Garmin GPS 12 Instruction Manual

The Garmin GPS 12 is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a 12-channel parallel receiver for fast satellite acquisition, a high-contrast LCD display, intuitive menu-driven interface, waypoint and route storage, track log recording, and multiple navigation screens. Powered by 4 AA batteries, it is ideal for marine, automotive, and outdoor recreational use. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-channel GPS receiver, LCD display, Waterproof case (IPX7), External antenna port, Serial data port, Power/Backlight button, Page/Enter rocker, Zoom keys.

Installation & Power

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and acquire satellite signal.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display activates.
3. Initial satellite acquisition: Place unit outdoors with clear view of sky. Acquiring satellites may take several minutes on first use.
4. External antenna (optional): Connect active GPS antenna to external port for improved reception.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not submerge while battery compartment is open. Ensure proper satellite fix before relying on navigation.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow on-screen prompts and configure initial settings.

1. Set language: Use MENU > Setup > System > Language to select ENGLISH (default).
2. Set units: Navigate to MENU > Setup > Units to select Metric, Statute, or Nautical.
3. Set time: Configure time format (12/24 hr) and time zone in Setup > Time menu.
4. Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions for electronic compass calibration.
5. Save starting location: Mark a waypoint at your starting position for easy return.

CAUTION! Ensure clear sky view for first satellite fix. Settings may be lost if batteries are removed for extended period.

Specifications

• Receiver: 12 parallel channel GPS receiver.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Accuracy: <15 meters RMS typical.
• Acquisition Time: Warm start ~15 seconds; Cold start ~45 seconds.
• Dynamics: Supports speeds up to 999 knots.
• Interface: Serial data port (RS-232), NMEA 0183 v2.0 output.
• Power: 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH); 10-35 VDC external input.
• Waterproof: IEC 529 IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Display: 5.2 x 3.8 cm (2.0" x 1.5") 4-level grayscale LCD.
• Dimensions: 14.9 x 5.8 x 3.3 cm (5.9" x 2.3" x 1.3").
• Weight: 255 g (9 oz) with batteries.

Controls and Display

Access functions via front panel buttons and menu system. Front Panel: POWER (also controls backlight), PAGE (cycles through display pages), ENTER (selects/marks), ZOOM IN/OUT, QUIT/MENU.

Display Pages: Satellite Status, Map, Navigation, Highway, Pointer. Use PAGE button to cycle.

Menu System: Press MENU to access context-sensitive menus for current page. Setup Menu: Configure system, navigation, interface, and display settings. Waypoint/Route/Track Menus: Create, edit, and manage saved data.

Basic Navigation

Navigate to a saved waypoint or create a new one.

1. Mark a waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at current location. Edit name/symbol and press ENTER to save.
2. Go to a waypoint: Press MENU from Map or Navigation page, select "Go To", choose waypoint from list.
3. Follow bearing: Navigation page shows bearing, distance, speed, ETA, and steering indicator.
4. Create a route: MENU > Route > New. Add stored waypoints in sequence to define path.
5. Follow a route: Activate a saved route from Route menu. Navigate leg by leg.

Tip: Use the Highway page for a simplified steering display similar to an aircraft course deviation indicator.

Advanced Features

Track Log: Automatically records your path. Save active track to memory (MENU > Track). Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold ENTER twice quickly to mark an emergency position and begin navigation back to it. Proximity Waypoints: Set alarm radius around a waypoint. Sun/Moon Information: Access from MENU > Calculator > Sun/Moon for sunrise/sunset and moon phase data. Area Calculation: Use the Area Calc function to measure perimeter and area of a traversed path.

Data Management

Waypoints/Routes/Tracks can be saved, edited, and deleted. Data Transfer: Connect serial cable to PC for uploading/downloading waypoints, routes, and tracks using Garmin software (e.g., MapSource). NMEA Output: Configure interface settings to output navigation data to autopilots or chart plotters. Memory Backup: Internal memory retains data when batteries are removed, but for long-term storage, upload data to a PC.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with fresh water and mild soap if used in saltwater environments. Dry thoroughly. Use a soft, dry cloth for display. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and undamaged before submerging. Do not charge non-rechargeable batteries. Store in a cool, dry place.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Contains GPS technology controlled under U.S. export regulations. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: To perform a master reset (erases all user data), power off. Press and hold PAGE + ENTER while powering on. Confirm reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com for warranty and repair information.