XM Satellite Radio GXM30 User Manual

GXM 30

XM Radio Smart Antenna

owner’s manual

®

© Copyright 2005 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries

Garmin International, Inc.
1200 East 151st Street,
Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A.
Tel. [phone] or 800/800.1020
Fax [phone]

All rights reserved. Except as expressly provided herein, no part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, transmitted, disseminated, downloaded
or stored in any storage medium, for any purpose without the express prior written consent of Garmin. Garmin hereby grants permission to
download a single copy of this manual onto a hard drive or other electronic storage medium to be viewed and to print one copy of this manual or
of any revision hereto, provided that such electronic or printed copy of this manual must contain the complete text of this copyright notice and
provided further that any unauthorized commercial distribution of this manual or any revision hereto is strictly prohibited.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Garmin reserves the right to change or improve its products and to make changes
in the content without obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes or improvements. Visit the Garmin Web site (www.garmin.
com) for current updates and supplemental information concerning the use and operation of this and other Garmin products.

Garmin®, is registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries and may not be used without the express permission of Garmin. XM WX and
XM are trademarks of XM Satellite Radio Inc.

June 2005 Part Number 190-00535-00 Rev. A Printed in Taiwan

Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park
Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9DL, U.K.
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

Garmin Corporation
No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei
County, Taiwan
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

Warning

INTRODUCTION > WARNINGS

Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations
could result in an accident or collision resulting in death or
serious injury.

When installing the GXM 30 in a vehicle, place the unit securely so
that it does not interfere with vehicle operating controls or obstruct
the driver’s view of the road (see diagram).

When navigating in an aircraft, use the GXM 30 only as an aid
for VFR navigation. Use weather data only as an aid to situational

Do not mount

where driver’s

field of vision is

blocked.

Do not place

unsecured on

the vehicle

dash.

Do not mount in front

of an airbag field of

deployment.

awareness.

This unit contains magnets which may cause compass deviation.

This product, its packaging, and its components contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive
harm. This Notice is being provided in accordance with California’s Proposition 65. If you have any questions or would like additional
information, please refer to our Web site at

http://www.garmin.com/prop65.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual iii

INTRODUCTION > CAUTION

Caution

Failure to avoid the following potentially hazardous situations may result in injury or property damage.

Use the GXM 30 only as a navigational aid. Do not attempt to use the GXM 30 for any purpose requiring precise measurement of direction,
distance, location, or topography. This product should not be used to determine ground proximity for aircraft navigation.

Notice to State of California Drivers: California Vehicle Code Section 26708 (a) (1) provides that “No person shall drive any motor
vehicle with any object or material placed, displayed, installed, affixed, or applied upon the windshield or side or rear windows.” Drivers
in California should not use the suction mount on their windshield or side or rear windows. Garmin does not take any responsibility for any
fines, penalties, or damages that may be incurred as a result of disregarding this notice.

iv GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

INTRODUCTION > ABOUT THIS MANUAL

INTRODUCTION

Preface

Congratulations on choosing one of the most advanced
weather systems available! The GXM 30 XM Radio Smart
Antenna provides graphical and textual marine, aviation, and
automotive XM WX weather information that can be viewed
on your Garmin unit. Operation of the GXM 30 XM Radio
Smart Antenna requires a subscription to the XM WX Satellite
Weather service. Additionally, the GXM 30 XM Radio Smart
Antenna offers music, news, and talk programming capability
with a subscription to the XM Radio service. Hardware and
XM subscriptions sold separately.

This manual covers the XM WX Weather and XM Radio
features of the GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna when
viewed on a Garmin unit. To get the most out of your new
system, take the time to go through this manual and the unit

Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual. This manual discusses how to connect the

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna, how to subscribe to XM
WX Weather and XM Radio services and provides detailed
information about weather and audio features.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual i

. Operational procedures are found in the unit

Terminology used throughout this manual

• This manual refers to the GXM 30 XM Radio Smart
Antenna as the GXM 30.

• All Garmin products that are compatible with the GXM
30 are referred to as “Garmin unit” throughout this
manual.

• This manual uses the term Warning
potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.

• This manual uses the term Caution to indicate a
potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
may result in minor injury or property damage. It may
also be used without the symbol to alert you to avoid
unsafe practices.

to indicate a

INTRODUCTION > PRODUCT REGISTRATION

Made in Taiwan

XM RADIO ID:

GXM30

010-00423-00

28400000

B99U70CU

Product Registration

Help us better support your equipment purchase by
completing our online registration today!

number of your GXM 30 ready, connect to our Web site (www.
garmin.com) and click the Product Registration link on the

Have the serial

XM WX Weather and XM Radio ID

Use this area to record the radio ID numbers (8-digit number
located on the Information sub tab of your unit) in case your
unit is lost or stolen. XM Satellite Radio can deactivate these

radio codes when you call.
Home page. Record your serial number below for a quick
reference.

number located on the bottom of your unit) in case

it is lost, stolen, or needs service. Be sure to keep

your original sales receipt in a safe place or attach a

Serial Number for GXM 30

Use this area to record the serial number (8-digit

XM WX Satellite Weather Listener Care Center

photocopy inside the manual.

