Garmin GPSMAP 820, GPSMAP 8208 MFD, GPSMAP 8212 MFD, GPSMAP 8215 MFD, GPSMAP 8500 Installation Instructions

GPSMAP® 8000 Series Installation

Instructions

Important Safety Information

WARNING

See the Important Safety and Product Information guide in the
product box for product warnings and other important
information.

When connecting the power cable, do not remove the in-line
fuse holder. To prevent the possibility of injury or product
damage caused by fire or overheating, the appropriate fuse
must be in place as indicated in the product specifications. In
addition, connecting the power cable without the appropriate
fuse in place will void the product warranty.

CAUTION

Always wear safety goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask
when drilling, cutting, or sanding.

NOTICE

When drilling or cutting, always check what is on the opposite
side of the surface.

Registering Your Device

Help us better support you by completing our online registration
today.

• Go to http://my.garmin.com.

• Keep the original sales receipt, or a photocopy, in a safe
place.

Contacting Garmin Product Support

• Go to www.garmin.com/support and click Contact Support
for in-country support information.

• In the USA, call [phone] or [phone].

• In the UK, call 0808 2380000.

• In Europe, call +44 (0) 870.8501241.

Updating the Device Software

Before you can update the software, you must obtain a
software-update memory card or load the latest software onto a
memory card.

Turn on the chartplotter.

1

After the home screen appears, insert the memory card into

2

the card slot.
NOTE: In order for the software update instructions to

appear, the device must be fully booted before the card is
inserted.

Follow the on-screen instructions.

3

Wait several minutes while the software update process

4

completes.
The device returns to normal operation after the software

update process is complete.
Remove the memory card.

5

NOTE: If the memory card is removed before the device

restarts fully, the software update is not complete.

Tools Needed

• Drill and drill bits

• #2 Phillips screwdriver

• Jigsaw or rotary tool

• File and sandpaper

• Marine sealant (optional)

Mounting the Components

Mounting Considerations

NOTICE

This device should be mounted in a location that is not exposed
to extreme temperatures or conditions. The temperature range
for this device is listed in the product specifications. Extended
exposure to temperatures exceeding the specified temperature
range, in storage or operating conditions, may cause device
failure. Extreme-temperature-induced damage and related
consequences are not covered by the warranty.

Using the included hardware and template, you can mount the
device using one of two methods. You can use the included
bracket and hardware to bail mount the device, or you can use
the included template and hardware to flush mount the device in
the dashboard. If you want to mount the device using an
alternative method where it appears flat with the front of the
dashboard, you must purchase a flat-mount kit (sold separately,
with professional installation recommended) from your Garmin
dealer.

When selecting a mounting location, observe these
considerations.

NOTE: Not all mounting methods are available for all device
models. See the specific mounting-type section for more details
about your model.

• The location should provide optimal viewing as you operate
your boat.

• The location should allow for easy access to all device
interfaces, such as the keypad, touchscreen, and card
reader, if applicable.

• The location must be strong enough to support the weight of
the device and protect it from excessive vibration or shock.

• To avoid interference with a magnetic compass, the device
should not be installed closer to a compass than the
compass-safe distance value listed in the product
specifications.

• The location must allow room for the routing and connection
of all cables.

Bail Mounting the Device

NOTICE

If you are mounting the bracket on fiberglass with screws, it is
recommended to use a countersink bit to drill a clearance
counterbore through only the top gel-coat layer. This will help to
avoid any cracking in the gel-coat layer when the screws are
tightened.

The bail-mounting hardware (screws and washers or nuts,
washers, and bolts) is not included. The holes on the bail-mount
bracket are 5/16 in. (7.9 mm) in diameter. Before you can bail
mount the device, you must choose mounting hardware that fits
the holes in the bail-mount bracket and securely attaches it to
your specific mounting surface. The size of the pilot hole
required depends on the mounting hardware you choose.

You can bail mount only the eight-inch and 12-inch models. Due
to the size of the 15-inch models, you must install them using
the flush-mount or flat-mount method.

Using the included bail-mount bracket À as a template, mark

1

the location of the four pilot holes Á.

®

June 2014

Printed in Taiwan 190-01557-02_0B

Using a drill bit appropriate for your mounting hardware, drill

2

the pilot holes.
Secure the bail-mount bracket to the surface using your

3

mounting hardware Â.
Install the bail-mount knobs à on the sides of the device.

4

Place the device in the bail-mount bracket, and tighten the

5

bail-mount knobs.

Securing the Device

You can lock the device to the structure of your boat for added
security (optional).

Bail-mount the device (Bail Mounting the Device).

1

Using a coated braided-steel cable (not included) and a lock

2

(not included), secure the back of the case À to the structure
of the boat.

