Garmin USB Card Reader w/USB-C Adapter Cable
Garmin USB Card Reader w/USB-C Adapter Cable Product Description
Streamline your boating adventures with a smart solution for managing charts and updates right at the helm. This compact Garmin USB card reader slips seamlessly into tight spaces on your dash, keeping essential SD cards within arm's reach without cluttering your setup. Whether you're plotting a new fishing route or grabbing the latest software tweaks, it delivers reliable access to your marine data, even in rough conditions.
Why Boaters Rely on This Helm Essential
Picture this: you're prepping for an offshore trip, and you need to swap charts or sync ActiveCaptain info fast. No more fumbling with laptops or hunting for ports. Designed for marine environments, this reader supports two full-size SD cards, making it perfect for dual setups—like one for nav charts and another for custom waypoints or software files. Its flush-mount design hugs your console, freeing up precious real estate next to your chartplotter.
Built tough for the water, it shrugs off splashes and humidity with IPX7 waterproofing, so spray from waves or unexpected downpours won't interrupt your day. Operating from -15°C to 70°C, it's ready for chilly dawn patrols or scorching summer sails. Plus, the compass-safe distance ensures it won't throw off your heading readings.
Effortless Integration with Your Garmin Chartplotter
Connecting is straightforward: plug the USB cable into your chartplotter's rear port for powered operation and data transfer. The included USB-C adapter adds flexibility for modern devices. Flush mounting hardware lets you recess it neatly, creating a clean, professional look. Low power draw (typically 100mA at 12V) means it sips energy from your boat's system, leaving more for lights, fishfinders, or radars.
- Quick chart swaps: Load LightHouse or Garmin BlueChart data in seconds.
- Software updates on the go: Insert update cards without powering down.
- ActiveCaptain synergy: Pull community data, routes, and intel effortlessly.
Technical Details at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 2" × 2" × 2.4" (excluding cable) |
| Weight | 4.025 oz |
| Operating Temperature | -15°C to 70°C |
| Construction | High-impact plastic, fully gasketed, IPX7 waterproof |
| Input Voltage | 4.75V – 5.25V |
| Max Power at 10V DC | 2.5W |
| Typical Draw at 12V DC | 100mA |
| Max Draw at 12V DC | 500mA |
| Compass-Safe Distance | 21" (533mm) |
Everything You Need to Get Started
- Garmin USB card reader
- USB-C adapter cable
- Mounting hardware
- Power cable
- Documentation
Installation Tips from Seasoned Skippers
Choose a spot near your chartplotter but away from high-traffic areas. Drill a precise hole for flush mounting, seal with marine silicone for extra protection, and route cables neatly under panels. Test reads/writes before your first outing—pop in an SD with sample charts to confirm smooth operation. It's a 15-minute job that pays dividends in convenience every time you head out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this card reader compatible with all Garmin chartplotters?
It connects via USB to the back of compatible Garmin marine chartplotters, powering the reader and enabling data transfer for charts and updates.
What SD card sizes does it support?
It accommodates two full-size SD cards, ideal for high-capacity marine charts and software files.
How waterproof is the Garmin USB card reader?
Rated IPX7, it withstands immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, perfect for wet helm conditions.
Does it interfere with my boat's compass?
No, with a compass-safe distance of 21 inches (533mm), it won't affect magnetic readings.
Can I use it for ActiveCaptain app data?
Yes, it's designed for quick access to ActiveCaptain data, routes, and community-shared intel via SD cards.
What's the power requirement for installation?
It draws low power (typical 100mA at 12V DC) from your chartplotter's USB port—no separate battery needed.
How do I mount it flush on my dash?
Use the included mounting hardware to recess it into a 2-inch hole, creating a sleek, space-saving install.
USB Card Reader with USB-C Adapter Cable
Save space on your helm with the compact, water-resistant SD™ card reader. It holds two full-size SD cards for quick access to charts, software updates, and ActiveCaptain® data.
Featuring a 2-inch x 2-inch footprint, flush mounting, and USB connection to the back of your chartplotter, this card reader easily integrates into a crowded dash or elsewhere at the helm.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (W×H×D): 2" x 2" x 2.4" (excluding the cable)
- Weight: 4.025 oz
- Temperature range: -15C to 70C
- Material: fully gasketed, high-impact plastic, waterproof to IPX7 standards
- Input power: 4.75V – 5.25V
- Maximum power usage at 10 Vdc: 2.5 W
- Typical current draw at 12 Vdc: 100 mA
- Maximum current draw at 12 Vdc: 500mA
- Compass-safe distance: 21 inches (533 mm)
What's In The Box?
- Garmin USB card reader
- USB-C adapter cable
- Mounting hardware
- Power cable
- Documentation
Save $25 when you buy the Garmin USB Card Reader w/USB-C Adapter Cable for only $104 from NVN Marine! Same day shipping before 3pm.
Garmin USB Card Reader w/USB-C Adapter Cable Technical Specifications
| Type: | |
|---|---|
| Vendor: |
Garmin |
| Weight: |
4.03 lb |
Garmin USB Card Reader w/USB-C Adapter Cable User Reviews
Garmin USB Card Reader w/USB-C Adapter Cable Shipping & Return
| Shipping Weight: |
4.03 lb |
|---|---|
| Box Sizes: |
0.00 (h) x 0.00 (w) x 0.00 (l) |
| Cubic Feet: |
0.0 |
| Returnable: |
Yes |
For detailed shipping policy please check our Shipping Policy and you can find our Return and Refund Policy here.



