Garmin GPS 18 USB Manual

The Garmin GPS 18 USB is a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with a USB interface, designed for use with PCs and other compatible devices. It provides accurate positioning, velocity, and time data, supports NMEA 0183 and proprietary Garmin protocols, and is ideal for navigation, mapping, and timing applications. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, USB connector, LED status indicator, magnetic mounting base.

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity receiver	Provides reliable positioning in challenging environments
USB interface	For direct connection to computers and compatible devices
LED status indicator	Shows power and satellite acquisition status
Magnetic mounting base	For secure placement on metal surfaces
NMEA 0183 support	Standard data output for compatibility with navigation software
Garmin proprietary protocols	Enhanced data for use with Garmin software
Water-resistant design	Suitable for outdoor and marine use
WAAS enabled	Wide Area Augmentation System for improved accuracy
Built-in antenna	Integrated patch antenna for reliable signal reception
Hot start capability	Fast satellite acquisition when recently used

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure you have the GPS 18 USB unit, USB cable, and documentation.

1. Connect USB cable: Plug the USB connector into an available USB port on your computer.
2. Position the receiver: Place the GPS 18 USB with a clear view of the sky for optimal satellite reception.
3. Use magnetic base: Attach to a metal surface if available for stability.
4. Install drivers: Follow on-screen prompts for driver installation if required by your operating system.

WARNING! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or moisture beyond specifications. Ensure secure mounting to prevent damage.

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure the device with your software.

1. Power on: The GPS 18 USB is powered via USB connection; LED will illuminate.
2. Satellite acquisition: Allow several minutes for initial satellite lock (cold start).
3. Configure software: Open your navigation or mapping software and select the GPS 18 USB as the data source.
4. Verify data: Check that position, time, and satellite data are being received correctly.

CAUTION! Ensure the receiver has an unobstructed view of the sky during initial setup for best performance.

Specifications

• Receiver Type: High-sensitivity GPS with WAAS.
• Interface: USB (USB 2.0 compatible).
• Protocols: NMEA 0183 (GGA, GSA, GSV, RMC, VTG, GLL), Garmin proprietary.
• Update Rate: 1 Hz standard.
• Accuracy: Position: <10 meters RMS; Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Acquisition Times: Hot start: ~1 second; Warm start: ~38 seconds; Cold start: ~45 seconds.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Power Source: Powered via USB port (5V DC).
• Dimensions: Compact design with integrated antenna.
• Water Resistance: IPX7 standard (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes).

Controls and Connections

The GPS 18 USB has minimal physical controls; operation is managed via software.

Physical Unit: USB connector, LED status light (green/red), magnetic mounting base.

LED Indicators: Solid green: GPS fix acquired; Blinking green: Searching for satellites; Red: Power on but no GPS data; Off: No power.

Software Settings: Configure through your navigation software: Baud rate (default 4800), data protocols (NMEA or Garmin), output sentences.

Connecting to Devices

Primary connection is via USB to a computer. Can also be used with compatible devices supporting USB GPS input.

1. Ensure computer/device is on and USB port is active.
2. Connect USB cable securely to both the GPS 18 USB and the computer.
3. Wait for operating system to recognize the device (may require driver installation).
4. Open your application software and select the appropriate COM port or USB device for GPS data.

Tip: For best performance, use a high-quality USB cable and avoid USB hubs if experiencing connectivity issues.

Software Configuration

Compatible with various navigation, mapping, and timing software.

1. Install software: Ensure your chosen application supports NMEA 0183 or Garmin protocols.
2. Select data source: In software settings, choose the COM port assigned to the GPS 18 USB.
3. Configure protocol: Set to NMEA 0183 for maximum compatibility or Garmin for enhanced features.
4. Set baud rate: Default is 4800 baud; adjust if required by your software.
5. Verify data flow: Check that position, speed, and time data are updating in your application.
6. Save configuration: Store settings for future use.

WARNING! Incorrect COM port or protocol settings will prevent data reception. Consult your software documentation.

Data Protocols

The GPS 18 USB outputs standard NMEA 0183 sentences and Garmin proprietary data.

NMEA 0183 Sentences: GGA (fix data), GSA (DOP and active satellites), GSV (satellites in view), RMC (recommended minimum data), VTG (course and speed), GLL (latitude/longitude).

Garmin Protocols: Offer additional data fields and control capabilities for use with Garmin software.

Configuration: Use Garmin software or compatible utilities to switch between protocols if needed.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug from USB before cleaning. Wipe exterior with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not disassemble the unit. Avoid exposure to excessive shock, vibration, or extreme environmental conditions beyond specifications.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. 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 power (LED off)	USB connection/power	Check USB cable and port; try different USB port; ensure computer is powered on.
LED red or blinking green	No satellite fix	Move receiver to location with clear sky view; allow several minutes for acquisition.
Software not receiving data	Incorrect COM port/protocol	Verify correct COM port selection in software; check protocol settings (NMEA 0183).
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry/obstructions	Ensure clear view of sky; wait for GPS to acquire more satellites; check for interference.
Device not recognized by computer	Driver issues/USB port	Reinstall drivers; try different USB port; check Device Manager for conflicts.

Reset: Disconnect from USB for 30 seconds and reconnect for a soft reset.

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