Garmin GPS16x HVS Manual

The Garmin GPS16x HVS is a high-performance, 12-channel GPS receiver designed for marine, automotive, and general navigation applications. It features high-sensitivity GPS reception, NMEA 0183 output, waterproof construction (IPX7), external antenna capability, and versatile power options. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
GPS Channels	12 parallel channels for fast acquisition and tracking
Update Rate	1 Hz standard
Accuracy	Position: <15 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS
Output Protocols	NMEA 0183 v3.01, Garmin binary
Power Input	6-40 VDC, reverse polarity protected
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Antenna	Internal patch antenna; external antenna connector (MCX)
LED Indicators	Power, GPS fix, data transmission
Operating Temperature	-15°C to 70°C
Dimensions	60 x 120 x 35 mm

Installation

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

1. Mounting: Use provided bracket or adhesive mount. Ensure surface is clean and dry.
2. Antenna Connection: For external antenna, connect MCX connector to antenna port.
3. Power Connection: Connect red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-) of 6-40 VDC source.
4. Data Connection: Connect white (Tx/A) and green (Rx/B) wires to NMEA-compatible device.
5. Ground: Connect shield wire to ground if required by installation.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Do not exceed 40 VDC input.

First-Time Setup

Apply power; unit will automatically begin satellite acquisition.

1. Initial Acquisition: May take up to 5 minutes for first fix. Ensure clear sky view.
2. LED Status: Solid green LED indicates GPS fix. Blinking indicates searching.
3. NMEA Output: Default output is NMEA 0183 GGA, GSA, GSV, RMC sentences at 4800 baud.
4. Configuration: Use Garmin configuration software or send proprietary commands via data port to change settings.

CAUTION! Avoid mounting near metal obstructions or strong RF sources.

Specifications

• Receiver Type: 12-channel GPS, WAAS enabled
• Acquisition Time: Hot start: <15 seconds, Warm start: <45 seconds, Cold start: <2 minutes
• Dynamic Conditions: Supports up to 999 knots velocity, 6g acceleration
• Data Output: RS-232 (NMEA 0183) at 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400 baud
• Power Consumption: 140 mA @ 12 VDC typical
• Connector: 6-pin sealed circular connector
• Weight: 200 grams
• Compliance: FCC, CE, RoHS

Controls and Connections

Unit has no physical buttons. Status indicated by LEDs.

LED Indicators:

• Power (Red): On when power applied.
• GPS Fix (Green): Solid = fix established, Blinking = searching.
• Data (Yellow): Blinks when transmitting NMEA data.

Cable Pinout (6-pin):

1. Power Ground (Black)
2. Tx/A (White) - NMEA output
3. Rx/B (Green) - NMEA input (for configuration)
4. Power + (Red)
5. Ground/Shield
6. Not connected

Connecting to External Devices

Connect to chartplotters, autopilots, or computers via NMEA 0183.

1. To Chartplotter: Connect Tx wire to plotter's NMEA input. Set baud rates to match.
2. To Autopilot: Connect Tx wire to autopilot's course computer NMEA input.
3. To Computer: Use RS-232 to USB converter. Connect Tx to computer Rx.
4. External Antenna: Use active marine antenna for improved reception in covered locations.

Tip: Use shielded cable for data wires and keep away from power cables to reduce interference.

Operation and Navigation

Unit operates automatically once powered.

1. Normal Operation: LED turns solid green when 3D fix acquired.
2. Data Output: Continuously outputs selected NMEA sentences.
3. Cold Start: If moved >500 miles without power, may require cold start (automatic).
4. WAAS/EGNOS: Automatically uses satellite-based augmentation when available.
5. Configuration Changes: Send Garmin proprietary commands via Rx wire to change baud rate, output sentences, etc.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be degraded by intentional or unintentional interference.

NMEA Output Configuration

Default NMEA sentences: GGA, GSA, GSV, RMC. Can be configured to output additional sentences.

Common Sentences:

• GGA: Time, position, fix type, satellites used.
• GLL: Latitude/longitude, time, status.
• RMC: Recommended minimum specific GPS/Transit data.
• VTG: Course and speed over ground.

Baud Rate Settings: 4800 (default), 9600, 19200, 38400. Change via configuration command.

Maintenance & Care

Wipe exterior with damp cloth. Check cable connections periodically for corrosion.

CAUTION! Do not disassemble unit. No user-serviceable parts inside. If damaged, contact Garmin support.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) not cause harmful interference, (2) accept any interference received. CE: Complies with European EMC directive. Contains GPS technology controlled under U.S. export laws. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power LED	Power connection	Check voltage at unit; verify polarity; check fuse.
GPS LED blinking	No satellite fix	Ensure clear view of sky; wait up to 5 minutes; check for interference.
No data output	Baud rate mismatch	Verify receiving device baud rate matches GPS output (default 4800).
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry	Wait for more satellites; ensure WAAS enabled; check for multipath.
Intermittent operation	Loose connection	Check all cable connections; inspect for corrosion.

Reset: Power cycle unit. For factory reset, send appropriate configuration command.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support. Do not attempt to repair.