How to Install a GPS Boat Receiver
The Global Positioning System changed navigation for ships and boats around the world in 1998. Since that time, its uses have expanded to include aviation, agriculture, cartography, public safety and recreation, and GPS units have been designed for ease of use and simplicity in installation. Mounting a GPS receiver in your boat takes little more than some thought about where to mount it.
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Instructions
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Set the GPS mounting bracket in place on your dash in a location where the GPS unit won't obscure other instruments or devices, but where it can be observed at a glance. Drive the mounting screws into the dash with the cordless drill. Mark the location for the hole in the dash for the unit's power and ground wires.
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2
Look beneath the dash or console to ensure no wiring will interfere with placement of the GPS unit and drill a hole for the unit's wiring with your cordless drill.
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3
Loosen one of the screws on the common power bus, using an insulated screwdriver. Lower the wires from the GPS through the hole you drilled in the dash. Wrap the red power wire around the screw clockwise and tighten the screw.
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4
Loosen one of the screws on the common ground. Wrap the black ground wire clockwise around the screw. Tighten the screw.
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5
Slide the GPS unit into the bracket and tighten the mounting knobs or screws on the sides of the unit so the unit is stable in the bracket.
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Tips & Warnings
If you decide to add an external antenna to your GPS unit, or if your unit is enabled for DGPS (differential global positioning system) applications, make the wiring hole in the dash at least 3/4 inch in diameter, to allow the antenna cables access to the unit.
Even if you check for wires beneath your dash, your exit from beneath the dash may have moved one or more into the area where you plan to drill. Use a cordless drill to avoid electric shock.
References
- Photo Credit gps image by AlcelVision from Fotolia.com
