Boat Instruments

[Mark]

I need to put some instruments on my Mac. I am looking at a Wind System, Depth System, Speed System and a GPS System. I am finding everything I need. What I am wondering if it is better to combine some of these systems. I really don't need a Fish Finder, but I can get the depth and speed and gps in one system. Does anyone have any ideas on this. I would like a good system but I can't afford the best systems. Can you help my out on systems to look at and the ones to stay away from? Should I combine them or keep the sperate?

 

[John Dawson]

No help at all

They sell this stuff where I work, and I can say that its pretty evenly split between people who want integrated systems and people who want independent systems. One strategy, which I think is more prevalent for big spenders, is to have fancier systems with the convenience of one screen. The other strategy says that the more you combine, the more you loose when it fails with integrated systems, and the more expensive it is to fix. (It is often the fishing guys that want a full time sonar screen with GPS/data on another unit.)As for Garmin, there is not much cost advantage in either course, when you add everything up. Raymarine is probably too high end, so maybe Lowrance has something cheaper. Garmin is certainly the most popular for good reasons.GPS is all going to color, which is much more readable. I think its not as important for the sounder, if you are counting bucks.

 

[Steve Paul]

I like separate systems

John has some great points. My experience is I have a Raymarine depth/speed /temp unit and separate autopilot. My autopilot is down and I sent it in for repair but my depth unit is stand alone (connected for sea talk) so I'm not without it. I like separate systems for that reason.Steve

 

[Night Sailor]

Another reason for an integrated system

I chose to install a Strike 220S integrated depth/temp/speed/log/alarm unit by Standard Communications to save space on the top of my helm console. I got a Garmin Map 76S chartplotting GPS as a separate unit for using when offroading, hiking, biking, or flying. I also wanted to leave room for a magnetic compass as a backup. All three units are just in front of the wheel for ease of use and visibility by the helmsman. Total cost was less than $600 (some years back), but they have worked well.

 

[Greg Pecaut]

Keep em separate

Always remember Murphy's Law, If any thing can go wrong it will, at the worst possible time. Even if you have a chart plotter remember to keep a chart on board and do keep plotting fixes. A back up hand held GPS can be had for as little as $100 if you can't do a DR or take bearrings. Better yet take the USCG Aux advanced coastal navigation corse. It's worth every minute of your time if you boat. Yes I said boat, not sail as it is important to be able to navigate whether you are sailing or power boating. Heck I don't even rely on just one compass, I have a back up hand bearring compass on board too.