Garmin GPS 150 User Manual

The Garmin GPS 150 is a rugged, waterproof marine GPS receiver designed for navigation on the water. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a sunlight-readable display, NMEA 0183 interface for connection to autopilots and chartplotters, waypoint and route management, track logging, and a variety of navigation screens. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof housing, high-contrast LCD display, control buttons, external antenna connector, power/data cable port.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a mounting location with clear view of the sky.

1. Mount the unit: Use provided template to drill holes for flush mounting or attach bracket.
2. Connect power: Route the power/data cable to the unit and connect to a 10-40 VDC source (fused at 1A).
3. Connect antenna: If using external antenna, connect to the antenna port.
4. Connect NMEA devices: Wire NMEA 0183 output to compatible chartplotter or autopilot.
5. Secure all connections and apply sealant if required for waterproofing.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Route cables away from high heat and moving parts.

First-Time Setup

Apply power to the unit; follow initial prompts.

1. Acquire satellites: Place unit with clear sky view; it will automatically begin searching.
2. Set location format: In SETUP menu, select LAT/LON, UTM, or other coordinate system.
3. Set units: Choose nautical, statute, or metric units for distance and speed.
4. Set time: Configure time zone and daylight saving settings.
5. Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes, especially if unit has been moved a long distance since last use.

Specifications

• Receiver: 12-channel GPS.
• Update Rate: 1 second.
• Accuracy: <10 meters RMS.
• Velocity Accuracy: 0.1 knot RMS steady state.
• Interfaces: NMEA 0183 v2.0 (standard baud rates).
• Waypoints/Routes: 500 waypoints, 20 routes (50 waypoints per route).
• Track Log: 10,000 points automatically stored, 10 savable tracks.
• Power: 10-40 VDC, 0.7W typical.
• Waterproof: IPX7.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
• Dimensions: Varies by model (refer to specific unit).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and MENU buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, QUIT/MARK, UP/DOWN arrows.

Key Functions: PAGE cycles through navigation screens. MENU accesses options for current screen. ENTER selects/confirms. QUIT/MARK cancels or marks a waypoint. UP/DOWN arrows scroll lists or adjust values.

Setup Menu: System (Units, Time, Language), Navigation (Alarms, Routing Method), Interface (NMEA Settings), Calibration (Compass, Barometer if equipped).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect TX/RX wires to compatible device. Power: Connect to vessel's DC system.

1. Turn off all devices before making connections.
2. Identify NMEA In/Out wires on the GPS 150 cable (refer to wiring diagram).
3. Connect GPS NMEA Out to other device's NMEA In, and vice versa for two-way communication.
4. Ensure proper polarity and common ground connection.
5. Select correct NMEA sentence output in the Interface setup menu.

Tip: Use marine-grade, tinned wire for all connections to prevent corrosion.

Navigation & Waypoints

Create and navigate to waypoints and routes.

1. Mark a Waypoint: Press and hold QUIT/MARK at current location, edit name/symbol if desired, press ENTER.
2. Go To a Waypoint: From any navigation screen, press MENU, select "Go To", choose from list.
3. Create a Route: MENU > Routes > New Route. Add existing waypoints in sequence.
4. Navigate a Route: MENU > Routes > select route > "Navigate".
5. Follow bearing: The Compass or Highway screen will guide you to the destination.
6. View Data: The Data screen shows Speed Over Ground (SOG), Course Over Ground (COG), Bearing, Distance, Time To Go (TTG), etc.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation. Always use in conjunction with proper charts, visual references, and sound seamanship.

Advanced Features

Track Log: Automatically records your path. Save current track via MENU > Tracks > Save. Alarms: Set anchor drag, arrival, off-course, and proximity alarms in the Navigation setup menu. MOB (Man Overboard): Press and hold QUIT/MARK twice quickly to mark an MOB position and immediately begin navigation back to it.

Care & Maintenance

Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap to clean the case and display. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Ensure the unit is powered off and disconnected before cleaning connectors.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: To restore factory defaults, power off. Press and hold PAGE and ENTER while powering on. Confirm reset (note: erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com.