Serial Number:

XM Radio ID Number

www.XMWXweather.com

800-985-9200

XM Radio ID

www.garmin.com

ii GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

Serial Number

INTRODUCTION > TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ..................................................................i

Preface ................................................................................... i

Terminology used throughout this manual ............................................... i

Product Registration ................................................................................ ii

XM WX Weather and

XM Radio ID ....................................................... ii

Getting Started ............................................................2

Unit Overview ....................................................................... 2

Connecting the GXM 30 to a Garmin Unit .......................... 3

Subscribing to XM WX Weather and Radio .......................

XM WX Weather Features .......................................... 6

Displaying Weather Information ......................................... 6

NEXRAD Radar ..................................................................... 7

Satellite Mosaic .................................................................... 8

Lightning ............................................................................... 9

Storm Cells ......................................................................... 10

Hurricanes .......................................................................... 11

Surface Winds .................................................................... 12

Aloft ......................................................................... 13

Winds

Surface Pressure ................................................................ 14

Fronts .................................................................................. 15

Visibility ..............................................................................

County Warnings ...............................................................

Water Temperature .............................................................

Wave Period ........................................................................ 18

Wave Direction ...................................................................

Wave Height ........................................................................

16
17
18

19
19

4

Marine Warnings ................................................................

Buoy Reports ...................................................................... 21

METAR ................................................................................. 22

AIRMET ............................................................................... 23

SIGMET ............................................................................... 24

TFR ...................................................................................... 25

Echo Tops ........................................................................... 26

Freezing Level .................................................................... 27

Forecast .............................................................................. 27

TAF ......................................................................................

XM Audio .............................................................................

Appendix ................................................................... 29

Specifications ..................................................................... 29

Physical Specifications ...........................................................................29

Power ......................................................................................................29

Performance ............................................................................................29

NEXRAD Overview ............................................................. 31

NEXRAD Description ............................................................................31

NEXRAD Abnormalities ........................................................................31

NEXRAD Limitations ............................................................................31

NEXRAD Intensity .................................................................................32

FCC Compliance ................................................................ 33

Limited Warranty ................................................................ 34

Software License Agreement ............................................ 36

XM Satellite Radio Service Agreement ............................ 36

Weather Data Warranty ......................................................

TFR Data ............................................................................. 38

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 1

20

28
28

37

GETTING STARTED > UNIT OVERVIEW

Unit Overview

GXM 30 Radio Smart Antenna

GETTING STARTED

USB Connector

UNIT CARE

Cleaning - The unit’s case is constructed of high quality
material and does not require user maintenance other
than cleaning. Clean the unit housing using a lightly­dampened cloth with a mild detergent solution and then
wipe dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that may
damage plastic components. Do not apply cleaner to the
electrical contacts on the front of the unit.

Storage - Do not store the GXM 30 where exposure
to temperature extremes may occur, as permanent
damage may result.

Mounting Holes

The Garmin GXM 30 has no user-serviceable parts.
Should you ever encounter a problem with your unit,
take it to an authorized Garmin dealer for repairs.

The GXM 30 is fastened shut with screws. Any attempt
to open the case to change or modify the unit in any
way voids your warranty and may result in permanent
damage to the equipment.

Magnetic Base

SERVICING YOUR UNIT

2 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

GETTING STARTED > CONNECTING THE GXM 30 TO A GARMIN UNIT

Connecting the GXM 30 to a Garmin Unit

Position the GXM 30 where is has a clear view of the sky. This can be on the outside of the vehicle or behind the windscreen of the
vehicle. Connect the GXM 30 to the USB port on the Garmin unit.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 3

GETTING STARTED > SUBSCRIBING TO XM WX WEATHER AND RADIO

Subscribing to XM WX Weather and Radio

With the GXM 30 connected, contact XM Satellite Radio to
activate your XM WX weather and audio subscription service.
Follow the instructions below. Complete Steps 1-3 BEFORE
calling XM Satellite Radio:

Step 1: Check the System Setup

Make certain the GXM 30 is connected to the Garmin unit.

Step 2: Turn on your System

Place the GXM 30 where is has a clear view of the sky and t
urn on the Garmin unit. This automatically turns on the GXM

30.

Select the Audio sub tab (it is next to the Information sub
tab). Verify that XM Preview appears in the Radio Tuning
box.

Step 4: Set up the XM Account

Contact XM by phone at 800-985-9200. After providing the
required information, the XM representative activates the
account and sends out an XM signal to activate the GXM 30.

For answers to other XM questions you can call the above
number or visit www.XMWXweather.com.

Step 3: Identify Radio ID

On the Garmin unit, press the MENU key twice to display
the Main Menu. A list of tabs appear down the left-hand side
of the Main Menu. Using the ROCKER key, highlight the XM
tab and select the Information sub tab.

