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Garmin GPSMAP 12 3 Series - User Manual

Garmin GPSMAP 12 3 Series
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GPSMAP
®
OWNER'S MANUAL
12x3, 9x3, 7x3

Table of Contents

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Summary

Introduction

Device Overview

Visual overview of the chartplotter's physical components, buttons, and ports.

Memory Cards

Information on using microSD cards for maps, data storage, and software updates.

Acquiring GPS Satellite Signals

Steps to ensure the device acquires satellite signals for accurate positioning.

Selecting the GPS Source

How to choose the preferred GPS data source when multiple are available.

Customizing the Chartplotter

Home Screen

Explains the home screen layout and access to chartplotter features and connected accessories.

Pinning a Feature Button

How to add frequently used features to the Pinned category for quick access.

Menu Bar

Details the functions and display options of the screen's bottom menu bar.

Adjusting the Backlight

How to set the screen brightness for optimal visibility in different lighting conditions.

Customizing Pages

Guides on personalizing startup screens and creating custom combination pages.

Controlling the Chartplotter

Voice Control

Using voice commands to control chartplotter functions with a compatible headset.

GRID Remote Control

Pairing and using the GRID remote input device for chartplotter control.

ActiveCaptain App

Connecting to the ActiveCaptain app for device management, chart updates, and notifications.

Charts and 3 D Chart Views

Navigation Chart and Fishing Chart

Explains the differences between Navigation and Fishing charts and their uses.

Navigating to a Point on the Chart

Steps for setting a destination and following a course on the chart.

Premium Charts

Information on enhanced chart features like Mariner's Eye 3D and Fish Eye 3D.

Automatic Identification System

How AIS works for identifying and tracking other vessels.

Chart Settings

Customizing map appearance, orientation, and detail levels for better navigation.

Garmin Quickdraw Contours Mapping

Mapping a Body of Water Using the Garmin Quickdraw Contours Feature

Recording and saving depth contour data to create custom maps.

Garmin Quickdraw Community

Accessing and sharing custom maps with other users via the online community.

Navigation with a Chartplotter

Destinations

How to search for and select destinations by name or on the chart.

Waypoints

Creating, editing, and managing recorded locations (waypoints) on the device.

Routes

Creating, saving, editing, and navigating custom routes between multiple points.

Auto Guidance

Using chart data to automatically plot a safe and efficient path to a destination.

Sailing Features

Sail Racing

Utilizing features for sailboat racing, including start line guidance.

Laylines Settings

Configuring laylines based on wind and vessel data for racing assistance.

Setting the Keel Offset

Compensating depth readings based on transducer and keel location.

Sonar Fishfinder

Stopping the Transmission of Sonar Signals

Instructions for disabling active sonar or all sonar transmissions.

Traditional Sonar View

Understanding the full-screen view of sonar readings from a transducer.

Garmin ClearVü Sonar View

Detailed picture of the fishing environment using high-frequency sonar.

Garmin SideVü Sonar View

Viewing sonar data to the sides of the boat to find structures and fish.

Sonar Setup

Configuring transducer settings, scroll speed, noise rejection, and appearance.

Sonar Alarms

Setting up alarms for shallow water, deep water, fish detection, and water temperature.

Radar

Radar Interpretation

Guidance on understanding and interpreting radar displays for effective use.

Radar Overlay

Displaying radar information on top of navigation or fishing charts.

MARPA

Mini-Automatic Radar Plotting Aid for target tracking and collision avoidance.

Echo Trails

Tracking vessel movement on the radar display using faint trails.

Radar Filter Settings

Adjusting sea clutter, rain clutter, and scan averaging to improve radar clarity.

Autopilot

Autopilot Configuration

Details the initial setup and configuration requirements for the autopilot system.

Engaging the Autopilot

Steps to engage the autopilot and steer the boat to maintain heading.

Steering Patterns

Using preset patterns like U-Turn, Circles, and Zigzag for maneuvering.

Reactor Autopilot Remote Control

Pairing and controlling the autopilot with a Reactor remote control.

Force Trolling Motor Control

Connecting to a Trolling Motor

Instructions for wirelessly connecting a compatible Force trolling motor to the chartplotter.

Trolling Motor Settings

Configuring motor calibration, anchor gain, navigation gain, and heading hold.

Digital Selective Calling

Networked Chartplotter and VHF Radio Functionality

Features enabled when connecting a chartplotter to a VHF radio via NMEA.

Navigating to a Vessel in Distress

Procedures for navigating to a vessel reporting a distress call using DSC.

Position Tracking

Tracking vessels that send position reports via VHF radio.

