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October 24, 2008

Garmin nuvi 785T Review

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Garmin nuvi 785T's Windshield Suction-Cup Mount & Cradle
Figure 13: Garmin nüvi 785T's Windshield Suction-Cup Mount & Cradle

The nüvi 785T is mounted to the vehicle's windshield using a suction-cup mount and cradle. The cradle snaps onto the end of the mount, forming a ball and socket joint that can easily be rotated into the desired viewing angle.

The suction mount is locked into place by lowering the lever on the mount.

Attaching the Cradle
Figure 14: Attaching the Cradle

The cradle has a socket in the rear that snaps onto the ball of the suction cup mount. Connecting the cradle to the mount is simply a matter of pressing firmly on the mount until the ball snaps into the socket on the cradle. To remove the cradle, simply twist the cradle to the right or left until it snaps off the mount.

This ball-and-socket style mount is easy to use, holds up well against normal wear and tear, and keeps the GPS firmly in place while driving.

 

nuvi 785T's Cradle, Right Side
Figure 15: nüvi 785T's Cradle, Right Side

The 12v power adapter connects to the right side of the cradle.

 

nuvi 785T Attached to the Cradle
Figure 16: nüvi 785T, Docked

The powered windshield mount makes it easy to quickly snap the nüvi 785T in and out of the docking cradle. Since the power cable connects to the cradle rather than the GPS, you don't need to connect or disconnect any cables when docking and undocking the nüvi from the mount.

nuvi 785T, Docked
Figure 17: nüvi 785T, Attached to the Windshield Mount

Garmin's mounting hardware is excellent. The windshield mount holds the nüvi firmly in place and vibration-free when driving, even at highway speeds. The ball-and-socket joint on the windshield mount makes it easy to adjust the nüvi's viewing angle with one hand, and without having to turn any knobs or slip any levers.

Adhesive Mounting Disc
Figure 18: Adhesive Mounting Disc

An adhesive mounting disc is included for those looking to mount the nüvi 785T on the dashboard rather than the windshield. I'm personally not a big fan of this method, as it's difficult to remove the mounting disc later without damaging your car.

FYI - a better option is to use a friction mount, as it's less permanent and can easily be concealed when leaving the car unattended.

USB Cable
Figure 19: USB Cable

A standard USB cable is included, and can be used to connect the nüvi 785T to a PC or Mac, as well as charge the battery.

Documentation & Special Offers
Figure 20: Documentation & Special Offers

Included in the box is a printed owner's manual, warranty information, MSN Direct insert, audiobook information, and Garmin accessory guide.

Included Hardware
Figure 21: Included Hardware

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