Using a 13 mm (½ in.) drill bit, drill one or more of the holes

3

inside the corners of the solid line on the template to prepare
the mounting surface for cutting.

Using a jigsaw, cut the mounting surface along the inside of

4

the solid line indicated on the template.
Place the device in the cutout to test the fit.

5

If necessary, use a file and sandpaper to refine the size of

6

the cutout.
After the device fits correctly in the cutout, ensure the

7

mounting holes on the device line up with the larger 7.2 mm
(9/32 in.) holes on the template.

If the mounting holes on the device do not line up, mark the

8

new hole locations.
Using a 7.2 mm (9/32 in.) drill bit, drill the larger holes.

9

Starting in one corner of the template, place a nut plate

10

over the larger hole Á drilled in step 9.

The smaller 3.5 mm (9/64 in.) hole  on the nut plate should
line up with the smaller hole on the template.

If the smaller 3.5 mm (9/64 in.) hole on the nut plate does not

11

line up with the smaller hole on the template, mark the new
hole location.

Repeat steps 10–11 to verify placement of the remaining nut

12

plates and holes on the template.
Using a 3.5 mm (9/64 in.) drill bit, drill the smaller holes.

13

Remove the template from the mounting surface.

14

Starting in one corner of the mounting location, place a nut

15

plate à on the back of the mounting surface, lining up the
large and small holes.

The raised portion of the nut plate should fit into the larger
hole.

À

Flush Mounting the Device

NOTICE

Be careful when cutting the hole to flush mount the device.
There is only a small amount of clearance between the case
and the mounting holes, and cutting the hole too large could
compromise the stability of the device after it is mounted.

The included template and hardware can be used to flush
mount the device in your dashboard. To mount the device so
the screen is flat with the dashboard, you must purchase a flat­mount kit from your Garmin dealer.

Trim the template and make sure it fits in the location where

1

you want to mount the device.
Remove the protective liner from the back of the template

2

and adhere it to the location where you want to mount the
device.

2

Secure the nut plate to the mounting surface by fastening an

16

included M3 screw Ä through the smaller 3.5 mm (9/64 in.)
hole.

Repeat steps 15–16 to secure the remaining nut plates to the

17

mounting surface.
Install the rubber gasket Å on the back of the device.

18

The pieces of the rubber gasket have adhesive on the back.
Make sure you remove the protective liner before installing
them on the device.

If you will not have access to the back of the device after you

19

mount it, connect all necessary cables to the device before
placing it into the cutout.

NOTE: To prevent corrosion of the metal contacts, cover
unused connectors with the attached weather caps.

Place the device into the cutout.

20

Secure the device to the mounting surface using the included

21

M4 screws Æ.
Insert the included plugs over each of the M4 screw heads.

22

Install the decorative bezel by snapping it in place around the

23

edges of the device.

Card Reader Mounting Considerations

NOTICE

This device should be mounted in a location that is not exposed
to extreme temperatures or conditions. The temperature range
for this device is listed in the product specifications. Extended
exposure to temperatures exceeding the specified temperature
range, in storage or operating conditions, may cause device
failure. Extreme-temperature-induced damage and related
consequences are not covered by the warranty.

The card reader can be flush mounted in the dashboard using
the included hardware. When selecting a mounting location,
observe these considerations.

• The card reader should be mounted in an accessible
location. You must be able to access the card reader when
necessary to insert and remove memory cards containing
additional mapping and device updates, and to transfer user
data.

• To avoid interference with a magnetic compass, the device
should not be installed closer to a compass than the
compass-safe distance value listed in the product
specifications.

• The location must allow room for the routing and connection
of the cables.

Mounting the Card Reader

NOTICE

Be careful when cutting the hole to flush mount the device.
There is only a small amount of clearance between the case
and the mounting holes, and cutting the hole too large could
compromise the stability of the device after it is mounted.

If you are mounting the bracket on fiberglass with screws, it is
recommended to use a countersink bit to drill a clearance
counterbore through only the top gel-coat layer. This will help to
avoid any cracking in the gel-coat layer when the screws are
tightened.

The included template and hardware can be used to flush
mount the device at the selected location.

Trim the flush-mount template and make sure it fits in the

1

location where you want to mount the device.
Remove the protective liner from the back of the template

2

and adhere it to the location where you want to mount the
device.

Using a 6 mm (¼ in.) drill bit, drill one or more of the holes

3

inside the corners of the solid line on the template to prepare
the mounting surface for cutting.

Using a jigsaw, cut the mounting surface along the inside of

4

the solid line indicated on the template.
Place the device in the cutout to test the fit.

5

If necessary, use a file and sandpaper to refine the size of

6

the cutout.
After the device À fits correctly in the cutout, make sure the

7

mounting holes on the device line up with the pilot holes
on the template.

