Garmin GPSMAP 78 Owners Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 78 is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS navigator designed for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a 2.6-inch color TFT display, a built-in worldwide basemap, a barometric altimeter, an electronic compass, and supports BlueChart® g2 and City Navigator® NT mapping. The device is compatible with custom maps and supports GPX files for sharing waypoints, tracks, and routes. 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: GPSMAP 78 unit, USB cable, Wrist strap, Documentation, Mounting bracket (optional).

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity GPS receiver	Accurate positioning even in heavy cover or deep canyons
2.6-inch color TFT display	Sunlight-readable, 160 x 240 pixels
Built-in worldwide basemap	Shows cities, coastlines, lakes, and rivers
Barometric altimeter	Tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude
3-axis electronic compass	Shows your heading even when you're standing still
Waterproof rating	IPX7 standard (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes)
MicroSD card slot	For additional map storage and data
USB interface	For connecting to a computer for data transfer and updates
Track log	Stores 10,000 points, 200 saved tracks
Waypoints/favorites	Stores 2000 points with name and graphic symbol

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and optional mounts.

Install batteries: Open battery compartment on back, insert two AA batteries (NiMH or Lithium recommended).
Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop on top of unit.
Optional mounting: Use included bracket for bike or boat mounting.
Charge via USB (if using rechargeable NiMH batteries in optional cradle).

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

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

Acquire satellite signals: Go outdoors with clear view of sky, power on, wait for "Ready to Navigate".
Set language: In Main Menu > Setup > System, select language (default ENGLISH).
Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions (hold level and rotate).
Set time and format: Configure time zone, time format (12/24 hr), and date format.
Load maps: Connect to computer via USB, use Garmin BaseCamp™ to transfer maps to device or microSD card.

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

Specifications

Display: 2.6-inch diagonal, 160 x 240 pixels, color TFT.
GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS enabled.
Memory: 1.7 GB internal, microSD card slot.
Battery: 2 AA batteries (approx. 20 hours typical use).
Waterproof: IPX7.
Interface: USB 2.0, NMEA 0183 compatible.
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 Main Menu via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, PAGE, ROCKER (up/down/left/right/ENTER), QUIT, MENU, ZOOM IN/OUT.

Menu Structure: Main Menu provides access to Map, Compass, Trip Computer, Mark Waypoint, Routes, Tracks, Setup.

Setup: System (language, units, time), Display (backlight, contrast), Tones, Routing, Marine, Geocaching. Map: Orientation (North Up, Track Up), Detail, Data Fields. Tracks: Setup log interval, clear track log.

Connecting Devices

USB: For computer connection. NMEA 0183: For marine instrument interface (requires optional cable).

Turn off device before connecting cables.
Connect USB cable to computer for data transfer and software updates.
For NMEA, connect to compatible marine devices for data sharing.
Use microSD card for additional map storage (insert when device is off).

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

Navigating with GPS

Supports waypoint navigation, route creation, and track logging.

Mark a waypoint: Press and hold ENTER at location, edit name/symbol if desired.
Go to a waypoint: Select Where To? > Waypoints, choose destination, select Go.
Create a route: Main Menu > Routes > Create Route, select points on map or from list.
Follow a track: Load a saved track from Main Menu > Tracks.
Use trip computer: View speed, heading, distance, elevation, and more.
Use compass page: For bearing navigation when stationary.
Use map page: View your location and surrounding map data.
Save track log: Automatically logs your path; can be saved and reviewed later.

WARNING! Always carry a paper map and compass as backup. GPS signals can be obstructed.

Accessibility Features

Display Contrast and Backlight: Adjustable for various lighting conditions. Tones: Enable/disable key tones. Large Font Option: Available in some data fields.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and disconnect from power before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild detergent. Rinse with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or dirt.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasives. Ensure device is completely dry before charging or connecting cables.

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, GPSMAP, and BlueChart are trademarks of 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	Install fresh AA batteries; ensure proper orientation.
Poor GPS accuracy	Obstructed view, weak signal	Move to open area; ensure WAAS is enabled; allow time for satellite acquisition.
Compass inaccurate	Need calibration, nearby metal	Recalibrate compass away from metal objects and electronics.
Computer doesn't recognize device	Faulty cable/driver	Try different USB port/cable; install Garmin USB drivers from website.
Display is dim or blank	Backlight setting, battery	Adjust backlight timeout/brightness in Setup > Display; check battery level.
Maps not displaying	Map not enabled/loaded	In Map Setup, ensure correct map is selected; verify map is loaded on device/microSD.

Reset: Press and hold POWER + PAGE + ROCKER (Up) to perform master reset (erases user data).

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