Gauges and Graphs

Viewing the Gauges

How to view engine and environmental data displayed as gauges on the chartplotter.

Yamaha Engine Gauges

Viewing specific engine data when connected to a Yamaha system.

Mercury Engine Gauges

Viewing specific engine data when connected to a Mercury system.

Setting the Fuel Alarm

Configuring an alarm for low onboard fuel levels.

inReach Messages

Connecting an inReach Device to the Chartplotter

Steps to connect an inReach device to the chartplotter for message management.

Receiving inReach Messages

How pop-up notifications appear for incoming inReach messages.

Digital Switching

Adding and Editing a Digital Switching Page

Guides on creating and customizing digital switching pages for vessel controls.

Garmin Boat Switch

Information on configuring the Garmin Boat Switch device for controlling vessel systems.

Controlling Third-Party Equipment Installed on Your Boat

Power-Pole Anchor System

Details how to control the Power-Pole anchor system via the chartplotter.

Enabling the Mercury Helm

Activating and configuring the Mercury Helm feature for engine control.

Mercury Troll Control Features

Setting and adjusting trolling speed using the Mercury Troll overlay.

Dometic Optimus Features

Accessing and controlling the Dometic Optimus system features.

Tide, Current, and Celestial Information

Tide Station Information

Provides tide height and high/low tide times for tide stations.

Current Station Information

Displays current speed and level information for selected stations.

Celestial Information

Accessing sunrise, sunset, moon phase, and sky view information.

Warning Manager

Viewing Messages

How to access and review system alarms and messages prioritized by severity.

Sorting and Filtering Messages

Options for organizing and filtering the list of displayed messages.

Media Player

Opening the Media Player

Instructions for connecting a media device and opening the media player interface.

Selecting the Media Device and Source

How to choose the audio device and source for music playback.

Adjusting the Volume and Audio Levels

Controlling volume, audio levels, and zones for the media player.

SiriusXM Weather

Weather Data Broadcasts

Explains how weather data is broadcast at different intervals for various features.

Forecast Information

Accessing city and marine forecasts, warnings, and weather fronts.

Viewing Sea Temperature Information

Displaying current water temperature and surface pressure data.

Visibility Information

Understanding forecast visibility and viewing visibility forecasts for different time periods.

Viewing Video

Selecting a Video Source

Guides on selecting the source for video feeds on the chartplotter.

Camera Settings

Options for adjusting camera aspect ratio, video mode, brightness, and color.

Garmin VIRB Action Cameras

Connecting and controlling VIRB action cameras for video recording and playback.

Surround View Camera System

Changing a Camera

How to switch which camera feed is displayed on the Surround View screen.

Viewing a Camera Feed Full Screen

Switching to a full-screen view for individual camera feeds in the system.

Surround View Camera Movement Control

Using chartplotter controls to pan, tilt, and zoom surround view cameras.

Device Configuration

System Settings

Covers general system settings like display, GPS, power, and simulator options.

Preferences Settings

Adjusting units, language, navigation preferences, filters, and keyboard layout.

Communications Settings

Managing device connections, NMEA 0183/2000 settings, and network configurations.

My Vessel Settings

Configuring vessel-specific parameters like transducers, fuel, and vessel type.

Other Vessels Settings

Managing how other vessels are displayed and setting up AIS/DSC features.

Restoring the Original Chartplotter Factory Settings

Procedures for resetting device settings to factory defaults.

Sharing and Managing User Data

Selecting a File Type for Third-Party Waypoints and Routes

How to select file types for importing/exporting waypoints and routes.

Copying User Data from a Memory Card

Transferring user data (waypoints, routes, etc.) from a memory card to the chartplotter.

Updating Built-In Maps with a Memory Card and Garmin Express

Using Garmin Express and a memory card to update the device's built-in maps.

Backing Up Data to a Computer

Steps to back up device data to a computer via a memory card.

Appendix

ActiveCaptain and Garmin Express

Overview of the ActiveCaptain and Garmin Express apps for managing devices.

Registering Your Device Using the Garmin Express App

Step-by-step guide for registering the device using the Garmin Express application.

Software Updates

How to update device software using ActiveCaptain or Garmin Express.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions, including GPS acquisition and power problems.

Specifications

GPSMAP 7 x3 Specifications

Lists the physical and technical specifications for the GPSMAP 7x3 model.

GPSMAP 9 x3 Specifications

Lists the physical and technical specifications for the GPSMAP 9x3 model.

GPSMAP 12 x3 Specifications

Lists the physical and technical specifications for the GPSMAP 12x3 model.

Sonar Models Specifications

Details the specifications for various sonar frequencies and transmit power.

