Garmin GPS 12 XL Owners Manual

The Garmin GPS 12 XL is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, large easy-to-read display, intuitive interface, and long battery life. Ideal for hiking, boating, fishing, and general outdoor use. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof case (IPX7), high-contrast LCD display, internal quad-helix antenna, serial data port, external power/antenna jack.

Installation & Power

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries properly.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
2. External power: Connect optional external power cable to external jack.
3. Antenna: Internal antenna is default; for enhanced reception, connect optional external antenna.
4. Data cable: Connect serial cable to PC for data transfer and software updates.

WARNING! Use only alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initialization procedure.

1. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear sky view, power on, wait for satellite acquisition.
2. Set preferences: Press MENU, select Setup to configure units, time format, north reference.
3. Initialize position: If prompted, enter approximate location to speed up satellite acquisition.
4. Calibrate compass: If using optional electronic compass accessory, follow calibration procedure.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes. Ensure clear view of sky.

Specifications

• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channels, WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Accuracy: Position: <15 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS steady state.
• Acquisition Times: Hot start: ~15 seconds, Warm start: ~45 seconds, Cold start: ~2 minutes.
• Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
• Dynamics: 6G's, altitude limit: 60,000 feet, velocity limit: 999 knots.
• Interfaces: RS-232 with NMEA 0183, RTCM 104 DGPS, and Garmin data formats.
• Power: 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH), 10-40 VDC external.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
• Dimensions: 15.2 x 5.8 x 3.3 cm, Weight: 255g with batteries.

Controls and Display

Access functions via front panel buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, GOTO, MARK, QUIT, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right).

Display Pages: Satellite Page, Map Page, Position Page, Pointer Page, Highway Page. Use PAGE button to cycle.

Setup Menu: Units (Statute, Nautical, Metric), Time (12/24 hour), North Reference (True/Magnetic), System (Battery type, backlight timeout). Display: Contrast adjustment, backlight level. Interface: Serial data format (NMEA, Garmin), baud rate.

Basic Navigation

Navigate to waypoints using GOTO function or follow routes.

1. Create waypoint: Press MARK to save current position as waypoint.
2. Navigate to waypoint: Press GOTO, select waypoint from list, ENTER to start navigation.
3. Follow route: Create route from waypoints, activate route for turn-by-turn navigation.
4. Navigation screens: Use Pointer Page for bearing/distance, Highway Page for steering guidance.

Tip: For best accuracy, ensure 3D GPS fix with at least 4 satellites.

Waypoints & Routes

Store and manage navigation points.

1. Waypoint entry: Manually enter coordinates via Mark Waypoint page.
2. Waypoint management: Edit, delete, or review waypoints in Waypoint List.
3. Route creation: Build routes by selecting waypoints in sequence.
4. Route navigation: Activate route, navigate leg by leg with automatic leg advance.
5. Route reversal: Reverse active route for return journey.

WARNING! Regularly back up waypoints and routes to PC to prevent data loss.

Tracks & Map Page

Tracks record your path; Map Page shows position and navigation data.

Tracks: Automatic track log records path; save active track to memory; view track back for retracing steps.

Map Page: Shows position, waypoints, routes, and tracks. Zoom in/out with rocker key. Pan map to view surrounding area. Data fields customizable to show desired information (speed, heading, ETA, etc.).

Care & Maintenance

Clean with damp cloth; avoid harsh chemicals. Store in cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

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. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Remove batteries for 30 seconds to perform soft reset if unit locks up.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support; www.garmin.com