Garmin GPS 72H Handheld GPS Manual

The Garmin GPS 72H is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, WAAS-enabled for improved accuracy, a large, easy-to-read display, and a long battery life. It supports waypoint, route, and track log management, includes a built-in basemap, and is compatible with optional mapping software. 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 Features 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, WAAS-enabled, Waterproof (IPX7), Large LCD display, Rocker keypad, Power button, USB port, External antenna connector.

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity GPS receiver	For reliable positioning under trees or near obstructions
WAAS-enabled	Provides improved position accuracy
Waterproof (IPX7)	Can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes
Large LCD display	Easy-to-read, 4-level grayscale screen
Rocker keypad	For easy menu navigation and data entry
Power button	Turns unit on/off
USB port	For data transfer and connection to a computer
External antenna connector	For optional external GPS antenna
Built-in basemap	Includes worldwide cities and points of interest
Track log	Stores up to 10,000 track points

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present.

Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH recommended).
Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display turns on.
Initial satellite acquisition: Place unit outdoors with clear view of sky for first-time use.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries or different types.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS unit; follow on-screen prompts.

Select language: Use rocker to choose language (default ENGLISH).
Set units: Choose measurement units (Metric, Statute, Nautical).
Acquire satellites: Allow unit to locate satellites (may take several minutes first time).
Set time and date: Configure local time zone and format.

CAUTION! For best performance, perform initial satellite acquisition outdoors away from tall buildings and trees.

Specifications

Display: 2.2-inch, 4-level grayscale LCD.
GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours (typical use with two AA batteries).
Waypoints: 1000 user-defined waypoints.
Routes: 50 reversible routes with up to 50 points each.
Track Log: 10,000 points, 20 saved tracks.
Interface: USB (supports NMEA 0183).
Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
Weight: 7.5 oz (213 g) with batteries.

Controls and Settings

Access menus via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER), QUIT.

Key Functions: PAGE cycles through main pages (Satellite, Map, Compass, Main Menu). ROCKER navigates menus and selects options. ENTER confirms selection. QUIT returns to previous screen.

Settings: System (Language, Units, Time), Display (Backlight, Contrast), Tracks (Clear, Setup), Routes (Manage, Follow), Waypoints (Mark, Find).

Connecting Devices

USB: For computer connection (data transfer, software updates). External Antenna: Optional GPS antenna for improved reception.

Turn off GPS unit before connecting cables.
Connect USB cable to computer and GPS unit's USB port.
For external antenna, screw connector into external antenna port.

Tip: Use Garmin software (e.g., BaseCamp) to manage waypoints, routes, and tracks on your computer.

Navigation Features

Supports waypoint navigation, route following, and track recording.

Mark Waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at current location to save waypoint.
Go To Waypoint: From Main Menu, select Find > Waypoints, choose waypoint, select "Go To".
Create Route: Main Menu > Routes > New Route, add waypoints in sequence.
Follow Route: Select route from Routes list, choose "Follow".
Track Log: Enable in Track Setup; view recorded track on Map page.
Compass Page: Shows bearing to destination and current speed.
Satellite Page: Displays satellite signal strength and position accuracy.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environmental factors. Always use common sense and traditional navigation methods as backup.

Accessibility Features

Backlight: Adjustable for low-light conditions. Large Font: Some screens use bold, easy-to-read text. Audio Alerts: Configurable beeps for waypoint arrival or off-course warnings.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries if storing for extended periods. Clean with soft, damp cloth; do not use harsh chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods. Keep USB port cover closed when not in use.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit will not power on	Dead batteries	Install fresh AA batteries; ensure proper orientation.
Poor satellite reception	Obstructed view	Move to open area; ensure clear view of sky.
Inaccurate position	WAAS not enabled	Enable WAAS in System Setup > GPS.
USB connection not recognized	Driver/software	Install Garmin USB drivers; try different USB port.
Screen is dim	Backlight settings	Adjust backlight timeout and brightness in Display settings.

Reset: System > Reset > Reset Settings (does not erase user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support; www.garmin.com/support