NMEA 2000 PGN Information

NMEA 0183 Information

J1939 Information

Summary

Introduction

Device Overview

Visual overview of the chartplotter's physical components, buttons, and ports.

Memory Cards

Information on using microSD cards for maps, data storage, and software updates.

Acquiring GPS Satellite Signals

Steps to ensure the device acquires satellite signals for accurate positioning.

Selecting the GPS Source

How to choose the preferred GPS data source when multiple are available.

Customizing the Chartplotter

Home Screen

Explains the home screen layout and access to chartplotter features and connected accessories.

Pinning a Feature Button

How to add frequently used features to the Pinned category for quick access.

Menu Bar

Details the functions and display options of the screen's bottom menu bar.

Adjusting the Backlight

How to set the screen brightness for optimal visibility in different lighting conditions.

Customizing Pages

Guides on personalizing startup screens and creating custom combination pages.

Controlling the Chartplotter

Voice Control

Using voice commands to control chartplotter functions with a compatible headset.

GRID Remote Control

Pairing and using the GRID remote input device for chartplotter control.

ActiveCaptain App

Connecting to the ActiveCaptain app for device management, chart updates, and notifications.

Charts and 3 D Chart Views

Navigation Chart and Fishing Chart

Explains the differences between Navigation and Fishing charts and their uses.

Navigating to a Point on the Chart

Steps for setting a destination and following a course on the chart.

Premium Charts

Information on enhanced chart features like Mariner's Eye 3D and Fish Eye 3D.

Automatic Identification System

How AIS works for identifying and tracking other vessels.

Chart Settings

Customizing map appearance, orientation, and detail levels for better navigation.

Garmin Quickdraw Contours Mapping

Mapping a Body of Water Using the Garmin Quickdraw Contours Feature

Recording and saving depth contour data to create custom maps.

Garmin Quickdraw Community

Accessing and sharing custom maps with other users via the online community.

Navigation with a Chartplotter

Destinations

How to search for and select destinations by name or on the chart.

Waypoints

Creating, editing, and managing recorded locations (waypoints) on the device.

Routes

Creating, saving, editing, and navigating custom routes between multiple points.

Auto Guidance

Using chart data to automatically plot a safe and efficient path to a destination.

Sailing Features

Sail Racing

Utilizing features for sailboat racing, including start line guidance.

Laylines Settings

Configuring laylines based on wind and vessel data for racing assistance.

Setting the Keel Offset

Compensating depth readings based on transducer and keel location.

Sonar Fishfinder

Stopping the Transmission of Sonar Signals

Instructions for disabling active sonar or all sonar transmissions.

Traditional Sonar View

Understanding the full-screen view of sonar readings from a transducer.

Garmin ClearVü Sonar View

Detailed picture of the fishing environment using high-frequency sonar.

Garmin SideVü Sonar View

Viewing sonar data to the sides of the boat to find structures and fish.

Sonar Setup

Configuring transducer settings, scroll speed, noise rejection, and appearance.

Sonar Alarms

Setting up alarms for shallow water, deep water, fish detection, and water temperature.

Radar

Radar Interpretation

Guidance on understanding and interpreting radar displays for effective use.

Radar Overlay

Displaying radar information on top of navigation or fishing charts.

MARPA

Mini-Automatic Radar Plotting Aid for target tracking and collision avoidance.

Echo Trails

Tracking vessel movement on the radar display using faint trails.

Radar Filter Settings

Adjusting sea clutter, rain clutter, and scan averaging to improve radar clarity.

Autopilot

Autopilot Configuration

Details the initial setup and configuration requirements for the autopilot system.

Engaging the Autopilot

Steps to engage the autopilot and steer the boat to maintain heading.

Steering Patterns

Using preset patterns like U-Turn, Circles, and Zigzag for maneuvering.

Reactor Autopilot Remote Control

Pairing and controlling the autopilot with a Reactor remote control.

Force Trolling Motor Control

Connecting to a Trolling Motor

Instructions for wirelessly connecting a compatible Force trolling motor to the chartplotter.

Trolling Motor Settings

Configuring motor calibration, anchor gain, navigation gain, and heading hold.

Digital Selective Calling

Networked Chartplotter and VHF Radio Functionality

Features enabled when connecting a chartplotter to a VHF radio via NMEA.

Navigating to a Vessel in Distress

Procedures for navigating to a vessel reporting a distress call using DSC.

Position Tracking

Tracking vessels that send position reports via VHF radio.

Gauges and Graphs

Viewing the Gauges

How to view engine and environmental data displayed as gauges on the chartplotter.

Yamaha Engine Gauges

Viewing specific engine data when connected to a Yamaha system.