Write down the Radio ID number. Have the ID number, your
billing address and other billing information ready when you
contact XM.

4 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

GETTING STARTED > SUBSCRIBING TO XM SERVICE

Step 5: Confirm all Components of your Service
Package

XM WX Weather: Keep your Garmin unit turned on to

ensure you receive the XM signal. The XM signal is being
received when the components of the selected service
package are displayed in the Weather Products list on the
Information sub tab. Do not turn off the Garmin unit until the
name of the selected service package is displayed in the

Service Level field (see Step 6).

XM Radio: Highlight the Audio sub tab and verify that

channels 7, 9, 47, and 122 are being received. This
indicates that all channels on XM’s basic radio service
are being received. If within an hour the XM WX Weather
and/or the XM Radio service has not activated, call XM WX
customer care at 800-985-9200 to validate the activation
of XM services. The customer care representative can
refresh the activation signal or you can do this yourself a
www.xmradio.com/refresh by entering your radio ID where
requested.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 5

Step 6: Save the Service Package

After the service package name appears in the Service
Level field, turn off the Garmin unit.

Step 7: Add Features to your Unit

When you turn on the GXM 30 after completing Step 6, you
are ready to add weather features to the unit’s Map Page
and set your new favorite radio stations.

XM Information

XM WEATHER FEATURES > DISPLAYING WEATHER INFORMATION

XM WX WEATHER FEATURES

Displaying Weather Information

The GXM 30 receives XM WX Weather data and shows it on
the Garmin unit’s Map Page and other screens throughout the
unit. The weather data for each feature comes from reputable
weather data centers such as the National Weather Service
and the Hydrometerological Prediction Center. (See the XM
WX Satellite Weather Web site at http://weather.xmradio.

com/weather for more information.) Any weather feature

can change in appearance or interpretation if the source that
provides the information changes. XM WX Weather data is
broadcast at set rates (See page 30 for all weather-related
broadcast rates). For example, NEXRAD Radar data is
broadcast at five minute intervals. When the Garmin unit is
turned on or when a new feature is selected, the GXM 30 has to
receive new data before it can be shown. You may experience a
delay before weather data or a new feature appears on the map.

To display weather features on the Garmin unit’s
Map Page:

1. Press the MENU key.

2. Highlight Show Weather,

6 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

and press ENTER.

To display weather features on the map, press

the MENU key, highlight Show Weather, and

Displaying Weather

press ENTER.

XM WEATHER FEATURES > NEXRAD RADAR

NEXRAD Radar

NEXRAD or NEXt Generation Weather RADar displays precipitation from very light rain and snow up to strong thunderstorms in
varying shades and colors.
since the National Weather Service provided the displayed information. To display a legend showing the colors for Rain, Mix,
and Snow, press
a variety of other weather information. For information on NEXRAD Limitations, Abnormalities, and Intensity, see pages
31-32.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 7

In the lower left corner of the screen is a Time Stamp. The Time Stamp displays the elapsed time

MENU, highlight Weather Legend, and press ENTER. NEXRAD can be displayed independently or with

NEXRAD

NEXRAD Legend

XM WEATHER FEATURES > SATELLITE MOSAIC

Satellite Mosaic

Satellite Mosaic displays infared composite images of cloud cover taken by geostationary weather satellites. The Satellite Mosaic
provides up to seven levels of cloud cover.

Satellite Mosiac

Cloud Tops Legend

8 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM WEATHER FEATURES > LIGHTNING

Lightning

Lightning strikes are represented by lightning bolt icons, as shown in the images below. Lightning appears on the map if strikes
were detected within the last seven minutes. The ground-based lightning detection network only detects cloud-to-ground lightning.

Lightning bolts indicate a
cloud-to-ground lightning

strike.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 9

XM WEATHER FEATURES > STORM CELLS

Storm Cells

The Storm Cells feature displays storms as well as the storm’s projected path in the immediate future.

Marine and Automotive units also show the size of the storm cell. The direction of the red cone indicates the projected path of the
storm cell. The red bars that appear in the cone indicate where the storm will be in the future. Each bar represents 15 minutes.

Aviation units show the direction of the storm with an arrow. The tip of the arrow indicates where the storm should be in 15
minutes. Critical information about the storm cell can be viewed by selecting the storm cell with the map pointer.

Automotive and Marine Aviation

10 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM WEATHER FEATURES > HURRICANES

Hurricanes

The Hurricanes feature shows the current position of a hurricane, tropical storm, or tropical depression, as well as its projected
path (indicated by a red line). The darkened squares that appear along the red line display the projected locations received from the
National Hurricane Center. The Center provides four forecasts at 12-hour intervals as well as a fifth forecast at a 24-hour interval.

