Garmin NMEA 0183 Power/Data Cable

Unlock Reliable Connectivity for Your Garmin GPS 17x

Navigating open waters demands precision and dependability, and the right cabling makes all the difference. Designed specifically for the Garmin GPS 17x series, this NMEA 0183 power and data cable ensures seamless power delivery and data transmission between your GPS antenna and chartplotter or multifunction display. Whether you're outfitting a fishing boat, yacht, or patrol vessel, this cable bridges the gap for uninterrupted positioning data, helping you stay on course even in rough seas.

Unlike generic wiring solutions, this cable meets Garmin's rigorous standards for marine environments, resisting corrosion from saltwater exposure and vibration from engine hum. It's the essential link that turns raw GPS signals into actionable navigation intelligence.

Key Features That Stand Out

• Robust NMEA 0183 Protocol Support: Handles standard marine data exchange for position, speed, course, and time—perfect for integrating with legacy and modern chartplotters.
• Power and Data in One: Single-cable setup simplifies installation, reducing clutter on deck and minimizing failure points.
• Marine-Grade Durability: Tinned copper conductors and UV-resistant jacket withstand harsh conditions, from tropical humidity to freezing spray.
• Plug-and-Play Connectors: Garmin-specific fittings ensure a secure, watertight connection without soldering or custom adapters.
• Compact and Flexible: Easy to route through tight spaces in consoles or bulkheads, with strain relief to prevent kinking.

These features aren't just specs—they translate to peace of mind when you're miles from shore, relying on your electronics for safe return.

Perfect Compatibility with GPS 17x Series

Tailored for Garmin's GPS 17x HVS antennas, including models like the 17x HVS and 17x NVS, this cable supports high-visibility satellite tracking. It pairs effortlessly with popular Garmin marine displays such as the GPSMAP series, echoMAP, and ECHOMAP UHD units. For hybrid setups, it integrates NMEA 0183 data into networks alongside NMEA 2000 devices via gateways, broadening your system's versatility.

Users upgrading from older GPS 15 or 16 antennas appreciate the drop-in replacement, maintaining familiar wiring schemes while gaining enhanced signal performance.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Setting up this cable takes under 30 minutes with basic tools. Here's how to get it right the first time:

1. Power Down: Disconnect your boat's battery to avoid shorts.
2. Mount the Antenna: Secure your GPS 17x in a clear-sky view spot, away from metal obstructions.
3. Route the Cable: Run from antenna through a deck gland or existing conduit to your chartplotter's NMEA port, avoiding heat sources and sharp edges.
4. Connect Power/Data: Attach the cable's power leads to a switched 12V DC source (10-32V tolerant) and data wires to RX/TX ports on your display.
5. Secure and Test: Use zip ties for strain relief, seal connections with dielectric grease, then power up and verify GPS fix on your screen.

Pro Tip: Label wires at both ends for future maintenance, and test in calm conditions before heading offshore.

Why Boaters Choose This Cable Over Alternatives

In a sea of off-brand cables, Garmin's original stands tall. Third-party options often skimp on shielding, leading to data glitches from RF interference near VHF radios or engines. This cable's twisted-pair design rejects noise, delivering clean signals for accurate waypoints and autopilot feeds.

Real-world benefits include faster satellite locks during gray-sky passages and stable performance in crowded marinas with overlapping signals. Anglers report tighter trolling motor tracks, while cruisers enjoy flawless AIS overlays—proving its value in diverse scenarios.

Tips for Long-Term Performance

• Inspect connections seasonally for corrosion; rinse with fresh water after saltwater exposure.
• Avoid coiling excess cable tightly to prevent signal attenuation.
• Pair with a dedicated GPS fuse (1-2A) for protection against surges.
• For multi-station setups, use a Garmin NMEA buffer to split signals without loss.

With proper care, this cable outlasts seasonal gear, becoming a fixture in your marine toolkit.

Frequently Asked Questions