Lots of announcements from Garmin over at the 2006 CES, and here's one more for you to drool over: the all-new Garmin 76Cx GPSMAP handheld. A much needed upgrade to the 76C model, the 76Cx features a microSD slot that can hold mapping data. You don't have to worry about the safety of the device - it comes in a waterproof housing and is rugged enough to handle the outdoors.
The 76Cx also comes with a USB 2.0 connection, so transfering map data between the PC and the device is pretty fast. The improved GPS receiver can acquire satellites much faster as well. The large color TFT screen helps in looking up your location quickly. Even if you drop it in water, you don't need to worry - the 76Cx simply floats.
Garmin claims 20 hours of life with 2 AA batteries, but I guess that remains to be seen. A blank 128MB microSD card is included in the package. You can also purchase new microSD cards with pre-loaded MapSource Topo and inland lake maps.
Costing around US $535, it is available now and more info can be had from Garmin. Wow Garmin you are on fire!, I bet Magellan is Jealous :).
Garmin 76Cx GPSMAP Handheld Features Include:
high-sensitivity WAAS-capable GPS receiver by SiRF
Built-in quad-helix receiving antenna with remote antenna capability
Unit dimensions: 2.7” W x 6.2” H x 1.4” D
Display: 1.5” W x 2.2” H, 2.6”-diagonal, 256-color, transflective TFT (160 x 240 pixels)
Weight: 7.6 ounces with batteries (not included)
microSD card slot allows for storage of optional MapSource detail (128 MB microSD included)
LED backlit display and keypad
Battery life: 20 hours (typical use) using two AA alkaline batteries
Includes a built-in Americas autoroute basemap with automatic routing capabilities, including highways, exits, and tide data (USA only)
Internal memory is preloaded with a marine point database
1,000 user waypoints with name and graphic symbol; 50 reversible routes
Position formats include Lat/Lon, UTM, Loran TDs, Maidenhead, MGRS, user grid, and more
Audible alarms for anchor drag, arrival, off-course, proximity waypoint, and clock
Large-numbers option for easy viewing; dual-position display mode
Trip computer provides odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, max speed, and more
10,000-point automatic track log; 20 saved tracks (500 points each) let you retrace your path in both directions
Navigation instructions can be shared with repeaters, plotters, and autopilots using NMEA protocols through the dedicated serial port.
Built-in celestial tables for sun and moon calculations and the best times to fish and hunt
Compatible with most MapSource products including BlueChart, City Navigator, U.S. TOPO 24K, U.S. TOPO, and Recreational Lakes with Fishing Hot Spots
Water resistant: IEC 60529 IPX7 standards
Unit floats when dropped in the water.
Package Includes:
GPSMAP® 76Cx unit
128 MB microSD
USB interface cable
MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager CD
Lanyard
Owner's Manual
Quick-Start Guide