Garmin GPSMAP 76S User 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, sunlight-readable display, 24 MB of internal memory for map storage, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, and rugged construction for outdoor use. 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. Navigation Features 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, Barometric altimeter, Electronic compass, Sunlight-readable TFT color display, 24 MB internal memory, Waterproof construction (IPX7).

Feature	Description
GPS Receiver	WAAS-enabled, high-sensitivity for improved reception under trees
Barometric Altimeter	Provides elevation data and tracks barometric pressure trends
Electronic Compass	Provides heading information when stationary
Display	2.6-inch, 160 x 240 pixel, sunlight-readable TFT color display
Internal Memory	24 MB for storing detailed maps from MapSource CDs
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 standard (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes)
Battery Life	Up to 16 hours on 2 AA batteries (typical use)
Interface	Serial interface (RS-232) for connecting to a PC
Waypoints/Mark	Stores up to 1,000 waypoints with names and symbols
Tracks	Automatic track log; 10 saved tracks, 750 points each

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and optional accessories.

Install batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert two AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH recommended).
Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop on top of unit for secure handling.
Connect to PC (optional): Use provided serial cable to connect to computer for data transfer and map loading.
Power on: Press and hold POWER button to turn on unit.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Do not mix old and new batteries or different types.

First-Time Setup

Power on GPS; follow on-screen prompts for initial configuration.

Acquire satellite signals: Go outdoors with clear view of sky, allow several minutes for initial satellite acquisition.
Set language: In MAIN MENU > SETUP > SYSTEM, select language (ENGLISH default).
Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate electronic compass (rotate unit slowly).
Set time/date: Configure local time zone and format in SETUP > TIME menu.
Load maps (optional): Use MapSource software and serial cable to transfer detailed maps to internal memory.

CAUTION! Calibrate compass away from magnetic interference (metal objects, vehicles).

Specifications

GPS Receiver: WAAS-enabled, 12 parallel channels.
Display: 2.6-inch, 160 x 240 pixels, 256-color TFT, sunlight-readable.
Memory: 24 MB internal (user accessible for maps).
Sensors: Barometric altimeter, electronic compass.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
Battery: 2 AA batteries (not included), up to 16 hours.
Interface: Serial interface (RS-232), NMEA 0183 compatible.
Waypoints: 1,000 with names and symbols.
Tracks: 10 saved tracks, 750 points each; automatic track log.
Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).

Controls and Settings

Access functions via front panel buttons and page sequences. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ENTER/MARK, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right), ZOOM IN/OUT.

Pages: Use PAGE button to cycle through: Satellite, Map, Navigation, Altimeter, Compass, Main Menu.

Setup Menu: Access via MAIN MENU > SETUP. Options include: System (language, units, time), Display (contrast, backlight timeout), Sensors (calibrate compass/altimeter), Tracks, Routes, Interface (serial data format). Navigation: Create waypoints, mark current location, navigate to destination, follow tracks.

Connecting Devices

PC Connection: Serial cable to computer for data transfer. External Power: Optional cigarette lighter adapter for vehicle use.

Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
Connect serial cable to PC's COM port and GPS connector (under rubber flap).
Use MapSource software to transfer waypoints, routes, tracks, and maps.
For external power, connect optional 12V adapter to power port.

Tip: Ensure serial port settings on PC match GPS interface settings (default 4800 baud, NMEA).

Navigation Features

Supports waypoint navigation, route creation, track recording, and map display.

Mark waypoint: Press and hold ENTER/MARK to save current location.
Navigate to waypoint: From waypoint list, select destination and choose "Go To".
Create route: In ROUTES page, create multi-point route from existing waypoints.
Follow track: Load saved track and choose "Follow Track" to retrace path.
Use map: ZOOM IN/OUT to view details; pan map with ROCKER key.
Display data fields: Customize navigation page to show speed, heading, distance, ETA, etc.
Use altimeter: View current elevation, plot elevation vs. time graph.
Use compass: Display bearing to destination when stationary.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environmental factors. Always carry a map and compass as backup.

Accessibility Features

Display Contrast: Adjust in SETUP > DISPLAY for better visibility. Backlight: Set timeout duration for night use. Large Fonts: Some data fields can be configured for larger text.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries if storing for extended periods. Clean with damp cloth; do not use harsh chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not submerge while battery compartment is open. Ensure rubber seals are clean and intact for waterproofing.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to condition that device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. For support, visit www.garmin.com or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries	Replace with fresh AA batteries; check orientation.
Poor satellite reception	Obstructed view	Move to open area with clear sky view; allow several minutes for acquisition.
Compass inaccurate	Need calibration/magnetic interference	Recalibrate compass away from metal objects; check SETUP > SENSORS.
Altimeter inaccurate	Need calibration	Calibrate altimeter with known elevation point; set correct barometric pressure.
No communication with PC	Cable/port settings	Check cable connection; verify COM port and baud rate settings on PC and GPS.
Display hard to read	Contrast settings	Adjust contrast in SETUP > DISPLAY; clean screen.

Reset: Remove batteries for 30 seconds to perform soft reset if unit locks up.

Service: Contact Garmin Product Support or visit www.garmin.com for firmware updates and service options.