Á

If the mounting holes on the device do not line up, mark the

8

new pilot-hole locations.
Using a center punch, indent the pilot holes and drill the

9

clearance counterbore through the gel-coat layer as advised
in the notice.

Remove the template from the mounting surface.

10

If you will not have access to the back of the device after you

11

mount it, connect all necessary cables to the device before
placing it into the cutout.

Place the device into the cutout.

12

Secure the device to the mounting surface using the included

13

screws Â.
Install the decorative bezel by snapping it in place around the

14

edges of the device.

Antenna Mounting Considerations

You can mount the antenna on a flat surface, install it under
fiberglass, or attach it to a standard 1 in. OD, 14 threads per
inch, pipe-threaded pole (not included). You can route the cable
outside of the pole or through the pole. For best performance,
consider these guidelines when selecting the antenna mounting
location.

• To ensure the best reception, the antenna should be
mounted in a location that has a clear, unobstructed view of
the sky in all directions À.

• The antenna should not be mounted where it is shaded by
the superstructure of the boat Á, a radome antenna, or the
mast.

• The antenna should not be mounted near the engine or other
sources of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Â.

• If a radar is present, the antenna should be mounted above
the path of the radar Ã. If necessary, the antenna may be
mounted below the path of the radar Ä.

3

• The antenna should not be mounted directly in the path of
the radar Å.

• The antenna should be mounted at least 1 m (3 ft.) away
from (preferably above) the path of a radar beam or a VHF
radio antenna Æ.

Testing the Mounting Location

Temporarily secure the antenna in the preferred mounting

1

location and test it for correct operation.
If you experience interference with other electronics, move

2

the antenna to a different location, and test it again.
Repeat steps 1–2 until you observe full or acceptable signal

3

strength.
Permanently mount the antenna.

4

Surface Mounting the Antenna

NOTICE

If you are mounting the bracket on fiberglass with screws, it is
recommended to use a countersink bit to drill a clearance
counterbore through only the top gel-coat layer. This will help to
avoid any cracking in the gel-coat layer when the screws are
tightened.

Stainless-steel screws may bind when screwed into fiberglass
and overtightened. Garmin recommends applying an anti-seize
lubricant to the screws before installing them.

Set the surface-mount bracket aside.

2

Do not drill through the bracket.
Drill the three 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) pilot holes.

3

Use a 25 mm (1 in.) hole saw to cut the cable hole in the

4

center.
Place the seal pad Á on the bottom of the surface-mount

5

bracket, aligning the screw holes.
Use the included M4 screws to secure the surface-mount

6

bracket to the mounting surface.
Route the cable  through the 25 mm (1 in.) hole and

7

connect it to the antenna.
Verify the large gasket à is in place on the bottom of the

8

antenna, place the antenna on the surface-mount bracket,
and twist it clockwise to lock it in place.

Secure the antenna to the mounting bracket with the

9

included M3 set screw Ä.
Route the cable away from sources of electronic

10

interference.

Mounting the Antenna with the Cable Routed Outside the Pole

Before you permanently mount the antenna, you must test the
mounting location for correct operation (Antenna Mounting

Considerations).

Route the cable through the pole-mount adapter À, and

1

place the cable in the vertical slot Á along the base of the
pole-mount adapter.

Before you permanently mount the antenna, you must test the
mounting location for correct operation (Antenna Mounting

Considerations).

Using the surface-mount bracket À as your mounting

1

template, mark the three pilot-hole locations and trace the
cable-hole in the center of the bracket.

4

Screw the pole-mount adapter onto a standard 1 in. OD, 14

2

threads per inch, pipe-threaded pole (not included).
Do not overtighten the adapter on the pole.
Connect the cable to the antenna.

3

Place the antenna on the pole-mount adapter and twist it

4

clockwise to lock it in place.

Secure the antenna to the adapter with the included M3 set

5

screw Â.
With the antenna installed on the pole mount, fill the

6

remaining gap in the vertical cable slot with a marine sealant
(optional).

Attach the pole to the boat if it is not already attached.

7

Route the cable away from sources of electronic

8

interference.

Mounting the Antenna with the Cable Routed Through the Pole

Before you permanently mount the antenna, you must test the
mounting location for correct operation (Antenna Mounting

Considerations).

Position a standard 1 in. OD, 14 threads per inch, pipe-

1

threaded pole (not included) in the selected location, and
mark the approximate center of the pole.

Drill a hole using a 19 mm (3/4 in.) drill bit for the cable to

2

pass through.
Fasten the pole to the boat.

3

Thread the pole-mount adapter onto the pole.