Mercury Engine Gauges

Viewing specific engine data when connected to a Mercury system.

Setting the Fuel Alarm

Configuring an alarm for low onboard fuel levels.

inReach Messages

Connecting an inReach Device to the Chartplotter

Steps to connect an inReach device to the chartplotter for message management.

Receiving inReach Messages

How pop-up notifications appear for incoming inReach messages.

Digital Switching

Adding and Editing a Digital Switching Page

Guides on creating and customizing digital switching pages for vessel controls.

Garmin Boat Switch

Information on configuring the Garmin Boat Switch device for controlling vessel systems.

Controlling Third-Party Equipment Installed on Your Boat

Power-Pole Anchor System

Details how to control the Power-Pole anchor system via the chartplotter.

Enabling the Mercury Helm

Activating and configuring the Mercury Helm feature for engine control.

Mercury Troll Control Features

Setting and adjusting trolling speed using the Mercury Troll overlay.

Dometic Optimus Features

Accessing and controlling the Dometic Optimus system features.

Tide, Current, and Celestial Information

Tide Station Information

Provides tide height and high/low tide times for tide stations.

Current Station Information

Displays current speed and level information for selected stations.

Celestial Information

Accessing sunrise, sunset, moon phase, and sky view information.

Warning Manager

Viewing Messages

How to access and review system alarms and messages prioritized by severity.

Sorting and Filtering Messages

Options for organizing and filtering the list of displayed messages.

Media Player

Opening the Media Player

Instructions for connecting a media device and opening the media player interface.

Selecting the Media Device and Source

How to choose the audio device and source for music playback.

Adjusting the Volume and Audio Levels

Controlling volume, audio levels, and zones for the media player.

SiriusXM Weather

Weather Data Broadcasts

Explains how weather data is broadcast at different intervals for various features.

Forecast Information

Accessing city and marine forecasts, warnings, and weather fronts.

Viewing Sea Temperature Information

Displaying current water temperature and surface pressure data.

Visibility Information

Understanding forecast visibility and viewing visibility forecasts for different time periods.

Viewing Video

Selecting a Video Source

Guides on selecting the source for video feeds on the chartplotter.

Camera Settings

Options for adjusting camera aspect ratio, video mode, brightness, and color.

Garmin VIRB Action Cameras

Connecting and controlling VIRB action cameras for video recording and playback.

Surround View Camera System

Changing a Camera

How to switch which camera feed is displayed on the Surround View screen.

Viewing a Camera Feed Full Screen

Switching to a full-screen view for individual camera feeds in the system.

Surround View Camera Movement Control

Using chartplotter controls to pan, tilt, and zoom surround view cameras.

Device Configuration

System Settings

Covers general system settings like display, GPS, power, and simulator options.

Preferences Settings

Adjusting units, language, navigation preferences, filters, and keyboard layout.

Communications Settings

Managing device connections, NMEA 0183/2000 settings, and network configurations.

My Vessel Settings

Configuring vessel-specific parameters like transducers, fuel, and vessel type.

Other Vessels Settings

Managing how other vessels are displayed and setting up AIS/DSC features.

Restoring the Original Chartplotter Factory Settings

Procedures for resetting device settings to factory defaults.

Sharing and Managing User Data

Selecting a File Type for Third-Party Waypoints and Routes

How to select file types for importing/exporting waypoints and routes.

Copying User Data from a Memory Card

Transferring user data (waypoints, routes, etc.) from a memory card to the chartplotter.

Updating Built-In Maps with a Memory Card and Garmin Express

Using Garmin Express and a memory card to update the device's built-in maps.

Backing Up Data to a Computer

Steps to back up device data to a computer via a memory card.

Appendix

ActiveCaptain and Garmin Express

Overview of the ActiveCaptain and Garmin Express apps for managing devices.

Registering Your Device Using the Garmin Express App

Step-by-step guide for registering the device using the Garmin Express application.

Software Updates

How to update device software using ActiveCaptain or Garmin Express.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions, including GPS acquisition and power problems.

Specifications

GPSMAP 7 x3 Specifications

Lists the physical and technical specifications for the GPSMAP 7x3 model.

GPSMAP 9 x3 Specifications

Lists the physical and technical specifications for the GPSMAP 9x3 model.

GPSMAP 12 x3 Specifications

Lists the physical and technical specifications for the GPSMAP 12x3 model.

Sonar Models Specifications

Details the specifications for various sonar frequencies and transmit power.

NMEA 2000 PGN Information

NMEA 0183 Information

J1939 Information

Garmin GPSMAP 12 3 Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandGarmin
ModelGPSMAP 12 3 Series
CategoryControl Panel
LanguageEnglish

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