Garmin GPS 152 Manual

The Garmin GPS 152 is a rugged, waterproof marine GPS receiver designed for navigation on the water. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a sunlight-readable display, an intuitive interface, and extensive marine navigation capabilities including waypoints, routes, and tracks. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof housing (IPX7), high-sensitivity GPS receiver, sunlight-readable FSTN display, NMEA 0183 interface, external antenna connector, and built-in worldwide basemap.

Feature	Description
Waterproof rating	IPX7 standard (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
GPS receiver	High-sensitivity WAAS-enabled receiver
Display	Sunlight-readable FSTN, 4-level grayscale
Interface	NMEA 0183 compatible for connection to autopilots, sounders, etc.
Antenna	Built-in patch antenna; external antenna connector
Waypoints	1000 user waypoints with name and symbol
Routes	50 reversible routes with up to 50 points each
Tracks	10 saved tracks, 10,000 points total
Power	10-35 VDC; typical 1.5W power consumption
Mounting	Includes bracket for fixed or swivel mounting

Installation

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

1. Mount the unit: Use provided bracket to mount on a flat surface using screws.
2. Connect power: Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) of 10-35 VDC source.
3. Connect external devices: Use NMEA 0183 wires to connect to compatible marine electronics.
4. Secure all connections and protect from moisture.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Do not mount where it obstructs operator's view.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Acquire satellite signals: Place unit outdoors with clear sky view; allow several minutes for first fix.
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select ENGLISH (default).
3. Set units: Choose nautical miles/knots, statute miles/mph, or kilometers/kmh.
4. Set time: Choose local time format and time zone.
5. Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition requires clear view of sky; avoid obstructions.

Specifications

• Display: 2.6" diagonal, FSTN, 4-level grayscale, 160 x 104 pixels.
• GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled, 12 parallel channels.
• Accuracy: <10 meters RMS, <3 meters RMS with WAAS.
• Interface: NMEA 0183 version 2.3, 4800 baud.
• Waypoints: 1000 with name and symbol.
• Routes: 50 reversible routes, 50 points each.
• Tracks: 10 saved tracks, 10,000 points.
• Power: 10-35 VDC, 1.5W typical.
• Waterproof: IPX7 (1 meter for 30 minutes).
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right), QUIT, MARK, GOTO, MOB.

Buttons: POWER turns unit on/off; PAGE cycles display pages; ENTER selects; ROCKER navigates menus; QUIT exits; MARK marks waypoint; GOTO navigates to waypoint; MOB marks Man Overboard position.

Settings Menu: Access via PAGE then SETUP. Options include System (language, units), Navigation (routing preferences), Marine (tide, sun/moon data), NMEA (interface settings), Display (contrast, backlight).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilots, sounders, plotters. External antenna: For improved reception in covered areas.

1. Turn off GPS and connected device before wiring.
2. Connect NMEA wires: TX+/- to device RX+/-, RX+/- to device TX+/-.
3. Connect external antenna to antenna port if needed.
4. Power on and configure NMEA settings in SETUP menu.

Tip: Use marine-grade wire and waterproof connectors for all external connections.

Navigation Basics

Basic navigation functions: marking waypoints, creating routes, following tracks.

1. Mark waypoint: Press MARK at current location; edit name/symbol if desired.
2. Go to waypoint: Press GOTO, select waypoint from list, press ENTER to navigate.
3. Create route: MENU > Routes > New, add waypoints in sequence.
4. Follow route: Select route, press NAVIGATE.
5. Track: Tracks are automatically recorded; can be saved and reversed.
6. MOB: Press and hold MOB button to mark man overboard position and begin navigation back.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation; always use in conjunction with proper charts and seamanship.

Advanced Features

Tide data: View tide stations and predictions for many locations. Sun/Moon: View sunrise/sunset and moon phase information. NMEA output: Output position, speed, course data to compatible devices.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use fresh water and mild soap with soft cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

CAUTION! Ensure seals are intact for waterproofing. Do not open housing; voids warranty.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. 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	Power connection	Check wiring; ensure 10-35 VDC present; check fuse.
Poor satellite reception	Obstructions	Move to open area; ensure clear view of sky; check for interference.
Inaccurate position	Satellite geometry	Wait for better satellite alignment; ensure WAAS enabled.
No NMEA data output	Wiring/settings	Check NMEA wiring; verify baud rate (4800); check SETUP menu.
Display unreadable	Contrast/backlight	Adjust contrast in SETUP; ensure backlight is on if needed.

Reset: Hold PAGE + POWER while powering on to master reset (erases all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.