GMR Fantom™ 54, solid-state beam radar and pedestal, white

The Garmin GMR Fantom 54 is a 50-watt solid-state beam radar with a 4-foot (121.92 cm) antenna. It delivers equivalent power to a 6 kW magnetron radar thanks to its pulse compression technology. It provides high-resolution imaging and target detection from 6 meters to 72 nautical miles (133 km).

MotionScope™ technology uses the Doppler effect to identify and color mobile targets. Targets approaching or moving away are displayed in different colors, which makes collision avoidance, bird tracking, and weather monitoring easier.

The True Echo Trails function displays fading trails behind moving targets. This allows for quick identification of potential threats or changes in direction of other vessels.

The GMR Fantom 54 radar offers a rotation speed of 24 or 48 revolutions per minute. The high speed of 48 rpm is available in single-range mode, on ranges of 12 nautical miles or less, and without MotionScope™ enabled.

The GMR Fantom 54 radar features a horizontal beam width of 1.8°. The vertical beam spreads 11.5° above and 11.5° below the radar’s radiating element.

For installation, you will need the following tools:

A No. 2 Phillips screwdriver
A 6 mm hex key
A drill
A 15 mm (19/32 in) drill bit
A 32 mm (1 1/4 in) drill bit (optional for cable routing)
A 17 mm (21/32 in) wrench and a torque wrench
12 AWG (3.31 mm²) copper wire for grounding (not included)
Marine sealant

For optimal performance, the radar must be installed while respecting the following considerations:

Away from people, with the vertical beam above head height.Above the keel line of the vessel, with minimal obstruction of the radar beam.On a flat and sturdy surface, parallel to the vessel’s waterline.In a location allowing power, ground, and network connections.Clear of heat sources (exhausts, lights).At a different level than horizontal spreaders and shrouds.

Yes, several precautions are important:

Ensure the radar is installed out of reach of people and that all crew members are clear of the beam path before transmission.
Do not look directly at the antenna up close while the radar is transmitting, as eyes are the most sensitive part of the body to electromagnetic energy.
Do not remove the inline fuse holder from the power cable; the correct fuse must be in place to prevent fire or overheating risks.
It is recommended to have the device installed by a qualified marine installer.
Always wear safety goggles, hearing protection, and a dust mask when drilling, cutting, or sanding.

To avoid interference, follow these recommendations:

Do not route cables near moving objects, high-heat sources, or through doors and bilges.Do not run network and power cables parallel to other cables (radio antenna lines, power cables). If unavoidable, shield cables with a metal conduit or EMI shielding.Install the power cable as close as possible to the battery source.If an extension of the power cable is required, use the appropriate wire gauge based on the extension length.

Yes, the radar (and the voltage converter, if applicable) must be connected to a dedicated underwater ground. To do this, use a 3.31 mm² (12 AWG) copper wire (not included). Connect one end of the wire to the ground connector on the radar pedestal and the other end to an underwater grounding point on your boat. Apply marine sealant to the ground screw and crimp connector.

To install the antenna on the pedestal:

Remove the protective cover from the waveguide located on top of the pedestal. Align the pedestal’s waveguide with the socket under the antenna, then slide the antenna onto the pedestal. Secure the antenna to the pedestal by tightening the captive hex bolts under the antenna arm to 7.9 N·m (6 lbf·ft) torque.

The GMR Fantom 54 radar requires an input voltage of 10 to 32 VDC. If your model ships with a voltage converter, it must be installed and connected to the boat’s battery via the included 30 A fuse. The radar’s power cable also contains a 15 A fuse that must not be removed.

Yes, holes will need to be drilled. You will need to drill 15 mm (19/32 in) mounting holes. If you need to run power and network cables through the mounting surface, a 32 mm (1 1/4 in) diameter hole can be drilled for cable passage. After running the cables, it is imperative to apply marine sealant to ensure a watertight seal.

To avoid interference with a magnetic compass, the radar should not be installed closer to a compass than the specified safe distance. It is recommended to consult the product specifications for the exact value.

Yes, the GMR Fantom 54 radar is designed to connect via the Garmin BlueNet™ network or the Garmin marine network. This allows integration with compatible Garmin chartplotters.

No, it is strongly discouraged to reuse power converters from previous Garmin radar models or third-party power converters. Using any converter other than the one supplied with the radar, or a correct converter purchased from Garmin or an authorized Garmin dealer, could damage the radar or prevent it from powering on correctly.

If the power cable is connected without the appropriate fuse installed, this voids the product warranty. Additionally, it may pose risks of injury or product damage due to fire or overheating.

No, opening the device may result in personal injury and/or damage to the device. This unit contains no user-serviceable parts and should only be opened by a Garmin-authorized service technician. Any damage resulting from opening the unit by someone other than a Garmin-authorized service technician will not be covered under the Garmin warranty.