Hurricanes

Hurricane Track

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 11

XM WEATHER FEATURES > SURFACE WINDS

Surface Winds

Marine and Automotive units display Surface Winds with a wind barb. The wind barb is a circle with a tail. The circle points into
the wind. Wind speed is indicated by the different combination of flags that are attached to the tail.

Wind Direction

Calm

5 knots

10 knots

15 knots

20 knots

50 knots

Surface Winds

12 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM WEATHER FEATURES > SURFACE PRESSURE

Winds Aloft

Aviation units display winds aloft using wind barbs or a wind streamline depending on the zoom range of the map. Similar to
Marine and Automotive units, the wind barbs indicate wind speed and direction. The wind streamline indicates wind direction with
arrows.

Wind Barbs Wind Streamline

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 13

XM WEATHER FEATURES > SURFACE PRESSURE

Surface Pressure

This feature displays pressure isobars and pressure centers. The isobars connect points of equal pressure. Pressure readings can help
determine weather and wind conditions in an area. High pressure areas are generally associated with fair weather. Low pressure
areas are generally associated with clouds and the chance of precipitation. Isobars that are packed closely together show a strong
pressure gradient. Strong pressure gradients are associated with areas of stronger winds. Pressure units can be displayed in Millibars
(mb), Inches of Mercury (in), and Hectopascals (hPa).

Pressure Isobars

Strong Pressure Gradient

14 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM WEATHER FEATURES > FRONTS

Fronts

The Fronts feature displays lines indicating the leading edge of an air mass. This feature also displays pressure centers. Pressure
centers are represented by a large Red “L” for low pressure centers or a large Blue “H” for high pressure centers. Pressure centers
represent an area where pressure is measured to be either the highest or lowest relative to the surrounding area.

Indicates a Low Pressure Center. A Low Pressure
Center is an area where the measured pressure is
lowest relative to the surrounding area. Moving
away from a Low Pressure Center in any horizontal
direction results in increased pressure. Winds flow
counterclockwise around Low Pressure Centers in
North America.

Indicates a High Pressure Center. Similar to a Low
Pressure Center, a High Pressure Center is an area
where the measured pressure is highest relative to
the surrounding area. Moving away from a High
Pressure Center in any horizontal direction results
in decreased pressure. Winds flow clockwise
around Low Pressure Centers in North America.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 15

Cold Front
Warm Front

Stationary Front

Occluded Front

Trough

XM WEATHER FEATURES > VISIBILITY

Visibility

Visibility is the forecast maximum horizontal distance that can be seen at the surface. Contour lines on the Visibility feature show
the forecasted change in surface visibility. In the example below, visibility ranges from 1 miles to 4.5 miles.

Visibility Contour Lines

16 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

This image displays NEXRAD Radar, Satellite

Mosaic, and Visibility. Displaying multiple

features may help to provide a clearer picture

of the weather conditions in the area.

XM WEATHER FEATURES > COUNTY WARNINGS

County Warnings

When the National Weather Service issues a weather warning for a county, the county is highlighted with the color corresponding to
the warning. To view information about the warning, select the county with the map pointer. For more detail, press

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

Tornado Warning

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

Flood Warning

Flash Flood Warning

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 17

ENTER.

XM WEATHER FEATURES > WATER TEMPERATURE AND WAVE PERIOD

Water Temperature

The Water Temperature feature displays the water’s surface
temperature. The temperature breaks are indicated by isotherm
lines.

Water Temperature Wave Period

18 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

Wave Period

The Wave Period feature provides the time (in seconds)

between successive waves.

XM WEATHER FEATURES > WAVE DIRECTION AND WAVE HEIGHT

Wave Direction

The Wave Direction feature shows the direction in which a
wave is moving, as indicated by the direction of the red arrow.

Wave Direction Wave Height

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 19

Wave Height

The Wave Height feature displays wave heights. The wave
heights for an area are separated by contour lines.

XM WEATHER FEATURES > MARINE WARNINGS

Marine Warnings

When a Marine Warning is issued, the area for the warning is highlighted in red. To view information about the warning, select the
warning area with the map pointer. To view more detailed information, press

Marine Warnings Marine Warning Detailed Information

20 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

ENTER.

XM WEATHER FEATURES > BUOY REPORTS

Buoy Reports

Report readings are taken from buoys and coastal observation stations. These readings are used to determine Air Temperature,
Dewpoint, Water Temperature, Tide, Wave Height and Period, Wind Direction and Speed, Visibility, and Barometric Pressure.

Buoy Selected with map pointer Buoy report detail

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 21

XM WEATHER FEATURES > METAR

METAR

Meteorological Aeronautical Reports are an international code used for reporting weather observations. If METAR data is available
for an airport, a color coded flag is shown next to the airport. To view the METAR data, select the flag with the map pointer. To
view more detailed information, press ENTER.

