.
- Tap the map and use the up/down arrows to view layup or hazard distances.
- Press the top button to open the golf menu.
The watch automatically transitions to the next hole information screen when you move to the next hole.
Golf Menu Options
- View Green: Adjust pin location for precise distance measurement.
- Change Hole: Manually change the current hole.
- Change Green: Select a different green if multiple greens are available for a hole.
- Scorecard: View the scorecard for the round.
- PinPointer: Compass points to the pin location, useful when the green is not visible.
- Round Info: View score, statistics, and step information.
- Last Shot: View the distance of your previous shot or manually record a shot.
- Club Stats: View statistics for each club (requires Approach club tracking accessories or Club Prompt setting).
- Custom Targets: Save custom target locations for the current hole.
- Sunrise & Sunset: View sunrise, sunset, and twilight times.
- Settings: Customize golf activity settings.
- End Round: End the current round.
Viewing the Green
To get a more precise distance measurement:
- Press the top button.
- Select View Green.
- Tap or drag to move the pin location. The displayed distances update accordingly.
Hazards and Layups
Tap the map to view hazards and layups for the current hole.
- 1: Type of hazard or layup distance.
- 2: Location of hazard or layup.
- 3: Distance to layup or front/back of hazard.
- 4: Arrows to tap for other hazards or layups.
Measuring Distance with Touch Targeting
Use touch targeting to measure distance to any point on the map (requires Garmin Golf subscription).
- While playing golf, tap the map.
- Tap the map to position the target circle. View distances from your current position to the target and from the target to the pin.
Changing Holes
Manually change holes from the hole view screen:
- Press the top button.
- Select Change Hole.
- Swipe up or down to select the hole.
Keeping Score
- Press the top button.
- Select Scorecard. If scoring is not enabled, select Start Scoring.
- Select a hole.
- Use the minus (-) or plus (+) buttons to set the score.
Enabling Statistics Tracking
Track your statistics for the current round and view improvements in the Garmin Golf app.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Golf Settings > Scoring > Stat Tracking.
Recording Statistics
To record statistics, enable statistics tracking first.
- From the scorecard, select a hole.
- Enter the total number of strokes (including putts) and select Next.
- Enter the number of putts and select Next. (Note: Putts are for statistics tracking only.)
- If necessary, select an option for fairway hit (⬆️) or missed fairway (⬇️ or ↪️).
- If necessary, enter penalty strokes.
Setting the Scoring Method
Change how the watch keeps score:
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Golf Settings > Scoring > Scoring Method.
- Select a scoring method.
About Stableford Scoring
Stableford scoring awards points based on strokes relative to par. The highest score wins. Points are awarded as follows:
Points | Strokes Taken Relative to Par |
---|---|
0 | 2 or more over |
1 | 1 over |
2 | Par |
3 | 1 under |
4 | 2 under |
5 | 3 under |
Score History
The watch displays a color indicator next to each hole number to show your score for that hole.
- Color Coding: Purple (5+ over), Pink (4 over), Red (3 over), Orange (2 over), Yellow (1 over), Green (Par), Light blue (1 under), Dark blue (2+ under).
Enabling Handicap Scoring
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Golf Settings > Scoring > Handicap Scoring.
- Select an option: Use Garmin Golf (uses app handicap), Local Handicap (enter strokes to subtract), or Index/Slope (enter Handicap Index).
Swipe down on the hole information screen to view handicap strokes and rating. The scorecard shows your handicap-adjusted score.
Saving Custom Targets
Save up to five custom targets per hole for objects not shown on the map.
- Stand near the target.
- From the hole information screen, press the top button.
- Select Custom Targets.
- Select a target type.
Using Big Numbers Mode
Increase the size of numbers on the hole view screen:
- Press the top button.
- Select Settings > Big Numbers.
- Press the top button. Distances appear in large font.
PlaysLike Distance Icons
The PlaysLike distance feature accounts for elevation changes, showing adjusted distance to the green. Tap a distance to view PlaysLike distance (requires Garmin Golf subscription).
- ⬆️: Distance plays longer than expected due to elevation.
- : Distance plays as expected.
