Garmin GPS 4012 Manual

The Garmin GPS 4012 is a high-performance marine GPS chartplotter featuring a 12.1-inch sunlight-readable display, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, built-in GPS/GLONASS receiver, support for radar, sonar, and autopilot integration, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, touchscreen interface with keypad control, and rugged, waterproof design (IPX7). 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 & Chartplotting 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12.1-inch LCD display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Remote control (optional).

FeatureDescription
Display12.1-inch diagonal, sunlight-readable, 800 x 600 pixels, resistive touch
GPS ReceiverBuilt-in high-sensitivity GPS/GLONASS
ChartsPreloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts
ConnectivityNMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet (Garmin Marine Network)
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power Input10-32 V DC
Data StorageSD card slot for additional charts and data
AudioBuilt-in speaker for alarms and prompts
IntegrationSupports radar, sonar, autopilot, VHF, cameras
ControlsTouchscreen and physical keypad

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location with clear view and access.

  1. Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to secure bracket to helm or console.
  2. Connect power: Route power cable to battery; connect red to positive (+), black to negative (-).
  3. Connect data: Attach NMEA 2000/NMEA 0183 cables as needed for peripheral devices.
  4. Attach unit: Secure chartplotter to bracket; ensure all connections are snug.
  5. Apply power: Turn on vessel's battery switch; unit should power on.

WARNING! Ensure all electrical connections are secure and protected from moisture. Disconnect battery before making connections.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup prompts.

  1. Select language: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
  2. Configure units: Set distance, speed, depth, and temperature units (nautical/statute).
  3. Calibrate compass: If connected, follow on-screen instructions for compass calibration.
  4. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit in open sky view; wait for satellite acquisition.
  5. Set time/date: Configure local time and date format.
  6. Configure alarms: Set anchor drag, shallow/deep water, and off-course alarms as needed.

CAUTION! Ensure unit is securely mounted before vessel movement. Verify GPS signal accuracy.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen or keypad. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ZOOM IN/OUT, ENTER, BACK.

Touchscreen: Tap icons and menus directly. Use gestures to pan charts.

Settings Menu: System (language, units, backlight), Navigation (routing, alarms), Sonar (if connected), Radar (if connected), Communications (NMEA settings). Chart Display: Adjust detail, depth shading, and overlay data. Waypoints/Routes: Create, edit, and manage waypoints and routes.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to backbone for engine data, wind, depth, etc. NMEA 0183: For legacy devices. Ethernet: Connect to Garmin radar, sonar, or other network devices.

  1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
  2. Use appropriate cables and connectors.
  3. Configure device interfaces in Settings > Communications.
  4. Verify data reception in data fields or device list.

Tip: Label all cables for easy identification. Use waterproof connectors for exposed connections.

Navigation & Chartplotting

Supports waypoint, route, and track navigation.

  1. View chart: Default screen shows current position on chart.
  2. Create waypoint: Tap "Mark" or press ENTER at desired location.
  3. Create route: Tap Route > New, then tap chart points in sequence.
  4. Navigate to: Select waypoint/route, then "Go To".
  5. Follow route: Unit displays course, distance, time to go, and cross-track error.
  6. Adjust course: Manually steer or use autopilot integration.
  7. Review tracks: View and save track history.
  8. Use tides/currents: Access tide station data if available in chart.

WARNING! Always compare electronic navigation with paper charts and visual cues. GPS is an aid to navigation.

Advanced Features

Radar Overlay: Superimpose radar image on chart. Sonar: View depth, fish arches, and bottom structure. Autopilot Control: Steer to waypoint or follow route. AIS: Display AIS targets if receiver connected. SiriusXM Weather: Optional subscription for weather data.

Care & Maintenance

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth with mild soap; avoid solvents. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use. Periodically check cable connections and seals.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or high-pressure spray. Ensure seals are intact for waterproof integrity.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and Garmin are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection/batteryCheck fuse, wiring, and battery voltage; ensure connections are secure.
No GPS signalObstruction/antennaMove to open area; check antenna connection (if external).
Touchscreen not respondingCalibration/screen protectorRecalibrate touchscreen in settings; remove any non-approved screen protector.
No data from sensorsCabling/NMEA settingsVerify cable connections and NMEA configuration; check sensor power.
Chart not displayingSD card/chart regionEnsure SD card is properly inserted; verify chart is for correct region.
Display is dimBacklight settingsAdjust display brightness in settings; check power saving mode.

Reset: Settings > System > Reset to factory defaults if necessary.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.

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