Garmin GPS 150 Install Manual

The Garmin GPS 150 is a panel-mounted aviation GPS receiver designed for VFR navigation. It provides accurate position information, waypoint navigation, and flight planning capabilities. This manual covers installation, configuration, operation, and maintenance procedures to ensure proper integration and safe operation in your aircraft.

Overview & Features

The GPS 150 is a 12-channel parallel receiver offering fast acquisition and reacquisition times. Key components: Main Unit, Remote Antenna, Mounting Tray, Connectors, and Documentation.

Feature	Description
Receiver Type	12-channel parallel, GPS & WAAS capable
Display	High-contrast LCD, sunlight readable
Database	Jeppesen aviation database (pre-loaded)
Waypoints	Stores up to 500 user waypoints
Flight Plans	20 reversible flight plans with up to 30 legs each
Outputs	NMEA 0183, ARINC 429 (optional)
Power Input	10-32 VDC, typical 1.5A at 14V
Dimensions	6.25" W x 3.25" H x 12.5" D (mounting tray)
Operating Temp	-15°C to +55°C
Certification	TSO-C129a, Class A1

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present before beginning installation.

1. GPS 150 Main Unit
2. Panel Mounting Tray with hardware
3. Remote GPS Antenna (GA 26 or similar) with cable
4. Power/Data Cable Assembly
5. Backshell Connectors (DB-9, DB-15)
6. Installation Template
7. This Installation Manual
8. Quick Reference Guide

WARNING! Do not proceed if any item is missing or damaged. Contact your Garmin dealer.

Mounting & Physical Installation

Select a suitable location in the instrument panel.

1. Use the paper template to mark cutout dimensions on the panel.
2. Cut the panel opening per the template specifications.
3. Deburr the opening and ensure it is clean.
4. Insert the mounting tray from the front of the panel.
5. Secure the tray using the provided screws and brackets from the rear.
6. Slide the GPS 150 unit into the tray until it clicks and locks into place.

CAUTION! Ensure the installation location provides adequate clearance for connectors and cooling. Avoid areas with excessive vibration or heat sources.

Electrical Connections

Connect the provided cable assembly to the aircraft's power and avionics bus.

• Power Wires (Red & Black): Connect Red to a switched +14/28VDC source (via appropriate circuit breaker). Connect Black to aircraft ground.
• NMEA 0183 Ports: Connect to compatible devices (HSI, CDI, Autopilot) per the wiring diagram in the connector pinout section.
• ARINC 429 (if equipped): Connect to high-speed avionics databus for integration with EFIS or FMS.

Tip: Use shielded twisted-pair wire for all data lines. Keep data cables away from high-current power lines.

Antenna Installation

The remote antenna must have a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.

1. Select a location on the aircraft exterior (e.g., top of fuselage) with minimal metal obstruction.
2. Drill a mounting hole per the antenna base dimensions.
3. Seal the antenna base with appropriate sealant (e.g., PRC or equivalent polysulfide).
4. Route the antenna cable into the cockpit, avoiding sharp bends and securing with clamps.
5. Connect the antenna cable to the ANT connector on the rear of the GPS 150 unit.

WARNING! Antenna installation may affect aircraft airworthiness. Consult with a certified mechanic or avionics technician.

Initial Power-Up & Configuration

After all connections are made, apply power to the unit.

1. Turn on the aircraft master switch and the avionics power bus.
2. The GPS 150 will perform a self-test. The display will show the Garmin splash screen.
3. Upon first use, you will be prompted to accept the database agreement and set your position.
4. Navigate to the SETUP menu to configure:
   • Units (Nautical Miles, Statute Miles, Kilometers)
   • Time Format (UTC or Local)
   • Datum (WGS-84 recommended)
   • NMEA Output Sentences (enable those required by connected devices)
5. Allow the unit to acquire satellite signals. This may take several minutes on first use.

Basic Operation Guide

Primary controls: Large rotary knob (outer for cursor, inner for data entry), Direct Access Keys (NAV, WPT, FPL, etc.), and ENT button.

Key Functions: - NAV: Displays active navigation page (CDI, Highway, Map). - WPT: Accesses waypoint database for creating, editing, or selecting waypoints. - FPL: Creates, activates, and manages flight plans. - CLR: Clears entries or exits menus. - MENU: Accesses context-sensitive options for the current page. - Direct-To (D->): Initiates direct navigation to a selected waypoint.

Use the outer knob to move the cursor, the inner knob to change values, and press ENT to confirm selections.

Interface & Databus Setup

Configure the unit to communicate with other cockpit instruments.

1. Access the INTERFACE menu from the main SETUP page.
2. Select NMEA 0183 or ARINC 429 as required.
3. For NMEA, set the baud rate (typically 4800 or 9600) to match connected devices.
4. Select the specific sentences to output (e.g., GGA, RMC, VTG for position/speed).
5. For ARINC 429, set the labels and SDI (Source/Destination Identifiers) per the system integration manual.

Tip: Refer to the interface specification sheet for detailed pinouts and sentence formats.

Maintenance & Calibration

Routine maintenance is limited. The unit contains no user-serviceable parts.

• Database Updates: The Jeppesen database must be updated every 28 days via a certified data card. Insert the card into the front slot to load.
• Display Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Self-Test: Perform a periodic self-test via the SYSTEM STATUS page in the menu.
• Calibration: The magnetometer (if used for CDI) may require calibration after installation or significant changes to aircraft equipment. Follow the on-screen prompts in the SETUP menu.

CAUTION! Database must be current for IFR operations. Out-of-date data must not be used for primary navigation.

Regulatory & Compliance

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference.

TSO-C129a: Certified for en route, terminal, and non-precision approach (if so noted in the AFMS) operations when installed per this manual.

Approved for: VFR and IFR (when installed as part of an approved system and with current database).

Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd., registered in the USA and other countries. Jeppesen is a registered trademark of Jeppesen Sanderson, Inc.

For technical support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Aviation Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No Power	Blown fuse, wiring fault	Check aircraft circuit breaker. Verify power and ground connections at the unit connector.
"No Satellites" Message	Antenna issue, poor view	Ensure antenna cable is connected. Verify antenna location has clear sky view. Allow more time for acquisition.
Inaccurate Position	Poor satellite geometry, old almanac	Ensure unit has been on for several minutes to collect new almanac data. Check for obstructions.
No Data Output to HSI/CDI	Interface misconfiguration, wiring	Verify NMEA baud rate and sentence selection. Check wiring continuity to the receiving device.
Unit Will Not Lock into Tray	Misalignment, damaged latch	Ensure tray is securely mounted. Inspect the locking mechanism on the unit and tray for damage.

Reset: If the unit becomes unresponsive, power cycle the avionics bus. A full system reset is available in the SYSTEM menu (resets all user settings).

Service: If problems persist, contact Garmin Aviation Product Support. Do not attempt to open the unit.