Garmin GPSMAP 741xs Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 741xs is a 7-inch high-brightness chartplotter with built-in BlueChart g3 coastal charts, preloaded U.S. BlueChart g3 coastal charts, an internal GPS/GLONASS receiver, and support for Garmin radar, sonar, and autopilot systems. It features a sunlight-readable, capacitive touchscreen display, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity, and compatibility with various Garmin marine networks. 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. Sonar & Radar Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 7-inch sunlight-readable capacitive touchscreen, internal GPS/GLONASS receiver, preloaded U.S. BlueChart g3 coastal charts, NMEA 2000/NMEA 0183 connectivity, Garmin Marine Network port.

FeatureDescription
Display7-inch, 800 x 480 pixels, sunlight-readable, capacitive touch
Internal GPS/GLONASSHigh-sensitivity receiver with WAAS/EGNOS support
Preloaded ChartsU.S. BlueChart g3 coastal charts with detailed coverage
ConnectivityNMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, Garmin Marine Network
Radar SupportCompatible with Garmin GMR xHD2 and xHD3 radar series
Sonar SupportSupports Garmin CHIRP traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü sonar
Autopilot SupportCompatible with Garmin Reactor autopilot systems
Power Input10–35 Vdc
Water RatingIPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
MountingFlush mount or bracket mount options

Installation

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

  1. Mount the display: Use included bracket or flush mount kit. Ensure secure attachment.
  2. Connect power: Connect red wire to positive (+) and black wire to negative (-) on boat’s 10–35 Vdc system.
  3. Connect NMEA 2000: Attach to boat’s NMEA 2000 network using included T-connector.
  4. Connect optional devices: Attach radar, sonar, autopilot, or other sensors via Garmin Marine Network or NMEA 0183.
  5. Secure all cables and protect from moisture.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on the chartplotter; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Select language: Choose from available options (default is English).
  2. Configure units: Set distance, speed, depth, and temperature units (e.g., nautical miles, knots).
  3. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions if connected to a heading sensor.
  4. Set up charts: Verify preloaded charts; install additional charts via microSD card if needed.
  5. Configure communications: Set up NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 devices if connected.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around the unit. Do not block cooling vents.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen. Physical buttons: Power, Volume +/-.

Touchscreen Controls: Tap to select, swipe to pan charts, pinch to zoom.

Main Menu: Navigation, Sonar, Radar, Settings, Information. Settings: System (language, units, backlight), Communications (NMEA, network), Navigation (route planning, alarms), Sonar/Radar (setup connected devices). Chart Settings: Depth shading, chart detail, waypoint symbols. User Profiles: Save custom settings for different users or conditions.

Connecting Devices

NMEA 2000: Connect to boat’s network for engine data, wind, depth, etc. NMEA 0183: For older instruments or autopilots. Garmin Marine Network: For radar, sonar, autopilot.

  1. Turn off power before connecting devices.
  2. Use appropriate cables and connectors (included or purchased separately).
  3. Configure each device in Settings > Communications.
  4. Verify data is being received in Information > Device List.

Tip: Label cables during installation for easier troubleshooting.

Using Charts & Navigation

Supports detailed chart plotting, route creation, and waypoint management.

  1. View charts: Tap Chart on main screen. Zoom with pinch or +/- buttons.
  2. Create waypoint: Tap and hold on chart, select “Save Waypoint.”
  3. Create route: Tap Route, then tap points on chart to set route legs.
  4. Navigate: Select a waypoint or route, tap “Go To.”
  5. Track recording: Automatically records track; view in Tracks menu.
  6. Chart overlays: Display radar, sonar, or AIS data over charts.
  7. Tides and currents: Access tide stations and current data on compatible charts.

WARNING! Always verify chart data with official sources. Use navigation aids responsibly.

Sonar & Radar Features

Sonar: View traditional CHIRP, ClearVü, and SideVü sonar (with compatible transducer). Radar: Overlay radar image on chart for collision avoidance.

  1. Sonar: Connect transducer; view in Sonar menu. Adjust frequency, range, and sensitivity.
  2. Radar: Connect Garmin radar; view in Radar menu. Adjust gain, range, and interference rejection.
  3. Alarms: Set depth, anchor drag, and collision alarms in Settings.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on the unit. Ensure connectors are dry before reconnecting power.

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. CE Compliance: Meets EU directives for marine equipment. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. BlueChart and GPSMAP are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connectionCheck wiring for secure connections; verify 10–35 Vdc power source.
Poor GPS signalObstructionEnsure clear view of sky; check antenna connection if external antenna is used.
Touchscreen not respondingScreen protector/dirtRemove screen protector if present; clean screen with soft cloth.
No data from NMEA devicesWiring/configurationCheck NMEA wiring and configuration in Settings > Communications.
Charts not displayingChart dataVerify chart region is installed; insert microSD card with charts if needed.
Sonar/radar not workingConnections/powerEnsure devices are powered and properly connected via Garmin Marine Network.

Reset: Hold Power button for 10 seconds to restart. Factory reset available in Settings > System > Reset.

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

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