Manual GPS Garmin GPSMAP 76S

The Garmin GPSMAP 76S is a rugged, waterproof handheld GPS receiver featuring a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, detailed basemap, 24 MB of internal memory for downloading MapSource data, a large sunlight-readable display, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, and WAAS-enabled accuracy. Ideal for marine, automotive, 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. Navigation & Waypoints 8. Map & Data Management 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: GPS receiver with quad helix antenna, LCD display, Control buttons, USB/power/data port, External antenna connector, Battery compartment.

Feature	Description
High-sensitivity GPS receiver	For improved reception under trees or near obstructions
24 MB internal memory	For storing downloaded MapSource map data
Barometric altimeter	Provides elevation data and barometric pressure trends
Electronic compass	Provides heading information when stationary
Waterproof rating (IPX7)	Can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes
Sunlight-readable display	160 x 240 pixel FSTN display with backlight
WAAS-enabled	Provides position accuracy to within 3 meters
Built-in basemap	Includes cities, highways, and major waterways
Track log	Stores up to 10,000 track points
Waypoint storage	Up to 1,000 user waypoints with names and symbols

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install batteries and prepare for initial use.

Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 2 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH) observing polarity.
External antenna (optional): Connect to MCX connector on top of unit for improved reception.
Power on: Press and hold POWER button until unit beeps and display initializes.
Initial satellite acquisition: Place unit outdoors with clear view of sky for first fix (may take several minutes).

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.

Select language: Choose from available languages (default ENGLISH).
Set measurement units: Choose metric or statute (feet/miles).
Calibrate compass: Follow on-screen instructions to calibrate electronic compass (rotate unit slowly).
Set time: Choose time format and time zone.
Acquire satellites: Allow unit to acquire satellite signals (shown on satellite status page).

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

Specifications

Display: 2.6" (160 x 240 pixels) FSTN, sunlight-readable with backlight.
GPS Receiver: High-sensitivity, 12 parallel channels, WAAS-enabled.
Memory: 24 MB internal for map storage.
Sensors: Barometric altimeter, electronic compass.
Waterproof: IPX7 standard (1 meter for 30 minutes).
Interface: USB (with cable) for data transfer and power.
Battery: 2 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH), approx. 16 hours typical use.
Operating Temp: -15°C to 70°C (5°F to 158°F).
Dimensions: 15.7 x 6.1 x 3.3 cm (6.2" x 2.4" x 1.3").
Weight: 209 g (7.4 oz) with batteries.

Controls and Settings

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

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

Settings: System (language, units, time), Display (backlight, contrast), Interface (serial data format), Routing (calculation method), Tracks (log settings), Alarms (proximity, anchor drag). Compass: Calibration, declination adjustment. Altimeter: Calibration, pressure units, auto calibration.

Connecting Devices

USB: For data transfer to/from PC. External power: Via USB cable. External antenna: MCX connector.

Turn off GPS before connecting cables.
Connect USB cable to PC and to GPS data/power port.
Install Garmin MapSource software on PC to transfer maps and waypoints.
Select USB mode when prompted on GPS screen.

Tip: Use Garmin-approved cables for reliable data transfer and power.

Navigation & Waypoints

Create and navigate to waypoints, follow routes and tracks.

Mark waypoint: Press and hold MARK button at location, edit name/symbol if desired, select OK.
Go to waypoint: Press FIND, select Waypoints, choose from list, select GOTO.
Create route: Main Menu > Routes > New, select waypoints in sequence, select Navigate.
Follow track: Main Menu > Tracks > Track Log, select a saved track, select Follow Track.
Simulate route (for planning): Setup > System > Simulator mode (use indoors).
View trip computer: PAGE to Trip Computer page for speed, distance, time data.
Set proximity alarm: Main Menu > Alarms > Proximity, select waypoint, set radius.

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

Map & Data Management

Load detailed maps via MapSource software. Manage waypoints, routes, and tracks.

Map Transfer: Connect GPS to PC with USB cable, open MapSource, select map regions, send to device. Data Backup: Use MapSource to save waypoints, routes, and tracks to PC. Memory Management: Check free memory under Setup > System > Memory.

Care & Cleaning

Remove batteries for long-term storage. Clean with soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation subject to conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, (2) device must accept any interference received. 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	Batteries	Install fresh batteries; check polarity; clean contacts.
Poor satellite reception	Location/obstructions	Move to open area; ensure clear view of sky; attach external antenna.
Inaccurate compass	Need calibration/interference	Recalibrate compass away from metal objects and magnets.
USB not recognized	Cable/software/driver	Use correct cable; ensure MapSource installed; try different USB port.
Waypoint not saved	Memory full	Delete unused waypoints to free memory (max 1,000).
Altimeter inaccurate	Need calibration	Calibrate altimeter at known elevation (Setup > Altimeter > Calibrate).

Reset: Remove batteries for 30 seconds to perform soft reset.

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