Overview

The Garmin 010-02779-10 is a 12 kW open-array radar pedestal sold as the drive and electronics unit only, so you can pair it with a compatible GMR xHD3 open-array antenna (array sold separately).

It runs on 10 to 32 V DC and the pedestal housing measures 520 x 328 x 314 mm (20.5 x 12.9 x 12.4 in). Typical power draw is 18 W in standby and about 70 W while transmitting in normal mode.

Radar control and tuning happens from a compatible Garmin chartplotter over the network connection, so this pedestal is mainly a fit check for your existing display, wiring path, and mounting location.

Key features

• Pedestal only for a GMR xHD3 open-array radar system; antenna array is not included
• 12 kW transmit power with typical draw of 18 W (standby) and 70 W (transmitting, normal mode)
• 10 to 32 V DC input for 12 V and 24 V battery systems
• Pedestal size: 520 x 328 x 314 mm (20.5 x 12.9 x 12.4 in) for planning clearance and cable routing
• 15 m (49 ft) power cable with an in-line 15 A fuse holder that stays in place
• 15 m (49 ft) network cable for connection to a compatible Garmin chartplotter or network switch
• Mounting template and hardware kit for through-bolting to a flat radar platform

What's included

• GMR xHD3 12 kW pedestal
• Power cable (15 m / 49 ft)
• Network cable (15 m / 49 ft)
• Mounting hardware kit and mounting template
• Installation instructions

Compatibility and fit

This pedestal is intended for Garmin GMR xHD3 open-array installations where the antenna and pedestal are separate pieces. Confirm the antenna model you are pairing it with is in the same xHD3 open-array family and that your chartplotter supports Garmin radar on the network port you plan to use.

Plan a mounting spot that gives the array a clear view forward and stays out of reach of people. Keep other electronics and cabling out of the beam path and allow at least 2 m (6.5 ft) of separation from the beam where practical. On many boats the right location is a hardtop, arch, or dedicated mast platform with a flat surface aligned to the bow-stern axis.

Installation and setup

Mounting uses the supplied template and hardware. A 15 mm (19/32 in) drill bit is used for the mounting holes, and a 32 mm (1 1/4 in) pass-through hole can be used when routing cables through the mounting surface. Base fasteners are tightened to 14.7 N-m (11 lbf-ft) to secure the unit without damaging the hardware.

After the pedestal is mounted, the antenna installs onto the waveguide on top of the pedestal. During first-time setup on the chartplotter, you will be prompted to specify the installed antenna size and you can set the front-of-boat offset if the scanner is not perfectly aligned.

Electrical and network integration

Power input is 10 to 32 V DC. Keep the in-line fuse holder on the power lead, and if you extend the run, use the correct wire gauge so the radar is not starved for voltage under load. The pedestal also needs a dedicated ground connection to a water ground point; the ground wire is not included and should not be tied to the battery negative terminal.

Network connection is through Garmin BlueNet or Garmin Marine Network, depending on how your boat is wired. If your system is built around Garmin Marine Network devices, an adapter cable may be required between the radar and the network.

Use on board

This setup fits boats that already run a radar-capable Garmin chartplotter and have a solid mounting point for an open-array scanner. It is also a practical replacement when the pedestal is the part that needs service but the array is still in good shape.

Maintenance and care

Rinse salt off the housing after heavy spray and keep the mounting hardware snug. Avoid scraping the finish when working around the pedestal; scratches can invite corrosion over time.