Garmin GPS 73 Manual

The Garmin GPS 73 is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver designed for outdoor navigation. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, worldwide basemap, WAAS-enabled accuracy, TracBack® routing, waypoint and route storage, hunt/fish calendar, sun and moon information, and a large, easy-to-read display. 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, waterproof case (IPX7), 2.2-inch monochrome display, worldwide basemap, micro-USB port, and belt clip.

FeatureDescription
High-sensitivity GPSAccurate positioning even in challenging environments
Waterproof (IPX7)Can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes
Worldwide basemapPreloaded map with lakes, rivers, cities, and interstates
WAAS-enabledEnhanced accuracy for North America
TracBack® routingRetraces your path back to the starting point
Waypoint storageStores up to 1000 waypoints with names and symbols
Hunt/fish calendarBest times for hunting and fishing based on location
Sun and moon infoSunrise, sunset, moon phase, and tide data
Micro-USB portFor data transfer and charging (with optional cable)
Belt clipAttaches to belt or pack for easy carrying

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Insert batteries or connect to power.

  1. Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, install two AA batteries (not included).
  2. Attach belt clip: Slide clip onto back of unit until it clicks into place.
  3. Power on: Press and hold POWER button until display activates.
  4. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with clear sky view for initial GPS acquisition.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not immerse while charging. Ensure battery compartment is sealed for waterproofing.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Select language: Choose from available languages (default ENGLISH).
  2. Set units: Choose metric or statute units for distance, elevation, etc.
  3. Acquire satellites: Allow several minutes outdoors for first-time satellite lock.
  4. Set time: Choose automatic GPS time or manual setting.
  5. Calibrate compass (if applicable): Follow on-screen instructions.

CAUTION! For accurate GPS reception, ensure clear view of sky during initial setup.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and MENU buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, UP/DOWN, ENTER/MARK, QUIT.

Menu Navigation: Use PAGE to cycle through main pages (Satellite, Map, Compass, Main Menu). Use UP/DOWN to scroll, ENTER to select.

Settings: System (language, units, time), Navigation (routing preferences), Map (orientation, detail), Tracks (record settings). Waypoints: Mark with ENTER/MARK button, edit name, symbol, coordinates. Routes: Create and navigate multi-point routes. TracBack®: Retrace path to starting point.

Connecting Devices

Micro-USB: For connecting to computer for data transfer (waypoints, routes, tracks).

  1. Install Garmin BaseCamp™ software on computer (available from Garmin website).
  2. Connect GPS to computer using micro-USB cable.
  3. Transfer data: Use BaseCamp to manage waypoints, routes, and tracks.

Tip: Ensure GPS is powered on during data transfer. Use only Garmin-approved cables.

Navigation Features

Supports basic and advanced navigation functions.

  1. Mark waypoint: Press and hold ENTER/MARK at desired location.
  2. Navigate to waypoint: Select waypoint from list, choose "Go To".
  3. Create route: In Main Menu, select Routes > Create Route, add waypoints.
  4. Follow route: Select route, choose "Navigate".
  5. TracBack®: In Track Log menu, select TracBack to retrace path.
  6. Hunt/fish calendar: Access from Main Menu for best times based on location.
  7. Sun and moon: View sunrise/sunset times and moon phase.
  8. Area calculation: Measure area of a plotted track.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environmental factors. Always carry a map and compass as backup.

Accessibility Features

Display contrast adjustment: Improve readability in various lighting conditions. Audible alerts: Enable tone for waypoint proximity or other events.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries before extended storage. Clean with fresh water and mild soap if needed; dry thoroughly.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasives. Ensure battery compartment seal is clean and intact for waterproofing.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit support.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteriesReplace with fresh AA batteries.
Poor GPS accuracyObstructed viewMove to open area with clear sky view.
Display difficult to readContrast settingAdjust contrast in Display settings.
Waypoint not savedMemory fullDelete unused waypoints to free space.
Not connecting to computerDriver/cable issueInstall Garmin USB drivers; try different cable.

Reset: Remove batteries for 30 seconds to perform soft reset.

Service: support.garmin.com; Contact Garmin Product Support for warranty service.

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