Garmin GPS 12 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 menu system, waypoint and route storage, track log recording, and multiple navigation screens. 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, external antenna port, serial data interface.

Feature	Description
12-channel GPS receiver	Fast satellite acquisition and tracking
Waterproof case	IPX7 standard, floats in water
LCD display	High-contrast, 4-level grayscale
External antenna port	For optional external antenna connection
Serial data interface	For PC connection and data transfer
Waypoint storage	Up to 500 user-defined waypoints
Route storage	Up to 20 reversible routes with 50 waypoints each
Track log	Automatic track log with 1024 points
Navigation screens	Position, compass, highway, map, menu
Battery life	Up to 24 hours on 4 AA batteries

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and prepare for use.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. External antenna (optional): Connect to external antenna port if needed.
3. PC connection (optional): Connect serial cable to data interface port.
4. Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Acquire satellites: Place unit outdoors with clear sky view for 5-15 minutes.
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select ENGLISH (default).
3. Set units: Choose metric or statute units for distance and speed.
4. Set time format: Select 12-hour or 24-hour format.
5. Set north reference: Choose TRUE or MAGNETIC north.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition requires clear view of sky. Avoid tall buildings and dense foliage.

Specifications

• Channels: 12 parallel channels.
• Accuracy: <15 meters RMS.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes).
• Display: 5.6 x 3.8 cm LCD, 4-level grayscale.
• Waypoints: 500 with name and symbol.
• Routes: 20 reversible routes, 50 waypoints each.
• Track Log: 1024 points, automatic or manual.
• Interface: NMEA 0183, RTCM 104 DGPS, GARMIN proprietary.
• Power: 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH), 12-35 VDC external.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons. POWER: Turns unit on/off. PAGE: Cycles through display pages. ENTER/MARK: Enters selections or marks waypoints. GOTO: Initiates navigation to selected waypoint. MENU: Accesses menu for current page. QUIT: Returns to previous screen.

Display Pages: Position (lat/lon, altitude), Compass (bearing, distance), Highway (steering guidance), Map (track plot), Menu (system functions).

Settings: Units (metric/statute), North reference (true/magnetic), Time format (12/24 hour), Display contrast, Backlight timeout, Alarms (anchor, proximity, off-course).

Connecting Devices

External antenna: Connect to antenna port. PC: Connect serial cable to data port.

1. Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
2. Match cable connectors to ports (serial to data port).
3. Secure connections with locking rings.
4. Configure PC software for proper communication settings (4800 baud, NMEA).

Tip: Use only Garmin-approved cables and accessories.

Navigation Functions

Basic navigation with waypoints, routes, and track log.

1. Mark waypoint: Press and hold ENTER/MARK at current location.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint from list, press GOTO.
3. Create route: In ROUTE menu, select waypoints in sequence.
4. Follow route: Select route, press NAVIGATE.
5. Track log: Enable in TRACK menu (automatic or manual save).
6. Backtrack: Use TRACK BACK function to reverse track.
7. Sun/Moon data: Access astronomical information for planning.
8. Area calculation: Measure area using track log points.

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

Advanced Features

DGPS capability: Connect to external DGPS beacon receiver for improved accuracy. NMEA output: Provide position data to compatible chartplotters or autopilots. Simulator mode: Practice navigation without satellite signals.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries before extended storage. Clean with damp cloth and mild detergent. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives. Do not open case - no user-serviceable parts inside.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European market. 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.
Poor satellite reception	Obstructions	Move to open area with clear sky view.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Wait for better satellite alignment; use DGPS if available.
Display difficult to read	Low contrast	Adjust contrast in SETUP menu.
Waypoint not saved	Memory full	Delete unused waypoints to free memory.
PC connection failed	Wrong settings/cable	Verify serial settings (4800 baud, NMEA); check cable connection.

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + POWER while turning on for master reset (erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.