Overview

The Garmin gWind transducer is a masthead wind sensor that reports wind speed and wind angle to your instruments for sailing performance and navigation. It is rated IEC 60529 IPX-6 and reads wind speeds up to 90 kn (50 m/s), so it keeps working when the deck is getting wet and the breeze is up.

Wired configurations connect through a Garmin GND 10 to place the data on a NMEA 2000 network and use a 25 m mast cable for the run down the spar. The wireless configuration sends the data by an ANT connection to a compatible instrument or chartplotter, which is useful when you do not want to pull a cable through the mast.

The Race configuration adds a straight pole that raises the transducer above the masthead, which helps reduce turbulence effects from sail wash during close-hauled work. This series fits sailboats that want steady true wind readings for cruising and trimming, and boats that want cleaner masthead airflow for racing.

Key features

• Provides wind speed and wind angle data for onboard instruments and sailing displays.
• Wired versions connect through a Garmin GND 10 to communicate on a NMEA 2000 network.
• Wireless version pairs to a compatible display and transmits wind data over an ANT connection.
• Wind speed range up to 90 kn (50 m/s), with minimum start speed varying by configuration.
• IEC 60529 IPX-6 water resistance rating for heavy seas and exposed masthead mounting.
• 25 m (82 ft.) mast cable on wired versions for routing from masthead to the electronics location.
• Race configuration has a 1.18 m (46.46 in.) overall height assembly, lifting the sensor above the masthead.

Variants

This product is offered in multiple configurations to match different rigging and instrument setups.

Across the range, the main differences are wired versus wireless data transmission and whether the Race pole is included. Temperature limits, dimensions, and cabling details vary slightly by configuration.

• 010-01228-00: Type Wired; Racing: Yes. Uses a raised masthead pole to help keep the sensor in cleaner air above sail wash and routes data through a GND 10 to NMEA 2000.
• 010-01227-00: Type Wired; Racing: No. Uses a cabled mast run and connects through a GND 10 to make wind data available on a NMEA 2000 network.
• 010-01616-00: Type Wireless; Racing: No. Pairs wirelessly to a compatible display and avoids running a wind data cable through the mast.

Installation and setup

Mount the transducer on a horizontal surface at the masthead, or use the mast bracket when there is no existing pole mount. If the masthead is not level, add a shim so the sensor sits horizontal.

For correct wind angle, the sensor should face the bow and stay parallel with the boat centerline. If the mounting forces it to point slightly off, use the wind-angle offset or orientation setting on your instrument to correct it.

On wired installations, route the mast cable to the GND 10 location and leave enough slack at service points. On wireless installations, install the battery, pair the sensor to the compatible display, and set the ANGL value if the sensor is not aligned with the bow.

Compatibility and system integration

Wired versions communicate to a NMEA 2000 backbone through a GND 10, making wind data available to networked instruments and displays. The wireless version sends wind data directly to a compatible Garmin display over an ANT connection, which keeps the mast wiring simple on refits and tall rigs.

Maintenance and care

Rinse salt and grime with fresh water and clean with a mild soap solution when needed. Avoid detergents and high-pressure water, which can drive water past seals and shorten service life.

If the boat is being laid up, remove the transducer and store it in a dry place. For the wireless version, storage where it is exposed to light helps maintain the battery charge; if it is stored in a dark location, plan on replacing the battery at the start of the season.