VFR (ceiling greater than 3000 feet AGL and visibility
greater than 5 miles)

Marginal VFR (ceiling 1000-3000 feet AGL and/or
visibility 3-5 miles)

IFR (ceiling 500 to below 1000 feet AGL and/or
visibility 1 mile to less than 3 miles)

Low IFR (ceiling below 500 feet AGL or visibility less
than 1 mile)

22 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM WEATHER FEATURES > AIRMET

AIRMET

An AIRMET (AIRman’s METeorological Information) can potentially affect all aircraft. This data can be especially helpful for
pilots of light aircraft that have limited flight capability or instrumentation. An AIRMET must affect or be forecast to affect an area
of at least 3,000 square miles at any one time. AIRMETs are routinely issued for 6 hour periods and are amended as necessary due
to changing weather conditions or issuance/cancellation of a SIGMET. AIRMETs are displayed as a colored dashed line. To view
AIRMET data, select the AIRMET using the map pointer. To view detailed information, press

• AIRMET Sierra (IFR) (purple): Ceilings less than 1,000 feet and/or visibility less than 3 miles affecting over 50% of the area
at one time. Extensive mountain obscuration

• AIRMET Tango (Turbulence) (orange): Moderate turbulence. Sustained surface winds of 30 knots or more at the surface.

• AIRMET Zulu (Icing) (blue): Moderate icing. Freezing levels.

AIRMET selected with map pointer

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 23

AIRMET detailed information

ENTER.

XM WEATHER FEATURES > SIGMET

SIGMET

SIGMET selected with map pointer

A SIGMET (SIGnificant METeorlogical Forecast) advises
of weather that is potentially hazardous to all aircraft. In the
contiguous United States, items covered are: severe icing,
severe or extreme turbulence, volcanic ash, dust storms, and
sandstorms that lower visibility to less than three statute miles.

A Convective SIGMET is issued for: thunderstorms, isolated
severe thunderstorms, embedded thunderstorms, hail at the
surface, and tornadoes. A SIGMET is widespread. A SIGMET
must affect or be forecast to affect an area of at least 3,000
square miles.

SIGMETs are displayed as a yellow dashed line. To view

SIGMET detailed information

SIGMET data, select the SIGMET using the map pointer. To
view detailed information, press ENTER.

24 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM WEATHER FEATURES > TFR

TFR

Temporary Flight Restrictions or TFRs temporarily restrict all aircraft from entering the selected airspace unless a waiver has been
issued. TFRs are routinely issued for occurrences such as sporting events, dignitary visits, military depots and forest fires. TFRs are
represented as an area highlighted by Red (active) or Yellow (not yet active). To view information about the TFR, select it with the
map pointer. To view more detailed information, press

TFR selected with map pointer

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 25

ENTER.

TFR detailed information

XM WEATHER FEATURES > ECHO TOPS

Echo Tops

Echo Tops are derived from NEXRAD radar and indicate the highest altitude at which precipitation is falling. Echo Tops at or
above the altitude you select are displayed, in 5,000 foot increments up to 70,000 ft. Echo Tops can be helpful in determining the
severity of thunderstorms. (higher = more intense)

Echo Tops for all altitudes

Echo Tops at 15000 feet

Echo Tops at 20000 feet

26 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM WEATHER FEATURES > FREEZING LEVEL—FORECAST

Freezing Level

Shows contours for the lowest forecast altitude where icing
conditions are likely to occur.

Forecast

Forecast displays Fronts, High and Low Pressure Centers,
and City Conditions. The forecast can be viewed in 12- hour
increments for the next 48 hours.

Freezing Level Contours

Sunny

Partly Cloudy

Mostly Cloudy

Cloudy

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 27

Forecast map

Forecast Legend

Thunderstorms

Rain

Freezing Rain

Snow

Windy

Haze

Foggy

Very Cold

Very Hot

XM WEATHER FEATURES > TAF—XM RADIO

TAF

Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts are issued by the National
Weather Service for pilots. They include 24-hour forecasts on
wind, visibility, expected weather conditions, and wind shear.

Terminal Aerodrome Forecast

28 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM Audio

The XM Audio feature requires a subscription to XM Radio.
Channels can be scanned by category and saved to a Favorites
list. The XM audio output can be turned on and off.

Category

Channel list

Current song

APPENDIX > SPECFICATIONS

APPENDIX

Specifications

Physical Specifications

Size: 83mm diameter x 27.5mm height

Weight:

224g (7.9 oz)

Temp. Range:

Case: fully sealed high-impact plastic with die-cast zinc base

Waterproof:

Mount Thread Size:

Cable: Braided shield, 5 conductor 28 AWG, Right Angle Male Mini-B connector

Power

Source: 4.5-5.5 Vdc

Usage: 2.5 watts max

Performance

Dynamics: 999 knots, 6g

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 29

-40F to +185F (-40C to +85C)

