Piedestal radar GMR™ 1224/1226 xHD2

The Garmin GMR 1224/1226 xHD2 radar pedestal is a 12 kW open-array high-definition radar system. It features xHD2 technology for high-resolution radar images and offers a maximum range of 72 nautical miles (133 km). It supports dual rotation speeds of 24 and 48 rpm and an 8-bit display with true colors for improved target differentiation. It is designed for demanding sailors aboard large yachts and sport fishing boats.

The Garmin GMR 1224/1226 xHD2 pedestal offers a transmit power of 12 kW, ensuring reliable detection and improved target separation.

The maximum range of the GMR 1224/1226 xHD2 radar is 72 nautical miles, which is approximately 133 kilometers.

The GMR 1224/1226 xHD2 radar antenna supports double rotation speeds of 24 and 48 revolutions per minute (rpm) for fast radar image updates, which is essential in dynamic environments.

Yes, this pedestal is the foundation for advanced software features, including the "Bird Mode" which automatically adjusts settings to help locate birds on the surface, often indicators of fish shoals.

For the radar pedestal installation, you will need the following tools:

A #2 Phillips screwdriverA 5 mm hex wrenchA drill with a 15.0 mm (19/32 in) bitA 17 mm (21/32 in) wrench and a torque wrenchA 3.31 mm² (12 AWG) copper wire for grounding the radar housingMarine sealant

The pedestal must be mounted out of reach of people, with the vertical beam width above head height. It must be installed high above the vessel's keel line, with minimal obstruction of the radar beam. The mounting surface must be flat, parallel to the vessel's waterline, and sufficiently robust to support the weight of the unit.

Yes, the radar beam extends vertically 11.5° above and 11.5° below the radar’s radiating element. It is strongly recommended to install the unit out of reach of people to avoid exposure to harmful radiofrequency (RF) levels. To prevent potential injury, never look directly at the antenna at close range when the radar is transmitting.

The ground cable is not included with the product. It must be connected to a dedicated water ground point on your boat, not directly to the battery's negative terminal.

Yes, it is mandatory to update the software of your Garmin chartplotter when you install this radar pedestal. To get instructions for updating the software, please refer to your chartplotter’s owner’s manual.

This radar is designed to be compatible with Garmin chartplotters of the GMR 4000/5000/6000/7000/7400/7600/8000 series. Ensure your chartplotter's software is up to date for optimal compatibility and performance.

It is not recommended to cut the Garmin marine network cable. If absolutely necessary, a field-installation kit can be purchased from Garmin or a Garmin dealer to properly reconnect the cable.

It is recommended to drill the mounting holes using a 15 mm (19/32 in) drill bit. If you need to run the power and network cables through the mounting surface, a 32 mm (1 1/4 in) hole is required.

Before installing the antenna, the pedestal must be securely mounted. Then, 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 using the included hex bolts and spring washers, tightening the bolts to a torque of 0.81 kgf-m (70 lbf-in. [6 lbf-ft.]).

Some Garmin radar models require a voltage converter to operate correctly. If your model is supplied with a voltage converter, it must be installed. If not, the power cable can be connected directly to the boat’s battery. Do not reuse voltage converters from older Garmin models or third-party converters, as this could damage the radar.

If a voltage converter is required for your model, it needs an input voltage of 10 to 32 VDC. It is recommended to install it as close as possible to the power source and to connect the power cable directly to the boat's battery.

No, the device contains no user-serviceable parts and must only be opened by an authorized Garmin service technician. Any attempt to open or repair the device by an unauthorized person will void the product warranty and may cause injury or damage to the device.

To avoid personal injury, always wear safety goggles, hearing protection, and a dust mask when drilling, cutting, or sanding. Additionally, always check what is on the other side of the surface before drilling or cutting to avoid damaging the vessel.

The radar must be mounted away from heat sources (such as exhausts and lights) and at a different level from spreaders and mast cross-trees. To avoid interference, it must be mounted more than 2 m (6.5 ft) from the radar beam path for other electronic devices and cables. It must also be more than 1 m (40 in) from any transmitting equipment, VHF radios, their cables and antennas, and more than 2 m (6.5 ft) from SSB radios. GPS antennas must be positioned either above or below the radar beam path.

The product described, the "GMR 1224/1226 xHD2, Top Assy, Pedestal", is the pedestal only. The antenna (the rotating element) is a separate component that must be purchased and installed on this pedestal to form a complete radar system.