Garmin GPS 17x NMEA 2000 Manual

The Garmin GPS 17x is a high-sensitivity GPS sensor designed for marine applications, featuring NMEA 2000 connectivity for seamless integration with compatible chartplotters and marine networks. It provides accurate position, speed, and heading data, supports WAAS/EGNOS, and is built to withstand harsh marine environments. Below are key sections for installation, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. NMEA 2000 Network Integration 7. Configuration and Calibration 8. Data Output and Diagnostics 9. Maintenance & Care 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPS 17x sensor unit, NMEA 2000 connector, mounting hardware, waterproof housing.

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity GPS receiver	Provides accurate positioning even in challenging conditions
NMEA 2000 connectivity	Plug-and-play integration with marine networks
WAAS/EGNOS enabled	Enhanced accuracy with satellite-based augmentation
Waterproof design	IPX7 rating for marine environments
Heading output	Provides true and magnetic heading when moving
Speed over ground	Accurate speed data for navigation
Compact form factor	Easy installation in limited spaces
Low power consumption	Efficient operation for extended use
LED status indicator	Visual feedback for power and GPS lock
Corrosion-resistant materials	Built for saltwater environments

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Select optimal mounting location.

Choose mounting location: Clear view of sky, away from obstructions and interference sources.
Mount sensor: Use provided hardware to secure unit horizontally.
Connect to NMEA 2000 network: Use certified NMEA 2000 cable and connectors.
Power connection: Ensure proper power supply through NMEA 2000 backbone.
Verify installation: Check all connections are secure and waterproof.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on device; allow time for GPS acquisition.

Power up: Ensure NMEA 2000 network is powered; GPS 17x will automatically initialize.
GPS acquisition: Wait for solid LED indication (typically 30-60 seconds for first fix).
Verify data: Check connected chartplotter for GPS position data.
Configure settings: Use connected display to set datum, units, and output sentences if needed.

CAUTION! Ensure proper NMEA 2000 termination and power supply for network stability.

Specifications

GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, 12-channel
Update Rate: 1 Hz standard
Accuracy: Position: <3 meters (WAAS/EGNOS enabled), Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS
Acquisition Time: Hot start: <1 second, Warm start: <15 seconds, Cold start: <45 seconds
Interfaces: NMEA 2000 (plug-and-play)
Output Data: Position, COG, SOG, heading, time, date, satellite status
Power Requirements: 9-16 VDC via NMEA 2000 network
Power Consumption: 0.2A typical at 12 VDC
Operating Temperature: -15°C to 70°C
Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Dimensions: 76 x 63 x 25 mm
Weight: 150 grams

Controls and Connections

Device has no physical controls; all operation is through NMEA 2000 network.

Connections: Single NMEA 2000 micro-C connector for network integration.

LED Indicators: - Solid green: Power on, GPS fix acquired - Flashing green: Power on, searching for GPS signal - Off: No power or device fault

Configuration: All settings configured through connected NMEA 2000 compatible display (chartplotter, MFD).

NMEA 2000 Network Integration

Designed for plug-and-play installation on NMEA 2000 networks.

Network requirements: Properly terminated NMEA 2000 backbone with adequate power supply.
Connection: Use certified NMEA 2000 cable and T-connector.
Device recognition: Compatible displays will automatically detect GPS 17x.
Data verification: Confirm GPS data appears on network devices.

Tip: Ensure network power is within 9-16 VDC range for optimal performance.

Configuration and Calibration

Configure through connected NMEA 2000 compatible display.

Access device settings: Navigate to sensor settings on chartplotter.
Set position format: Select preferred coordinate format (Lat/Lon, UTM, etc.).
Configure units: Set nautical miles/knots or statute miles/MPH.
Heading calibration: May require vessel movement for accurate heading calculation.
Datum selection: Set appropriate chart datum (WGS84 default).

Note: Some settings may be device-specific; refer to chartplotter manual.

Data Output and Diagnostics

Provides standard NMEA 2000 PGNs for navigation data.

Primary PGNs: - 129025: Position, rapid update - 129026: COG & SOG, rapid update - 129029: GNSS position data - 129540: GNSS satellites in view

Diagnostic Tools: - LED status indication - NMEA 2000 network diagnostics via compatible display - Satellite status page on chartplotter

Maintenance & Care

Periodically inspect connections and clean exterior.

Visual inspection: Check for corrosion, physical damage, or loose connections.
Connection check: Ensure NMEA 2000 connector is secure and dry.
Cleaning: Use fresh water and mild soap; avoid harsh chemicals.
Storage: If removing, store in dry location.

CAUTION! Do not disassemble unit; void warranty if opened.

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. CE Mark: Complies with European directives. RoHS compliant. Contains no user-serviceable parts. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power/LED off	Network power issue	Check NMEA 2000 power supply; verify connections; check fuses.
LED flashing continuously	No GPS signal acquired	Ensure clear view of sky; check for obstructions; allow more time for acquisition.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Ensure clear view; check for interference; verify WAAS/EGNOS status.
No data on display	Network connection issue	Verify NMEA 2000 connections; check device recognition on network.
Intermittent operation	Loose connection or power fluctuation	Check all connections; verify stable power supply.
No heading output	Insufficient vessel movement	Vessel must be moving for heading calculation; ensure speed > 1 knot.

Reset: Power cycle NMEA 2000 network. For persistent issues, consult Garmin support.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.