Garmin GPSMAP 7212 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 7212 is a 12-inch high-resolution marine chartplotter featuring a sunlight-readable touchscreen display, preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts, built-in GPS/GLONASS receiver, support for Garmin radar, sonar, and autopilot systems, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, and advanced navigation features. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-inch touchscreen display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts.

Installation

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

1. Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to secure mounting bracket to helm.
2. Connect power: Route power/data cable to power source (10-32 V DC). Connect red wire to positive, black wire to negative.
3. Connect NMEA 2000: Attach to boat's NMEA 2000 backbone using included T-connector.
4. Connect accessories: Attach radar, sonar, autopilot, and other devices via appropriate ports.
5. Secure the unit: Attach chartplotter to mounting bracket and tighten security screw.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Apply power to the unit; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Language selection: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
2. Units setup: Select nautical units (nautical miles, knots, feet/fathoms).
3. GPS initialization: Allow unit to acquire satellite signals (may take several minutes).
4. Chart setup: Verify preloaded charts; install additional charts via MicroSD if needed.
5. Network configuration: Configure Garmin Marine Network and NMEA connections.
6. Calibrate sensors: Follow prompts to calibrate compass and water temperature if connected.

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

Specifications

• Display Size: 12 inches diagonal.
• Display Resolution: 1280 x 800 pixels WXGA.
• Touchscreen: Capacitive multi-touch.
• GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity GPS/GLONASS.
• Charts: Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts.
• Connectivity: NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet (2 ports), Garmin Marine Network.
• Power Supply: 10-32 V DC, 3 A max.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
• Operating Temperature: -15° to 55°C (5° to 131°F).
• Storage Temperature: -40° to 85°C (-40° to 185°F).
• Dimensions: 327 x 204 x 56 mm (12.9 x 8.0 x 2.2 in).

Controls and Settings

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

Touchscreen Interface: Home screen provides access to Navigation, Sonar, Radar, Media, and Settings.

Navigation Settings: Chart orientation (North Up, Course Up, Head Up), Waypoints, Routes, Tracks, Alarms (anchor, arrival, depth). Sonar Settings: Frequency, Range, Gain, Color scheme, Noise rejection. Radar Settings: Range, Gain, Sea state, Target trails. System Settings: Display brightness, Language, Units, Network, Software update. Security: User profiles, Data lock.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to backbone for engine data, fuel flow, AIS, etc. NMEA 0183: For legacy devices. Ethernet: For radar, sonar, and network expansion. Garmin Marine Network: For compatible Garmin devices.

1. Turn off power before making connections.
2. Use appropriate cables and connectors for each device type.
3. Seal all connections with waterproof heat-shrink or sealant.
4. Configure each device in Network settings menu.

Tip: Label all cables during installation for easier troubleshooting.

Navigation & Chartplotting

Supports waypoint navigation, route planning, and track recording.

1. Create waypoint: Touch chart location > "Mark Waypoint".
2. Create route: Touch "Route" > touch chart points in sequence.
3. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint > "Go To".
4. Follow route: Select route > "Navigate Route".
5. View tide/current data: Touch tide station icon on chart.
6. Use AIS: View AIS targets when connected to AIS receiver.
7. Set alarms: Configure anchor drag, arrival, depth, and off-course alarms.
8. Save tracks: Enable track recording for later review.

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

Sonar & Radar

Sonar: Connect compatible transducer for traditional, ClearVü, or SideVü scanning. Radar: Connect compatible Garmin radar for weather and target detection.

1. Sonar operation: Select Sonar from home screen. Adjust frequency, range, and gain for conditions.
2. Radar operation: Select Radar from home screen. Adjust range, gain, and sea state clutter.
3. Overlay: Display sonar or radar data over chart view.
4. MARPA: Use radar for tracking targets when MARPA-enabled.

CAUTION! Radar emits RF energy. Ensure antenna is clear of personnel during operation.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

Regular Maintenance: Check cable connections for corrosion. Ensure mounting hardware remains secure. Update software via Garmin Express when connected to computer.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on unit. Ensure power is disconnected before cleaning connections.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received. IC Compliance: Complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and GPSMAP are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

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

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.