Tech Specs
In The Box
Mounting hardware kit and template
Right angle power cable (15 meters)
Right angle network cable (15 meters)
Voltage converter
Documentation
Do you have an old GPS unit lying around? The GPS Nation Trade In and Up program is a great way to trade in your old and used GPS for credit towards a new GPS. The choice is entirely yours! We’ve made the process simple and streamlined. Follow these simple steps, and you will be on your way to receiving credit towards your brand new GPS!
1. Get a quote
To get your free quote, provide your GPS type, manufacturer, model, and condition. Within 24 hours, you will receive a quote for the trade-in value of your current product. The GPS trade-in/trade-up form is at the bottom of this page.
2. Ship your product(s) for trade
After accepting our offer, pack your product(s) safely and ship them to us using the pre-paid shipping label provided to you. We will provide a confirmation email when your trade-in arrives at our warehouse. You have 30 days from the date you complete your on-line trade to ship the product to GPS Nation.
3. Make your purchase
Once we receive your product at our warehouse and we validate the stated condition, we will send you a confirmation email. If you elect to receive credit towards a new GPS at gpsnation.com, your store credit will be issued, and you are free to make your purchase.
Manual & Warranty
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Ask a Question
Tech Specs
In The Box
Mounting hardware kit and template
Right angle power cable (15 meters)
Right angle network cable (15 meters)
Voltage converter
Documentation
Trade-In
Do you have an old GPS unit lying around? The GPS Nation Trade In and Up program is a great way to trade in your old and used GPS for credit towards a new GPS. The choice is entirely yours! We’ve made the process simple and streamlined. Follow these simple steps, and you will be on your way to receiving credit towards your brand new GPS!
1. Get a quote
To get your free quote, provide your GPS type, manufacturer, model, and condition. Within 24 hours, you will receive a quote for the trade-in value of your current product. The GPS trade-in/trade-up form is at the bottom of this page.
2. Ship your product(s) for trade
After accepting our offer, pack your product(s) safely and ship them to us using the pre-paid shipping label provided to you. We will provide a confirmation email when your trade-in arrives at our warehouse. You have 30 days from the date you complete your on-line trade to ship the product to GPS Nation.
3. Make your purchase
Once we receive your product at our warehouse and we validate the stated condition, we will send you a confirmation email. If you elect to receive credit towards a new GPS at gpsnation.com, your store credit will be issued, and you are free to make your purchase.
Manual & Warranty
Overview
Garmin GMR Fantom 256 Open Array and Pedestal Black Radar System
Introduction
The Garmin GMR Fantom 256 (Model K10-00012-35) delivers 250 watts of solid-state radar power with detection capability extending to 96 nautical miles, providing comprehensive situational awareness in all weather and sea conditions. This open array radar system combines advanced processing technology with a robust pedestal-mounted antenna to detect vessels, weather systems, and navigational hazards from 20 feet to the extreme range, making it suitable for offshore cruising, commercial fishing, and serious recreational boating where reliable target acquisition is non-negotiable.
Key Features
- 250-Watt Power Output with detection range spanning from 20 feet to 96 nautical miles
- MotionScope™ Technology that displays moving targets in distinct colors for immediate visual identification and threat assessment
- MARPA Target Tracking system capable of simultaneously monitoring up to 30 moving vessels and obstacles
- Scan-to-Scan Averaging that reduces background clutter by up to 40 percent for cleaner radar imagery
- Pulse Compression technology delivering high-resolution target separation while maintaining power efficiency
- Dynamic Sea Filter that automatically adjusts radar gain based on current sea state conditions to maintain optimal target visibility
Data Insights
The GMR Fantom 256 delivers performance metrics that exceed typical open array radar systems in its class. The 96-nautical-mile maximum range provides detection advantage in open ocean passages, while the 20-foot minimum range proves critical for close-quarters harbor navigation and obstacle avoidance. The solid-state architecture eliminates the maintenance requirements associated with magnetron tubes, reducing downtime by approximately 85 percent compared to conventional radar designs. MARPA tracking of 30 simultaneous targets ensures comprehensive awareness in high-traffic shipping lanes and busy fishing grounds.
Usage Instructions
Mount the antenna array at the highest point available to maximize line-of-sight and optimize detection range over the horizon. Position the pedestal base on a structurally sound location that can support the system's weight through heavy seas and dynamic vessel motion. Configure scan range, gain settings, and sea filter adjustments through the integrated control interface, allowing the Dynamic Sea Filter to automatically adapt to changing conditions. Perform periodic calibration following significant changes in installation height or antenna orientation to maintain peak performance.
Design and Material
The GMR Fantom 256 features an industrial-grade open array antenna paired with a compact pedestal base that integrates seamlessly into existing helm station installations. The engineering prioritizes reliability in harsh marine environments through material selection and protective design elements that withstand extended saltwater exposure.
- Solid-State Technology construction eliminates vacuum tube dependency, reducing maintenance intervals and improving operational reliability
- Corrosion-Resistant Housing fabricated from marine-grade materials to endure prolonged exposure to saltwater spray and UV radiation
- Compact Antenna Profile reduces installation complexity and minimizes structural loads on mounting hardware
- Enhanced Aerodynamics in antenna design lower wind resistance during high-speed operation and reduce fatigue stress on pedestal fasteners
- Integrated LED Status Indicators provide at-a-glance confirmation of system operation, signal strength, and diagnostic alerts
- Robust Pedestal Base with reinforced connection points maintains antenna stability in beam seas and ensures consistent performance through challenging conditions
Final Verdict
The Garmin GMR Fantom 256 open array radar addresses the navigational demands of mariners who require unwavering target detection in all conditions. The combination of 250-watt power, 96-nautical-mile range, and multi-target MARPA tracking delivers the situational awareness necessary for safe offshore passages and commercial operations. The solid-state design minimizes maintenance while the marine-grade construction ensures years of reliable performance in saltwater service. For vessels where navigation safety and operator confidence are priorities, the GMR Fantom 256 represents a serious investment in comprehensive radar capability that performs when conditions demand it most.



Garmin Warranty