- ⬇️: Distance plays shorter than expected due to elevation.
Ending a Round
- Press the top button.
- Select End Round.
- Swipe up.
- Select an option: Save, Edit Score, Discard, or Pause.
Connectivity
Connectivity features are available when your watch is paired with a compatible phone.
Phone Connectivity Features
Features include Garmin Golf app, Garmin Connect app, Glances, Controls menu, safety and tracking features, and phone notifications.
Enabling Bluetooth Notifications
Pair your watch with a compatible phone first.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Notifications & Alerts > Smart Notifications.
- Select an option: General Use, During Activity, During Sleep (Do Not Disturb), or Privacy.
Managing Notifications
Manage notifications via your phone's settings (iPhone) or the Garmin Connect app (Android).
Using Do Not Disturb Mode
Turn off backlight and vibration alerts for uninterrupted use.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Do Not Disturb.
Turning Off the Bluetooth Phone Connection
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Phone > Status > Off.
Turning On and Off Phone Connection Alerts
Set the watch to alert you when your phone connects or disconnects via Bluetooth.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Phone > Connected Alerts.
Finding Your Phone
Locate a lost phone paired via Bluetooth.
- Hold the top button.
- Select the Find My Phone icon. Signal strength bars and an audible alert will help you locate your phone.
- Press the top button to stop searching.
Phone Apps and Computer Applications
Connect your watch to Garmin phone apps and computer applications using your Garmin account.
Garmin Golf App
Upload scorecards, view statistics, and analyze shots. Compete with other golfers and access features like detailed course maps and green contour data with a Garmin Golf membership. Download the app from your phone's app store (garmin.com/golfapp).
Automatic Course Updates
The Garmin Golf app automatically updates frequently used golf courses when your device is connected to your smartphone.
Garmin Connect
A Garmin Connect account is automatically created when you pair your watch with the Garmin Golf app. Use Garmin Connect to track fitness, analyze data, and connect with friends. Upload activities, track progress, and share your experiences.
Using the Smartphone Apps
- Open the Garmin Golf or Garmin Connect app on your smartphone.
- Bring your device within 10 m (30 ft.) of your smartphone for automatic data syncing.
Updating the Software Using the Smartphone Apps
Sync your device with one of the apps. New software updates are sent automatically.
Using Garmin Connect on Your Computer
Use Garmin Express to connect your watch to your Garmin Connect account via computer.
- Connect your watch to your computer using a USB cable.
- Go to garmin.com/express.
- Download and install Garmin Express.
- Open Garmin Express, select Add Device, and follow instructions.
Updating the Software Using Garmin Express
- Connect the watch to your computer via USB.
- Garmin Express sends the update to your watch. Disconnect after the update finishes.
Glances
Glances provide quick information. Some require a Bluetooth connection. You can add or remove glances manually.
Name | Description |
---|---|
Calendar | Upcoming meetings from your phone calendar. |
Calories | Calorie information for the current day. |
Golf | Golf scores and statistics for your last round. |
Golf performance | Golf performance statistics to track improvements. |
History | Activity history and graphs of recorded activities. |
Intensity minutes | Time spent in moderate to vigorous activities, weekly goal progress. |
Last activity | Brief summary of your last recorded activity. |
Music | Music player controls for your phone. |
Notifications | Alerts for calls, texts, social network updates, etc. (See Enabling Bluetooth Notifications). |
Steps | Daily step count, step goal, and previous day's data. |
Sunrise and sunset | Sunrise, sunset, and civil twilight times. |
Weather | Current temperature and weather forecast. |
Viewing the Glance Loop
Swipe up or down from the watch face to scroll through glances and view summary data.
Tap a glance to view more information. Swipe up for details or press the top button for options.
Customizing the Glance Loop
- Swipe up or down to view the glance loop.
- Select Edit.
- Select an option: change glance location (swipe up/down), remove a glance (select glance, then select ?️), or add a glance (select Add, then select glance).
Controls
The controls menu provides quick access to watch features and options. You can add, reorder, and remove options.
