Garmin GPS 18x USB Manual

The Garmin GPS 18x USB is a high-sensitivity, waterproof GPS sensor that connects via USB to a host computer or compatible device. It provides reliable position, velocity, and time (PVT) data for navigation, mapping, and timing applications. Below are key sections covering features, installation, configuration, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Package Contents 3. Installation 4. Specifications 5. Configuration & Operation 6. Connecting to a Computer 7. LED Status Indicators 8. NMEA 0183 Data Output 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, USB interface cable, waterproof casing, magnetic mount, LED status indicator.

Feature	Description
High-Sensitivity Receiver	Acquires and tracks signals in challenging environments
USB Interface	Plug-and-play connection for data and power
Waterproof Design	IPX7 rating withstands immersion up to 1 meter
Magnetic Mount	Integrated magnet for easy placement on metal surfaces
NMEA 0183 Output	Standard serial data protocol for compatibility
LED Status Indicator	Shows power and satellite acquisition status
Wide Operating Temperature	Designed for indoor and outdoor use
Low Power Consumption	Powered via USB bus (no external power required)
Built-in Antenna	Integrated patch antenna for compact design
Position Accuracy	Typically less than 10 meters RMS

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all items are present.

Garmin GPS 18x USB sensor unit.
USB interface cable (approx. 2 meters).
Magnetic mounting base.
Quick start guide.
Regulatory and safety information sheet.

NOTE: Contact your dealer if any items are missing or damaged.

Installation

For optimal performance, install with clear view of sky.

Choose location: Place on metal surface using magnetic mount or secure with adhesive if needed.
Connect USB cable: Plug mini-USB end into GPS sensor, standard USB end into computer port.
Position antenna: Ensure top faces sky with minimal obstructions (buildings, thick glass).
Driver installation: Most OS will auto-detect; install Garmin USB drivers if prompted.

WARNING! Do not place near strong magnetic sources or high-voltage equipment. Ensure USB port provides adequate power.

Specifications

Receiver: High-sensitivity, 12-channel GPS.
Update Rate: 1 Hz standard.
Accuracy: Position: <10 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
Acquisition Time: Hot start: ~1 second, Warm start: ~30 seconds, Cold start: ~45 seconds.
Interfaces: USB (virtual COM port), NMEA 0183 v3.01.
Output Messages: GGA, GLL, GSA, GSV, RMC, VTG, ZDA.
Power: 5V DC via USB bus (100 mA typical).
Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C.
Storage Temp: -40°C to 85°C.
Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing.
Waterproof: IPX7 (1 meter for 30 minutes).
Dimensions: 61 mm diameter, 25 mm height.
Weight: 85 grams.

Configuration & Operation

Configure using host software (e.g., Garmin Spanner, third-party applications).

Initial Operation: Upon first fix, sensor requires clear sky view for several minutes to download almanac data. Subsequent starts are faster.

Data Output: Default NMEA 0183 at 4800 baud. Configure via software for baud rate, update rate, message selection.

Power Management: No on/off switch; powers on when USB connected. Enter low-power mode if host suspends USB bus.

Connecting to a Computer

USB connection provides both data and power.

Ensure computer is on and USB port active.
Connect USB cable to computer and GPS sensor.
OS should detect new hardware; install drivers if needed.
Open host application (e.g., mapping software) and select virtual COM port assigned to GPS.
Verify data stream by checking for valid position sentences.

Tip: Use Garmin Spanner utility to test connection and configure settings.

LED Status Indicators

LED on top indicates operational status.

LED Pattern	Meaning
Off	No power or USB not connected properly.
Solid Green	Power on, searching for satellites.
Flashing Green	2D or 3D fix acquired, tracking satellites.
Flashing Red	Self-test failure or hardware error.

NOTE: Allow up to 45 seconds for initial fix under open sky.

NMEA 0183 Data Output

Standard sentences output for navigation data.

GGA - Global Positioning System Fix Data.
GLL - Geographic Position - Latitude/Longitude.
GSA - GNSS DOP and Active Satellites.
GSV - GNSS Satellites in View.
RMC - Recommended Minimum Specific GNSS Data.
VTG - Course Over Ground and Ground Speed.
ZDA - Time & Date.

Default Settings: 4800 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit (8N1).

Care & Maintenance

Unplug USB before cleaning. Wipe with damp cloth; do not immerse unless necessary.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasives. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. CE compliant. Contains GPS technology subject to U.S. export laws. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power (LED off)	USB connection/power	Check USB cable connections; try different USB port; ensure host provides power.
LED solid green, no fix	Poor satellite visibility	Move to open sky view; avoid obstructions; wait up to 45 minutes for cold start.
No data in host software	COM port settings	Verify correct virtual COM port selected; check baud rate (4800); restart application.
Inaccurate position	Multipath/interference	Relocate away from metal structures, electronic devices; ensure clear view.
LED flashing red	Hardware fault	Cycle power; reconnect USB. If persistent, contact Garmin support.
Driver not installing	OS compatibility	Download latest Garmin USB drivers from website; run as administrator.

Reset: Disconnect USB for 10 seconds to perform soft reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support; www.garmin.com