Garmin GPSMAP 78s Handheld GPS Manual

The Garmin GPSMAP 78s is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS device featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, built-in worldwide basemap, 1.7 GB of internal memory, a 2.6-inch color TFT display, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, and support for paperless geocaching. It is designed for outdoor navigation, marine use, and geocaching. 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, 2.6-inch color TFT display, barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass, 1.7 GB internal memory, microSD card slot, USB port, waterproof design (IPX7).

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity GPS receiver	Accurate positioning under tree cover and in challenging conditions
Built-in worldwide basemap	Provides basic global map coverage
1.7 GB internal memory	Stores maps, routes, waypoints, and geocaches
microSD card slot	Expandable memory for additional maps
Barometric altimeter	Tracks elevation changes and barometric pressure
3-axis electronic compass	Provides heading information when stationary
Waterproof design (IPX7)	Submersible in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes
Paperless geocaching support	Download and view geocache details directly on the device
USB port	For data transfer and charging (with compatible cable)
Battery life	Up to 20 hours on 2 AA batteries

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and optional accessories.

Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert two AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH).
Attach wrist strap: Thread through loop on back of device.
Install optional mounts: Use marine or bicycle mounts as needed.
Charge via USB (optional): Connect to computer or power adapter with USB cable.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow on-screen prompts.

Acquire satellite signal: Go outdoors with clear sky view; wait for GPS fix.
Set language: In SETUP menu, select preferred language (default ENGLISH).
Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions for accurate heading.
Set time and date: Configure automatically via GPS or manually.
Load maps: Use Garmin BaseCamp software to transfer maps via USB.

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

Specifications

Display: 2.6-inch color TFT, 160 x 240 pixels.
GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, WAAS enabled.
Memory: 1.7 GB internal, microSD card slot.
Sensors: Barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard (1 meter, 30 minutes).
Battery: 2 AA batteries (up to 20 hours).
Interface: USB 2.0.
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°F to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C).

Controls and Settings

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

Side Buttons: ZOOM IN, ZOOM OUT, MARK (waypoint), FIND (search).

Settings: System (language, display, units), Navigation (routing, alarms), Sensors (compass, altimeter calibration), Geocaches (paperless settings), Maps (detail, orientation).

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect to computer for data transfer and charging. microSD: Insert card for additional maps.

Turn off device before inserting microSD card.
Use USB cable to connect to computer; device appears as removable drive.
Use Garmin BaseCamp software to manage waypoints, routes, tracks, and maps.

Tip: Ensure USB port cover is fully closed after connection to maintain waterproof seal.

Navigation Features

Supports waypoints, routes, tracks, and geocaching.

Mark waypoint: Press MARK button at current location.
Navigate to waypoint: Use FIND menu to select destination, then select GO TO.
Create route: Use Route Planner in main menu to add waypoints in sequence.
Track recording: Enable track log to record path; view later on map.
Geocaching: Download GPX files via USB; view cache details, log finds.
Use compass screen: For bearing navigation when stationary.
Use altimeter profile: View elevation plot over time or distance.
Map orientation: Set to North Up, Track Up, or Automotive mode.

WARNING! GPS accuracy can be affected by environment; always carry a paper map as backup.

Accessibility Features

Display settings: Adjust contrast, backlight timeout, and colors for visibility. Audio alerts: Enable tones for waypoint proximity, off-course, etc.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off and disconnect from power before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap if needed. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or high-pressure water. Ensure all covers are sealed after cleaning.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to conditions that it does not cause harmful interference. IC Compliance: Complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). 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; ensure proper orientation.
Poor GPS reception	Obstructed view	Move to open area; ensure device is held horizontally.
Compass inaccurate	Need calibration	Calibrate compass in Settings > Sensors.
Computer not recognizing device	USB connection/driver	Try different USB port/cable; install Garmin USB drivers if needed.
Screen difficult to read	Brightness/contrast	Adjust display settings; clean screen.
Waypoints not saving	Memory full	Delete old waypoints or tracks; use microSD card for expansion.

Reset: Hold POWER and PAGE buttons for 10 seconds to perform soft reset.

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