-1 meter submersion for 30 minutes IEC 60529 IPX7

M3 x 0.5

APPENDIX > FEATURE BROADCAST RATES

Feature

NEXRAD Radar 5 mins

Satellite Mosaic 15 mins

Storm Cells 1.25 mins

Lightning 5 mins

Surface Winds 12 mins

Surface Pressure 12 mins

Hurricane Track

Visibility Forecast 12 mins

Fronts 12 mins

Water Temperature 12 mins

Wave Height

Wave Period

Wave Direction

Buoy Reports 12 mins

City Forecast 12 mins

County Warnings 5 mins

Data Broadcast

Frequency

12 mins

12 mins

12 mins

12 mins

Feature

Marine Warnings 20 mins

METAR

AIRMET 12 mins

SIGMET 12 mins

Echo Tops

Winds Aloft

TFR 12 mins

TAF 12 mins

Freezing Level 12 mins

Data Broadcast

Frequency

12 mins

7.5 mins

12 mins

30 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

APPENDIX > NEXRAD OVERVIEW

NEXRAD Overview

NEXRAD Description

NEXRAD Radar is a Doppler radar system that has greatly
improved the detection of meteorological events such as
thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. An extensive
network of NEXRAD stations provides almost complete radar
coverage of the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii.
The range of each NEXRAD is 124 nautical miles.

NEXRAD Abnormalities

There are possible abnormalities regarding displayed NEXRAD
images. Some, but not all, of those include:

• Ground clutter

• Strobes and spurious radar data

• Sun strobes, when the radar antenna points directly at
the sun

• Military aircraft deploy metallic dust (chaff) which can
cause alterations in radar scans

• Interference from buildings or mountains, which may
cause shadows

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 31

NEXRAD Limitations

Certain limitations exist regarding the NEXRAD radar
displays. Some, but not all, are listed for the user’s awareness:

• NEXRAD base reflectivity does not provide sufficient
information to determine cloud layers or precipitation
characteristics (hail vs. rain).

• NEXRAD base reflectivity is sampled at the minimum
antenna elevation angle. An individual NEXRAD site
cannot depict high altitude storms at close ranges, and
has no information about storms directly over the site.

APPENDIX > NEXRAD OVERVIEW

NEXRAD Intensity

Colors are used to identify the different
NEXRAD echo intensities (reflectivity)
measured in dBZ. (decibels of Z).
“Reflectivity” (designated by the letter Z) is
the amount of transmitted power returned to
the radar receiver. The dBZ values increase
as returned signal strength increases.
Precipitation intensity is displayed using
colors represented by the dBZ values listed
in the table to the right.

The information presented in this manual is not

meant to be comprehensive. The NOAA web

site contains complete and detailed information

regarding NEXRAD weather radar operation

and theory. You can visit them at

www.noaa.gov.

Display

Rain

Display

dBZ

Snow

<-10 .00” .00”

-10 .00” .00”

55+ 12.7” Extreme

Rain

(inches/hour)

-5 .00” trace

0 .00” trace - .05” Very Light

5 .00” trace - .10” Light

10 0” - trace .01” Light Light

15 .01” .1 - .2” Light Light

20 .02” .2 - .3” Light Light

25 .05” .3 - .5” Light Light - Moderate

30 .09” .5 - .7” Light - Moderate Moderate

35 .24” .7 - 1.0” Moderate Heavy

40 .48” 1” + or sleet Heavy Heavy

45 1.25” 1” + or sleet Heavy Heavy

50 2.5” sleet Intense

55 5.7” sleet Extreme

Snow

(inches/hour)

Remarks

Rain Snow

32 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

APPENDIX > FCC COMPLIANCE

FCC Compliance

The GXM 30 complies with Part 15 of the FCC interference
limits for Class B digital devices FOR HOME OR OFFICE
USE. These limits are designed to provide more reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation, and are more stringent than “outdoor”
requirements.

Operation of this device is subject to the following conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and may cause harmful interference to
radio communications if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 33

television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the
receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.

The GXM 30 does not contain any user-serviceable parts.
Repairs should only be made by an authorized Garmin service
center. Unauthorized repairs or modifications could result in
permanent damage to the equipment, and void your warranty
and your authority to operate this device under Part 15
regulations.

APPENDIX > LIMITED WARRANTY

Limited Warranty

This Garmin product is warranted to be free from defects in materials
or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. Within this
period, Garmin will at its sole option repair or replace any components
that fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no
charge to the customer for parts or labor, provided that the customer
shall be responsible for any transportation cost. This warranty does not
cover failures due to abuse, misuse, accident or unauthorized alteration
or repairs.

THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN
ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING
ANY LIABILITY ARISING UNDER ANY WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE. THIS WARRANTY
GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY VARY
FROM STATE TO STATE.

34 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

IN NO EVENT SHALL GARMIN BE LIABLE FOR ANY
INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE,
OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR FROM DEFECTS IN
THE PRODUCT. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental
or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to
you.

Garmin retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit
or software or offer a full refund of the purchase price at its sole
discretion. SUCH REMEDY SHALL BE YOUR SOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.

