Garmin GPS Map76

[+vt-spike]

I already have a 60CSX, and my father in law just bought a map 76. Is the uploading process going to be the same? Are both of them compatible with the same software?

[+Arndtwe]

I own a MAP76 and use a program called EasyGPS. It is free, and does a very good job. It is pretty self explanatory, but if you get stuck just ask and I will do my best to help you out. Before you you get stuck though, I will cover some stuff that tends to be a hassle. A lot of newer PC's don't have a serial port, which is what the 76 has for a connector cable. You get around this with a serial-to-USB cable for $5-10. Also, make sure that interface setting on the GPS is set to GARMIN and the baud rate on the program is set to 9600. Once you get everything set up, download your PQ and un-zip the file. Now double click the .GPX file you want to send to the GPS. Plug the GPS into the PC, and push the "send" button at the top of the program. It should be a picture of a PC with a GPS next to it. wait a while and then it will be done.

[+vt-spike]

Right now for my 60csx I use GSAK along with the garmin poi loader for my pocket quires. I use mapsource with img2gps for my map uploads. I would like to use the same setup for the Map 76 if it is at all possible.

[+Arndtwe]

Hmm, I can't help you there, I only have experience with EasyGPS. I may have also made it more complicated and intimidating than it really is. It's really not hard at all, I guess I was just trying to prepare you for the worst. All in all, it takes about 3 minutes to download and set up EasGPS and 2 more to load a PQ to the MAP76.

[+briansnat]

I assume you mean a Map76 and not a Map76CSX or Map 76CX. If so the process will be different. The Map 76 is a very old unit that uses uses a serial connection. First you either need an older PC with a serial port, or you need to buy a USB/Serial adapter.

 

You can use the same applications to load waypoints, whether it's EasyGPS, GSAK or something else. You will however need to change the GPS settings on the application when uploading to the Map 76. Uncheck the USB box and you may need to play around with baud rate before it works.

 

As far as loading maps to the Map 76, just be aware that it has very limited map memory. Your 60CSX can load maps for the entire US depending on how big your memory card is. The Map 76 only has 8 megs of fixed map memory which may get you a few counties of map coverage. So you'll need different mapsets for each unit.

 

Just curious why your F-I-L would buy an old unit like the Map 76. For the a bit less money he could have picked up a Venture HC which has a color display, USB connection, 3 times the map memory and a high sensitivity receiver. Unless he got the 76 used or really cheap, it's not the best choice.

[+vt-spike]

I have know Idea why he bought it. He said he wanted one that would work well with his boat to but I think there are probably a few better ones than that one. I think he just picked it out a while ago (when it was a newer item) and finally got around to buying it. Thanks for the help. I'll have to let you know how it turns out.