Garmin GPS 2 Plus Manual

The Garmin GPS 2 Plus is a high-performance marine GPS receiver designed for navigation on water. It features a waterproof design, high-sensitivity GPS receiver, NMEA 0183 output, external antenna capability, and intuitive interface for marine navigation. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Navigation Operation 8. Waypoints & Routes 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof GPS receiver unit, external antenna port, power/data cable, mounting hardware.

FeatureDescription
Waterproof designIPX7 waterproof rating for marine environments
High-sensitivity GPSAcquires and maintains satellite signals in challenging conditions
NMEA 0183 outputCompatible with chartplotters, autopilots, and other marine electronics
External antenna portFor connecting optional external GPS antenna
Power input10-32V DC marine power system compatible
Data portFor firmware updates and advanced configuration
LED indicatorsPower, GPS fix, and data transmission status
Mounting optionsFlush mount or bracket mount configurations
Marine charts compatibleWorks with Garmin BlueChart and other marine cartography
Waypoint storageStores up to 500 waypoints with names and symbols

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location on vessel.

  1. Select mounting location: Choose area with clear view of sky, protected from physical damage.
  2. Mount unit: Use provided hardware for flush or bracket mounting.
  3. Connect power: Connect red wire to positive DC, black wire to negative/ground.
  4. Connect antenna: Attach external antenna if using (optional).
  5. Connect NMEA devices: Wire NMEA output to compatible chartplotter or autopilot.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Disconnect power before installation.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; allow time for satellite acquisition.

  1. Initial satellite acquisition: Place unit with clear sky view, power on, wait for GPS fix (typically 1-5 minutes).
  2. Configure NMEA output: Set baud rate (4800 default) and sentences as needed.
  3. Set position format: Select coordinate format (Lat/Lon, UTM, etc.).
  4. Configure units: Set nautical miles/knots or statute miles/mph.
  5. Set time: Configure time zone and daylight saving settings.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around unit. Do not block antenna view.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Configure via connected chartplotter or NMEA commands. LED indicators show status.

LED Indicators: Power (green), GPS Fix (flashing green = acquiring, solid green = fix), Data (yellow = NMEA output active).

Configuration settings: Baud rate (4800, 9600, 38400), NMEA sentences (GGA, GLL, GSA, GSV, RMC, VTG, ZDA), Position format, Units, Time format, Datum (WGS-84 default).

Connecting Devices

Connect to chartplotters, autopilots, fishfinders, and other NMEA 0183 compatible devices.

  1. Identify NMEA ports on receiving device (IN+ and IN-).
  2. Connect GPS NMEA OUT+ to device IN+.
  3. Connect GPS NMEA OUT- to device IN-.
  4. Set matching baud rate on both devices.
  5. Verify data transmission with LED indicator.

Tip: Use marine-grade wire and proper crimp connectors for all connections.

Navigation Operation

GPS provides continuous position, speed, and heading data to connected devices.

  1. Power on: Connect to power, green power LED illuminates.
  2. Satellite acquisition: GPS fix LED flashes during acquisition, solid when fix obtained.
  3. Position data: Latitude, longitude, altitude, speed, and course provided via NMEA.
  4. Waypoint navigation: Create and navigate to waypoints via connected chartplotter.
  5. Route following: Follow pre-planned routes with turn-by-turn guidance.
  6. Track recording: Record vessel's path for later review or retracing.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation only. Always use traditional navigation methods as backup.

Waypoints & Routes

Create and manage waypoints and routes through connected chartplotter.

Waypoint creation: Mark current position or enter coordinates manually. Waypoint management: Edit names, symbols, coordinates. Route planning: Create routes by connecting waypoints in sequence. Route navigation: Follow routes with course deviation indication.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Clean exterior: Use fresh water and mild soap, rinse thoroughly.
  2. Check connections: Inspect for corrosion, ensure waterproof integrity.
  3. Verify mounting: Ensure unit remains securely mounted.
  4. Update firmware: Check Garmin website for updates periodically.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure water spray. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. CE Compliance: Meets European Union requirements. RoHS Compliant: Contains no hazardous substances. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power LEDPower connectionCheck power source, verify wiring, check fuse.
No GPS fixAntenna obstructionEnsure clear view of sky, check antenna connection.
Intermittent dataWiring issuesCheck NMEA connections, verify baud rate settings.
Inaccurate positionPoor satellite geometryWait for better satellite coverage, ensure clear view.
No NMEA outputConfigurationVerify NMEA sentences enabled, check baud rate match.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to perform soft reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support for warranty and repair information.

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