How to Calibrate the Compass on Garmin LiveScope (And When to Do It)
If your Garmin LiveScope image is tilting, rocking, or drifting, or if the compass overlay isn’t accurate, calibrating the compass is the first step to fixing the issue. Compass calibration resets the AHRS (Attitude Heading Reference System), which stabilizes the sonar image and improves directional accuracy.
When Should You Calibrate the Compass?
✅ Every time you change LiveScope orientation (Forward, Down, or Perspective Mode)
✅ Every few trips to ensure stable AHRS performance
✅ After installing or moving the transducer
✅ If your LiveScope screen is rocking in calm water
✅ If your compass heading is inaccurate or misaligned
💡 Tip: Regular calibration ensures that your LiveScope image remains stable and accurate, no matter how often you adjust the transducer.
How to Calibrate the Compass on Garmin LiveScope
Step 1: Open the Compass Calibration Menu
- Press the Home button on your Garmin unit.
- Go to Settings > Sonar Setup > Installation > Calibrate Compass.
- Select “Start Calibration.”
Step 2: Rotate the Boat in a Full Circle
- Slowly rotate your boat in a full 360-degree circle on the water.
- Continue rotating until the calibration completes automatically.
- Once finished, the AHRS system will reset, stabilizing the sonar image.
💡 Tip: Rotate at a slow, steady speed—if you spin the boat too quickly, the calibration may not be accurate.
Why Compass Calibration is Important
🔹 Prevents a rocking LiveScope screen – If AHRS is off, your screen may tilt or shift unnaturally.
🔹 Improves directional accuracy – Helps ensure waypoints and compass heading are correct.
🔹 Optimizes performance for different modes – If you switch between Forward, Down, or Perspective Mode, calibration ensures your screen adjusts properly.
What If Compass Calibration Doesn’t Fix the Issue?
1. Make Sure You’re on the Water
- Compass calibration must be done while floating—if attempted on land, it may not complete properly.
2. Check for Interference
- Avoid calibrating near large metal objects, docks, or power cables, as these can disrupt the compass sensor.
3. Try a Second Calibration
- If the first attempt didn’t fix the issue, repeat the process and rotate the boat more slowly.
4. Turn Off AHRS and Manually Adjust Pitch Angle
- If the image is still rocking or unstable, disable AHRS and manually set Pitch Angle:
- Go to Settings > Sonar Setup > Installation.
- Turn AHRS Off.
- Manually adjust Pitch Angle until the bottom appears level.
Final Thoughts
Regular compass calibration is essential for maintaining a stable and accurate LiveScope image.
✔ Always recalibrate after changing orientations (Forward, Down, or Perspective Mode).
✔ Perform calibration every few trips to keep AHRS functioning properly.
✔ If the screen is still rocking after calibration, turn off AHRS and manually adjust Pitch Angle.
