Garmin GPS 12 Channel Manual

The Garmin GPS 12 is a rugged, waterproof 12-channel GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a high-contrast LCD display, intuitive interface, waypoint and route storage, track log recording, and NMEA 0183 output for marine interfacing. Below are key sections for operation, features, setup, navigation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Power 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Display 6. Basic Navigation 7. Advanced Functions 8. Waypoints & Routes 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-parallel channel GPS receiver, waterproof case (IPX7), backlit LCD, internal antenna, data port, and keypad.

Feature	Description
12-channel GPS receiver	Fast acquisition and tracking of satellites
Waterproof (IPX7)	Submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes
Backlit LCD display	High-contrast, readable in low light
Internal patch antenna	No external antenna required
Data port	For PC connection and NMEA 0183 output
Waypoint storage	Up to 500 waypoints with name and symbol
Route storage	Up to 20 reversible routes with 50 waypoints each
Track log	Automatic track recording; 10 saved tracks
Battery life	Approx. 20 hours on 4 AA batteries
Position formats	Lat/Lon, UTM, MGRS, and others

Installation & Power

Install batteries and prepare for first use.

Open battery compartment: Turn unit over, loosen screws, lift cover.
Insert batteries: Install 4 AA alkaline or NiMH batteries observing polarity.
Close compartment: Replace cover and tighten screws securely.
Power on: Press and hold POWER key until display activates.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Ensure compartment is dry and sealed before use in wet conditions.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initial prompts.

Acquire satellites: Place unit outdoors with clear sky view; allow several minutes for first fix.
Set language: Use MENU > Setup > System > Language to select ENGLISH (default).
Set position format: Navigate to MENU > Setup > Units > Position Format; select desired format (e.g., hddd°mm.mmm').
Set map datum: In same menu, select Map Datum (WGS 84 default).
Set time: Adjust time zone and format in Time setup.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition requires clear view of sky; avoid obstructions.

Specifications

Channels: 12 parallel channel GPS receiver.
Accuracy: Position: <15 meters RMS; Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
Acquisition Time: Hot start: ~15 seconds; Cold start: ~45 seconds.
Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
Interface: NMEA 0183, GARMIN proprietary.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard (1 meter, 30 minutes).
Display: 4.2 x 5.6 cm LCD, 100 x 160 pixels, backlit.
Power: 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH); 20 hours typical.
Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
Storage Temp: -40°C to 85°C.

Controls and Display

Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, GOTO, MARK, QUIT, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right).

Display Pages: Use PAGE key to cycle through: Satellite Status, Position, Map, Navigation, Highway, Menu.

Satellite Page: Shows satellite positions and signal strength. Position Page: Displays coordinates, altitude, time. Map Page: Shows current position and track. Navigation Page: Provides steering guidance to destination. Highway Page: Graphical steering indicator. Menu Page: Access to all setup and feature menus.

Basic Navigation

Navigate to a waypoint or create a route.

Go To a waypoint: Press GOTO, select from waypoint list, press ENTER.
Follow bearing: Navigation page shows bearing and distance to destination.
Create waypoint: Press and hold MARK to save current position; edit name/symbol.
Follow track: Activate saved track from Track menu for backtrack navigation.

Tip: For best accuracy, ensure good satellite reception (4+ satellites with strong signal).

Advanced Functions

Utilize advanced GPS features.

Routes: Create from MENU > Routes > New; add existing waypoints.
Tracks: View active track log; save or clear from Track menu.
Projected waypoints: Create waypoint at distance and bearing from current location.
Area calculation: Measure area by marking perimeter points.
Sun/Moon info: View sunrise/sunset and moon phase data.
NMEA output: Enable in Interface setup for connection to chart plotters.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by atmospheric conditions, obstructions, and satellite geometry.

Waypoints & Routes

Manage navigation data.

Waypoints: Store up to 500. Edit name (6 characters), symbol, comment. Delete individually or all.

Routes: Up to 20 routes, 50 waypoints each. Activate route for turn-by-turn navigation. Reverse route for return trip.

Tracks: Automatic track log records path; save up to 10 tracks. Use trackback to navigate original path in reverse.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with damp cloth; do not use harsh chemicals. Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and intact.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods. Replace batteries if leakage occurs.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. This device must not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries	Replace with fresh AA batteries; check polarity.
No satellite acquisition	Obstructed view	Move to open area; ensure clear sky view; wait several minutes.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Wait for satellite constellation to change; ensure latest position.
Display dim or blank	Backlight off/low battery	Press POWER quickly to toggle backlight; replace batteries.
Buttons not responding	Unit locked	Press and hold POWER to turn off, then on again.
Waypoint not saved	Memory full	Delete unused waypoints to free space.

Reset: To restore defaults: Turn off, press and hold PAGE + ENTER while powering on.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.