Navionics compact flash charts

[Russ2571]

We have a Raymarine 435i GPS and want to buy a Navionics XL/XL3/Gold Lake Michigan compact flash chart. I note that two, US646XL and US900XL3, are available. We definitely will confine our cruising to Lake Michigan. Does anyone have a recommendation as to which of these two choices would be best for our needs?

 

[Marc]

Xl vs XL3

The differnce is area covered. XL3 has more area, which makes it more expenzive, but less than buying the seperate XL chips for the same area covered by the XL3.The chatrts displayed will be the same. When I leave Florida waters enroute to the Bahamas (I have XL3), my GPS askes me to change charts. It's a simple click to change areas.Of course I have the new RC 400 hand held. It may be different from your GPS.In conclusion, the charts will be the same. If you are sure you will not leave Lake Michigan, buy the cheaper XL charts for your area.Marc

 

[Bill]

Marc how do you like the RC 400

How do you like the 400? Any problems with sunlight etc???

 

[Marc]

RC 400

So far so good. Got it in March limited use.EZ to see in the sunlight. It comes with a cigarette plug as well as NMEA power cord. I plan to hook it my auto pilot soon.The screen is larger than most hand helds (bigger than my Magellan meridian and 410)Marc

 

[Marc]

MOre on the RC 400

One thing: you have to buy a navionics flash card to use the RC 400. The built in charts are limited (basic planning charts to cross the oceans) smallest scale is 64 miles.IHTHMarc

 

[Bill]

Thanks

Thanks and good luck with the RC 400