Garmin GPS Map76S Manual

The Garmin GPS Map76S is a high-sensitivity, waterproof marine GPS receiver with built-in basemap, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, and 24 MB of internal memory for map storage. It features WAAS-enabled GPS accuracy, a large sunlight-readable display, and rugged construction for outdoor and marine 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 Features 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, Electronic compass, Barometric altimeter, Waterproof case, Backlit display, USB/serial interface, External antenna connector.

Feature	Description
GPS Receiver	WAAS-enabled, 12 parallel channels
Electronic Compass	Tilt-compensated, 3-axis
Barometric Altimeter	Records elevation changes
Display	2.6" 160x240 pixels, sunlight-readable
Memory	24 MB internal for map storage
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Battery Life	Up to 16 hours (2 AA batteries)
Interface	USB and RS-232 serial
Antenna	Built-in quad helix; external antenna port
Track Log	10,000 points, 20 saved tracks

Installation

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

Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries observing polarity.
External antenna (optional): Connect to MCX connector on top of unit.
Mounting: Use included bracket for marine or vehicle mounting.
Data cable: Connect USB or serial cable to computer for data transfer.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initialization procedure.

Initial satellite acquisition: Hold unit outdoors with clear sky view for 15-30 minutes.
Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen prompts to calibrate electronic compass.
Set preferences: Configure units (metric/statute), time format, and display settings.
Load maps: Use MapSource software to transfer detailed maps to internal memory.

CAUTION! Keep away from strong magnetic sources during compass calibration.

Specifications

GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channel, WAAS enabled.
Accuracy: Position: <10 meters, Velocity: 0.1 knot.
Display: 2.6 inches, 160 x 240 pixels, 4-level grayscale.
Memory: 24 MB internal, accepts MapSource data.
Sensors: Barometric altimeter, electronic compass.
Interface: USB and RS-232 serial (NMEA 0183).
Power: 2 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH), 16 hours typical.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard (1 meter/30 minutes).
Dimensions: 6.3" x 2.7" x 1.4" (15.9 x 6.9 x 3.6 cm).
Weight: 7.5 oz (213 g) with batteries.

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and ENTER buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, ROCKER keypad.

Key Functions: POWER (on/off), PAGE (cycle through screens), ENTER (select/confirm), ROCKER (move cursor/menu).

Main Pages: Satellite Status, Map, Compass, Highway, Active Route, Main Menu. Settings: System (units, time, display), Tracks, Routes, Waypoints, Alarms, Interface. Compass: Calibration, declination adjustment. Altimeter: Calibration, auto calibration, pressure trends.

Connecting Devices

External antenna: MCX connector. Computer: USB or serial cable. NMEA devices: Serial connection for autopilot or sounder.

Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
Connect data cable to computer USB/serial port.
Select interface type in Setup > Interface menu.
For NMEA output, configure serial port to NMEA 0183.

Tip: Use genuine Garmin cables for reliable data transfer.

Navigation Features

Supports waypoints, routes, tracks, and Go To navigation.

Create waypoint: Press ENTER at location or mark from map.
Navigate to waypoint: Select Go To from menu, choose waypoint.
Create route: In Route menu, add waypoints in sequence.
Follow track: Enable track log, navigate using track back function.
Project waypoint: Create waypoint at distance/bearing from current location.
Man overboard (MOB): Mark current position instantly for rescue.
Tide predictions: View tide data for compatible map regions.
Sun/moon times: Display sunrise/sunset and moon phase information.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environmental conditions. Always have backup navigation methods.

Advanced Functions

Area calculation: Measure area of irregular shapes. Hunt/fish calendar: Best times based on sun/moon data. Vertical profile: View elevation profile of saved track. Custom maps: Create and upload custom maps via MapSource.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with fresh water after saltwater use. Use mild soap and soft cloth. Store in cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals or high-pressure water jets. Keep battery contacts clean.

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.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No satellite reception	Poor location, first time use	Move to open area; hold stationary for initial fix (15-30 min).
Compass inaccurate	Need calibration, magnetic interference	Recalibrate compass; move away from metal objects.
Battery drains quickly	Old batteries, backlight on high	Replace with fresh batteries; reduce backlight brightness.
No computer connection	Wrong cable, driver issues	Use correct cable; install Garmin USB drivers; check interface settings.
Display difficult to read	Contrast setting, screen dirty	Adjust contrast in setup menu; clean screen with soft cloth.

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + ENTER while powering on for master reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com