Icon | Name | Description |
---|---|---|
☀️ | Assistance | Send an assistance request. |
? | Brightness | Adjust screen brightness. |
⏰ | Clocks | Set alarms, timers, or stopwatches. |
? | Do Not Disturb | Dim screen and disable alerts/notifications. |
? | Find My Phone | Play an audible alert on your paired phone. |
? | Lock Screen | Lock buttons and touchscreen. |
? | Phone Connection | Disable Bluetooth connection. |
⚫ | Power Off | Turn off the watch. |
⚙️ | Settings | Open the settings menu. |
? | Sleep Mode | Enable Sleep Mode. |
? | Sync | Sync your watch with your paired phone. |
? | Time Sync | Sync watch time with phone or satellites. |
Customizing the Controls Menu
- Hold the top button.
- Select Edit.
- Select a shortcut to customize.
- To change location, swipe up/down. To remove, select ?️.
- To add a shortcut, select Add.
Activities
Starting an Activity
- Press the top button.
- Select the activity icon.
- Select an activity.
- If GPS is required, go to an area with a clear sky view.
- Press the top button to start the activity timer. Data is recorded while the timer is running.
Stopping an Activity
- Press the top button.
- Select an option: Save (✔️), Discard (?️), or Resume (press top button).
Going for a Pool Swim
NOTE: Touchscreen is unavailable during swim activities.
- Press the top button.
- Select the activity icon.
- Select Pool Swim.
- Select pool size or enter a custom size.
- Press the top button to start the activity timer.
- Start swimming. The watch records intervals and lengths.
- Press the top button when resting.
- Press the top button to restart the interval timer.
- Press the top button to stop the activity timer.
- Select an option: Save (hold top button) or Discard (hold top button).
Swim Terminology
- Length: One trip down the pool.
- Interval: One or more consecutive lengths.
- Stroke: One full arm cycle.
- Swolf: Sum of time for one length and strokes for that length. Lower score is better.
Outdoor Activities
The Approach watch supports outdoor activities like running and biking with GPS enabled.
Clocks
Setting an Alarm
- Hold the top button.
- Select Clocks > Alarms > Add Alarm.
- Enter time, select alarm, select Repeat, and select Label.
Using the Stopwatch
- Hold the top button.
- Select Clocks > Stopwatch.
- Press the top button to start/restart the timer.
- Press the top button to stop the timer.
- Select an option: reset (swipe down), save as activity (swipe up, select Save), review laps (swipe up, select Review Laps), or exit (swipe up, select Done).
Starting the Countdown Timer
- Hold the top button.
- Select Clocks > Timer.
- Enter time and select ✔️.
- Press the top button.
Activity Tracking
View activity tracking data and recorded activities in the Garmin Connect app.
Auto Goal
The device automatically creates a daily step goal based on activity levels. Progress is shown throughout the day. A personalized step goal can be set in Garmin Connect.
Using the Move Alert
The move alert reminds you to keep moving after periods of inactivity. It vibrates and displays a message. Go for a short walk or do suggested movements to reset the alert.
Turning on the Move Alert
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Notifications & Alerts > Health & Wellness > Move Alert > On.
Intensity Minutes
The device monitors activity intensity and tracks intensity minutes. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.
Move IQ
Move IQ automatically detects and displays familiar exercise patterns (walking, running) in your timeline. It can also start timed activities based on set thresholds.
Activity Tracking Settings
Hold the top button, select Settings > Activity Tracking. Options include Status (on/off), Move IQ (on/off), and Auto Activity Start.
Turning Off Activity Tracking
Steps, floors climbed, intensity minutes, sleep tracking, and Move IQ events will not be recorded.
- From the watch face, hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Activity Tracking > Status > Off.
Customizing Your Device
Changing the Watch Face
Choose from preloaded watch faces, edit existing ones, or create new ones.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Watch Face.
- Swipe to scroll through available watch faces and tap to select.
Creating a Custom Watch Face
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Watch Face.
- Swipe left and select +.
- Select watch face type and background.
- Scroll through options, tap to select background, dials, and data fields. A green border indicates customizable fields.
- Swipe left to customize time markers.
- Scroll through time markers and accent colors, tap to select.
- Press the top button. The new watch face is set.
