The Garmin GPS 72H is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver designed for marine and outdoor use. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with WAAS/EGNOS support, a large, easy-to-read display, a built-in quad helix antenna, and floats in water. It provides essential navigation data including position, speed, course, and trip information. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.
Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, Waterproof case (IPX7), Quad helix antenna, Large backlit display, Rocker keypad, External data/power port.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Waterproof | IPX7 standard, can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes |
| High-Sensitivity Receiver | Acquires and maintains satellite signals in tough conditions |
| WAAS/EGNOS Enabled | Provides position accuracy to within 3 meters |
| Floats | Bright yellow case floats in water |
| Large Display | 4-level grayscale, 120 x 160 pixels, backlit for low-light use |
| Waypoints & Routes | Store up to 1000 waypoints and 50 reversible routes |
| Tracks | Log up to 10,000 track points and 20 saved tracks |
| Trip Computer | Displays speed, heading, distance, time, and more |
| Marine Navigation | Includes MOB (Man Overboard) function and nautical data fields |
| Power Source | Runs on 2 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH) or external power |
Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries for first use.
WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not mix old and new or different types of batteries. Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and secure for waterproofing.
Power on the GPS 72H; follow on-screen prompts.
CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition can take several minutes. Ensure you are in an open area away from tall buildings and dense foliage.
Access functions via the front keypad. PAGE cycles through main pages (Satellite, Map, Compass, Highway, Main Menu). ROCKER moves cursor and selects items. ENTER/MARK confirms selections or marks a waypoint. POWER turns unit on/off and controls backlight. MENU opens context-sensitive options for the current page.
Display Pages: Satellite: Shows satellite signal strength and position accuracy. Map: Displays your position, track, waypoints, and routes. Compass: Shows bearing to destination and current heading. Highway: Provides a simple steering guide to your destination. Main Menu: Access to Waypoints, Routes, Tracks, Setup, and Trip Computer.
Navigate to a saved waypoint or create a "Go To" destination.
Tip: Use the MOB (Man Overboard) function by quickly pressing ENTER/MARK twice. This immediately creates a waypoint and begins navigation back to that spot.
Store and manage locations for navigation.
WARNING! Always verify the coordinates of critical waypoints. Do not rely solely on GPS for navigation in hazardous conditions.
The GPS 72H records your path and provides trip statistics.
Tracks: Your path is automatically recorded as a "Track Log". To save it: Main Menu > Tracks > MENU > Save Track. Clear the active log via "Clear Track Log".
Trip Computer: Access via Main Menu > Trip Computer. Displays: - Odometer (total distance traveled) - Moving Time/Stopped Time - Max Speed - Average Speed (moving) - Sunrise/Sunset Times (based on location)
Reset trip data by pressing MENU while on the Trip Computer page.
Clean the unit with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents. Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt water. Ensure the battery compartment seal and external port cover are clean and fully closed to maintain waterproof integrity. Store in a cool, dry place.
CAUTION! Do not open the unit. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Contains transmitter module FCC ID: IPH-00272. Garmin®, the Garmin logo, and GPS 72H are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other countries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Unit will not power on | Dead batteries, improper installation | Install fresh AA batteries, ensure correct polarity. |
| Cannot acquire satellites | Indoors, poor sky view, unit moving too fast during start | Move to an open outdoor area, hold unit stationary. |
| Position accuracy is poor | Obstructed view, weak signals | Ensure clear view of sky, wait for WAAS/EGNOS lock. |
| Display is dim or blank | Backlight off, contrast setting | Press POWER to adjust backlight. Press MENU on Satellite page to adjust contrast. |
| Buttons are unresponsive | Unit locked | Press and hold POWER for 10+ seconds to force a soft reset. |
| Waypoint/Route data missing | Master reset performed, memory cleared | Restore from backup if available. Master reset clears all user data. |
Reset: To perform a master reset (erases all user data): Power off. Press and hold ENTER/MARK + PAGE + POWER simultaneously until the unit beeps and the welcome screen appears.
Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com/support.