GCV™ 20 scanning sonar housing

The Garmin GCV™ 20 is an external fishfinder module, also called a "black box", designed to extend the underwater detection capabilities of compatible Garmin chartplotters. It adds advanced fishfinder functions such as ClearVü™ and SideVü™ CHIRP, providing detailed, near-photographic visualization of submerged structures, fish, and the seabed.

The Garmin GCV™ 20 integrates ClearVü™ and SideVü™ CHIRP scanning fishfinder technologies. These technologies provide high-resolution images of the seabed and underwater structures, with superior clarity and target separation compared to traditional fishfinders.

For optimal performance, the GCV™ 20 must be mounted in a location that meets the following conditions:

It must not be submerged.It must have adequate ventilation and must not be exposed to extreme temperatures.The status LEDs must be visible.The power and network cables must be easily connectable.The transducer cable must also be connectable. Transducer cable extensions are available if needed.

To install the Garmin GCV™ 20, you will need the following tools:

A drill and appropriate drill bits.A Phillips #2 screwdriver.Cable ties (optional).Marine sealant (optional), to ensure watertightness around cable pass-throughs if used.

The GCV™ 20 connects to the Garmin marine system via the Garmin marine network. It can be connected in two main ways:

If your boat is equipped with a GMS™ 10 network port extender, you can connect the network cable to an available port on the GMS 10. If your boat is not equipped with a GMS™ 10 extender, you can connect the network cable directly to the network port of your compatible chartplotter. Additionally, the GCV™ 20 requires a connection to a 12 Vdc power source and a compatible transducer.

The GCV™ 20 depth sounder housing requires a 10 to 35 Vdc power supply. Its maximum power consumption is 10.5 W. A 4.0 A, minimum 42 Vdc, fast-acting blade-type fuse is required to protect the power circuit. It is important not to remove the inline fuse holder when connecting the power cable.

Yes, the GCV™ 20 housing is designed to be waterproof. It has an IEC 60529 IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can withstand accidental immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for a maximum of 30 minutes. The housing is made of fully sealed polycarbonate plastic.

The Garmin GCV™ 20 is an external fishfinder module, often referred to as a "black box", designed to enhance the underwater detection capabilities of compatible Garmin chartplotters. It integrates advanced ClearVü™ and SideVü™ CHIRP sonar technologies to deliver detailed, near-photographic visualization of submerged structures, fish, and the seabed without requiring replacement of the main display.

The GCV 20 connects to your compatible Garmin chartplotter via the Garmin marine network. You have two connection options:

If your boat is equipped with a GMS™ 10 network port expander, connect the network cable to an available port on the GMS 10. If your boat is not equipped with a GMS 10 expander, connect the network cable directly to the network port of your compatible chartplotter.

The Garmin GCV 20 requires a power supply ranging from 10 to 35 Vdc. Its maximum power consumption is 10.5 W. It is essential to use a 4.0 A fuse, type mini 42 Vdc fast-acting (blade type), which must be installed inline on the power cable to ensure the safety and proper operation of the device.

The Garmin GCV 20 is a scanning sounder module that requires a compatible CHIRP transducer to operate. Detection performance (depth, range, clarity) will depend directly on the specific CHIRP transducer you connect. Transducer extension cables are available from your Garmin dealer if the transducer cable length is insufficient.

The GCV 20 housing is equipped with a dual-color (green and red) status LED that provides information about its operating state:

Green (slow blinking): The depth sounder is connected to a chartplotter and is functioning correctly. Sonar data should be visible on the chartplotter.Red (slow blinking): The depth sounder is powered on but is not connected to a chartplotter, or is waiting for a connection. If this state persists while the depth sounder is connected, check the wiring.Red/Green (slow blinking): The depth sounder is in test mode.Red (rapid sequential blinking): Indicates a system error. The chartplotter will display a message specifying the type of failure. After correcting the error, the depth sounder must be fully disconnected and then reconnected to its power source to clear the error.