Garmin GPS 18x-5Hz Manual

The Garmin GPS 18x-5Hz is a high-performance, 5Hz update rate GPS sensor designed for precision applications. It features a waterproof housing, NMEA 0183 and RS-232 output, low power consumption, and WAAS/EGNOS capability for enhanced accuracy. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPS 18x-5Hz sensor, waterproof cable with connector, mounting hardware.

Feature	Description
Update Rate	5 Hz (5 updates per second)
Accuracy	Position: <3m RMS with WAAS/EGNOS enabled
Output Protocols	NMEA 0183 v3.01, RS-232
Power Requirements	6 to 40 VDC, 45 mA typical
Connector	6-pin sealed connector
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Operating Temperature	-30°C to 80°C (-22°F to 176°F)
Antenna	Internal patch antenna with external magnet mount option
LED Indicator	Power and satellite lock status
Mounting	Includes bracket for permanent installation

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location.

1. Mount the unit: Use provided bracket to mount in a location with clear sky view.
2. Connect power: Connect red wire to positive DC power (6-40V), black wire to ground.
3. Connect data lines: Connect white (TX/A Out) and brown (RX/A In) wires to your device's serial port as needed.
4. Secure connections: Ensure all connections are waterproof if exposed to elements.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Mount securely to avoid vibration damage.

First-Time Setup

Apply power; allow time for initial satellite acquisition.

1. Power connection: Apply 6-40 VDC to red and black wires.
2. Satellite acquisition: LED will blink while searching, then remain solid when 3D fix is acquired (typically 45 seconds cold start).
3. Data verification: Connect to a serial terminal (9600 baud, NMEA) to verify GPRMC and GPGGA sentences.
4. Configure output: Use proprietary commands if different baud rate or sentence selection is needed.

CAUTION! Do not expose connectors to moisture before sealing. Ensure proper polarity.

Specifications

• Receiver: 12 parallel channel GPS receiver
• Update Rate: 5 Hz (user configurable to 1 Hz)
• Accuracy: Position: <3m RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS
• Acquisition Times: Cold start: ~45s, Warm start: ~15s, Hot start: ~1s
• Dynamics: Up to 4g, Altitude limit: 18,000 m (60,000 ft)
• Output Sentences: GGA, GLL, GSA, GSV, RMC, VTG, ZDA (configurable)
• Baud Rates: 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200 (default 9600)
• Power Input: 6 to 40 VDC, 45 mA @ 12 VDC typical
• Connector: 6-pin M12 circular connector
• Dimensions: 61 x 43 x 20 mm (2.4 x 1.7 x 0.8 in)

Controls and Connections

Unit has no physical controls. All configuration via serial commands.

Cable Pinout:

Wire Color	Pin	Function
Red	1	Power (+6 to +40 VDC)
Black	2	Ground
White	3	TX/A Out (NMEA/RS-232 Data Out)
Brown	4	RX/A In (Configuration Input)
Green	5	Not Connected
Blue	6	1 Pulse Per Second (PPS) Output

LED Indicators: Blinking - Searching for satellites; Solid - 3D fix acquired.

Connecting to Devices

Connect to PC, marine instruments, autopilots, or data loggers.

1. Determine interface: Check if device requires NMEA 0183 or RS-232.
2. Wire connections: Connect white wire (TX) to receiving device's RX input.
3. Configure baud rate: Ensure both devices use same baud rate (default 9600).
4. Test connection: Monitor NMEA sentences with terminal software.

Tip: Use shielded cable for long runs to reduce interference.

Operation and Data Output

Once powered and with satellite fix, outputs standard NMEA sentences.

1. Default output: GPRMC and GPGGA sentences at 5 Hz.
2. Sentence selection: Configure via proprietary commands to enable/disable specific sentences.
3. Baud rate change: Send command to change baud rate; both devices must match.
4. PPS output: Blue wire provides 1 Pulse Per Second synchronized to UTC.
5. WAAS/EGNOS: Enabled by default for improved accuracy.

WARNING! Do not disconnect while writing configuration. Ensure stable power during operation.

Configuration Settings

Configure using proprietary Garmin commands via serial connection.

Common configuration commands (hex format):

• Set baud rate: $PGRMO,COM1,0,BAUD_RATE*CS
• Select sentences: $PGRMO,GPxxx,1 (1=enable, 0=disable)
• Set update rate: $PGRMC,UPDATE_RATE*CS (1, 2, 4, 5 Hz)
• Save configuration: $PGRMC,,,SAVE*CS

Factory Reset: Send $PGRMC,,,,,,,,,,,,,FACTORY*CS

Care & Maintenance

Keep connector clean and dry. Inspect cable periodically for damage.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasives. Use only mild soap and water on exterior if needed.

Regulatory Information

FCC ID: IPH-00318. Complies with part 15 of FCC rules. This device may not cause harmful interference and must accept any interference received. Contains GPS receiver regulated under FCC Part 15. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin International at 913-397-8200.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power LED	Incorrect wiring/power	Check polarity and voltage (6-40 VDC); verify connections.
LED blinking continuously	No satellite fix	Ensure clear sky view; allow more time for cold start (up to 5 min).
No data output	Baud rate mismatch	Verify baud rate settings on both devices; try default 9600.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Check for obstructions; ensure WAAS/EGNOS enabled.
Intermittent data	Loose/corroded connections	Inspect and secure all connections; check cable integrity.

Reset: Send factory reset command or cycle power.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support: 1-800-800-1020; www.garmin.com/support