4

Do not overtighten the adapter.
Route the cable through the pole and connect it to the

5

antenna.
Place the antenna on the pole-mount adapter and twist it

6

clockwise to lock it in place.
Secure the antenna to the adapter with the included M3 set

7

screw À.

Place the antenna in the under-deck mounting bracket.

2

Adhere the under-deck mounting bracket to the mounting

3

surface.
Secure the under-deck mounting bracket to the mounting

4

surface with screws.
Connect the cable to the antenna Â.

5

Route the cable away from sources of electronic

6

interference.

Cable and Connection Considerations

NOTICE

A blue rubber seal is included for each DVI port on the device.
This seal must be installed between each DVI port and DVI­cable connector to avoid damage to the connectors.

With the antenna installed on the pole mount, fill the vertical

8

cable slot Á with a marine sealant (optional).
Route the cable away from sources of electronic

9

interference.

Mounting the Antenna Under the Deck

NOTICE

Before attaching the under-deck mounting bracket to the
surface, verify the included screws will not penetrate the
surface. If the included screws are too long, you must purchase
surface-appropriate screws to complete the installation.

Before you permanently mount the antenna, you must test the
mounting location for correct operation (Antenna Mounting

Considerations).

Because the antenna cannot acquire signals through metal, it
must be mounted under a fiberglass surface only.

Place the adhesive pads À on the under-deck mounting

1

bracket Á.

• For easer cable routing, the power, NMEA® 0183, and
Garmin Marine Network cables are packaged without the
locking rings installed. You should route the cables before
you install the locking rings.

• After connecting a locking ring to a cable, make sure the ring
is securely connected and the o-ring is in place so the power
or data connection remains secure.

• The device should be connected to the same power source
as the card reader. If this is not possible, the devices must
be connected to the same ground.

Station Connection Considerations

This device can be set up in conjunction with other compatible
Garmin devices to work together as a station. When planning
stations on your boat, observe these considerations.

• Devices earlier than the GPSMAP 8000 series and GPSMAP
8500 series cannot be used in a station.

• Although it is not necessary, it is recommended that you
install all of the devices you plan to use in one station near
each other.

• No special connections are necessary to create a station, as
long as all of the devices are connected to the Garmin
Marine Network (Garmin Marine Network Considerations).

• Stations are created and modified using the device software.
See the owner's manual provided with the device for more
information.

Connecting to Power

WARNING

When connecting the power cable, do not remove the in-line
fuse holder. To prevent the possibility of injury or product
damage caused by fire or overheating, the appropriate fuse
must be in place as indicated in the product specifications. In
addition, connecting the power cable without the appropriate
fuse in place will void the product warranty.

Route the power cable to the power source and to the

1

device.

5

Connect the red wire to the positive (+) battery terminal, and

2

connect the black wire to the negative (-) battery terminal.
Install the locking ring and o-ring on the end of the power

3

cable.
Connect the power cable to the device by turning the locking

4

ring clockwise.

Power Cable Extensions

If necessary, the power cable can be extended using the
appropriate wire gauge for the length of the extension.

Item Description

À
Á
Â

Item Description

À
Á

Â
Ã
Ä
Å
Æ

Additional Grounding Considerations

This device should not need any additional chassis grounding in
most installation situations. If interference is experienced, the
grounding screw on the housing can be used to connect the
device to the water ground of the boat to help avoid the
interference.

Fuse

Battery

1.8 m (6 ft.) without extension

Splice

• 12 AWG (3.31 mm²) extension wire, up to 4.6 m (15 ft.)

• 10 AWG (5.26 mm²) extension wire, up to 7 m (23 ft.)

• 8 AWG (8.36 mm²) extension wire, up to 11 m (36 ft.)

Fuse

20.3 cm (8 in.)

Battery

20.3 cm (8 in.)

11 m (36 ft.) maximum extension

connected to any NETWORK port to share data with all
devices on the boat connected by a Garmin Marine Network
cable.

NMEA 2000® Considerations

NOTICE

If you have an existing NMEA 2000 network on your boat, it
should already be connected to power. Do not connect the
NMEA 2000 power cable to an existing NMEA 2000 network,
because only one power source should be connected to a
NMEA 2000 network.

If you are installing a NMEA 2000 power cable, you must
connect it to the boat ignition switch or through another in-line
switch. NMEA 2000 devices will drain your battery if the NMEA
2000 power cable is connected to the battery directly.

This device can connect to a NMEA 2000 network on your boat
to share data from NMEA 2000 compatible devices such as a
GPS antenna or a VHF radio. The included NMEA 2000 cables
and connectors allow you to either connect the device to your
existing NMEA 2000 network or create a basic NMEA 2000
network if needed.

