If you’re a serious navigator who wants a little extra from your GPS unit, Garmin’s GPSMAP 76S is a great choice for you. The "S" in the name stands for "sensors." This unit combines a GPS receiver, barometric altimeter, and an electronic compass to deliver exact location, elevation, and bearing information.
It's these extra features are what set the 76S apart from the earlier 76 model. In fact, the 76S is physically the same as the GPSMAP 76.
In addition to the sensors, this unit has an increased map memory of 24MB and the tracklog has been increased from the older model.
The 76S is WAAS-enabled, can use up to 12 satellites simultaneously, and comes equipped with the standard alarms (e.g., approach, arrival, off-course, etc.) and trip computers (e.g., current and average speed, trip timer and distance, etc.). Users can store and name 500 waypoints with graphical icons and 50 reversible routes (containing up to 50 waypoints each).
The unit features a built-in quad helix antenna that has outstanding reception. When receiving WAAS corrections, the 76S provides accuracy within less than three meters. The built-in basemap includes all the typical features, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, cities, etc. A special feature is the extra motorways database (containing America’s Highway, Atlantic Highway, or Pacific Highway). This unit is compatible with most Garmin MapSource products as well as Blue Chart.
With the release of the 76c and 76cs (color units), pricing for the 76S has been discounted. Be sure and do a thorough search of the internet to find the lowest prices. As with most GPS units, Garmin offers a wide variety of accessories, including mounting brackets and car chargers.
The Pros
- Sensors - What makes the 76S so special are the sensors. For example, you can compute the barometric pressure even when changing altitude (a feat not possible with most GPS receivers).
- Display clarity - The 76S display size is fairly large (1.6" x 2.2"; 180 x 240 pixels), which is better than many units. The 4-level backlighting is excellent, so you should have no trouble reading this unit in most lighting conditions.
- Rugged - The fully gasketed case is made of waterproof, high impact plastic alloy. It floats in water, allowing this unit to withstand a good deal of abuse in wet and cold environments.
- Antenna - The internal quad helix antenna is very impressive. Many users will find a GA 27 external antenna is a great addition to this unit. (I’ve been able to get great readings under serious canopy cover!)
The Cons
- Incorrect data - Some user reviews have claimed an incorrect date is sometimes displayed on the screen, apparently a result of storing the unit without batteries. However, the date information is said not to influence the other functions and a simple software upgrade corrects the problem.
- Screen scrolling - There are 6 pages of display screens that you must scroll through to get all available information. There is no short cut and, unlike with some other GPS units, the user cannot disable the screens that are not needed.
- Battery Life - Although the manufacturers claim battery life of up to 16 hours, I find the electronic compass can eat into that time. I haven’t measured this myself, but one review listed an average of 7-8 hours in a rundown test.
Using the Garmin GPSMAP 76S: Some Basic Facts
In general, operating a 76S is very straightforward; details may be obtained in the user’s manual. Here, I’ll just mention a few things about some of the special features found on this unit.
Electronic Compass
This feature is calibrated with the unit in a horizontal position. It is activated when you begin moving. Holding down the PAGE key will turn the compass on and off. If calibrated on a non-metallic surface (in a magnetically undisturbed area), the heading accuracy is +2 degrees. Remember to re-calibrate the unit after changing batteries.
Electronic Barometer
Once you properly calibrate the barometer (a simple process), the readout is within .02" of the official weather bureau measurement. The 76S will compute the correct barometric pressure even when you’re changing altitude and can detect a change of as little as 5 feet. When you record a waypoint, the barometric altitude is automatically recorded as part of that waypoint’s information.
Area Calculation
For me, one of the most helpful elements about the 76S is the area calculation feature. To use this, you must first clear the tracklog. After you finish your hike (or animal tracking), save the new tracklog. When you do this, you’ll see a screen that shows the area of the path you’ve taken. Though the same thing can be accomplished with any GPS receiver’s data after downloading tracks to mapping software, it is a handy feature to have this capability within the unit.In short, the Garmin GPSMAP 76S is loaded with features, reasonably priced, and powerful enough to face almost any challenge. It is one of the top choices of field biologists working in even the most remote and rugged conditions. Get yourself an external antenna "to face any unexpected barriers" and you’ll be ready to go!
About the Author
Janette is a hobbyist writer who enjoys using her GPS devices and educating people about GPS manufacturers, discount GPS receivers, and everything GPS!