Garmin GPS 45 XL Manual

The Garmin GPS 45 XL is a rugged, portable GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a 12-parallel-channel receiver for fast satellite acquisition, a large backlit display, comprehensive waypoint and route management, track logging, and NMEA 0183 output for interfacing with other devices. 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 Functions 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPS receiver unit, external antenna connector, data/power cable, mounting bracket, user manual.

Feature	Description
12-Channel Receiver	Fast acquisition and tracking of up to 12 satellites
Backlit Display	Large LCD with adjustable backlight for low-light conditions
Waypoint Storage	Stores up to 500 user-defined waypoints with names and symbols
Route Management	Create and store 20 reversible routes with up to 30 waypoints each
Track Log	Automatic track recording with 10 saved tracks
NMEA 0183 Output	Interface with plotters, autopilots, or other navigation devices
External Antenna Port	For connection to an optional external GPS antenna
Waterproof Design	Rated to IEC 60529 IPX7 standard (submersible to 1 meter)
Battery Power	Operates on 4 AA batteries or external 10-40V DC power
Navigation Screens	Multiple pages: Satellite Status, Map, Highway, Position, Menu

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location.

Mount the unit: Use the provided bracket to mount in a location with clear sky view.
Connect power: Use the data/power cable to connect to a 10-40V DC source (red to positive, black to negative).
Install batteries: Insert 4 AA batteries for portable operation.
Connect external antenna (optional): Attach to the external antenna port if needed.

WARNING! Ensure all electrical connections are correct to avoid damage. Mount securely to prevent movement during travel.

First-Time Setup

Power on the GPS 45 XL; follow initialization procedure.

Acquire satellites: Place unit outdoors with clear view of sky. The unit will automatically begin searching for satellites.
Set initial position: If prompted, you can enter your approximate position manually to speed up acquisition.
Configure settings: Press MENU to access setup options for units, north reference, time format, etc.
Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen prompts if using magnetic sensor features.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes. Ensure unit is stationary during this process.

Specifications

Receiver: 12 parallel channels, GPS L1 frequency, C/A code.
Update Rate: 1 second continuous.
Accuracy: Position: <15 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
Acquisition Time: Hot start: ~15 seconds, Warm start: ~45 seconds, Cold start: ~1.5 minutes.
Dynamics: Up to 999 knots velocity, 6g acceleration.
Interfaces: NMEA 0183 version 2.0, GARMIN proprietary.
Power Supply: 10-40V DC or 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH).
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours (alkaline, backlight off).
Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
Waterproof: IEC 60529 IPX7.

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons and on-screen menus.

Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, GOTO, MARK, QUIT, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right).

Menu Pages: Satellite Status, Map, Highway, Position, Main Menu.

Settings: Units (statute, nautical, metric), North Reference (True, Magnetic), Time Format (12/24 hr), Display Contrast, Backlight, Alarms (Anchor, Arrival, Off Course), System Setup (Interface, Initialize).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 0183 Output: Connect data/power cable wires (NMEA Out +, NMEA Out -) to compatible device.

Turn off GPS and external device before connecting.
Identify NMEA input pins on your chartplotter, autopilot, or computer.
Connect NMEA Out + to device's NMEA In +, and NMEA Out - to device's NMEA In -.
Configure external device to accept NMEA 0183 data at 4800 baud.

Tip: Refer to your external device's manual for specific NMEA wiring instructions.

Navigation Functions

Core navigation using waypoints, routes, and track log.

Mark a Waypoint: Press MARK at current location. Edit name/symbol and press ENTER to save.
Go To a Waypoint: Press GOTO, select waypoint from list, press ENTER to navigate.
Create a Route: Main Menu > Routes > New Route. Add stored waypoints in sequence.
Follow a Route: Select route from list and press NAVIGATE.
Track Log: Tracks are automatically recorded. View, save, or clear tracks from the Track Log menu.
Navigation Screens: Use PAGE to cycle through Map (shows course), Highway (steering guidance), and Position (coordinates, speed, heading).

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by obstructions, atmospheric conditions, and satellite geometry. Always use in conjunction with other navigation methods.

Advanced Features

MOB (Man Overboard): Press and hold GOTO to instantly mark and navigate back to a rescue position. Proximity Waypoints: Set an alarm radius around any waypoint. Sunrise/Sunset Times: View calculated times for current location. Simulator Mode: Practice navigation indoors (disable in Menu > System > Simulator).

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and intact to maintain waterproof rating. Do not submerge while connected to external power.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with Canadian ICES-003. 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. Garmin and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries, loose cable	Check/replace batteries; ensure power cable is securely connected and fuse is intact.
Cannot acquire satellites	Poor sky view, unit moving	Move to open area with clear view; keep unit stationary during acquisition.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry, multipath	Wait for satellite constellation to change; move away from large reflective surfaces.
No NMEA data output	Incorrect wiring, wrong baud rate	Verify cable connections; ensure receiving device is set to 4800 baud, NMEA 0183.
Display is dim or blank	Backlight off, contrast setting	Adjust contrast in settings; press PAGE+Power to toggle backlight.
Buttons unresponsive	Unit locked, moisture	Press and hold POWER for 10 seconds to reset; ensure unit is dry.

Reset: To restore factory defaults, go to Menu > System > Initialize > Master Reset (will erase all user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com for firmware updates and service locations.