Garmin GPSMap 76 Handheld GPS Navigator

The GPSMAP 76 is designed to provide precise GPS positioning using correction data obtained from the Wide Area Augmentation System. This unit features a built-in quad helix antenna for superior reception and can provide position accuracy to less than three meters when receiving WAAS corrections.The GPSMAP 76 has an internal memory capacity of eight megabytes. In addition, it comes with a built-in basemap of cities, coastlines, lakes, rivers, interstates, and interstate exit information and a database of nautical navaids.This unit has eight megabytes of internal user memory for storing optional MapSource - detailed maps, including marine cartography. This memory is preloaded from the factory with worldwide cities (populations greater than 200, 000) and nautical navigation aids such as lights, buoys, sound signals and day beacons. The GPSMAP 76 is also preloaded with tide data for the United States.An extra-large display measuring 1.6"W x 2.2"H gives users a clear view of information, while a waterproof case means the GPSMAP 76 will keep working well even if it has been submerged in water. Even more amazing, this unit will actually float if accidentally dropped in the water.
Customer Review: Garmin GPSMap 76
The GPSMap76 is a great unit! More functions than I'll ever be able to figure out how to use. Contrary to the what the writeup says, the unit does fit into my shirtpocket. So far, only two shortcomings. 1) Not rechargeable (2-AA batteries) and 2) the manual seems sparse on details of "how to". All-in-all 4 stars. A REALLY GOOD UNIT!!
Customer Review: Perfect
Loved it right out of the box. Well thought out, user freindly. Used it for geocaching and it took me within 6'. I could see other peoples tracks in the snow that missed the geocach and never found it. Very little bounce on most trips. Easy to download from the computer, I would recomend this one to anyone unsure about how to get started. This one is easy and true.

GPS

GPS units give the electronic routes and voice guided turn by turn directions to your destination. As technology has progressed in this field, you can get plenty of models in the market with various accessories and add on features, some extremely useful. The basic features you need to look out for before you buy one are explained in the following sections.

Map Capabilities

Most GPS models come with internal map capabilities. Manufacturer provides maps with details up to street level in the hard drive. The menu option enables you to access the desired data. Comprehensive street level maps can help you identify the coordinates of the destination on the map by using just the name, or locate the destination on map by giving the coordinates. For some models you will have to subscribe to a plan to update the maps on an annual basis.

Some models provide map information in memory cards having detailed information of a particular region. Thus you will need extra cards if you have to store information for more coverage. Map cartridges are more flexible but can prove to be expensive.

Some brands provide map information in CD-ROM, DVD-ROM discs.

Receiver type

There are 24 GPS satellites in six orbits around the earth. GPS receivers track these satellites to compute the information of your location, the bearing, distance and time left to reach destination and other route options. Since there are 12 satellites at a time in view, each of them is tracked continuously to generate the information. Latest GPS receivers marketed today are commonly 12 parallel channel receivers.

The associated advantages of tracking more satellites are:
faster cold start
regular initialization
better reception
do not require an external antenna if you are in an open vehicle

Other receiver types are:
20 parallel channel receivers
16 parallel channel receivers
14 parallel channel receivers

Display size

Large displays are a visual treat when you consider buying TVs but not the same when it comes to buying a GPS. The map on the display gives you information regarding:

current location
where next turn is
name of street you are turning onto
estimated time of arrival

While driving, casting your glance away a second longer can prove to be risky, hence a device with a smaller screen will be advantageous. The display should be easy to read irrespective of surroundings. The navigation aids come in various sizes. Some units with screen size as big as 7in. enable you to get connected to external video devices. Some hand held ones are as small as 1.5in.X 0.9in.) Some of the convenient, easy to read GPS are:

3.5 in.
2.in. x 2.1 in.

Resolution

Screen resolution decides how clearly you can see and read in broad daylight. Color, glare free LCDs are soothing to the eyes. High end models have color screens which gives information about weather and terrain. Some GPS units with different resolutions are:

320x240
480x272

PC Interface

The portable models have a USB or serial ports which gets you connected to a PC. It enables you to download latest maps and system software. GPS units with USB and serial ports can be found at:

USB:

Serial port:

Bluetooth GPS that communicates with mobile device wirelessly are also available.

Built-in memory

With larger memory space one can store more route information and waypoints. Units with software that can transfer data from the unit to a PC can be used to gather more data than it can hold. So depending on how much map data and information you wish to store, you can select the units with the required memory space. You get various models with wide range of built-in memory space.

1 to 30MB

30 to 512MB

512 to 2500MB

2500 to 40000MB

Antennas

External antennas are used when stronger signals are needed. If in a vehicle the system cannot be placed near the window, external Antenna hookups can prove to be ideal solution. Choice of external hookups is most practical for hiking under heavy tree cover, under tall buildings or in any place which doesn't have a good view of sky.

Built-in antennas are less prone to breakage and can communicate with more satellites.

Quadrifilar Helix- This is also an external antenna useful for situations where open sky is limited.

Flip up antennas too give strong performance.

Price

This is one factor not to be compromised on, if you don't wish yourself or your loved ones to get lost in the maze of roads. The technology in this field has developed rapidly and the old models which are cheaper may have crowded maps, or confusing menu options. Latest models high on price have more detailed maps. Of course, lesser the features lesser will be the cost. If you don't need features like live traffic data or weather data, don't invest money in models offering these features. Features like speech recognition for hands free operation, 3D maps, and information on fuel prices all come for additional price.

Under $200- You get good light weight portable navigation units in this range. Maps look great with reasonably timely route recalculations. Good value for money! Those of you looking for more memory space may check out models at higher range.

Between $200 to $312- You get better performance and features like anti glare, touch screen with good resolution. You also get good in-built memory space and battery life.

Between $312 to $416- Good screen settings, voice guided directions and overall good performance.

Between $416 to $1172- Accurate route guidance, easy to use and compatibility with Bluetooth cell phones are some attractive features of devices in the price range.

Brands

There are various manufacturers manufacturing GPS units with different features to suit a wide range of customers. The major brands available today are:

Garmin has many models of handheld and mounted types.

Magellan:

Mitac:

Lowrance:

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