Editing a Watch Face
Customize style and data fields for watch faces (some cannot be edited).
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Watch Face.
- Swipe to scroll through watch faces.
- Select a watch face, then select the edit icon (✏️).
- Select an option to edit, swipe up/down to scroll, and press the top button to select.
- Tap the touchscreen to select the watch face.
Golf Settings
Customize golf settings and features.
- Scoring: Set scoring preferences and enable statistics tracking.
- Driver Distance: Set average drive distance.
- PlaysLike: Accounts for elevation changes (see PlaysLike Distance Icons).
- Contour Shading: Select elevation or slope shading for greens.
- Big Numbers: Change number size on the hole view screen.
- Tournament Mode: Disables PinPointer and PlaysLike distance for sanctioned tournaments.
- Golf Distance: Set units of measure for distance.
- Club Tracking: Prompt to enter club used after each shot; set up accessories.
- Record Activity: Enable FIT file recording for golf activities.
- Pair Rangefinder: Pair watch with a compatible rangefinder.
Scoring Settings
Hold the top button, select Settings > Golf Settings > Scoring.
- Scoring Method: Change how the watch keeps score.
- Handicap Scoring: Enable handicap scoring.
- Set Handicap: Set your handicap.
- Stat Tracking: Enable statistics for putts, greens in regulation, and fairways hit.
- Penalties: Enable penalty stroke tracking.
- Prompt: Prompt to keep score at the start of a round.
- 2 Players: Set scorecard for two players (available during a round).
Club Tracking Accessories
Use compatible Approach golf club tracking accessories to track shots, location, and club type.
Activities and App Settings
Customize preloaded activity apps with data pages, alerts, and training features.
- Accent Color: Set accent color for activity identification.
- Alerts: Set training or navigation alerts (see Activity Alerts).
- Auto Lap: Mark laps automatically at a specified distance.
- Auto Pause: Stop recording data when stopped or below a specified speed.
- Auto Rest: Create rest intervals during pool swims.
- Data Screens: Customize data screens (see Customizing the Data Screens).
- GPS: Set satellite system for activity (see Satellite Settings).
- Pool Size: Set pool length for swimming.
- Rename: Set activity name.
Customizing the Data Screens
- Press the top button, select activity icon, select activity, select settings icon, select activity settings.
- Select Data Screens.
- Select options: adjust layout, customize fields (Edit Data Fields), or show/hide screens.
Satellite Settings
Change satellite settings for activities. Go to garmin.com/aboutGPS.
Press the top button, select activity icon, select activity, select settings icon, select GPS. Options: Off, GPS Only, All Systems.
Activity Alerts
Set alerts for training goals or environmental awareness. Types: event alerts, range alerts, recurring alerts.
- Event alert: Notifies once for a specific value (e.g., calories burned).
- Range alert: Notifies when above or below a specified range (e.g., pace).
- Recurring alert: Notifies at a specified interval (e.g., every 30 minutes).
Alert Name | Alert Type | Description |
---|---|---|
Cadence | Range | Set minimum and maximum cadence values. |
Calories | Event, recurring | Set the number of calories. |
Custom | Event, recurring | Create a custom message and alert type. |
Distance | Recurring | Set a distance interval. |
Pace | Range | Set minimum and maximum pace values. |
Run/Walk | Recurring | Set timed walking breaks at regular intervals. |
Speed | Range | Set minimum and maximum speed values. |
Stroke Rate | Range | Set high or low strokes per minute. |
Time | Event, recurring | Set a time interval. |
Setting an Alert
- Press the top button.
- Select activity icon.
- Select an activity.
- Select settings icon.
- Select the activity settings.
- Select Alerts.
- Select Add New or an existing alert.
- If necessary, select alert type, zone, values, or turn on the alert.
User Profile
Update sex, birth year, height, weight, wrist, and sleep schedule in your user profile for accurate training data.
Gender Settings
Choose sex at initial setup. Customize profile settings in Garmin Connect. Profile & Privacy for public profile data, User Settings for sex.
Safety and Tracking Features
CAUTION: These are supplemental features and not a primary method for emergency assistance. Garmin Connect does not contact emergency services.
