Garmin GPS 17HVS Manual

The Garmin GPS 17HVS is a high-sensitivity, waterproof NMEA 0183 GPS sensor designed for marine applications. It provides accurate position, velocity, and time data to compatible chartplotters, autopilots, and other marine electronics. Below are key sections for installation, specifications, operation, connection, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof GPS sensor, Power/Data cable, Mounting hardware.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location.

1. Select Mounting Location: Choose a location with clear view of the sky, away from obstructions and other antennas.
2. Mount the Unit: Use provided hardware to securely mount the GPS 17HVS.
3. Route the Cable: Run the power/data cable to your marine electronics and power source.
4. Make Electrical Connections: Connect power, ground, and data wires as specified.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Follow proper marine wiring practices.

First-Time Setup

After installation, apply power to initialize the unit.

1. Apply Power: Connect to 10-40 VDC power source. The LED will illuminate.
2. Initial Acquisition: On first use, the unit may take several minutes to acquire satellite signals and establish a position fix.
3. Verify Data Output: Connect to a compatible display (chartplotter) to verify GPS data is being received.
4. Configure Connected Device: On your chartplotter or other device, ensure it is set to receive NMEA 0183 data from the correct port.

CAUTION! Do not apply power before all connections are secure and waterproofed.

Specifications

• Receiver: High-sensitivity GPS with WAAS/EGNOS
• Channels: 12 parallel channel GPS receiver
• Update Rate: 1 Hz (1 update per second)
• Accuracy: <3 meters RMS (with WAAS/EGNOS)
• Velocity Accuracy: 0.1 knot RMS steady state
• Time Accuracy: 1 microsecond synchronized to GPS time
• Data Protocol: NMEA 0183 version 3.01
• Output Sentences: GGA, GLL, GSA, GSV, RMC, VTG, ZDA
• Power Supply: 10-40 VDC, 0.15A typical
• Waterproof: IPX7
• Operating Temperature: -15° to 70°C
• Storage Temperature: -40° to 85°C
• Dimensions: 3.5" diameter x 1.3" height (88.9 x 33 mm)

Controls and Connections

The unit has no user controls. Operation is indicated by the LED and via data output.

LED Status:

• Solid Red: Power on, acquiring GPS fix.
• Flashing Red (1/sec): Power on, no GPS fix.
• Solid Green: Power on, GPS fix acquired.
• Flashing Green (1/sec): Power on, GPS fix acquired with DGPS (WAAS/EGNOS) correction.

Cable Connections (6-pin):

• Red: Power + (10-40 VDC)
• Black: Power Ground (-)
• Blue: NMEA 0183 Output A (Tx+)
• Brown: NMEA 0183 Output B (Tx-)
• Shield: Drain Wire (connect to ground at display end only)

Connecting to Devices

Connect the GPS 17HVS to NMEA 0183 compatible devices like chartplotters, autopilots, or computers with an interface.

1. Identify Device Ports: Locate the NMEA 0183 input (or talker/listener) terminals on your device.
2. Wire Connections: Connect the GPS Output A (Blue) to the receiving device's NMEA In + (or "Talker A"). Connect GPS Output B (Brown) to the receiving device's NMEA In - (or "Talker B").
3. Power and Ground: Connect Red to positive power (10-40VDC), Black to negative/ground.
4. Configure Baud Rate: Ensure the connected device is set to 4800 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit (8N1) for NMEA 0183.

Tip: Use marine-grade, tinned copper wire for all connections and protect with heat-shrink tubing.

Operation & Data Output

Once powered and connected, the unit operates automatically.

1. Power On: The LED will light red, then turn green when a 3D GPS fix is acquired.
2. Data Output: The unit continuously outputs standard NMEA 0183 sentences containing position, speed, heading, time, and satellite data.
3. No User Configuration: The output sentences and format are fixed; no user configuration is required or possible on the sensor itself.
4. Cold/Warm/Hot Start: The unit manages start-up automatically based on the almanac data stored in memory.

WARNING! Ensure the connected device can handle a continuous data stream. Do not disconnect power while the unit is operating if avoidable.

Maintenance

Periodically inspect the unit and connections.

1. Visual Inspection: Check for physical damage, corrosion, or loose cables.
2. Connection Check: Ensure all electrical connections remain secure and waterproof.
3. Cleaning: Wipe the external casing with a damp cloth and mild detergent if needed. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.
4. Lens Care: Keep the GPS antenna dome clear of paint, sealants, or debris.

CAUTION! Do not open the unit. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

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 Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Contains transmitter module FCC ID: IPH-00317. For detailed regulatory notices, please refer to the full product manual. © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other countries.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Cycling power performs a warm start. For a cold start (clear all memory), disconnect power for 30 seconds while the unit has a clear view of the sky, then reconnect.

Support: For technical support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact your local Garmin dealer.