Garmin GPSMAP 78 Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 78 is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS device featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a 2.6-inch color TFT display, a built-in worldwide basemap, 1.7 GB of internal memory, a microSD card slot, a barometric altimeter, electronic compass, and support for BlueChart g2 and City Navigator NT mapping. It is designed for marine and outdoor navigation. 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. Navigating with GPS 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS receiver, 2.6-inch color TFT display, Worldwide basemap, 1.7 GB internal memory, microSD card slot, Barometric altimeter, Electronic compass, Waterproof (IPX7).

Feature	Description
GPS Receiver	High-sensitivity with WAAS/EGNOS support
Display	2.6-inch, 160 x 240 pixels, color TFT
Basemap	Built-in worldwide basemap with shaded relief
Memory	1.7 GB internal; expandable via microSD card
Sensors	Barometric altimeter; 3-axis electronic compass
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (submersible 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Battery	2 AA batteries (up to 20 hours)
Connectivity	USB, NMEA 0183 compatible
Mapping Support	BlueChart g2, City Navigator NT, TOPO maps
Waypoints/Tracks	2000 waypoints; 200 saved tracks

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and optional maps.

Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 2 AA batteries observing polarity.
Install optional maps: Use Garmin BaseCamp software to load maps via USB to internal memory or microSD card.
Attach wrist strap: For secure handling.
Charge (if using NiMH batteries): Use approved charger.

WARNING! Use only recommended batteries. Ensure battery compartment is sealed for waterproofing.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

Acquire satellite signals: Go outdoors with clear sky view; wait for GPS fix.
Set language: In SETUP menu, select language (default ENGLISH).
Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions (rotate device).
Set units: Configure distance, elevation, depth, and coordinate format.
Set time: Choose time zone and format.

CAUTION! Calibrate compass away from metal objects and magnetic fields.

Specifications

Display: 2.6-inch diagonal, 160 x 240 pixels, color TFT.
GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS/EGNOS enabled.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard.
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours (2 AA batteries).
Memory: 1.7 GB internal; microSD card slot.
Sensors: Barometric altimeter; 3-axis electronic compass.
Interface: USB 2.0, NMEA 0183.
Dimensions: 2.4" x 6.3" x 1.4" (6.1 x 16.0 x 3.6 cm).
Weight: 7.6 oz (215 g) with batteries.
Operating Temp: -4° to 140°F (-20° to 60°C).

Controls and Settings

Access menus via PAGE and MENU buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, MENU, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER), ZOOM IN/OUT.

Menu Navigation: Use ROCKER to highlight; press ENTER to select. PAGE cycles through main pages (Map, Compass, Main Menu, etc.).

Setup: System (language, units, time), Display (backlight, contrast), Sensors (compass calibration, altimeter), Routing (navigation preferences). Tracks: Setup for recording and display. Profiles: Save settings for different activities (Marine, Hiking, Geocaching).

Connecting Devices

USB: For data transfer and power. NMEA 0183: For connecting to marine instruments.

Turn off device before connecting cables.
Connect USB cable to computer for data transfer using Garmin BaseCamp.
For NMEA 0183, follow wiring diagram in advanced manual.
Select interface settings in SETUP > Interface.

Tip: Ensure USB connection is secure for reliable data transfer.

Navigating with GPS

Supports waypoint navigation, track recording, and route following.

Mark waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at location.
Go To waypoint: Select waypoint from list, choose "Go To".
Follow route: Create route in Main Menu > Routes; activate for navigation.
Record track: Enable track recording in Tracks setup.
Use compass page: For bearing navigation.
Use map page: View location and course.
Use trip computer: Monitor speed, distance, time.
Use sun & moon info: For marine and outdoor planning.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environment; always use with caution for critical navigation.

Accessibility Features

Display: Adjustable backlight and contrast for visibility. Audio: Turn key beep on/off in SETUP > System > Tones.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and remove batteries before cleaning. Use fresh water and mild soap; rinse thoroughly. Dry with soft cloth.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or high-pressure water. Ensure seals are clean and undamaged.

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. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Product Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries	Replace with fresh AA batteries; check polarity.
Poor GPS reception	Obstructed view	Move to open area; ensure sky view is clear.
Compass inaccurate	Need calibration	Calibrate compass in SETUP > Sensors.
Device not connecting to PC	USB driver/cable	Install Garmin USB drivers; try different USB cable/port.
Display is dim	Backlight setting	Adjust backlight in SETUP > Display.
Waypoints not saving	Memory full	Delete old waypoints or tracks to free space.

Reset: Press and hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER Up for soft reset if device freezes.

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