Garmin GPS 5212 Manual

The Garmin GPS 5212 is a high-performance marine 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, and rugged waterproof construction (IPX7). Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12.1-inch LCD touchscreen, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Preloaded BlueChart g2 charts.

Feature	Description
Display	12.1-inch sunlight-readable LCD with touchscreen
Charts	Preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts
GPS Receiver	Built-in high-sensitivity GPS/GLONASS
Connectivity	NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet, SD card slot
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power Input	10-32 V DC
Radar Support	Compatible with Garmin GMR series radars
Sonar Support	Supports Garmin sonar modules
Autopilot Integration	Works with compatible Garmin autopilots
Touchscreen Controls	Pinch-to-zoom, swipe, tap for navigation

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location carefully.

1. Mount the unit: Use included bracket; select location with clear view and easy access.
2. Connect power: Route power cable to 10-32 V DC source; install appropriate fuse.
3. Connect NMEA network: Connect to NMEA 2000 backbone or NMEA 0183 devices.
4. Connect accessories: Attach radar, sonar, autopilot via appropriate cables.
5. Secure all connections and route cables properly.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Use marine-grade connectors and seal all connections.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Language selection: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
2. Units setup: Select nautical miles/knots or statute miles/MPH.
3. Chart orientation: Set to North Up or Course Up.
4. GPS initialization: Allow unit to acquire satellite signal (may take several minutes).
5. Network configuration: Set up NMEA 2000 network if applicable.
6. Calibrate sensors: Follow on-screen instructions for compass calibration.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around unit. Do not block cooling vents.

Specifications

• Display Size: 12.1 inches diagonal.
• Display Resolution: 800 x 600 pixels.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7.
• Power Requirements: 10-32 V DC, 2.5 A max.
• GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity with WAAS/EGNOS.
• Chart Memory: Internal flash memory; expandable via SD card.
• Communication: NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet.
• Operating Temperature: -15°C to 55°C (5°F to 131°F).
• Dimensions: 330 x 220 x 65 mm (13 x 8.7 x 2.6 inches).
• Weight: 2.3 kg (5.1 lbs).

Controls and Settings

Primary interface via touchscreen. Physical buttons: POWER, VOLUME, BACKLIGHT.

Touchscreen Controls: Tap icons, swipe screens, pinch-to-zoom charts.

Main Menu: Navigation, Sonar, Radar, Settings, Information. Settings: System (language, units, backlight), Navigation (route planning, alarms), Communication (NMEA setup), Display (brightness, contrast). Chart Settings: Depth shading, spot soundings, chart detail level. Sonar Settings: Frequency, range, sensitivity, noise rejection.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to backbone via included cable. NMEA 0183: Use dedicated wires for transmit/receive. Ethernet: For radar and network expansion. SD Card: For chart updates and data storage.

1. Turn off power before making connections.
2. Use appropriate cables for each device type.
3. Configure each device in Settings > Communication menu.
4. Test connections after powering on.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier troubleshooting.

Navigation Functions

Waypoints, Routes, Tracks, and Go To navigation.

1. Create waypoint: Tap chart location > "Mark Waypoint."
2. Create route: Tap "New Route," then tap chart points in sequence.
3. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint > "Go To."
4. Follow route: Select route > "Navigate Route."
5. View track: Record and display vessel path.
6. Set alarms: Anchor drag, arrival, off-course, depth.
7. View trip data: Speed, distance, time to destination.
8. Man overboard: Press MOB button for emergency navigation.

WARNING! Always verify chart data and use appropriate navigation methods.

Chartplotter Features

BlueChart g2 charts with detailed coastal information.

Features: Depth contours, intertidal zones, navaids, port plans, 3D perspective view, satellite imagery overlay, auto guidance for compatible charts, tide and current data, marina services information, fishing charts with bottom hardness and vegetation.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and disconnect power before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth with fresh water only. Do not use chemicals, solvents, or abrasives.

CAUTION! Never spray liquids directly on unit. Ensure seals are intact before use in wet conditions.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. CE Mark: Complies with European directives. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power connection/fuse	Check power cable connections; verify fuse is intact; ensure proper voltage.
Poor GPS reception	Antenna obstruction	Ensure clear view of sky; check antenna connection; allow time for acquisition.
Touchscreen not responding	Screen calibration	Clean screen; recalibrate in Settings > Display > Touchscreen Calibration.
No data from NMEA devices	Connection/settings	Verify cable connections; check NMEA settings match device output.
Charts not displaying	Chart data/SD card	Ensure charts are loaded; check SD card is properly inserted and formatted.
Unit overheating	Ventilation/sun exposure	Ensure adequate ventilation; provide shade if in direct sunlight.

Reset: Settings > System > Reset to Factory Defaults (backup data first).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.