If you are unfamiliar with NMEA 2000, you should read the
“NMEA 2000 Network Fundamentals” chapter of the Technical
Reference for NMEA 2000 Products. You can find this
document using the “Manuals” link on the product page for your
device at www.garmin.com.

The port labeled NMEA 2000 is used to connect the device to a
standard NMEA 2000 network. The ports labeled ENGINE and
HOUSE are reserved for future use and should not be
connected to a standard NMEA 2000 network.

Garmin Marine Network Considerations

This device can connect to additional Garmin Marine Network
devices to share data such as radar, sonar, and detailed
mapping. When connecting Garmin Marine Network devices to
this device, observe these considerations.

• A Garmin Marine Network cable must be used for all Garmin
Marine Network connections.
◦ Third-party CAT5 cable and RJ45 connectors must not be

used for Garmin Marine Network connections.

◦ Additional Garmin Marine Network cables and connectors

are available from your Garmin dealer.

• There are four NETWORK ports on the device that each act
as a network switch. Any compatible device can be

6

Item Description

À
Á
Â
Ã
Ä
Å
Æ
Ç
È

NMEA 2000 compatible Garmin device

GPS antenna

Ignition or in-line switch

NMEA 2000 power cable

NMEA 2000 drop cable

12 Vdc power source

NMEA 2000 terminator or backbone cable

NMEA 2000 T-connector

NMEA 2000 terminator or backbone cable

NMEA 0183 Connection Considerations

• The installation instructions provided with your NMEA 0183
compatible device should contain the information you need
to identify the transmitting (Tx) and receiving (Rx) A (+) and
B (-) wires.

• When connecting NMEA 0183 devices with two transmitting
and two receiving wires, it is not necessary for the NMEA
2000 bus and the NMEA 0183 device to connect to a
common ground.

• When connecting a NMEA 0183 device with only one
transmitting (Tx) wire or with only one receiving (Rx) wire,

the NMEA 2000 bus and the NMEA 0183 device must be
connected to a common ground.

Basic NMEA 0183 Connections

These diagrams illustrate basic NMEA 0183 wiring used to connect your device to NMEA 0183-compliant devices. For more
information on the NMEA 0183 capabilities of the device, see Advanced NMEA 0183 Connections.

Standard NMEA 0183-Compliant Device

Item Description

À
Á
Â
Ã

Item Garmin Wire Function Garmin Wire Color NMEA 0183 Device Wire Function

Ê
Ë
Ì
Í
Î
Ï
Ð

12 Vdc power source

Power cable

NMEA 0183-compliant device

NMEA 0183 cable

Power Red Power

Power ground Black Power ground

Data ground Black Data ground

Receive A (+) White Transmit A (+)

Receive B (-) Orange/white Transmit B (-)

Transmit A (+) Gray Receive A (+)

Transmit B (-) Pink Receive B (-)

Single-Ended NMEA 0183-Compliant Device

Item Description

À
Á
Â
Ã

Item Garmin Wire Function Garmin Wire Color NMEA 0183 Device Wire Function

Ê
Ë

12 Vdc power source

Power cable

NMEA 0183-compliant device

NMEA 0183 cable

Power Red Power

Power ground Black Power ground

7

Item Garmin Wire Function Garmin Wire Color NMEA 0183 Device Wire Function

Ì
Í
Î
Ï
Ð

Data ground Black Data ground

Receive B (-) Orange/white N/A

Receive A (+) White Transmit

Transmit A (+) Gray Receive

Transmit B (-) Pink N/A

• If the NMEA 0183-compliant device has only one input (RX) wire (no A, B, +, or -), leave the pink wire unconnected.

• If the NMEA 0183-compliant device has only one output (TX) wire (no A, B, +, or -), connect the orange/white wire to ground.

• Consult the installation instructions of your NMEA 0183-compliant device to identify the output A(+) and B(-) wires and input A(+)
and B(-) wires.

• Use 28 AWG, shielded, twisted-pair wiring for extended runs of wire.

• Solder all connections and seal them with heat-shrink tubing.

Advanced NMEA 0183 Connections

There are four internal NMEA 0183 input ports (RX ports), and two internal NMEA 0183 output (TX ports) on the included NMEA
0183 data cable. You can connect one NMEA 0183 device per internal RX port to input data to your Garmin device, and you can
connect up to three NMEA 0183 devices in parallel to each internal TX port to receive data output by your Garmin device. Each
internal RX and TX port has 2 wires, labeled A (+) and B (-) according to the NMEA 0183 convention. The corresponding A (+) and
B (-) wires of each internal port should be connected to the A (+) and B (-) wires of your NMEA 0183-compliant device. Refer to the
table and wiring diagrams when connecting the data cable to NMEA 0183 devices.

