Garmin GPS 17x Manual

The Garmin GPS 17x is a high-sensitivity, waterproof NMEA 0183 GPS sensor designed for marine and outdoor applications. It provides accurate position, velocity, and time data to compatible chartplotters, autopilots, and other navigation equipment. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, Waterproof housing (IPX7), NMEA 0183 interface, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware.

Feature	Description
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity, 12-channel with WAAS/EGNOS support
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Interface	NMEA 0183 v3.01 (standard baud rates: 4800 default)
Power Input	10-40 VDC, typical 12V/24V marine systems
Data Output	GGA, GLL, GSA, GSV, RMC, VTG, ZDA sentences
Accuracy	Position: <3 meters, Velocity: 0.1 knot
Update Rate	1 Hz standard
Antenna	Internal patch antenna with external connector for optional external antenna
Operating Temp	-15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F)
Mounting	Flush mount or pole mount options

Installation

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

1. Select Mounting Location: Ensure unobstructed view; avoid metal obstructions.
2. Mount Unit: Use provided hardware for flush or pole mounting.
3. Connect Power/Data Cable: Red to +12V/24V, Black to Ground, Blue to NMEA OUT+, Brown to NMEA OUT-, Shield to Ground.
4. Connect to NMEA Device: Connect OUT+ and OUT- to receiving device's NMEA IN+ and IN-.
5. Secure Connections: Use waterproof connectors; ensure all connections are tight.

WARNING! Ensure power is OFF during installation. Follow marine electrical standards.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS 17x; verify operation with connected device.

1. Power Connection: Apply 10-40 VDC power; green LED should blink during acquisition, then steady.
2. Verify NMEA Output: Check connected chartplotter or NMEA monitor for GPS data sentences.
3. Configure Baud Rate: Default is 4800 baud; change if required by receiving device via configuration commands.
4. Test Position Fix: Allow 1-2 minutes for cold start acquisition (up to 45 seconds typical).

CAUTION! Do not open housing; no user-serviceable parts inside.

Specifications

• Receiver Type: 12-channel GPS, WAAS/EGNOS enabled.
• Update Rate: 1 Hz (1 update per second).
• Accuracy: Position: <3 meters 95% typical; Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Acquisition Times: Cold start: <45 seconds; Warm start: <15 seconds; Hot start: <1 second.
• Dynamic Conditions: Altitude: 18,000 meters max; Velocity: 515 meters/sec max.
• Power: 10-40 VDC, 35 mA typical at 12 VDC.
• Connector: 6-pin sealed connector (supplied with cable).
• Dimensions: 76 x 60 x 23 mm (3.0 x 2.4 x 0.9 in).
• Weight: 150 grams (5.3 oz).
• Compliance: FCC, CE, RoHS.

Controls and Connections

No physical controls; operation via power and NMEA interface. LED Indicator: Green - Power/Status (blinking: acquiring, steady: fix).

Cable Pinout: 1-Red (+VDC), 2-Black (Ground), 3-Blue (NMEA OUT+), 4-Brown (NMEA OUT-), 5-Shield (Ground), 6-White (NMEA IN+ for configuration, if enabled).

Configuration: Via NMEA commands or Garmin configuration software (if supported).

Connecting to Devices

Connect to chartplotter, autopilot, radar, or other NMEA 0183 devices.

1. Identify Device NMEA Input: Check manual for NMEA IN+ and IN- terminals.
2. Wire Connections: GPS OUT+ (Blue) to Device IN+; GPS OUT- (Brown) to Device IN-.
3. Set Baud Rate: Ensure both devices use same baud rate (4800 default).
4. Verify Data: Check device for GPS position display.

Tip: Use twisted pair cable for NMEA signals; keep away from power cables.

Operation and Data Output

Automatically outputs standard NMEA 0183 sentences when powered and has fix.

1. Power On: Apply power; LED blinks during acquisition, goes steady with fix.
2. Data Sentences: Default output includes GGA (position/fix data), RMC (recommended minimum), VTG (course/speed).
3. Sentence Selection: Can be configured to output specific sentences only.
4. Baud Rate Change: Send configuration command via NMEA IN if required.
5. DGPS: Automatically uses WAAS/EGNOS when available for improved accuracy.

WARNING! Do not submerge beyond rated depth. Ensure cable gland is sealed.

Configuration Settings

Configure via NMEA commands or software. Common settings: Baud rate (4800, 9600, 38400), Output sentences (enable/disable), DGPS source (WAAS/EGNOS auto).

Factory Reset: Send proprietary Garmin command or disconnect power for 30 seconds.

Care & Maintenance

Periodically inspect cable and connector for corrosion or damage. Clean exterior with fresh water and mild soap; do not use harsh chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not disassemble. If damaged, replace unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. CE Declaration of Conformity: Meets EU directives. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No LED illumination	No power	Check power connections; verify 10-40 VDC present at red/black wires.
LED blinking continuously	No GPS fix	Ensure clear sky view; wait up to 45 seconds for cold start.
No data on connected device	Wiring/baud rate	Verify NMEA wiring (OUT+ to IN+, OUT- to IN-); check baud rate matches.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Ensure unobstructed view; allow time for DGPS (WAAS/EGNOS) acquisition.
Intermittent data	Loose connection	Check all connections; inspect cable for damage.

Reset: Power cycle; for factory reset, use configuration command.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support; unit is not user-serviceable.