Garmin GPSMAP 76S Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 76S is a high-sensitivity, waterproof handheld GPS receiver with a built-in basemap, barometric altimeter, and electronic compass. It features a large TFT color display, 24 MB of internal memory, support for detailed mapping software (like MapSource), WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, track log, waypoint management, and marine navigation capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, TFT color display, Electronic compass, Barometric altimeter, Waterproof case (IPX7), 24 MB internal memory, Serial interface (PC connection).

Feature	Description
GPS Receiver	12-channel, WAAS-enabled for high accuracy
Display	2.6" 160x240 pixel TFT color display, backlit
Electronic Compass	3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass
Barometric Altimeter	Records pressure changes to determine altitude
Memory	24 MB internal memory for map storage
Interface	Serial port for PC connectivity and data transfer
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Battery Life	Approx. 16 hours on 2 AA batteries (typical use)
Waypoints/Tracks	1000 waypoints, 10,000 track points
Built-in Basemap	Includes worldwide cities, waterways, interstates

Installation & Power

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and acquire satellite signal.

1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 2 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH) observing polarity.
2. Initial satellite acquisition: Power on unit outdoors with clear sky view; allow several minutes for first fix.
3. Connect to PC: Use provided serial cable to connect to computer for data transfer and map loading.
4. Mounting options: Compatible with various marine, automotive, and handlebar mounts (sold separately).

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries. Ensure battery compartment seal is intact for waterproofing.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow initial setup prompts.

1. Set language: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
2. Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate electronic compass (rotate unit slowly).
3. Set altimeter: Calibrate altimeter using known elevation or current barometric pressure if available.
4. Configure units: Set preferred units (metric/statute/nautical) for distance, elevation, speed, etc.
5. Acquire satellites: Ensure clear view of sky; wait for 3D fix indication.

CAUTION! Compass calibration requires holding unit level and rotating away from magnetic interference (metal objects, vehicles).

Specifications

• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channel, WAAS enabled.
• Display: 2.6-inch diagonal, 160 x 240 pixels, TFT color, 4-level grayscale option.
• Accuracy: Position: <10 meters RMS, Velocity: 0.1 knot RMS.
• Compass: 3-axis electronic compass, tilt-compensated.
• Altimeter: Barometric altimeter with automatic pressure trend recording.
• Memory: 24 MB internal, accepts MapSource detailed mapping data.
• Interface: RS-232 serial interface (NMEA 0183, RTCM 104 DGPS data).
• Power: 2 AA batteries (alkaline, NiMH, or lithium), 16 hours typical use.
• Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
• Dimensions: 6.3" H x 2.7" W x 1.4" D (15.9 x 6.9 x 3.6 cm).
• Weight: 7.6 oz (215 g) with batteries.

Controls and Display

Access functions via front panel buttons and page/menu system.

Front Panel: POWER (press and hold), PAGE (cycles through main pages), ROCKER KEY (up/down/left/right for navigation and selection), ENTER, QUIT/MARK, MENU, ZOOM IN/OUT.

Main Pages: Map Page, Compass Page, Highway Page, Active Route Page, Altimeter Page, Main Menu.

Display Icons: Satellite strength, battery level, compass heading, GPS accuracy, backlight, alarm indicators.

Settings: System Setup (units, time, display), Tracks Setup, Route Setup, Altimeter Setup, Compass Setup.

Basic Navigation

Navigate to waypoints, follow routes, and track your path.

1. Creating a Waypoint: Press and hold QUIT/MARK button at desired location.
2. Going To a Waypoint: From Main Menu, select 'Waypoints', choose waypoint, select 'Go To'.
3. Following a Route: Create or load a route; activate it from the Route menu.
4. Using the Compass Page: Displays bearing to destination, current heading, and steering guidance.
5. Using the Map Page: Shows your position on the map, waypoints, tracks, and route lines.
6. Tracking: The unit automatically records your path; view and manage tracks in the Track menu.

Tip: For best accuracy, ensure you have a clear view of the sky and a good satellite fix.

Advanced Features

Utilize the altimeter, compass, and mapping capabilities.

1. Altimeter Page: Displays current elevation, barometric pressure, and elevation profile graph.
2. Electronic Compass: Works when stationary; calibrate regularly for accuracy.
3. Loading Maps: Use MapSource software and serial cable to transfer detailed maps to the unit's memory.
4. Marine Navigation: Supports waypoints, routes, and can interface with NMEA 0183 compatible devices.
5. DGPS Support: Can use external beacon receiver for differential GPS corrections for improved accuracy.
6. Sun/Moon Information: Provides sunrise, sunset, moonrise, moonset times for any date and location.
7. Area Calculation: Calculate the area of a closed track.

WARNING! The electronic compass requires calibration if batteries are changed or after long transport. Altimeter readings are affected by weather changes.

Data Management

Transfer waypoints, routes, tracks, and maps between the GPS and a computer.

1. Connecting to PC: Use provided serial cable. Install Garmin MapSource or similar software.
2. Transferring Data: Use the 'Send/Receive' function in MapSource to upload/download waypoints, routes, tracks.
3. Loading Maps: Purchase MapSource map products; select map segments and send to the GPS unit.
4. Clearing Memory: Can individually or collectively clear waypoints, tracks, and routes from the unit's menus.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

Battery Care: Remove batteries if unit will not be used for several months to prevent corrosion.

Waterproof Integrity: Ensure battery compartment O-ring is clean and undamaged. Close compartment latch firmly.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

CAUTION! Do not open any sealed compartments except the battery compartment. Do not attempt to disassemble the unit.

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. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and GPSMAP are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other countries. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit will not power on	Dead batteries, improper installation	Install fresh batteries; ensure correct polarity.
No satellite acquisition	Obstructed view, indoors	Move outdoors with clear view of sky; remain stationary during first fix.
Inaccurate position	Poor satellite geometry, obstructions	Wait for more satellites; move to open area.
Compass inaccurate	Need calibration, magnetic interference	Calibrate compass away from metal objects, vehicles, power lines.
Altimeter inaccurate	Need calibration, weather change	Calibrate using known elevation; recalibrate after significant weather changes.
PC connection failed	Wrong cable/port, software issue	Ensure correct serial cable; check PC COM port settings; reinstall software drivers.
Display is dim or blank	Backlight off, battery low	Press POWER quickly to adjust backlight; replace batteries.

Reset: Press and hold PAGE + POWER while powering on to perform master reset (erases all user data).

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