NOTICE: Requires connection to Garmin Connect app via Bluetooth, a data plan, and network coverage.
- Assistance: Send a message with name, LiveTrack link, and GPS location to emergency contacts.
- Incident detection: Detects incidents during outdoor activities and sends an automated message, LiveTrack link, and GPS location to emergency contacts.
Adding Emergency Contacts
- From the Garmin Connect app, select •••.
- Select Safety & Tracking > Safety Features > Emergency Contacts > Add Emergency Contacts.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
Incident Detection
CAUTION: Supplemental feature for certain outdoor activities. Not a primary method for emergency assistance.
NOTICE: Requires emergency contacts setup in Garmin Connect. Phone must have a data plan and network coverage. Emergency contacts must receive emails or texts.
Turning Incident Detection On and Off
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Safety & Tracking > Incident Detection.
- Select a GPS activity.
When an incident is detected, the app sends a message with name and GPS location to emergency contacts after a 15-second countdown. You can cancel the message.
Requesting Assistance
CAUTION: Supplemental feature, not a primary method for emergency assistance.
NOTICE: Requires emergency contacts setup in Garmin Connect. Phone must have a data plan and network coverage. Emergency contacts must receive emails or texts.
- Hold the top button.
- When three vibrations occur, release the button to activate assistance.
- Before countdown completion, send a customized message (select ✉️) or cancel (select ❌).
Turning On LiveTrack
Set up contacts in Garmin Connect first.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > Safety & Tracking > LiveTrack.
- Select Auto Start > On to start LiveTrack automatically for outdoor activities.
System Settings
Customize display, vibration, time, units, auto lock, language, reset options, software updates, and advanced settings.
- Display: Adjust screen settings.
- Vibration: Turn vibration on/off and set intensity.
- Time: Adjust time settings.
- Units: Set units of measure.
- Auto Lock: Lock buttons and touchscreen to prevent accidental presses.
- Language: Set the displayed language.
- Reset: Reset default settings or delete personal data.
- Software Update: Check for updates.
- About: View device, software, license, and regulatory information.
- Advanced: Access advanced system settings.
Time Settings
Hold the top button, select Settings > System > Time.
- Time Format: Set 12-hour, 24-hour, or military format.
- Time Source: Set time automatically via GPS or manually.
- Time: Adjust time manually.
- Time Sync: Manually sync time for time zones and daylight saving.
Customizing the Display Settings
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > System > Display.
- Turn Large Fonts on for larger text.
- Select Brightness to set screen brightness.
- Select General Use or During Activity.
- Select an option: Timeout (screen off duration), Always On (keeps watch face visible, impacts battery), Gesture (turn on screen by raising wrist), or Sensitivity (adjust gesture sensitivity).
- Select During Sleep > Watch Face to choose a sleep watch face or keep the default.
Changing the Units of Measure
Customize units for distance, pace, speed, weight, height, and temperature.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > System > Units.
- Select a measurement type and unit.
Resetting All Default Settings
Sync watch with Garmin Connect before resetting.
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > System > Reset.
- Select an option: Reset Default Settings (saves history/apps) or Delete Data and Reset Settings (deletes all user data).
Advanced Settings
Hold the top button, select Settings > System > Advanced.
- Data Recording: Set how activity data is recorded (Smart or Every Second).
- USB Mode: Set MTP or Garmin mode for computer connection.
- Calibrate Compass: Manually calibrate the compass if needed.
Device Information
About the AMOLED Display
Watch settings are optimized for battery life. Image persistence or pixel "burn-in" is normal for AMOLED devices. To extend display life, avoid static images at high brightness for long periods. The display turns off after the selected timeout. Turn your wrist, tap the touchscreen, or press a button to wake the watch.
Changing the Bands
Replace bands with new Approach S44 bands. Purchase bands at buy.garmin.com. The watch is not compatible with third-party bands.
- Slide the quick-release pin to remove the band.
- Insert one side of the spring bar for the new band, then slide the pin to align with the opposite side.
- Repeat for the other band.
