Garmin GPS 76 Owners Manual

The Garmin GPS 76 is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver designed for marine and outdoor navigation. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, 24 MB of internal memory for storing map data, a large backlit display, and a built-in quad helix antenna. This manual covers essential information on safety, features, operation, and maintenance to help you get the most out of your device.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Waterproof case (IPX7), backlit FSTN display, quad helix antenna, internal memory, and NMEA 0183 interface.

Installation & Power

Insert batteries and prepare for first use.

1. Open battery compartment: Turn the D-ring on the back counterclockwise and lift cover.
2. Insert batteries: Install two AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH) observing polarity.
3. Close compartment: Replace cover and turn D-ring clockwise to lock and seal.
4. External power (optional): Use the provided cable to connect to a 10-40 VDC source.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Ensure compartment seal is clean and intact for waterproofing.

First-Time Setup

Power on the unit and configure initial settings.

1. Acquire satellites: Go outdoors with a clear view of the sky. Press and hold POWER.
2. Set language: Use the ROCKER key to navigate to SETUP > SYSTEM > LANGUAGE.
3. Set units: Navigate to SETUP > UNITS to select Statute, Nautical, or Metric.
4. Set time: Navigate to SETUP > TIME to choose format and time zone.
5. Initialize position (optional): If prompted, use the map to set an approximate start location.

CAUTION! Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes. Keep the unit stationary.

Specifications

• Receiver: High-sensitivity, 12 parallel channel GPS.
• Update Rate: 1 second, continuous.
• Accuracy: <15 meters RMS, typical.
• Dynamics: Supports speeds up to 999 knots; altitude limit 18,000 m.
• Data Storage: Internal memory, non-volatile. No memory card slot.
• Display: 2.6" H x 1.7" W (66 mm x 43 mm), 160 x 120 pixels.
• Power: 2 AA batteries (not included) or 10-40 VDC external.
• Waterproof: IEC 60529 IPX7.
• Weight: 7.5 oz (213 g) with batteries.
• Dimensions: 2.7" H x 6.2" W x 1.3" D (69 x 157 x 33 mm).

Controls and Display

Primary controls: POWER, PAGE, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right/ENTER), MARK, GOTO, and MENU.

Display Pages: Use PAGE to cycle through: Satellite Status, Map, Navigation, Highway, Main Menu.

Map Page: Shows your position on a moving map. Use ROCKER to pan. Press MENU for zoom, setup, and data fields.

Navigation Page: Provides steering guidance to a destination with bearing, distance, and ETA.

Menu System: Press MENU from any page for context-specific options (Mark Waypoint, Change Data Fields, Setup).

Basic Navigation

Navigate to a destination or follow a track.

1. Go To a Waypoint: Press GOTO, select a waypoint from the list, and press ENTER.
2. Follow a Route: Press MENU from the Main Menu, select ROUTES, choose a route, and select NAVIGATE.
3. Follow a Track Back: Press MENU on the Map Page, select TRACK BACK, and press ENTER to reverse your path.
4. View Trip Data: From the Main Menu, select TRIP COMPUTER to see odometer, speed, max speed, etc.

Tip: The compass pointer on the Navigation Page points to your destination. Keep the pointer centered to stay on course.

Using Waypoints & Routes

Create and manage locations and paths.

1. Mark a Waypoint: Press and hold MARK. Edit name, symbol, and location if needed, then press ENTER.
2. Create a Route: Main Menu > ROUTES > New. Select "Select Point" to add existing waypoints in sequence.
3. Edit/Delete Waypoint: Main Menu > WAYPOINTS > select a waypoint > MENU > Edit or Delete.
4. Project a Waypoint: From a waypoint's information page, select MENU > PROJECT WAYPOINT to create a new waypoint at a specified bearing and distance.

WARNING! Regularly back up important waypoints and routes to a PC using MapSource software, as internal memory is not infallible.

Tides & Marine Data

The GPS 76 includes a built-in tide predictor for U.S. coastal stations.

1. Access Tides: Main Menu > TIDES.
2. Select Station: Use the ROCKER to choose a nearby tide station from the list.
3. View Tide Chart: The display shows a graph of tide heights for the selected date.
4. Sun & Moon: From the Tides page, press MENU and select SUN & MOON for sunrise/sunset and moon phase information.

Note: Tide data is based on predictions. Always observe local conditions and official sources for critical navigation.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with fresh water after use in saltwater or dirty environments. Use a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or pressurized water.

CAUTION! Ensure the battery compartment D-ring and seal are clean and undamaged. Do not open the battery compartment if the unit is wet. Allow to dry completely first.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Industry Canada (IC): Complies with RSS-210. Contains GPS technology controlled under U.S. Export Regulations. © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: To perform a master reset (erases all user data), turn unit off. Press and hold ENTER + PAGE while pressing POWER. Release POWER, then release ENTER + PAGE after the welcome message appears.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support. Do not open the unit; void warranty.