Consult the installation instructions for your NMEA 0183-compliant device to identify the output (TX) A (+) and B (-) wires and input
(RX) A (+) and B (-) wires. Use 28 AWG, shielded, twisted-pair wiring for extended runs of wire. Solder all connections and seal
them with heat-shrink tubing.

• For two-way communication with a NMEA 0183 device, the internal ports on the NMEA 0183 data cable are not linked. For
example, if the input of the NMEA-compliant device is connected to the internal output port 1 on the data cable, you can connect
the output port of your NMEA 0183-compliant device to any of the internal input ports (port 1, port 2, port 3, or port 4) on the
wiring harness.

• The ground wires on the NMEA 0183 data cable and your NMEA 0183-compliant device must both be connected to ground.

• See Specifications for a list of the approved NMEA 0183 sentences output by and input to your device.

• The internal NMEA 0183 ports and communication protocols are configured on the connected Garmin device. See the NMEA
0183 section or communication configuration section of the owner's manual provided with your Garmin device for more
information.

Port Wire Function Wire Color Pin Number

Input port 1 RX/A (+) White

RX/B (-) Orange/white

Input port 2 RX/A (+) Brown

RX/B (-) Brown/white

Input port 3 RX/A (+) Violet

RX/B (-) Violet/white

Input port 4 RX/A (+) Black/white

RX/B (-) Red/white

Output port 1 TX/A (+) Gray

TX/B (-) Pink

Output port 2 TX/A (+) Blue

TX/B (-) Blue/white

8

Port Wire Function Wire Color Pin Number

N/A Garmin GPS in (unused) White/Green

N/A Garmin GPS out (unused) Green

N/A Alarm Yellow

N/A Accessory on Orange

N/A Ground (shield) Black

N/A Spare N/A

N/A Spare N/A

Standard NMEA 0183-Compliant Device Connected for Two-Way Communication

Item Description

À
Á
Â
Ã

Item Garmin Wire Function Garmin Wire Color NMEA 0183 Device Wire Function

Ê
Ë
Ì
Í
Î
Ï
Ð

Power Red Power

Power ground Black Power ground

Data ground Black Data ground

RxA (+) White TxA (+)

RxB (-) Orange/white TxB (-)

TxA (+) Gray RxA (+)

TxB (-) Pink RxB (-)

12 Vdc power source

Power cable

NMEA 0183-compliant device

NMEA 0183 cable

Standard NMEA 0183-Compliant Device Connected for One-Way Communication

9

NOTE: This diagram illustrates both sending and receiving connections. Refer to items Ê, Ë, Ì, Í, and Î when connecting the
Garmin device to receive information from a NMEA 0183-compatible device, and refer to items Ê, Ë, Ì, Ï, and Ð when connecting
the Garmin device to transmit information to a NMEA 0183-compatible device.

Item Description

À
Á
Â
Ã

Item Garmin Wire Function Garmin Wire Color NMEA 0183 Device Wire Function

Ê
Ë
Ì
Í
Î
Ï
Ð

Power Red Power

Power ground Black Power ground

Data ground Black Data ground

RxA (+) White TxA (+)

RxB (-) Orange/white TxB (-)

TxA (+) Gray RxA (+)

TxB (-) Pink RxB (-)

12 Vdc power source

Power cable

NMEA 0183-compliant device

NMEA 0183 cable

NMEA 0183-Compliant Device With a Single Receiving Wire Connected to Receive Data

Item Description

À
Á
Â
Ã

Item Garmin Wire Function Garmin Wire Color NMEA 0183 Device Wire Function

Ê
Ë
Ì
Í
Î

Power Red Power

Power ground Black Power ground

Data ground Black Data ground

TxA (+) Gray RxA

TxB (-) Pink N/A

12 Vdc power source

Power cable

NMEA 0183-compliant device

NMEA 0183 cable

10

NMEA 0183-Compliant Device With a Single Transmitting Wire Connected to Send Data

Item Description

À
Á
Â
Ã

Item Garmin Wire Function Garmin Wire Color NMEA 0183 Device Wire Function

Ê
Ë
Ì
Í
Î

Power Red Power

Power ground Black Power ground

Data ground Black Data ground

RxB (-) Orange/white N/A

RxA (+) White TxA (+)

Lamp or Horn Connections

The device can be used with a lamp, a horn, or both, to sound
or flash an alert when the chartplotter displays a message. This
is optional, and the alarm wire is not necessary for the device to

12 Vdc power source

Power cable

NMEA 0183-compliant device

NMEA 0183 cable

• The maximum current is 100 mA, and a relay is needed to
limit the current from the chartplotter to 100 mA.

• To toggle visual and audible alerts manually, you can install
single-pole, single-throw switches.

function normally. When connecting the device to a lamp or
horn, observe these considerations.