Specifications
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Battery type | Rechargeable, built-in lithium-ion battery |
Water rating | 5 ATM¹ |
Operating and storage temperature range | -20° to 60°C (-4° to 140°F) |
Charging temperature range | 0° to 45°C (32° to 113°F) |
European Union (EU) wireless frequencies (power) | 2.4 GHz @ 4 dBm maximum, 13.56 MHz @ 70 dBuV/m |
¹The device withstands pressure equivalent to a depth of 50 m. For more information, go to www.garmin.com/waterrating.
Battery Information
Battery life depends on enabled features like notifications, GPS, internal sensors, and connected sensors.
Mode | Battery Life |
---|---|
Smartwatch mode | Up to 10 days typical use |
All satellite systems mode | Up to 15 hr. typical use |
Device Care
NOTICE: Avoid extreme shock and harsh treatment. Do not press buttons under water. Do not use sharp objects to clean or operate the device. Avoid chemical cleaners, solvents, and insect repellents. Rinse with fresh water after exposure to chlorine, salt water, sunscreen, etc. Do not store in extreme temperatures.
Cleaning the Watch
CAUTION: Some users may experience skin irritation. If irritation occurs, remove the watch. Ensure the watch is clean and dry, and do not overtighten.
NOTICE: Sweat or moisture can cause corrosion of electrical contacts. Clean and dry contacts before charging.
- Rinse with water or use a damp lint-free cloth.
- Allow the watch to dry completely.
Long-Term Storage
If storing for several months, charge the battery to at least 50%. Store in a cool, dry place. Fully recharge before use.
Viewing Device Information
- Hold the top button.
- Select Settings > System > About.
Viewing E-label Regulatory and Compliance Information
- Hold the top button.
- From the settings menu, select System.
- Select About.
Data Management
NOTE: Not compatible with Windows 95, 98, Me, Windows NT, and Mac OS 10.3 and earlier.
Deleting Files
NOTICE: Do not delete files if their purpose is unknown. System files are important.
- Open the Garmin drive or volume.
- Select a file and press Delete.
Troubleshooting
Getting More Information
Visit support.garmin.com for manuals, articles, and software updates. Visit buy.garmin.com for accessories and replacement parts.
Maximizing Battery Life
- Stop using the Always On display timeout option.
- Reduce display brightness.
- Switch to a watch face with a static background.
- Turn off Bluetooth when not using connected features.
- Turn off activity tracking.
- Limit smartphone notifications.
My device cannot find nearby golf courses
If course updates were interrupted, update courses again:
- Download and install course updates using Garmin Express.
- Safely disconnect your device.
- Go outside and start a test round of golf.
Is my phone compatible with my watch?
The Approach S44 is compatible with phones using Bluetooth technology. Check compatibility at garmin.com/ble.
My phone will not connect to the watch
- Turn phones and watch off and on again.
- Enable Bluetooth on your phone.
- Update the Garmin Golf app.
- Remove and re-pair the watch from the Garmin Golf app and phone Bluetooth settings.
- If using a new phone, remove the watch from the old phone's Garmin Golf app.
- Bring phone within 10 m (33 ft.) of the watch.
- Open Garmin Golf app on phone, select ••• > Garmin Devices > Add Device to pair.
- On watch, hold top button, select Settings > Phone > Pair Phone.
My device is in the wrong language
- Hold the top button.
- Select the settings icon (⚙️).
- Scroll to the last item in the list and select it.
- Scroll to the sixth item in the list and select it.
- Select your language.
My device displays the wrong units of measure
Verify units of measure settings on the device and in your Garmin Golf account. Device settings may be overwritten upon syncing.
Restarting Your Watch
- Hold the top button until the watch turns off.
- Hold the top button to turn it on.
Acquiring Satellite Signals
The device needs a clear sky view to acquire satellite signals. Time and date are set automatically based on GPS position.
Go outdoors to an open area, orient the device toward the sky, and wait for satellite signals (30-60 seconds).
Improving GPS Satellite Reception
- Frequently sync your watch to your Garmin account (via USB/Garmin Express or Bluetooth/Garmin Golf app). This downloads satellite data for faster signal acquisition.
- Take your watch outside to an open area away from tall buildings and trees.
- Remain stationary for a few minutes.
