Overview

The Garmin 010-02366-61/GT56 is a 9-inch GPS/chartplotter and fishfinder combo (GPSMAP 943xsv GN+) packaged with a GT56-TM transducer and Garmin Navionics+ mapping. The WXGA IPS touchscreen runs 1280 x 720 resolution in a slim housing that measures 9.2 x 6.4 x 3 inches, and the unit carries an IPX7 water rating for spray and washdowns at the helm.

At the sonar end, the chartplotter includes a built-in sounder and a 12-pin transducer port. With the included GT56 transducer you can run UHD ClearVü and SideVü scanning plus high wide CHIRP traditional sonar, which is a solid setup for finding bait, edges, and structure on coastal runs, lake days, and nearshore fishing.

For system integration, it supports NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 networks and includes one Garmin Marine Network port for tying into a larger Garmin helm. Power input is 10 to 32 V DC, so it fits typical 12 V and 24 V onboard electrical systems with the correct circuit protection.

Key features

• 9-inch WXGA IPS touchscreen with 1280 x 720 resolution for chart and sonar detail in a compact dash footprint
• IPX7 water rating for wet helms and routine washdowns
• Built-in sonar with a 12-pin transducer connection for UHD scanning and CHIRP traditional sonar with the included GT56-TM
• Preloaded Garmin Navionics+ chart coverage with support for daily updates through the ActiveCaptain app during the included update period
• NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 support for sharing data with compatible sensors, engines, radios, and instruments
• One Garmin Marine Network port for adding compatible Garmin radar, sonar modules, and sharing data across the network
• Dual microSD card slots for charts and data, plus Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ANT+ for compatible wireless features

Installation and setup

Mounting can be done with the included bail mount for a quick helm install or flush mounting when you want a cleaner dash. Plan cable routing before you fasten the unit so the power lead, network cabling, and transducer cable can be supported and kept out of chafe points behind the console.

For the GT56 transducer, placement matters more than most people expect. It needs clean water at speed, so keep it out of prop wash and away from strakes, intakes, and anything that feeds air bubbles under the hull. A practical starting point is mounting it parallel to the waterline, positioned at least 15 inches from the propeller, and set to extend about 0.125 inches below a fiberglass hull or about 0.375 inches below an aluminum hull.

Route the transducer cable away from ignition wiring, battery cables, trolling motor power, and other high-energy runs. If you need extra reach, use the correct extension cable and keep total extension within 30 feet to avoid signal loss.

Electrical and system integration

The unit accepts 10 to 32 V DC, which covers common 12 V and 24 V onboard systems. Set it up on a protected circuit with a 6 A fast-acting fuse, and keep the power run clean with solid crimps and corrosion control at terminals.

On the data side, NMEA 2000 is the go-to backbone for engine data, heading, wind, and other sensor feeds, while NMEA 0183 remains useful on older installs. The Garmin Marine Network port is the link for higher-bandwidth devices like radar and network sonar modules when you are building a connected Garmin helm.

Sonar performance on board

The included GT56 transducer is built around UHD ClearVü and SideVü scanning and high wide CHIRP traditional sonar. It supports scanning frequencies in the 455 kHz, 800 kHz, and 1000 kHz ranges, and high wide CHIRP traditional sonar in the 150 to 240 kHz range. The transducer uses a 12-pin connection and a 25 ft cable, and it reports water temperature at the transducer.

This setup is a good fit for anglers who want both traditional sonar for depth and target arches plus scanning views that help separate fish from structure along docks, rock lines, reefs, and channel edges.

Maintenance and care

Rinse the display and connectors with fresh water after saltwater use and keep protective caps and covers in place when the boat is stored. If the boat lives in the water for long stretches, coating the transducer and its mounting hardware with water-based antifouling paint helps slow marine growth that can soften sonar returns. Avoid acetone on the transducer housing.

What’s included

• GPSMAP 943xsv chartplotter
• GT56-TM transducer
• microSD card (preinstalled)
• Power cable
• NMEA 2000 T-connector
• NMEA 2000 drop cable
• Bail mount with knobs
• Flush mount kit with gasket
• Protective cover
• Trim piece snap covers
• Documentation