Garmin’s RV 760LMT GPS is specifically designed for RVers looking to stay one step ahead while on the road – and have access to campground information
Do you ever get into a situation when you’re just not sure which way to go? As a motorhome owner, individual profile information is important when traveling to unknown places where the wrong move can get you into trouble or cause embarrassment.
In an effort to provide a tool for RVers that goes beyond cookie-cutter GPS nav systems, Garmin recently released its RV 760LMT. This Garmin device features travel throughout the U.S. and Canada using preloaded street maps, specialized RV routing, and every other imaginable GPS option an RVers could want.
The Garmin RV 760LMT has a monitor with a 7-inch color TFT screen with a white backlight, projecting actual display dimensions of 6.1 inches W x 3.4 inches H. Aside from the massive display, the RV 760LMT features special routing that recognizes RV related restrictions throughout the U.S. and Canada, utterly customizable by weight, height, length and width of the motorhome you’re driving. The RV 760LMT has 20,000 RV parks and service locations in its memory and offers information on a host of campground amenities.
Bluetooth connectivity allows the unit to be fully compatible with iPhone and Android smartphones. There’s also a Smartphone Link for live services using downloadable apps to access a number of resources, including traffic and weather. This thing is so directed toward RVers that even the icon on the screen is a traveling motorhome.
The unit gets its power by plugging into a 12-volt DC utility socket (aka cigarette lighter) and is equipped with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides up to 1.5 hours of run time so the Garmin can also be used as a large screen portable GPS. It is also possible to use the RV 760LMT as a backup video monitor using the external input and the optional wireless camera ($150).
The Garmin RV 760LMT is so packed with functions, that upon setup, you might get the feeling that programing and learning this device might be overwhelming and time-consuming. But in fact, it’s so simple to operate that being able to read and push touch-screen icons are all that’s required; it doesn’t even come with conventional instructions – just a few basic diagrams to follow. To get started, log on to www.Garmin.com and download any updates using the included USB cable. Access to updates is free for life. Once all downloading is completed, it’s just a matter of attaching the window mounting bracket to the power adapter, the GPS unit to the mount, and finding a suitable location that’s ergonomic for the driver.
Installing the Garmin in a coach may present some challenges, depending on the dash design. It’s not practical to mount the suction-cup bracket on the front window in a Class A motor home because of the distance to the driver, even though there’s a 5-foot power cord. It’s possible to mount the unit on the side window, and since it responds to voice commands, the driver doesn’t have to touch the screen while driving. Mounting on the dash is best for inline visibility, but the suction cup may not stick to all surfaces. Owners can opt for the portable friction mount ($25) or devise a system to secure the standard bracket.
The RV 760LMT is packed with features and offers the latest technology for getting travelers to their destinations. Having instant knowledge about what’s on the road ahead is a big benefit for any motorhome traveler. Viewing a big screen with clear voice commands and easy-to-follow navigational graphics puts safety as priority one. The RV 760LMT has an MSRP of $399.99.
Garmin | www.garmin.com
