Electronics

[Chris Mead]

My steering mounted Signet wind/depth/knotmeter guages are dying or have died. There are two 4" square boxes that sit in a housing attached just above the wheel.I'd like to NOT cut holes in the boat or on either side of the companionway door. So, I'd like to get new electronics and mount them on the steering rails (not sure what to call them).I need suggestions: What brand of wind indicator/depth/knotmeter equipment are you all buying? What kind of mounts can I get that will stand the weather but not cause me to cut holes?I's also really like to replace the ANCIENT GPS with one that plots maps using computer downloads...but don't know brands and, again, would love to have it outside at the wheel.Any suggestions?

 

[Ed Schenck]

Here's one.

Saw this on a friend's boat. He had two instruments mounted at the helm, a chartplotter and a fishfinder. It might have been a Hummingbird. But it had depth, log(speed), and water temp using a thru-hull transducer. When my own 1979 Signets give up that will be my replacement.

 

[Steve O.]

Wow, Ed!

You have 1979 Signets? They have to be the oldest living Signets still in working condition! Chris: several companies make square instruments that will fit into your binnacle-mounted instrument pod. Standard makes them because that's what I have. Pick up a West Marine or BoatUS catalog and look under "electronics."

 

[Steve Dion]

Check out the Nexus system.

Check out the Nexus System. They were rated as a best buy at Practical Sailor. Just purchased the Nexus 3000 (paid $1049 at West Marine). This system included the wind, depth and speed transducers, compass, cables and CPU. They also have a 2000 and 1000 system too. They have all of the functions built into the CPU and just use the displays as a repeater.They have square/rectangular displays.

 

[Ed Schenck]

That's right Steve.

Not only working but calibrated! The 1979 Signet depth fluctuates a little between 4' and actual but the log is spot on. Almost wish they'd quit so the First Mate would authorize a new system.

 

[Steve O.]

signet parts

I have a set of Signet depth and speed transducers if you ever need one. I replaced mine with Standard last year. Maybe I'll put them on the "Gear Here" page in case someone needs one.

 

[Chris Mead]

Bought a lowrance

Thanks all for the input -- forums are a great research tool. I bought a x85 Lowrance and epoxy-glued the transducer right near the bad thru-hulls. Works like a charm for depth!I still need to get new wind instruments but this'll sure help with the low-water lake Erie.