Garmin GPSMAP 176C Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 176C is a color chartplotter featuring a high-resolution 256-color TFT display, built-in worldwide basemap, waterproof design (IPX7), external antenna connection, NMEA 0183 interface, and support for BlueChart and MapSource cartography. It provides detailed marine navigation with waypoints, routes, tracks, and fish finder compatibility. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Color TFT display, Power/data cable, External antenna port, Waterproof casing, Card slot for data cards, NMEA 0183 interface.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose mounting location with clear view of sky.

1. Mount unit: Use included bracket; secure to flat surface using screws.
2. Connect power: Attach red wire to positive (+) and black wire to negative (-) on 12V DC source.
3. Connect antenna: Plug external GPS antenna into antenna port for optimal signal.
4. Connect NMEA devices: Use NMEA 0183 wires to interface with compatible marine electronics.
5. Insert data card: Load BlueChart or MapSource card into card slot if using detailed maps.

WARNING! Ensure power is off during installation. Route cables away from moving parts and heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial prompts.

1. Acquire GPS signal: Place unit with clear sky view; wait for satellite acquisition (may take several minutes).
2. Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
3. Set units: Choose nautical miles/knots, statute miles/mph, or kilometers/kmh.
4. Set time: Configure time zone, format (12/24 hour), and daylight saving.
5. Calibrate compass: If using electronic compass accessory, follow calibration procedure.
6. Load maps: Insert data card; unit will automatically detect and load chart data.

CAUTION! Do not power on until all connections are secure and waterproof seals are intact.

Specifications

• Display: 5-inch diagonal, 256-color TFT, 320 x 240 pixels.
• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channel, WAAS enabled.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Waypoints: 3000 with names and symbols.
• Routes: 50 reversible routes, 50 waypoints each.
• Tracks: 10,000 points, 10 saved tracks.
• Interface: NMEA 0183, RS-232 for PC connection.
• Power: 10-40 VDC, 1.5W typical.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
• Dimensions: 6.0" W x 4.0" H x 2.5" D (152 x 102 x 64 mm).

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right), ZOOM IN/OUT, MARK, MOB (Man Overboard).

On-screen Menus: Access via PAGE or MENU button. Main pages: Map, Navigation, Highway, Pointer, Data, Trip Computer.

Settings: System (language, units, time), Navigation (routing preferences, alarms), Display (contrast, backlight, colors), Interface (NMEA, serial data format). Map: Orientation (North Up, Course Up, Track Up), Detail level, Zoom range. Tracks: Set recording interval, clear track log.

Connecting Devices

External GPS antenna: For improved reception in enclosed spaces. NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, sounder, or VHF radio. PC: Serial cable for uploading/downloading waypoints, routes, tracks.

1. Turn off power before making connections.
2. Match wire colors to NMEA device specifications (TX/RX, ground).
3. Use waterproof connectors for all external marine connections.
4. Configure NMEA output in Interface settings to match connected device.

Tip: Test NMEA connections with simple devices first to verify data flow.

Using Navigation Features

Create and follow waypoints, routes, and tracks.

1. Mark waypoint: Press MARK at current location; edit name and symbol.
2. Go To waypoint: Select waypoint from list; press GOTO to navigate directly.
3. Create route: MENU > Route > New; add waypoints in sequence.
4. Follow route: Select route; press NAVIGATE; follow on-screen guidance.
5. Track recording: Enable in Track setup; view breadcrumb trail on map.
6. MOB function: Press and hold MOB button to mark man overboard position and navigate back.
7. Zoom: Use ZOOM IN/OUT to adjust map scale for appropriate detail.
8. Data screens: Cycle through pages to view speed, course, distance, ETA, and other navigation data.

WARNING! GPS is an aid to navigation; always use traditional navigation methods as primary.

Chartplotting & Maps

Built-in basemap plus detailed cartography via data cards.

BlueChart cards: Provide detailed marine charts with depth contours, navaids, harbors, and tides. MapSource cards: Offer topographic and street maps for land use. Display features: Show/hide chart data layers (navaids, depth soundings, ports). Waypoint projection: Create new waypoint by projecting distance and bearing from existing point. Measure distance: Use ruler tool to measure between points on chart.

Care & Maintenance

Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use. Clean screen with soft, damp cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure water spray. Ensure all connectors and seals are clean and dry before reconnecting.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and MapSource are registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + POWER during startup to reset to factory defaults (erases user data).

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized service center.