Garmin GPSMAP 741 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 741 is a 7-inch marine chartplotter with a high-resolution sunlight-readable display, built-in worldwide basemap, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts, support for radar, sonar, and autopilot integration, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, touchscreen and keypad operation, and rugged, waterproof design (IPX7). 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. Using Charts & Navigation 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 7-inch LCD display, Power/data cable, Mounting hardware, Protective cover, Documentation.

FeatureDescription
Display7-inch diagonal, 800 x 480 pixels, sunlight readable, resistive touch
ChartplotterBuilt-in worldwide basemap, preloaded BlueChart g2 coastal charts
ConnectivityNMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Ethernet (Garmin Marine Network)
Input/OutputSD card slot, audio alarm output, external GPS antenna input
Waterproof RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Power Supply10–32 Vdc
Dimensions211 x 165 x 57 mm (8.3 x 6.5 x 2.2 in)
CompatibilityGarmin radar, sonar, autopilot, VHF, instrumentation
Waypoints/Routes5000 waypoints, 100 routes (1000 points each)
Tracks10,000 points, 50 saved tracks

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose a suitable mounting location.

  1. Mount the bracket: Use provided hardware to secure bracket to helm or console.
  2. Connect power: Route power/data cable to 10–32 Vdc source; observe polarity.
  3. Connect NMEA 2000: Attach to backbone using drop cable (if applicable).
  4. Connect accessories: Attach radar, sonar, VHF, etc., via appropriate cables.
  5. Secure the unit: Slide chartplotter onto bracket; tighten security screw.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are waterproofed. Disconnect power before making connections.

First-Time Setup

Apply power; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Language/Units: Select language, nautical units (nm/kn, ft/fathoms).
  2. Initial Position: Acquire GPS satellites (may take several minutes).
  3. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions (if equipped).
  4. Configure alarms: Set anchor drag, shallow/deep water, off-course alarms.
  5. Register device: Optional registration via Garmin Express.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation; do not mount in direct sunlight without shade.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen or physical keys (POWER, PAGE, ZOOM IN/OUT, MARK, ENTER).

Touchscreen: Tap icons, drag charts, pinch to zoom.

Main Pages: Chart, Compass, Highway, Data, Fishing, 3D Chart View. Settings: System (Backlight, Sounds, Units, Language), Navigation (Route Preferences, Alarms), Communications (NMEA, Network), Sonar (if connected), Radar (if connected).

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to backbone for engine data, depth, speed, wind. NMEA 0183: Connect to autopilot, AIS, VHF. Ethernet: Connect to radar, sonar, other Garmin plotters.

  1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
  2. Use appropriate Garmin cables for each accessory.
  3. Configure each device in the Communications menu.

Tip: Label cables for easy identification during maintenance.

Using Charts & Navigation

Supports detailed marine cartography and route planning.

  1. View Chart: Default page shows vessel position; touch to pan.
  2. Create Waypoint: Press MARK or touch chart location > "Save as Waypoint".
  3. Create Route: Menu > Route > New Route; add points from chart or waypoint list.
  4. Navigate: Select route or waypoint > "Go To".
  5. Track: Automatically records track; can be saved and reversed.
  6. Fish Finder: Displays sonar data when connected (split-screen available).
  7. Radar Overlay: Superimpose radar image on chart (with compatible radar).

WARNING! Always verify chart data against official sources. Use as an aid to navigation only.

Advanced Features

BlueChart g2 Vision: Supports high-resolution satellite imagery, auto guidance, 3D view. AIS Integration: Display AIS targets on chart (requires AIS receiver). Fusion-Link: Control compatible Fusion stereos. SmartMode: Automatically switches display modes (Cruising, Fishing, Docking).

Care & Maintenance

Use a soft, damp cloth with fresh water to clean display and casing. Do not use chemicals, abrasives, or high-pressure spray.

CAUTION! Ensure power is off and connectors are sealed during cleaning. Store in a dry place when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. CE Compliance: Meets EU directives. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and GPSMAP are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact your local dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection, fuseCheck voltage at terminal; verify inline fuse (3 A) is intact.
No GPS positionAntenna obstruction, settingsEnsure clear sky view; verify GPS mode is enabled in settings.
Touchscreen not respondingScreen protector, calibrationRemove aftermarket screen protector; recalibrate touchscreen in settings.
No data from NMEA devicesCabling, configurationCheck wiring and termination; verify NMEA sentences are enabled.
Chart not displayingSD card, chart regionEnsure SD card is properly inserted; verify chart is for correct region.

Reset: Hold PAGE + POWER for 10 seconds to perform soft reset.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or authorized marine dealer.

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