Garmin GPS 12 Manual Free

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. This manual provides essential information for setup, operation, and troubleshooting of your Garmin GPS 12 unit.

Key Features

Core components: 12-channel GPS receiver, LCD display, waterproof case (IPX7), external antenna port, serial data interface.

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

1. Garmin GPS 12 unit.
2. Wrist strap.
3. Quick Start Guide.
4. 4 AA alkaline batteries (pre-installed).
5. Owner's Manual (this document).

NOTE: Serial data cable and mounting bracket are optional accessories sold separately.

Getting Started

Initial setup for first-time use.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. Power on: Press and hold the red POWER key until the unit beeps and display activates.
3. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear sky view. Unit will search for satellites automatically.
4. Set initial preferences: Use MENU > SETUP to configure units, time format, and language.

CAUTION! For initial satellite acquisition, be outdoors away from tall buildings and dense foliage.

Specifications

• Receiver: 12 parallel channels, WAAS capable.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Accuracy: <15 meters RMS (position), <0.2 knot RMS (velocity).
• Acquisition Time: Warm start ~15 seconds; cold start ~45 seconds.
• Datum: User-selectable (WGS-84 default).
• Display: 5.6 x 3.8 cm, 120 x 160 pixels, FSTN, backlit.
• Case Dimensions: 15.2 x 5.6 x 3.3 cm.
• Weight: 255 grams with batteries.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
• Storage Temp: -40°C to 85°C.

Front Panel Controls

Primary controls: POWER (red), PAGE, ENTER/MARK, GOTO, QUIT, ROCKER keypad (up/down/left/right).

Button Functions:

• POWER: Turns unit on/off; controls backlight when held.
• PAGE: Cycles through navigation screens (Position, Map, Highway, etc.).
• ENTER/MARK: Selects menu items; marks current position as a waypoint.
• GOTO: Initiates navigation to a selected waypoint or destination.
• QUIT: Exits menus or cancels actions.
• ROCKER: Moves cursor, selects items, changes values.

Basic Operation

Using the main navigation screens.

1. Satellite Page: Shows satellite signal strength and sky view; indicates 2D/3D fix.
2. Position Page: Displays current coordinates (lat/lon), altitude, speed, heading.
3. Map Page: Shows your position and track on a moving map; zoom in/out with rocker.
4. Highway Page: Provides steering guidance to destination with bearing and distance.
5. Compass Page: Graphic compass showing direction to destination.
6. Pointer Page: Large arrow points toward destination with numeric data.

Tip: Press PAGE repeatedly to cycle through screens quickly.

Navigating with Waypoints & Routes

Creating and using waypoints and routes.

1. Mark Waypoint: At desired location, press and hold ENTER/MARK. Edit name/symbol, press ENTER to save.
2. Goto Waypoint: Press GOTO, select from list or enter waypoint ID, press ENTER to navigate.
3. Create Route: MENU > ROUTES > New. Add waypoints in sequence using rocker and ENTER.
4. Follow Route: Select route from list, choose "Navigate Route".
5. Reverse Route: While viewing route, select "Reverse" to navigate in opposite direction.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environmental factors; always verify position with map and compass.

Using the Track Log

The track log records your path for backtracking.

1. View Track: On Map Page, your path appears as a dotted line.
2. Clear Track: MENU > TRACK > Clear Track.
3. Setup Track Log: MENU > TRACK > Setup. Choose recording method (Auto, Distance, Time).
4. Backtrack: MENU > TRACK > Follow Track. Unit creates route from track points for return navigation.
5. Save Track: Save current track as a route for future use.

System Setup & Configuration

Access setup via MENU > SETUP.

• Units: Statute (miles/feet), Nautical (knots/feet), Metric (km/meters).
• Time: 12/24 hour format; time zone offset.
• Display: Contrast, backlight timeout.
• Interface: Set serial port to GARMIN or NMEA 0183 for data output.
• System: Battery type (alkaline, NiMH), system reset.
• Datum: Select map datum to match paper charts (WGS-84, NAD-27, etc.).

Care & Maintenance

Unplug external power before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and intact for waterproofing.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For persistent issues, perform master reset: Hold PAGE + POWER while turning on (erases all user data).

Support: For further assistance, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin customer support.