Garmin GPSMAP 12X3, Owner'S Manual

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Setting the Keel Offset
You can enter a keel offset to compensate the water depth reading for the transducer installation location. This
allows you to view the depth of the water below the keel or the true depth of the water, depending on your
needs.
If you want to know the water depth below the keel or the lowest point of your boat and the transducer is
installed at the water line or anywhere above the end of the keel, measure the distance from the transducer
location to the keel of the boat.
If you want to know the true water depth and the transducer is installed below the water line, measure the
distance from the bottom of the transducer up to the water line.
NOTE: This option is only available when you have valid depth data.
1 Measure the distance:
• If the transducer is installed at the water line or anywhere above the end of the keel, measure the
distance from the transducer location to the keel of the boat. Enter this value as a positive number.
• If the transducer is installed at the bottom of the keel and you want to know the true depth of the
water, measure the distance from the transducer to the water line. Enter this value in as a negative
number.
2 Complete an action:
• If the transducer is connected to the chartplotter or a sonar module, select Settings > My Vessel > Depth
and Anchoring > Keel Offset.
• If the transducer is connected to the NMEA 2000 network, select Settings > Communications > NMEA
2000 Setup > Device List, select the transducer, and select Review > Keel Offset.
3 Select if the transducer is installed at the water line, or select if the transducer is installed at the
bottom of the keel.
4 Enter the distance measured in step 1.
Sailboat Autopilot Operation
CAUTION
When engaged, the autopilot controls only the rudder. You and your crew remain responsible for the sails while
the autopilot is engaged.
In addition to heading hold, you can use the autopilot to maintain a wind hold. You can also use the autopilot to
control the rudder while tacking and gybing.
64 Sailing Features