To obtain warranty service, contact your local Garmin authorized
dealer or call Garmin Product Support for shipping instructions and an
RMA tracking number. The unit should be securely packed with the
tracking number clearly written on the outside of the package. The unit
should then be sent, freight charges prepaid, to any Garmin warranty
service station. A copy of the original sales receipt is required as the
proof of purchase for warranty repairs.

APPENDIX > LIMITED WARRANTY

Garmin International, Inc.
1200 E 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062 U.S.A.
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]

Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51
9DL U.K.
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

Online Auction Purchases:

are not eligible for rebates or other special offers from Garmin. Online
auction confirmations are not accepted for warranty verification. To
obtain warranty service, an original or copy of the sales receipt from
the original retailer is required. Garmin will not replace missing
components from any package purchased through an online auction.

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 35

Products sold through online auctions

International Purchases: A separate warranty is provided by
international distributors for units purchased outside the United States.
This warranty is provided by the local in-country distributor and this
distributor provides local service for your unit. Distributor warranties
are only valid in the area of intended distribution. Units purchased in
the United States or Canada must be returned to the Garmin service
center in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, or Taiwan
for service.

The Garmin GXM 30 has no user-serviceable parts. Should you ever
encounter a problem with your unit, please take it to an authorized
Garmin dealer for repairs.

The GXM 30 is fastened shut with screws. Any attempt to open the
case to change or modify the unit in any way will void your warranty
and may result in permanent damage to the equipment.

APPENDIX > SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT AND XM SATELLITE RADIO SERVICE AGREEMENT

Software License Agreement

BY USING THE GXM 30, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE
LICENSE AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT
CAREFULLY.

Garmin grants you a limited license to use the software embedded in
this device (the “Software”) in binary executable form in the normal
operation of the product. Title, ownership rights, and intellectual
property rights in and to the Software remain in Garmin.

You acknowledge that the Software is the property of Garmin and
is protected under the United States of America copyright laws and
international copyright treaties. You further acknowledge that the
structure, organization, and code of the Software are valuable trade
secrets of Garmin and that the Software in source code form remains
a valuable trade secret of Garmin. You agree not to decompile,
disassemble, modify, reverse assemble, reverse engineer, or reduce to
human readable form the Software or any part thereof or create any
derivative works based on the Software. You agree not to export or
re-export the Software to any country in violation of the export control
laws of the United States of America.

36 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

XM Satellite Radio Service Agreement

XM Satellite Radio Inc.

Hardware and required monthly subscription sold separately.
Subscription fee is consumer only. Other fees and taxes, including a
one-time activation fee may apply. All programming fees and weather
data subject to change. XM WX weather data displays and individual
product availability vary by hardware equipment. Reception of the
XM signal may vary depending on location. Subscriptions subject
to Customer Agreement included with the XM Welcome Kit and
available at xmradio.com. Available only in the 48 contiguous United
States. XM WX is a trademark of XM Satellite Radio Inc.

APPENDIX > WEATHER DATA WARRANTY

Weather Data Warranty

THE SOFTWARE PRODUCT IS PROVIDED “AS IS.” ALL
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR OF NON-INFRINGEMENT ARE
HEREBY EXCLUDED.

USER SAFETY
If you use XM Services it is your responsibility to exercise prudent
discretion and observe all safety measures required by law and
your own common sense. You assume the entire risk related to your
use of the Services. XM and Garmin assume no responsibility for
accidents resulting from or associated with use of the Services. Your
Radio Service includes traffic and weather information, and you
acknowledge that such information is not for “safety for life”, but is
merely supplemental and advisory in nature, and therefore cannot be
relied upon as safety-critical in connection with any aircraft, sea craft
or automobile usage. This information is provided “as is” and XM
and Garmin disclaim any and all warranties, express and implied,
with respect thereto or the transmission or reception thereof. XM and
Garmin further do not warrant the accuracy, reliability, completeness
or timeliness of the traffic and weather information disclosed on the
Radio Service. In no event will XM and Garmin, their data suppliers,
service providers, marketing/distribution, software or Internet partners
or hardware manufacturers be liable to you or to any third party for
any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, exemplary or

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 37

punitive damages or lost profits resulting from
use of or interruptions in the transmission or reception of the
Services.

LIMITS ON OUR RESPONSIBILITY
a) DISCLAIMERS.

EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, WE MAKE NO
WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION, EITHER EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, REGARDING THE RADIO SERVICE. YOUR USE
OF THE SERVICE IS AT YOUR SOLE RISK. THE CONTENT
AND FUNCTIONALITY OF THE SERVICE IS PROVIDED “AS
IS” WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED. ALL SUCH WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS
(INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT)
ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED.

APPENDIX > WEATHER DATA WARRANTY AND TFR DATA

b) LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY.

WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL,
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES RELATING TO
THE USE OF THE RADIO SERVICE, WHETHER BASED ON
NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE. OUR TOTAL LIABILITY TO
YOU AND ANY OTHER PERSONS RECEIVING OUR SERVICES,
REGARDLESS OF THE CAUSE, WILL IN NO EVENT EXCEED
THE AMOUNTS THAT YOU HAVE PAID TO US FOR THE
SERVICE THAT YOU RECEIVED DURING THE SIX (6) MONTH
PERIOD IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TO THE SPECIFIC EVENT THAT
GAVE RISE TO THE APPLICABLE DAMAGE OR LOSS. THIS
ALLOCATION OF RISK IS REFLECTED IN OUR PRICES. YOU
MAY HAVE GREATER RIGHTS THAN DESCRIBED ABOVE
UNDER YOUR STATE’S LAWS

a. Under 10 U.S.C. 456, no civil action may be brought against the
United States on the basis of the content of a navigational aid prepared
or disseminated by either the former Defense Mapping Agency
(DMA), National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA), or the
National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).

b. The DAFIF™ product is provided “as is,” and no warranty, express
or implied, including, but not limited to the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for particular purpose or arising by statute

38 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

or otherwise in law or from a course of dealing or usage in trade, is
made by NGA as to the accuracy and functioning of the product.

c. Neither NGA nor its personnel will be liable for any claims,
losses, or damages arising from or connected with the use of this
product. The user agrees to hold harmless the United States National
Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. The user’s sole and exclusive remedy
is to stop using the DAFIF product.

This product was developed using DAFIF™, a product of the National
Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

TFR Data

Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) data is provided by the FAA
and may not be updated outside of normal business hours. Confirm
data currency though alternate sources and contact your local FSS
for interpretation of TFR data.This product has not been endorsed or
otherwise approved by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, or
the United States Department of Defense (10 U.S.C. 425)

INDEX

A

Add Features 5
AIRMET 23
Audio Submenu Tab 4

B

Buoy Reports 21

C

Cleaning 2
Cleaning the Unit 2
Cloud Cover 8
Coastal Observation Stations 21
Cold Front 15
Connecting 3
Connecting the GXM 30 3
Contact XM Satellite Radio 4
County Warnings 17

D

Displaying Weather Information 6

E

Echo Tops 26

F

Favorites List 28
FCC Compliance 33
Feature Broadcast Rates 30
Flash Flood Warning 17
Flood Warning 17
Forecast 27
Freezing Level 27
Fronts 15

G

Ground Clutter 31

H

High Pressure Center 15, 27
Hurricanes 11

I

Icing 27
IFR 22
Interference 31
Introduction i
Isobars 14

L

Lightning 9
Limited Warranty 34
Low Pressure Center 15, 27

M

Magnetic Base 2
Marine Warnings 20
METAR 22
Mounting Holes 2

N

National Weather Service 17
NEXRAD 7
NEXRAD Abnormalities 31
NEXRAD Colors 32
NEXRAD Description 31

NEXRAD Intensity 32
NEXRAD Legend 7
NEXRAD Limitations 31
NEXRAD Overview 31
NEXRAD Radar 7

O

Occluded Front 15

P

Physical Specifications 29
Precipitation 7
Preface i
Pressure Center 15
Pressure Gradient 14
Pressure gradient 14
Pressure Isobars 14
Projected Path 10

R

Radio ID 4
Radio ID - Weather 4

GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual 39

S

Satellite Mosaic 8
Saving the Service Package 5
Serial Number ii
Servicing your unit 2
Set up the XM Account 4
Severe Thunderstorm Warning 17
SIGMET 24
Software License Agreement 36
Specifications 29
Stationary Front 15
Storage 2
Storm Cells 10
Strobes 31
Strong Pressure Gradient 14
Subscribing to XM 4
Sun Strobes 31
Surface Pressure 14
Surface Winds 12

T

TAF 28
Temporary Flight Restriction 25
Terminal Aerodrome Forecast 28
TFR 25
Time Stamp 7
Tornado Warning 17
Tropical Depression 11
Tropical Storm 11
Trough 15

U

Unit Care 2
Unit Overview 2
USB Connector 2
USB Port 3

V

VFR 22
Visibility 16

W

Warm Front 15
Warranty 34
Water Temperature 18
Wave Direction 19
Wave Height 19
Wave Period 18
Weather Data 6
Weather Legend 7
Weather Maps

Fronts 15
Winds 12
Winds Aloft 13
Wind Barbs 13
Wind Streamline 13

X

XM Audio 28
XM Package 5
XM Radio 5
XM Radio ID ii
XM Weather/Radio

800 number 4

XM WX Weather 5

40 GXM 30 XM Radio Smart Antenna Owner’s Manual

For the latest free software updates (excluding map data) throughout the life of your

Garmin products, visit the Garmin Web site at www.garmin.com.

© Copyright 2005 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries

Garmin International, Inc.

1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A.

Garmin (Europe) Ltd.

Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate, Romsey, SO51 9DL, U.K.

Garmin Corporation

No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei County, Taiwan

www.garmin.com

Part Number 190-00535-00 Rev.

A