Garmin GPSMAP 720 Installation Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 720 is a high-performance marine chartplotter featuring a 7-inch sunlight-readable display, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, built-in worldwide basemap, support for Garmin radar, sonar, and audio systems, NMEA 0183/2000 connectivity, and rugged, waterproof design (IPX7). This manual covers essential installation, configuration, and initial setup procedures for safe and optimal operation on your vessel.

1. Package Contents & Inspection 2. Mounting the Device 3. Power & Electrical Connection 4. NMEA 0183 & NMEA 2000® Connection 5. Connecting External Devices 6. Antenna & GPS Connection 7. Initial Power-On & Setup 8. Display & System Configuration 9. Software & Chart Updates 10. Safety & Compliance Information 11. Troubleshooting

Package Contents & Inspection

Before installation, verify all components are present and undamaged.

Component	Description
GPSMAP 720 Unit	Main chartplotter display
Mounting Bracket & Hardware	For flush, surface, or bracket mounting
Power/NMEA 0183 Cable	Includes power leads and NMEA 0183 data wires
Documentation & Quick Start Guide	Safety information and setup instructions
Protective Cover (optional)	For storage or transport

WARNING! Do not proceed if any item is missing or damaged. Contact Garmin support.

Mounting the Device

Select a location that provides clear visibility, is within reach of the operator, and avoids direct spray or physical impact.

Plan the location: Ensure the mounting surface is flat, strong, and vibration-free.
Drill mounting holes: Use the provided template to mark and drill holes for the bracket.
Secure the bracket: Attach using appropriate hardware for your surface (included).
Attach the unit: Slide the GPSMAP 720 onto the bracket and tighten the security screw.

CAUTION! Ensure all wiring paths are planned before final mounting to avoid interference with other systems.

Power & Electrical Connection

Connect to the vessel's 12 V or 24 V DC power system.

Identify the red (power) and black (ground) wires on the power cable.
Connect the red wire to the positive (+) terminal of the battery or a switched power source via an appropriate fuse (recommended 3 A).
Connect the black wire to the negative (-) terminal or vessel ground.
Route cables away from high-current wires and engine ignition sources to minimize interference.

WARNING! Always install an in-line fuse on the positive lead as close to the power source as possible. Ensure all connections are secure and protected from moisture.

NMEA 0183 & NMEA 2000® Connection

For connecting to autopilots, instruments, VHF radios, and other marine networks.

Connection Type	Purpose	Cable Wires
NMEA 0183	Legacy data communication	TX/A (Out +), TX/B (Out -), RX/A (In +), RX/B (In -)
NMEA 2000	Modern plug-and-play network	Requires a Garmin NMEA 2000 starter kit and backbone

Tip: Refer to the specific interface manual of your connected device for correct wiring. Incorrect NMEA 0183 wiring will prevent data exchange.

Connecting External Devices

The GPSMAP 720 supports various Garmin peripherals.

Radar (GMR™ Series): Connect via dedicated network cable to the radar module.
Sonar (Sounders): Connect compatible Garmin sonar modules for depth and fishfinding.
Audio (GMA™): Connect to a Garmin audio system for control of marine audio sources.
VHF Radio: Connect via NMEA 0183 for DSC (Digital Selective Calling) positioning.

Ensure all devices are powered off before making connections.

Antenna & GPS Connection

The unit has a built-in high-sensitivity GPS receiver. For optimal performance:

Ensure the installed location has a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.
Do not mount under thick metal, fiberglass with metallic coatings, or other RF-opaque materials.
If using an external GPS antenna (optional), connect it to the designated antenna port on the rear.

Initial satellite acquisition may take several minutes when powered on for the first time or after a long period of storage.

Initial Power-On & Setup

After all connections are secure, power on the unit.

Turn on the vessel's power or switch on the dedicated circuit.
The Garmin splash screen will appear. Follow the on-screen prompts.
Set Language & Region: Select your preferred language and navigation region.
Configure Units: Set distance, speed, depth, and temperature units (e.g., nautical miles, knots).
Calibrate Compass (if prompted): Follow the on-screen instructions if using internal heading sensors.

The unit will begin searching for GPS satellites. Place the vessel in an open area.

Display & System Configuration

Access the main menu to customize your chartplotter.

Menu Section	Key Settings
Navigation	Waypoints, routes, tracks, alarms (anchor, arrival)
Sonar (if connected)	Frequency, range, sensitivity, fishfinder options
Radar (if connected)	Range, gain, clutter, overlay settings
System	Display brightness, backlight, sounds, network device list
Charts	Chart detail, appearance, depth shading

Adjust display brightness for day and night modes to preserve night vision.

Software & Chart Updates

Keep your device updated for optimal performance and latest features.

Register your device at my.garmin.com.
Use Garmin Express™ software on a computer to check for updates.
Connect the GPSMAP 720 to the computer via the mini-USB port (rear) using a compatible cable.
Follow Garmin Express instructions to install software and chart updates.

CAUTION! Do not disconnect the device during an update. Ensure the computer is connected to the internet.

Safety & Compliance Information

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s).

Intended Use: For marine navigation as an aid only. Not for sole reliance in navigation.
Water Rating: IPX7 (submersible in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes).
Operating Temperature: From -15°C to 55°C (5°F to 131°F).
Disposal: Dispose of according to local regulations for electronic waste (WEEE).

For technical support, visit support.garmin.com or contact your local Garmin dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No Power	Blown fuse, loose connection	Check in-line fuse and power/ground connections at battery and unit.
"No GPS Signal" Message	Obstructed view, first-time acquisition	Move to open area; wait up to 5-10 minutes for initial fix.
No Data from NMEA Device	Incorrect wiring or baud rate	Verify NMEA 0183 wiring (TX to RX) and ensure baud rates match (default 4800).
Dim or Unreadable Display	Brightness setting, sun cover	Adjust display brightness in System menu; use an anti-glare sun cover.
Unit Not Recognized by Computer	Faulty USB cable or port	Try a different USB cable and port; ensure Garmin Express is installed.

Master Reset: If experiencing persistent issues, navigate to System > Reset > Reset All Settings. This will erase all user data and restore factory defaults.

Garmin Support: 1-800-800-1020 (US) | www.garmin.com/support