• The alarm circuit switches to a low-voltage state when the
alarm sounds.

Item Description

10–35 Vdc power source

À

Power cable

Á

Horn

Â

Lamp

Ã

Item Description

NMEA 0183 cable

Ä

Relay (100 mA coil current)

Å

Toggle switches to enable and disable lamp or horn alerts

Æ

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Item Wire Color Wire Function

Ê
Ë
Ì

Red Power

Black Ground

Yellow Alarm

Video Input and Output Considerations

This device allows video input from composite, component, and
digital video sources, depending on the model, and video output
to a monitor. When connecting video input and output sources,
observe these considerations.

• The eight- and twelve-inch models have two composite-video
ports labeled CVBS 1 IN, and CVBS 2 IN. The fifteen-inch
models have four composite-video ports labeled CVBS 1 IN,
CVBS 2 IN, CVBS 3 IN, and CVBS 4 IN.

• The fifteen-inch models have one component-video port
labeled COMPONENT IN (480i/576i).

◦ The composite- and component-video ports use BNC

connectors. You can use a BNC to RCA adapter to
connect a composite-video source with RCA connectors
to these ports.

◦ The video from sources connected to these ports is

available only for display on the device or additional
monitor connected to the device. Composite or
component video is not shared across the Garmin Marine
Network or NMEA 2000 network.

• The fifteen-inch models have one video port labeled DVI-I
VIDEO IN that accepts video from digital or analog sources
using a DVI-D or DVI-I cable.

◦ If needed, you can use an HDMI to DVI-D converter to

connect an HDMI-compatible source to this device.

◦ If needed, you can use a VGA to DVI-I adapter to connect

a VGA source to this port.

• You can connect a display to the DVI-I VIDEO OUT port to
view a mirror image of the screen on a computer monitor or
HD TV using a DVI-D or DVI-I cable.

◦ If needed, you can use a DVI-D to HDMI adapter to

connect to an HD TV or other HDMI-compatible display.

◦ If needed, you can use a DVI-I to VGA adapter to connect

to a computer monitor or other VGA-compatible display.

• Although it is recommended to use DVI cables sold by
Garmin, high-quality third-party DVI cables may be used.
You should test the DVI cable by connecting the devices
before routing the cable.

Video Connector Gasket Considerations

Rubber gaskets are included for all DVI and VGA connections
on the device. These gaskets must be installed between each
DVI or VGA port and cable connector to avoid damage to the
connectors. When making DVI or VGA connections, observe
these considerations.

Card Reader Connections

Connecting to Power

WARNING

When connecting the power cable, do not remove the in-line
fuse holder. To prevent the possibility of injury or product
damage caused by fire or overheating, the appropriate fuse
must be in place as indicated in the product specifications. In
addition, connecting the power cable without the appropriate
fuse in place will void the product warranty.

Route the power cable to the power source and to the

1

device.
Connect the red wire to the positive (+) battery terminal, and

2

connect the black wire to the negative (-) battery terminal.
Install the locking ring and o-ring on the end of the power

3

cable.
Connect the power cable to the device by turning the locking

4

ring clockwise.

Connecting the Card Reader to the Garmin Marine Network

The card reader is not compatible with Garmin chartplotters
prior to the GPSMAP 8000 Series and GPSMAP 8500.

Connect the card reader to a Garmin device on the Garmin
Marine Network using a Garmin Marine Network cable.

Data from cards inserted in the card reader is shared with all
compatible devices on the Garmin Marine Network.

Specifications

Physical Specifications

Device Specification Measurement

Eight-inch
models

Twelve-inch
models

Fifteen-inch
models

All models Temperature

Dimensions
(W×H×D)

Display size
(W×H)

Weight 7.12 lbs (3.23 kg)

Dimensions
(W×H×D)

Display size
(W×H)

Weight 10.91 lbs (4.95 kg)

Dimensions
(W×H×D)

Display size
(W×H)

Weight 16.76 lbs (7.6 kg)

range

Material Die-cast aluminum and

107/16 × 731/64 × 417/32in. (265 ×
190 × 115 mm)

647/64 in. × 51/8 in. (171 × 130 mm)

137/64 × 923/32 × 313/36in. (333 ×
247 × 97 mm)

921/32 in. × 7¼ in. (245 × 184 mm)

157/8 × 123/64 × 345/64in. (403 ×
306 × 94 mm)

1131/32 in. × 863/64 in. (304 × 228
mm)

From 5° to 131°F (from -15° to
55°C)

polycarbonate plastic

• Blue gaskets are included for use with DVI connections.

• Gray gaskets are included for use with VGA connections.

• When installing the gasket between a VGA cable connector
and port, the arrow on the side of the seal must point toward
the device.

