Garmin GMR 1234 xHD3 4′ 12kW Open Array Radar

Description

The Garmin GMR 1234 xHD3 is a high-definition 12 kW magnetron open-array marine radar with a four-foot antenna and pedestal. It is designed for compatible Garmin chartplotters using Garmin Marine Network or Garmin BlueNet connectivity and provides a maximum instrumented range of up to 96 NM. The four-foot array provides a narrow 1.8-degree horizontal beamwidth to improve target separation for traffic, channel markers, coastlines, and weather awareness.

The complete system includes a four-foot antenna array, radar pedestal, power cable, network cable, and mounting hardware. It uses traditional pulsed magnetron radar technology and supports dual-range operation, scan averaging, Dynamic Sea Filter, dynamic auto gain, Bird Gain, true echo trails, guard zones, and MARPA tracking when compatible heading, position, and display data are available.

Key Specifications

• High-definition 12 kW magnetron open-array marine radar with four-foot antenna and pedestal.
• Provides a maximum instrumented range of up to 96 NM and a minimum range of approximately 20 m.
• Uses a four-foot antenna array with approximately 1.8-degree horizontal and 23-degree vertical beamwidth.
• Supports 24 RPM and 48 RPM scanner rotation speeds.
• Uses traditional pulsed magnetron radar technology with scan averaging and Dynamic Sea Filter.
• Supports dual-range operation, dynamic auto gain, Bird Gain, true echo trails, guard zones, and compatible MARPA tracking.
• Operates from 10V to 32V DC, with approximately 70W transmit consumption and 18W standby consumption.
• Includes 15 m power and network cables, weighs approximately 27.7 kg as a complete four-foot scanner system, and has IPX6 protection.

Radar Integration

The GMR 1234 xHD3 requires a compatible Garmin chartplotter or multifunction display and Garmin Marine Network or Garmin BlueNet connection for radar display and control. NMEA 2000 can supply compatible heading, GPS, AIS, autopilot, and sensor data, but radar video is carried through the high-speed Garmin network.

MARPA tracking and radar overlay require compatible heading and position data. Bird Gain, echo trails, dual-range monitoring, and scan averaging require compatible display functions and correct radar configuration. Radar is a navigation aid and does not replace a proper lookout, safe speed, official charts, local notices, or collision-regulation compliance.

Installation Considerations

Install the pedestal and four-foot rotating array on a rigid level platform with adequate structural support and full rotation clearance. Mount the scanner at a practical height above the waterline, align it parallel to the waterline, and keep it clear of people, masts, rigging, antennas, lights, exhaust, and other obstructions. Maintain manufacturer-specified personnel safe distance and compass-safe distance. Route the supplied power and network cables away from heat, chafe, bilge water, high-current cabling, and moving equipment. Radar installation and commissioning should be completed by a qualified marine-electronics technician.

Warranty and Saltwater Care

Garmin marine warranty coverage varies by region, distributor, proof of purchase, product registration, installation method, and intended use. Confirm applicable local warranty terms, exclusions, and service process before purchase.

The scanner is designed for marine exposure and has IPX6 ingress protection, but this does not guarantee immunity from salt spray or galvanic corrosion. Rinse salt deposits with fresh water where appropriate, avoid high-pressure water at connectors, inspect the pedestal, antenna array, fasteners, cable glands, and mounting platform regularly, and use compatible marine-grade hardware plus approved isolation methods to reduce corrosion risk.

Before Ordering

Confirm compatible Garmin chartplotter support, Garmin Marine Network or BlueNet connection, suitability of the included 15 m cables, 10V to 32V power supply, four-foot array rotation clearance, structural mounting platform, mounting height, personnel and compass-safe-distance requirements, heading and GPS source for MARPA or radar overlay, optional AIS integration, and qualified installation requirements before purchase.