Garmin GPS 72 Manual Guide

The Garmin GPS 72 is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, WAAS-enabled accuracy, a large display with backlight, 500 waypoints with graphic icons, 20 reversible routes, a track log with 10,000 points, and an external antenna connector. Ideal for marine, hiking, and general outdoor use. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Navigation Functions 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, LCD display with backlight, Waterproof case (IPX7), External antenna connector, Serial data interface, 4 AA battery compartment.

Feature	Description
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled for improved accuracy
Display	Large 4-level grayscale LCD with adjustable backlight
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 standard (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Waypoints	500 user-defined waypoints with graphic icons
Routes	20 reversible routes with up to 50 waypoints each
Track Log	10,000 point automatic track log with save/backtrack
External Antenna	MCX connector for optional external antenna
Data Interface	Serial (RS-232) for PC connectivity
Battery Life	Approximately 16 hours (4 AA alkaline batteries)
Navigation Screens	Satellite, Map, Compass, Highway, Active Route

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and prepare for outdoor use.

Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 4 AA batteries observing polarity.
Attach wrist strap: Thread through slot for secure handling.
Connect external antenna (optional): Attach to MCX connector on top of unit.
Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display activates.

WARNING! Use only alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initial setup prompts.

Acquire satellite signals: Go outdoors with clear sky view; unit will automatically search for satellites.
Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
Set units: Choose metric or statute units for distance, speed, elevation.
Set time: Configure time format (12/24 hour) and time zone.
Calibrate compass (if needed): Follow on-screen instructions for electronic compass calibration.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes. Ensure clear view of sky.

Specifications

GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, 12 parallel channels, WAAS-enabled.
Accuracy: Position: <10 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS steady state.
Display: 4.2 x 5.6 cm, 4-level grayscale LCD, 120 x 160 pixels.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard (1 meter for 30 minutes).
Waypoints: 500 with names and graphic icons.
Routes: 20 reversible routes, 50 waypoints per route.
Track Log: 10,000 points, automatic or adjustable recording interval.
Interface: Serial (RS-232) NMEA 0183, GARMIN data format.
Power: 4 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH), 16 hours typical use.
Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and MENU buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER/MARK, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right).

Key Functions: POWER (on/off/backlight), PAGE (cycle through display pages), ENTER/MARK (confirm/record waypoint), ROCKER (navigate menus/move cursor).

Setup Menu: System (interface, display, units), Time (format, time zone), Navigation (routing, alarms), Tracks (log setup, clear track). Map Setup: Orientation (north up, track up), Detail (on/off), Points (show/hide). System Reset: Restore factory defaults if needed.

Connecting Devices

External Antenna: MCX connector. PC Connection: Serial cable to COM port.

Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
Connect serial cable to GPS data port and PC COM port.
Configure interface settings (baud rate, protocol) in SETUP menu.
Use GARMIN software (MapSource) to transfer waypoints, routes, tracks.

Tip: Ensure proper serial port drivers are installed on PC for data transfer.

Navigation Functions

Basic navigation to waypoints, along routes, and track navigation.

Create waypoint: Press and hold ENTER/MARK at location, edit name/symbol, press ENTER to save.
Go to waypoint: Select "Go To" from menu, choose waypoint from list, press ENTER.
Create route: From main menu, select Routes > New, add waypoints in sequence.
Follow route: Select route, choose "Navigate" to follow defined path.
Track navigation: Enable track log to record path; use "Backtrack" to reverse route.
Navigation screens: Use PAGE to cycle through Satellite, Map, Compass, Highway displays.
Man Overboard (MOB): Press and hold ENTER/MARK twice quickly to mark emergency position.
Sun/Moon information: Access from main menu for sunrise/sunset/moon phase data.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by terrain, buildings, and atmospheric conditions. Always carry backup navigation methods.

Accessibility Features

Display Contrast: Adjustable for various lighting conditions. Backlight: Multiple brightness levels with timeout settings. Audible Alarms: Proximity, anchor drag, and off-course alarms configurable.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries if storing for extended periods. Clean with fresh water after saltwater use. Use soft, damp cloth for display; avoid solvents.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure water sprays. Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and intact before submerging.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support at 1-800-800-1020.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries	Check battery installation; replace with fresh batteries.
Poor satellite reception	Location/obstructions	Move to open area with clear sky view; ensure not near tall buildings/trees.
Inaccurate position	WAAS/atmospheric	Allow time for WAAS correction; ensure latest almanac data.
Display difficult to read	Contrast/backlight	Adjust contrast in setup menu; increase backlight brightness.
Data transfer failure	Cable/port settings	Check cable connections; verify COM port and baud rate settings match.
Waypoint not saved	Memory full	Delete unused waypoints to free memory (max 500 waypoints).

Reset: Setup > System > Reset to restore factory defaults (waypoints/routes/tracks preserved unless "Clear All" selected).

Service: 1-800-800-1020; www.garmin.com/support