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Power Specifications

Device Specification Measurement

All models Input power 10–35 Vdc

Fuse 7.5 A, 42 V fast-acting

NMEA 2000 LEN 2

NMEA 2000 Draw 75 mA max.

Eight-inch
models

Max. power usage at 10 Vdc 28 W

Typical current draw at 12
Vdc

Max current draw at 12 Vdc 2.8 A

Compass-safe distance 310 mm (12.2 in.)

1.3 A

Device Specification Measurement

Twelve-inch
models

Fifteen-inch
models

Max. power usage at 10 Vdc 35 W

Typical current draw at 12
Vdc

Max. current draw at 12 Vdc 3.5 A

Compass-safe distance 460 mm (18.11 in.)

Max. power usage at 10 Vdc 47 W

Typical current draw at 12
Vdc

Max. current draw at 12 Vdc 4.7 A

Compass-safe distance 460 mm (18.11 in.)

1.6 A

2.5 A

GPS 19x Antenna Specifications

Measurement Specification

Dimensions (diameter x
height)

Weight 7.1 oz (201 g)

Temperature range -22° to 176°F (-30° to 80°C)

Case material Fully gasketed, high-impact plastic alloy,

Compass-safe distance 150 mm (5.91 in.)

Power input source 9–16 Vdc

Input current 40 mA at 12 Vdc

NMEA 2000 LEN 2

NMEA 2000 draw 100 mA max

319/32 in. × 115/16 in. (91.6 × 49.5 mm)

waterproof to IEC 60529 IPX7
standards.

NMEA 2000 PGN Information

Type PGN Description

Transmit and
receive

Transmit 127250 Vessel heading

Receive 126992 System time

059392 ISO acknowledgment

059904 ISO request

060928 ISO address claim

126208 NMEA: Command, request, and

acknowledge group function

126464 Transmit and receive PGN list group

function

126996 Product information

129026 COG and SOG: Rapid update

129029 GNSS position data

129540 GNSS satellites in view

130306 Wind data

130312 Temperature

127258 Magnetic variance

128259 Speed: Water referenced

128267 Water depth

129025 Position: Rapid update

129283 Cross track error

129284 Navigation data

129285 Navigation route and waypoint info

127250 Vessel heading

127489 Engine parameters: Dynamic

127488 Engine parameters: Rapid update

127493 Transmission parameters: Dynamic

127505 Fluid level

128259 Speed: Water referenced

128267 Water depth

129025 Position: Rapid update

129038 AIS class A position report

129039 AIS class B position report

Type PGN Description

129040 AIS class B extended position report

129539 GNSS DOPs

129794 AIS class A static and voyage related

data

129809 AIS class B "CS" static data report, part

A

129810 AIS class B "CS" static data report, part

B

130310 Environmental parameters

130311 Environmental parameters (obsolete)

130313 Humidity

130314 Actual pressure

NMEA 0183 Information

Type Sentence Description

Transmit GPAPB APB: Heading or track controller

(autopilot) sentence "B"

GPBOD BOD: Bearing (origin to

destination)

GPBWC BWC: Bearing and distance to

waypoint

GPGGA GGA: Global positioning system

fix data

GPGLL GLL: Geographic position

(latitude and longitude)

GPGSA GSA: GNSS DOP and active

satellites

GPGSV GSV: GNSS satellites in view

GPRMB RMB: Recommended minimum

navigation information

GPRMC RMC: Recommended minimum

specific GNSS data

GPRTE RTE: Routes

GPVTG VTG: Course over ground and

ground speed

GPWPL WPL: Waypoint location

GPXTE XTE: Cross track error

PGRME E: Estimated error

PGRMM M: Map datum

PGRMZ Z: Altitude

SDDBT DBT: Depth below transducer

SDDPT DPT: Depth

SDMTW MTW: Water temperature

SDVHW VHW: Water speed and heading

Receive DPT Depth

DBT Depth below transducer

MTW Water temperature

VHW Water speed and heading

WPL Waypoint location

DSC Digital selective calling

information

DSE Expanded digital selective calling

HDG Heading, deviation, and variation

HDM Heading, magnetic

MWD Wind direction and speed

MDA Meteorological composite

MWV Wind speed and angle

VDM AIS VHF data-link message

You can purchase complete information about National Marine
Electronics Association (NMEA) format and sentences from: NMEA,
Seven Riggs Avenue, Severna Park, MD 21146 USA (www.nmea.org)

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Garmin®, the Garmin logo, and GPSMAP® are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other countries.

TA-2013/402

NMEA®, NMEA 2000®, and the NMEA 2000 logo are registered trademarks of the National Marine Electronics Association.

© 2013 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries www.garmin.com/support