Activity Tracking
For more information on accuracy, go to garmin.com/ataccuracy.
My daily step count does not appear
The daily step count resets at midnight. If dashes appear, allow the device to acquire satellite signals and set the time automatically.
My step count does not seem accurate
- Wear the watch on your non-dominant wrist.
- Carry the watch in your pocket when pushing a stroller or lawn mower.
- Carry the watch in your pocket when actively using your hands or arms only.
NOTE: Repetitive motions like washing dishes may be counted as steps.
The step counts on my watch and my Garmin Connect account don't match
Step count updates when you sync your watch.
- Sync with Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect app. Wait for data sync.
NOTE: Refreshing the app or Garmin Express does not sync data.
My intensity minutes are flashing
Intensity minutes flash when you exercise at a level that qualifies toward your intensity minutes goal.
Appendix
Data Fields
Various data fields are available for activities, including:
- 24-Hour Max./Min.: Max/min temperature.
- Active Calories: Calories burned.
- Average Cadence: Cycling/Running average cadence.
- Average Lap Time: Average lap time.
- Average Speed: Average speed.
- Average Swolf: Average swolf score (sum of length time and strokes).
- Avg. Pace: Average pace.
- Avg. Stks./Len.: Average strokes per length.
- Cadence: Cycling revolutions or running steps per minute.
- Calories: Total calories burned.
- Distance: Distance traveled.
- Elapsed Time: Total time recorded, including rests.
- Heading: Direction of movement.
- Int. Stks./Len.: Average strokes per interval length.
- Interval Distance: Distance traveled for the interval.
- Interval Lengths: Pool lengths completed during the interval.
- Interval Pace: Average pace for the interval.
- Interval Swolf: Average swolf score for the interval.
- Interval Time: Stopwatch time for the interval.
- Int Strk Type: Stroke type for the interval.
- L. Len. Stk. Type: Stroke type for the last completed pool length.
- L. Len. Strokes: Total strokes for the last completed pool length.
- Lap Cadence: Average cadence for the current lap.
- Lap Distance: Distance traveled for the current lap.
- Lap Pace: Average pace for the current lap.
- Laps: Number of laps completed.
- Lap Speed: Average speed for the current lap.
- Lap Steps: Steps during the current lap.
- Lap Time: Stopwatch time for the current lap.
- Last Int. Swolf: Average swolf score for the last completed interval.
- Last Lap Cadence: Average cadence for the last completed lap.
- Last Lap Dist.: Distance traveled for the last completed lap.
- Last Lap Pace: Average pace for the last completed lap.
- Last Lap Speed: Average speed for the last completed lap.
- Last Lap Time: Stopwatch time for the last completed lap.
- Last Len. Swolf: Swolf score for the last completed pool length.
- Last Length Pace: Average pace for the last completed pool length.
- Lengths: Pool lengths completed.
- Maximum Speed: Top speed for the activity.
- Moderate Minutes: Moderate intensity minutes.
- Pace: Current pace.
- Speed: Current rate of travel.
- Steps: Steps during the current activity.
- Sunrise: Time of sunrise.
- Sunset: Time of sunset.
- Swim Time: Swimming time, excluding rest.
- Temperature: Air temperature (body temperature affects sensor).
- Time of Day: Current time based on location and settings.
- Timer: Stopwatch time or current activity timer time.
- Total Minutes: Total intensity minutes.
- Vigorous Minutes: Vigorous intensity minutes.
Wheel Size and Circumference
Your speed sensor automatically detects wheel size for cycling. You can manually enter wheel circumference in speed sensor settings. Tire size is marked on the tire. Measure circumference or use online calculators.
File Info : application/pdf, 38 Pages, 3.75MB
DocumentDocumentReferences
Garmin Official Site
Accuracy | Garmin
Garmin Express™ | Update Maps and Devices
Garmin Customer Support
Garmin Official Site
Garmin Connect App Compatibility Requirements | Garmin Customer Support
Garmin Express™ | Update Maps and Devices
Garmin Golf App
Water Rating Definitions | Garmin
What is GPS? | Garmin
Incident Detection and Assistance Requirements | Garmin Customer Support
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